Jena, Louisiana

Overview

Situated in Jena, Louisiana, Walmart Supercenter functions as a key retail store serving the broader regional population. The major retail destination plays a meaningful role in the area's commercial and civic landscape, anchoring a network of nearby communities. A closer look at the reachable population within 30 minutes reveals the reach and importance of this destination.

Population catchment

Approximately 8,249 residents live within a 30-minute drive of Walmart Supercenter, spread across 8 distinct incorporated communities. Jena, with a population of 4,155, is the dominant community in the catchment area, accounting for 50% of the reachable population. Following Jena, Olla adds 1,295 residents, while Midway contributes 1,157, broadening the demographic base of the area. This concentration highlights the demographic weight of the primary population center relative to smaller surrounding communities.

Regional dependence

Regional dependence is evident in the demographic profile surrounding Walmart Supercenter. With 8 of 8 communities registering populations under 5,000, many residents travel beyond their home communities for services available at or near Jena. Walmart Supercenter benefits from this travel pattern, serving as a practical destination for a dispersed population base across Louisiana.

Geographic interpretation

Geographically, the communities within 30 minutes of Walmart Supercenter form a rural corridor. The area is characterized by small communities, with few if any exceeding 10,000 residents, typical of a rural landscape in Louisiana. Jena dominates the population landscape, and the surrounding communities create a dispersed distribution. A median population of 501 among the catchment communities suggests that substantially smaller communities are the norm, with only a few larger population centers. This settlement pattern influences commuting behavior and access to regional destinations throughout Louisiana.