Fort Polk South was built in 1941 and was essential in the training and testing of troops for WWII. Fort Polk participated in the Louisiana Maneuvers, which involved half a million soldiers.
Situated in East Louisiana less than 10 miles from the Texas border is a little town called Fort Polk South. The community is named after Fort Polk, an army installation still in operation today. Regardless of why you are making your move here, you'll find there is plenty to love about this little city in the south, and it's not just the amazing food (though the hush puppies are to die for). Outdoor living is a way of life, so if you love adventure, fresh air, and hotdogging, there's a better than fair chance you'll enjoy your stay. From lakes and rivers to trails and golf courses, you'll never be at a loss for recreational opportunities. But it's not all eatin' and fishin'; Fort Polk South also has a strong community spirit, with plenty of neighborly events and celebrations. History buffs and art enthusiasts can make the most of museums, festivals, historical sites and more that pepper this whole area. No matter your interests, you'll have a good time here.
Life in the south is pretty sweet for many reasons, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't prepare for the realities that come with uprooting and moving all your gear to a new location. The cost of living is low compared with other areas around the nation, so that's a good start. However, there are some other things about the Fort Polk South real estate market you should learn first. Get to it!
Info for Renters
The vast majority of folks in Polk opt to rent rather than own, so there is ample selection, from studio apartments to townhouses for rent. In fact, owning is about as common as seeing snow down here. Also, there are lots of openings each month, so your search for apartments or houses shouldn't take more than two weeks during any point in the year. If you want to avoid mosquitoes, don't look during the hot summer days.
Utilities and Furniture
Are you ready for more good info? If you are in search of furnished apartments, you're probably in luck too, as several of these are available. Overall, if your time here is temporary (like many residents), you'll find this market to be very friendly. You should be able to find a pad where you don't even need to buy your own furniture. And here's some more great info: you can get an all bills paid deal very easily. In fact, most units include paid utilities, so enjoy that bonus.
Old Versus New
Many of the older spaces are being renovated, so you can count on finding some modern, luxurious places to rent in Fort Polk South if you keep your eyes open. Don't expect an excess of space in the newer builds. The older places have more square footage, but they need some repairs and renovations. Overall, over 41% of homes were built before 1980, while over 13% were built after 2000.
High Turnover Rate
People are always moving in and out of town. This has nothing to do with housing being of poor quality and the community being a bad place to live. Fort Polk South is a great spot to call home. The high turnover rate has to do with the presence of an army base in town. A significant portion of the residents here are serving in the military. Hence, their time is not permanent, and folks are always relocating to other parts once they have completed their service.
Identify Yourself
As for what to bring, definitely pack your ID, credit history and pay stubs proving you can afford all these niceties. A cashier's check with a security deposit will also help smooth things over with your new landlord. Other than that, be friendly. Folks in Fort Polk South are known for their charm and hospitality, so smile and shake hands.
Fort Polk South isn't like your typical big city, so don't go expecting neighborhoods in Fort Polk South to be similar to those you would find in the Big Apple. The community only covers 6.2 square miles. There are distinctive areas with notable features, however. So pay attention to the following details. You'll have no trouble selecting the ideal squatting spot.
East: There are lots of pretty planned communities and houses here, so if you're into having a backyard and borrowing a cup of sugar from a neighbor, this might be your place. The National Golf Course, Clear Creek Wildlife Management Area, and Mucho Mexico (an eatery) are all within a short drive. South Polk Elementary School is here. Lake Charles Highway is nearby as well, but most amenities in town are a farther away. No worries. You have some options on Highway 467.
West: You'll find more apartments for rent on this side. You're closer to Highway 10, which can speed you over to Lake Charles Highway and off to Leesville for some nightlife. Within the area, you have the Fort Polk Flower Shop, Huddle House (a restaurant), and Bayou Theatre. Stay in shape at the Cantrell Gym and try for a 300 at the Fort Polk Bowling Center.
Sandy Hill: In the south part of town, this area is mostly residential, but is near places like Spot Lounge, the Leesville Motorsports Park, and Sandy Hill Cafe. Near Highway 10, living in this neighborhood requires a vehicle, but nearby major roads make driving convenient.
Getting around Fort Polk South requires a vehicle. As for bikes, they're pretty popular for recreational purposes, but not too many people are using them for errands. Public transit is minimal, but, again, owning a car is affordable here. Of course, you can always carpool, too.
The south has a very distinctive sense of character, and Fort Polk South is no exception. In fact, it expands on the notion. The military history and modern presence make this place unique and entertaining. While you don't have to be military to live around here, it helps to understand the machine and its people. That's why a visit to the Fort Polk Military Museum is necessary to understand this town's story. Folks are friendly, proud of their country, and hardworking. They also love to have a good time and appreciate life. If you come with a similar attitude, you'll do just fine.
If you want to spend your time like the local -- and you will -- be ready to get dirty! Fishing, hiking, biking and off-roading are a few activities that see regular action, but that's by no means all of them. Start with Kisatchie National Forest, which has over 604,000 acres. Enjoy amazing wildlife, including bald eagles -- how patriotic! Anderson Pond, located in the Forest, is ideal for boating and fishing, while the Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area has camping, canoeing and sandy beaches. Prefer horseback riding? Well, you're set. Head over to the Longleaf Recreation Area, which is also known as the "Little Grand Canyon".
Not all adventures are rugged and dirty; you can have a good time tickling your noggin too. There are tons of archeological artifacts, a historical cemetery, and The Heritage Family Collection. Once you've massaged the old walnut, it's time to feed it. While Polk doesn't boast any Michelin Star rated eateries, there are an assortment of scrumptious options, including Huddle House, a range of chain eateries, and Blimpie Subs and Salads.
Fort Polk South is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, with so much fun you'll be wagging your tail every day. Military is a part of life here, but you won't find a better set of people. They're friendly, hardworking, and proud. If you love southern food, mild winters, a close-knit community, and wild wilderness, you've found your ideal home.
