Cankton

Discover Cankton: The Heart of Cajun Culture

Nestled at the southern end of St. Landry Parish, Cankton offers the quintessential Cajun experience in a charming, small-town setting. Surrounded by scenic countryside, Cankton invites visitors to enjoy a variety of refreshing outdoor activities and provides easy access to nearby cities rich in Cajun history and culture.

Explore the Outdoors

Cankton is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From camping in secluded forests and fishing in abundant lakes to relaxing walks along easily accessible trails, there's something for everyone. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, scenic Highway 93 offers a picturesque route through the region, showcasing the natural beauty and historical culture of Cajun Country.

Connect to Cajun Culture

Cankton’s vibrant culture is a feast for the senses. The aroma of mouthwatering local BBQ, the sights of historical landmarks, and the sounds of lively music all contribute to an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the Cankton Courier de Mardi Gras, a celebration featuring a gumbo cook-off, live music, trail rides, and more. Each April, the town also hosts Cycle Zydeco, a four-day bike ride that combines cycling with a cultural festival, passing directly through Cankton.

A visit to Cankton wouldn’t be complete without dining at a local eatery to savor delectable Cajun dishes and learn about the town’s unique heritage. The town’s name originates from Dr. Louis Aristide Guidry, affectionately called "Cank" by his family. This endearing nickname, coupled with his status as a respected community advocate, gave birth to the name Cankton.

Scenic Adventures Await

Travel along Scenic Highway 93 from Cankton to fully immerse yourself in local Cajun culture. Head south to Lafayette, the unofficial capital of Cajun Country, or stop by Scott, known as the Boudin Capital of the World. Heading north, you’ll find Grand Coteau, renowned for its historic homes and charming streets.

Economic Development in Cankton

Cankton is not just a place of cultural richness but also a community poised for economic growth. The town’s strategic location near major cities provides excellent opportunities for business development and investment. Local initiatives are focused on supporting small businesses, attracting new industries, and promoting sustainable growth.

Entrepreneurs and investors will find a welcoming environment in Cankton, with access to resources and support from local government and business organizations. The town's proximity to Lafayette and other economic hubs ensures that businesses in Cankton can thrive while enjoying the benefits of a close-knit, supportive community.

Experience Cankton

Whether you're drawn to the outdoor adventures, the rich history, or the promising economic opportunities, Cankton offers a warm welcome and an authentic Cajun experience. Come discover why this small town is a hidden gem in the heart of Cajun Country, and see how it’s growing into a vibrant center for culture and commerce.
 

Population

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Population

Population2000201020252030
Cankton389484616617

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

Population by Age

Population2025
0-441
5-936
10-1457
15-1934
20-2436
25-2932
30-3424
35-3947
40-4447
45-4929
50-5444
55-5949
60-6448
65-6922
70-7437
75-7911
80-8411
85+11
18+460
Median Age40

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

Population by Race

Cankton2025
Total616.00
White Alone80.84%
Black Alone12.18%
American Indian Alone0.16%
Asian Alone0.16%
Pacific Islander Alone0%
Some Other Race2.11%
Two or More Races4.55%
Hispanic Origin6.17%
Diversity Index40.70

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

Growth Rate

Cankton2025 - 2030
Population0.03%
Households0.51%
Families-2.17%
Median Household Income1%
Per Capita Income2%

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

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Housing

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Households

Population2000201020252030
Households164190232238
Housing Units172199255260
Owner Occupied Units181194
Renter Occupied Units5144
Vacant Units2322

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

Home Value

Cankton20252030
Median Home Value$150,694$204,545
Average Home Value$182,873$237,397
<$50,0003526
$50,000 - $99,9992314
$100,000 - $149,9993236
$150,000 - $199,9993019
$200,000 - $249,9992322
$250,000 - $299,9991022
$300,000 - $399,9991230
$400,000 - $499,9991116
$500,000 - $749,99922
$1,000,000 +00

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

Housing Year Built

Year RangeHouses Built
2010 or Later47
2000-200932
1990-199941
1980-198966
1970-197935
1960-196933
1950-19594
1940-19492
1939 or Before3

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

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Income

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Income

Cankton20252030
Median Household$65,132$66,961
Average Household$80,441$86,190
Per Capita$30,296$33,247

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

Household Income

Cankton2025
<$15,00024
$15,000 - $24,99929
$25,000 - $34,99910
$35,000 - $49,99922
$50,000 - $74,99962
$75,000 - $99,99922
$100,000 - $149,99932
$150,000 - $199,99912
$200,000+19

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

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Employees

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Commute

CategoryCommuters
Workers 16+315
In-County Residents135
Out-of-County Residents180
Drive Alone251
Carpooled12
Public Transport0
Work at Home13
Motorcycle0
Bicycle0
Walked17
Other22
Less than 5 minutes12
5-9 minutes0
10-14 minutes97
15-19 minutes20
20-24 minutes18
25-29 minutes15
30-34 minutes93
35-39 minutes6
40-44 minutes0
45-59 minutes16
60-89 minutes18
90+ minutes7
Average Travel Time0

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

Employees by NAICS

CategoryNumber
Total Employees58
Agr/Forestry/Fish/Hunt0
Mining0
Utilities0
Construction15
Manufacturing0
Wholesale Trade0
  
Retail Trade4
  
Transportation/Warehouse0
Information0
  
Finance & Insurance5
  
Real Estate/Rent/Leasing0
Prof/Scientific/Tech Srv0
Legal Services0
Mgmt of Comp/Enterprises0
Admin/Support/Waste Mgmt3
Educational Services0
HealthCare/Social Assist15
Arts/Entertainment/Rec0
  
Accommodation/Food Srvcs3
  
Other Srv excl Pub Admin5
Auto Repair/Maintenance0
Public Administration Emp8

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

Educational Attainment (25+)

Cankton2025
<9th Grade6
Some High School21
GED24
Graduated High School164
Some College/No Degree84
Associates Degree56
Bachelor's Degree38
Graduate Degree19

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

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Businesses

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Businesses by NAICS

CategoryNumber
Total Businesses12
Agr/Forestry/Fish/Hunt Bus0
Mining Bus0
Utilities Bus0
Construction Bus2
Manufacturing Bus0
Wholesale Trade Bus0
  
Retail Trade Bus1
  
Transportation/Warehouse Bus0
Information Bus0
  
Finance & Insurance Bus1
  
Real Estate/Rent/Leasing Bus0
Prof/Scientific/Tech Srv Bus0
Legal Services Bus0
Mgmt of Comp/Enterprises Bus0
Admin/Support/Waste Mgmt Bus1
Educational Services Bus0
HealthCare/Social Assist Bus1
Arts/Entertainment/Rec Bus0
  
Accommodation/Food Srvcs Bus1
  
Other Srv excl Pub Admin Bus2
Auto Repair/Maintenance Bus0
Public Administration Bus3

Source: ESRI, 2025-09-30

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