Per diem rates in Louisiana

Per diem in Louisiana is $181 a day in most places: $113 for lodging and $68 for M&IE. 2 locations run higher, led by New Orleans at up to $268 a day combined, then Alexandria / Leesville / Natchitoches at $186. Rates apply through September 30, 2027.

In FY2024 the standard rate was $107 for lodging plus $59 for M&IE, or $166 a day. Today's $181 is $15 higher. Use the calculator to confirm your dates.

New Orleans runs $138 to $188 a night for lodging plus $80 for M&IE, or $218 to $268 a day combined. The peak rate applies from February 1 to May 31. That is $9 a day above last year. Lodging is paid at actual cost up to the cap, with a receipt. The rate covers Orleans / Jefferson Parishes.

There is no fixed amount. Employers set per diem for travel jobs, and many base it on the GSA rate for the job site, which is $181 a day in most of Louisiana and up to $268 in New Orleans. Up to the federal rate under an accountable plan, it is not taxable wages.

The standard lodging rate rose $3 to $113 for FY2027, which takes the standard per diem from $178 to $181 a day. Among 2 higher-rate Louisiana locations, 2 rose, 0 fell, and 0 stayed flat at peak lodging. New Orleans moved most, up $9 a night.

The State of Louisiana sets its own travel reimbursement rates for state employees, and they can differ from GSA's. GSA rates apply to federal travel and run $181 a day in most of Louisiana, up to $268 in New Orleans. Check the state travel policy for its current figure.