Empire, LA

Located along Highway 23 in lower Plaquemines Parish, Empire is a quiet coastal community about an hour and a half south of New Orleans. Life here is deeply tied to the river and the surrounding marshlands. As one of the final stops before reaching the southern tip of Louisiana in Venice, Empire is best known for its commercial seafood industry and world-class charter fishing. Most everyday landmarks here are marinas, boat launches, bait shops, and docks where you can pick up fresh oysters and shrimp straight from local fishermen.

ATTRDepartment of Homeland Security. U.S. Coast Guard. 3/1/2003 / Public domain

Delta Marina serves as a central gathering spot for the area, offering boat slips, rental cabins, and quick access to prime redfish and speckled trout waters. Local students attend South Plaquemines High School, which brings together families from across the lower parish. Relocating to Empire means settling into a relaxed, outdoor-focused lifestyle surrounded by close neighbors, while keeping in mind the seasonal rhythms of coastal weather. For anyone drawn to the Gulf Coast who wants great fishing right in their backyard, Empire delivers authentic bayou living.