Terrytown, Louisiana
Terrytown is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP)—a concentration of population identified by the U.S. Census Bureau for statistical purposes—located in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. Situated on the "Westbank" south of the Mississippi River, Terrytown serves as a residential suburb within the larger New Orleans–Metairie–Kenner metropolitan statistical area.
The community has a unique origin story, having been founded on March 6, 1960, by subdivision developer Paul Kapelow. He named the town after his eldest daughter, Terry Kapelow. Upon its opening, the community was showcased via a media tour on March 5, 1960, highlighting innovative home construction concepts of the era, specifically homes designed with all plumbing contained within a single wall.
Today, Terrytown is known not only for its residential neighborhoods but also as the home of Oakwood Center, a major shopping destination within the New Orleans metropolitan region.
Key Facts
- Founded: March 6, 1960, by Paul Kapelow.
- Location: Westbank of the Mississippi River, Jefferson Parish, Louisiana.
- 2020 Population: 25,278 residents.
- Land Area: Approximately 3.66 square miles.
- Major Landmark: Oakwood Center shopping mall.
- ZIP Code: 70056.
Geography and Infrastructure
Terrytown is positioned on the eastern edge of Jefferson Parish. It is bordered by New Orleans (Orleans Parish) to the northeast, Gretna to the west, Timberlane to the south, and Belle Chasse (Plaquemines Parish) to the southeast. The total area of the CDP is approximately 3.72 square miles, with water making up a small fraction (1.24%) of the total.
The community's layout is defined by several key thoroughfares. Louisiana Highway 23 (Belle Chasse Highway) marks the southwest border, while Highway 428 (Behrman Highway) traverses the eastern section. The internal grid is anchored by two primary intersecting streets: Terry Parkway, which runs north-south, and Carol Sue Avenue, which runs east-west and was named after Paul Kapelow's second daughter, Carol Sue Kapelow.
Demographics and Community Profile
Terrytown has seen steady growth since it first appeared in the 1970 U.S. Census. While the population fluctuated slightly between 2000 and 2010, it rose to 25,278 by the 2020 census.
The community is ethnically diverse. As of the 2020 census, the population consists of 38.22% Black or African American, 25.79% non-Hispanic White, and 27.74% Hispanic or Latino residents. Other groups include Asian (4.68%), Multiracial (3.32%), and Native American (0.18%) populations.
| Census Year | Total Population | Percentage Change |
|---|---|---|
| 1970 | 13,832 | — |
| 1980 | 23,548 | +70.2% |
| 1990 | 23,787 | +1.0% |
| 2000 | 25,430 | +6.9% |
| 2010 | 23,319 | -8.3% |
| 2020 | 25,278 | +8.4% |
Economically, the 2019 American Community Survey estimated a median household income of $46,638. Religiously, the community reflects the broader trends of southern Louisiana, with a strong presence of Christianity, specifically the Catholic Church (served by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans) and various Baptist denominations.
Education and Public Services
Public education is managed by Jefferson Parish Public Schools. Most students in the area attend Terrytown Elementary or Geraldine Boudreaux Elementary. A small number of students are zoned for William Hart Elementary or McDonogh 26 in Gretna.
For secondary education, the majority of students attend Livaudais Middle School, with some zoned for Marrero Middle School. All residents are zoned for West Jefferson High School in Harvey, and those seeking advanced studies are zoned for the Gretna Academy.
Private educational options include Terrytown Academy, Elmwood Park Academy, and Stepping Stones Montessori. Notably, Christ the King Catholic Elementary School closed in 2020, and Kate Middleton Elementary closed in 2012.
The Terrytown Library, operated by the Jefferson Parish Library system, has served the community since October 9, 1974. The facility underwent significant renovations in 2009, funded in part by riverboat gaming funds provided by parish council member Chris Roberts, and reopened on September 8, 2010.
Notable Residents
The community has been home to figures such as Bryan Adams, who served as a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives for District 85 in Jefferson Parish from 2012 to 2016.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Terrytown, Louisiana?
Terrytown was founded on March 6, 1960, by subdivision developer Paul Kapelow, who named the community after his first daughter, Terry Kapelow.
What is the primary shopping hub in Terrytown?
The Oakwood Center is a major shopping mall located within Terrytown and serves the broader New Orleans metropolitan area.
Which high school do Terrytown residents attend?
All residents of Terrytown are zoned to attend West Jefferson High School, located in Harvey.
What are the main roads that define Terrytown?
The community is bordered by Louisiana Highway 23 (Belle Chasse Highway) to the southwest and is traversed by Highway 428 (Behrman Highway), Terry Parkway, and Carol Sue Avenue.
When did the Terrytown Library open?
The Terrytown Library first opened on October 9, 1974, and was later renovated and reopened in September 2010.