Relocating to Baton Rouge: 10 Insider Tips for a Smooth Move This Summer

Thinking of making Baton Rouge your new home this summer? You’re not alone! Each year, hundreds of families, professionals, and retirees relocate to our vibrant Louisiana capital, drawn by the Southern hospitality, excellent food scene, thriving job market, and beautiful neighborhoods.
As a local Realtor® who has helped many clients make a successful move, I’ve pulled together my top 10 tips to help you relocate to Baton Rouge smoothly and settle in with confidence:
1️⃣ Plan for the Heat & Humidity
Summers here are hot and humid — embrace it! If you’re moving yourself, schedule heavy lifting in the early morning or evening. If hiring movers, opt for early appointments to beat the midday heat.
2️⃣ Book Movers Early
Summer is peak moving season in Baton Rouge. Reputable movers book up quickly. I can connect you with some trusted local and long-distance companies — just ask!
3️⃣ Research Baton Rouge Neighborhoods
From charming historic districts to master-planned new communities, Baton Rouge offers something for everyone.
Some favorites to explore:
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Willow Grove (walkable with restaurants)
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Rouzan (new construction near LSU)
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University Club (golf & tennis community)
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Bocage (central, upscale)
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Shenandoah (family-friendly with large lots)
Need help narrowing it down? I offer neighborhood tours for my relocation clients! Check out my YouTube Channel to tour neighborhoods!
4️⃣ Understand School Options
If you have children, research both public and private school options in advance. Certain neighborhoods are zoned for top-rated schools — it can impact your home search! I can provide the latest zoning maps. Check out Niche.com for school ratings
5️⃣ Be Ready for Hurricane Season
Moving here in the summer also means moving during hurricane season (June-Nov). New homeowners should:
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Check if your home is in a flood zone: http://maps.lsuagcenter.com/floodmaps/
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Secure adequate insurance
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Have a basic emergency kit on hand
6️⃣ Set Up Utilities Before You Arrive
Avoid moving into a dark house — schedule utilities ahead of time! You’ll need to arrange:
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Electric: Entergy, DEMCO
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Water/Sewer: Baton Rouge Water Company
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Internet/TV: AT&T, Cox, or other local providers
7️⃣ Embrace the Food & Culture
Once you’re here, explore! Summer brings lots of fun events:
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Red Stick Farmers Market
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Live After Five concerts
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Festivals celebrating local music & food
And of course, don’t miss your first bowl of authentic gumbo!
8️⃣ Get Involved
Moving can feel isolating, but Baton Rouge is a friendly city. Consider joining a local gym, tennis or golf club, Court to Table Pickleball, a church group, or a professional networking group. I’m happy to introduce you to some!
9️⃣ Expect a Slight Learning Curve with Traffic
Our layout can be a little quirky, and I-10 traffic is known to get heavy during peak hours. Allow extra drive time as you learn the area — Waze will become your best friend.
10️⃣ Work with a Local Realtor® Who Knows Relocation
Having a Realtor® who understands the relocation process makes a HUGE difference. I was born and raised in Louisiana! I specialize in helping out-of-town buyers:
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Virtual home tours
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Contractor recommendations
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Local insights
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Neighborhood match-making
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Trusted service providers for after you move in
Ready to Start Your Baton Rouge Home Search?
If you’re considering relocating to Baton Rouge this summer, I’d love to help! Whether you’re still exploring your options or ready to house hunt, I offer complimentary relocation consultations and a free Baton Rouge Relocation Guide.
👉 Click here to request a FREE relocation guide
Here’s to a smooth move — and welcome to Baton Rouge! 🌟
"Molly's job is to find and attract mastery-based agents to the office, protect the culture, and make sure everyone is happy! "
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