Semester of Graduation

Spring 2026

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Geography and Anthropology

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Coastal communities, such as those in Louisiana, are among the first in the United States (U.S.) to experience displacement due to modern-day climate change. This type of displacement, driven by environmental changes such as coastal erosion, land loss, and flooding, is known as climate migration. Certain populations will decide to move inland, relocating themselves to more climate-resilient communities; however, little is known about what makes a desirable receiving community (RC). This study measures the following five socioeconomic characteristics of resilient RCs: access to health care, affordable housing availability, economic opportunities, public transportation, and quality education. Data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Child Opportunity Index (COI), Location Affordability Index (LAI), National Transit Map (NTM), and U.S. Census Bureau were analyzed in ArcGIS Pro at the census tract and census place levels to rank RCs. Scores were then compared to Census county-to-county migration flows to assess population migration patterns following previous disasters in Louisiana. Results showed higher scores in resource-abundant metropolitan areas, such as New Orleans and Baton Rouge, and lower scores in rural areas. The index can be a useful tool for stakeholders, local governments, policymakers, and the general public. Most importantly, Louisiana residents looking to leave hazardous areas due to sea level rise, repetitive flooding, and other risks can now identify the best-suited RCs for their needs.

Date

4-13-2026

Committee Chair

Brown, Vincent

LSU Acknowledgement

1

LSU Accessibility Acknowledgment

1

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Available for download on Monday, March 26, 2029

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