economy

Louisiana defaults to the federal $7.25 minimum wage because the state has never set its own. Here's how that compares to the highest-paying states, the tipping rules that shrink it further, and what your paycheck actually buys once cost of living enters the picture.

Louisiana is the most cost-burdened state for groceries. KPEL listeners shared the hacks keeping Lafayette families ahead of rising prices.

Louisiana Thanksgiving dinner costs $44.70 for 10 people, second-lowest in U.S. Turkey prices dropped 16% despite avian flu. Local grocery deals available.

A popular children's clothing retailer with a dozen locations in Louisiana has announced plans to shutter some 150 locations across the country and around the world.

DMR Technologies brings 1,287 jobs to Lafayette with $85K avg salary. Houston-based drone maker opens first U.S. facility at 105 Dorset Ave by year-end.

Louisiana faces massive retail upheaval in 2025-2026 as Trader Joe's arrives, Buc-ee's faces delays, and 15,000 stores close nationwide.

Lafayette offers 13% lower costs than national average. Compare housing, wages & living expenses across New Orleans, Baton Rouge & Shreveport in 2025.

Louisiana's most critical infrastructure faces collapse. Expert warns structure failure would permanently flood Lafayette region, cripple US economy.

Major chains including JoAnn Fabrics, Party City, and Walgreens have shuttered thousands of locations across Louisiana and Texas as the retail apocalypse intensifies, with all JoAnn and Party City stores now permanently closed.

Louisiana's largest city lands 292nd out of 300 in national analysis of affordability, market conditions, and quality of life for new homeowners.

Louisiana families share insider travel strategies to cut vacation costs by hundreds. From flight booking timing to packing cube organization, these proven hacks help families travel more for less money.

Louisiana ranks 10th most expensive for groceries at $283 weekly. Restaurant costs jump 3.7% yearly. New Orleans leads state prices while Hammond offers affordability.

Dollar General has opened a new DG Market in Lafayette, featuring fresh produce, job opportunities, and a grand opening celebration on June 21.

Louisiana residents face 10–28% electric bill hikes this summer. Find out what’s behind the rise and how to prepare.

The 2025 Louisiana Legislative Session brought sweeping changes to insurance laws, teacher pay, and infrastructure investment. Here’s what you need to know.

Louisiana scored just 19.83 out of 100 in WalletHub’s 2025 income ranking, placing 48th nationwide. While top earners make over $400,000, the median is only $58,352, leaving many residents struggling to cover basic costs.

Louisiana ranks 46th out of 51 states but leads the nation in exports per capita and shows strong GDP growth, revealing economic complexity beyond overall score.

A $3 million steel manufacturing plant is taking shape outside Broussard, promising jobs, growth, and a major boost for Acadiana’s construction industry.

Major electronics retailer with locations in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport has already raised prices on phones, TVs, and laptops by mid-May.

According to reports a popular home goods retailer with multiple Louisiana locations will be filing for bankruptcy in the coming weeks.