St. Bernard is Louisiana’s Fastest-Growing Parish

CHALMETTE, LA – The 2020 U.S. Census results are in, and there’s no arguing the data: St. Bernard is Louisiana’s fastest-growing parish. Since 2010, the parish has grown 21%, compared to 18% in Ascension Parish, 14% in West Baton Rouge, 13% in St. Tammany, 11.7% in Orleans, and 1.9% in Jefferson. After the local population was decimated from 2000-2010 by Hurricane Katrina, this statistical bounce-back represents not only the commitment residents have to the community but the opportunity that has been built up for years to come.  

“This year’s Census data drives home the momentum our parish continues to develop. Our community has not only returned with strength but is now poised to undergo continued growth in population and quality of life” said Meaghan McCormack, Executive Director of the St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation. McCormack touched on the resiliency of the community and was quick to note a variety of programs and statistics that are responsible for this growth: “Programs like Sold on St. Bernard have helped expand our community’s attractive residential offerings, while simultaneously funding recreational facilities and activities for our community. Paired with a top-rated school system, low crime, low taxes, and an affordable lifestyle, there’s no reason every family in our region shouldn’t be considering St. Bernard for their next move.” 

The growing population has also corresponded with a period of flourishing for the parish’s business ecosystem. The filing of business permits is up, warehouse space is near full capacity, and business-friendly incentives and initiatives are beginning to serve as tools for facilitating commerce in the parish, improving local quality of life and prosperity for the residents that call St. Bernard home.