Iberia Parish, Louisiana
Iberia Parish sits in the heart of Cajun Country along southern Louisiana’s coast. The parish includes two distinct areas, one of which encompasses Marsh Island State Wildlife Refuge, an island region extending into the Gulf of Mexico and surrounded by coastal wetlands.
The mainland portion includes New Iberia, the parish seat, along with several smaller communities. It is also home to Avery Island, famous as the birthplace of Tabasco sauce and an important part of the region’s culinary heritage.
The Gulf of Mexico supports a long-standing commercial fishing industry, with shrimping and oyster harvesting playing important roles in local life. Despite its many attractions, Iberia Parish remains relatively low-key, preserving its authentic Cajun culture, food, and traditions.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Parish Name | Iberia Parish |
| Parish Seat | New Iberia |
| Etymology | Named after the Iberian Peninsula, reflecting the heritage of the area’s early Spanish settlers |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | New Iberia, Jeanerette, Loreauville, Delcambre, Lydia, Avery Island, Rynella |
| Interstates and Highways | US-90, LA-14, LA-86, LA-31 |
| FIPS Code | 22-045 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,031 square miles (574 sq mi land, 457 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Parishes (and Direction) | St. Martin Parish (North), Iberville Parish (Northeast), Assumption Parish (East), St. Mary Parish (Southeast), Vermilion Parish (West), Lafayette Parish (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Louisiana |
| Coordinates | 29.9912° N, 91.8187° W |
| Major Landmarks | Avery Island (home of Tabasco Sauce), Rip Van Winkle Gardens, Shadows-on-the-Teche, Conrad Rice Mill, Bayou Teche Museum |
| Population | Approximately 71,000 |
