Hayes, located in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, is a small and charming community that offers a peaceful rural lifestyle while being conveniently close to larger cities like Lake Charles. Known for its friendly residents and beautiful landscapes, Hayes is suitable for those who appreciate a relaxed pace of life, with easy access to outdoor activities and local culture. This article explores the best residential areas in Hayes, highlighting their unique characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
Table of Contents
Hayes Center
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Hayes Center is often regarded as the heart of the community, featuring a close-knit environment with various local amenities. It's perfect for families who wish to be part of a friendly neighborhood.
Characteristics of the Hayes Center
* Culture: Active community with local events and gatherings
* Transportation: Accessible via local roads, car recommended
* Services: Schools, shops, and local eateries
* Environment: Welcoming and community-oriented
Housing Options in the Hayes Center
Single-family homes, townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Hayes Center
* Buying: $150,000 – $220,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $1,500/month
Westlake Area
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Located just a short drive from Hayes, the Westlake area features larger homes and spacious lots, making it ideal for those who prefer a bit more space while remaining close to nature.
Characteristics of the Westlake Area
* Culture: Family-oriented with recreational activities nearby
* Transportation: Good road connectivity, public transport is limited
* Services: Nearby parks, shopping centers, and dining options
* Environment: Spacious and tranquil
Housing Options in the Westlake Area
Single-family homes, ranch-style properties
Average Home Prices in the Westlake Area
* Buying: $180,000 – $250,000
* Renting: $1,400 – $1,800/month
Big Lake Area
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Big Lake is known for its beautiful landscapes and proximity to the lake, providing plenty of opportunities for fishing and boating, making it great for outdoor enthusiasts.
Characteristics of the Big Lake Area
* Culture: Outdoor lifestyle focused on water activities
* Transportation: Car necessary, roads well maintained
* Services: Limited to nearby essentials, but nature is abundant
* Environment: Natural and scenic
Housing Options in the Big Lake Area
Lakefront homes, cabins
Average Home Prices in the Big Lake Area
* Buying: $220,000 – $300,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,000/month
Rural Hayes
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
For those who desire a more secluded and serene lifestyle, Rural Hayes offers larger parcels of land for agricultural or recreational use.
Characteristics of the Rural Hayes
* Culture: Agricultural lifestyle, friendly and laid-back community
* Transportation: Car is essential, limited traffic
* Services: Basic amenities nearby, larger distances to major shopping areas
* Environment: Peaceful and spacious
Housing Options in the Rural Hayes
Farmhouses, larger plots of land
Average Home Prices in the Rural Hayes
* Buying: $200,000 – $350,000
* Renting: $1,000 – $1,500/month
Pinehill Area
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Pinehill is a quiet community surrounded by trees and nature, ideal for families and retirees who prefer a private and serene lifestyle.
Characteristics of the Pinehill Area
* Culture: Nature appreciation and outdoor activities
* Transportation: Roads are available, personal vehicles recommended
* Services: Limited amenities, nearby access to local centers
* Environment: Quiet and wooded
Housing Options in the Pinehill Area
Single-family homes, cottages
Average Home Prices in the Pinehill Area
* Buying: $160,000 – $210,000
* Renting: $1,100 – $1,400/month
Lake Charles Suburbs
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
While not directly in Hayes, the Lake Charles suburbs offer excellent housing options for those commuting to Hayes, providing urban amenities with suburban convenience.
Characteristics of the Lake Charles Suburbs
* Culture: Cosmopolitan with a diverse community
* Transportation: Good public transport and road networks
* Services: Diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment options
* Environment: Vibrant and community-focused
Housing Options in the Lake Charles Suburbs
Apartments, single-family homes
Average Home Prices in the Lake Charles Suburbs
* Buying: $150,000 – $300,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $2,000/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Hayes:
The best residential areas in Hayes include Hayes Center, Westlake Area, Big Lake Area, Rural Hayes, Pinehill Area, and Lake Charles Suburbs.
Hayes offers a peaceful, community-oriented lifestyle with accessibility to nature and outdoor activities, making it ideal for families and retirees.
Rural Hayes tends to offer more economical options, especially for those looking for larger plots or farmhouses.
Yes, Hayes has access to several schools, with the community being family-focused. Many residents appreciate the small classroom sizes.
Hayes is approximately 15-20 minutes away from Lake Charles, depending on traffic, making it a convenient location for commuting.
Residents can enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and community events celebrating the area's natural beauty.
Public transport options are limited, so owning a vehicle is generally recommended for convenience.
The average rental costs in Hayes range from $1,000 to $2,000 per month, depending on the property type and location.
Yes, Hayes has basic amenities including grocery stores and small shops, but more extensive shopping options are found in nearby Lake Charles.
Hayes offers a variety of housing options including single-family homes, townhouses, lakefront properties, and larger rural homes.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Hayes:
Hayes, Calcasieu, LA, provides a range of residential options for various lifestyle preferences, from community-focused neighborhoods to serene rural areas. Each residential area offers its unique charm, catering to different needs, whether it be convenience to amenities, access to nature, or a peaceful living environment. With its accessibility to larger cities and a focus on community, Hayes is an excellent choice for families, professionals, and retirees looking for a balance of tranquility and practicality.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.