Louisiana Per Diem Rates (FY2026)
Louisiana has 2 GSA non-standard per diem areas for FY2026. Everywhere else uses the standard $178/day rate ($110 lodging + $68 M&IE). The most expensive is New Orleans — up to $179/night lodging in February plus $80/day M&IE.
| Area | M&IE / day | Lodging / night | Peak month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandria / Leesville / NatchitochesAllen / Jefferson Davis / Natchitoches / Rapides / Vernon Parishes | $68 | $112 | flat |
| New OrleansOrleans / Jefferson Parishes | $80 | $133–$179 | Feb |
| All other Louisiana locationsstandard rate | $68 | $110 | flat |
Estimated trip cost
A 4-night business trip to New Orleans — Louisiana's most expensive per diem area — in February totals $1,076: $716 lodging (4 nights) + $360 M&IE (5 days, first & last day at 75%). New Orleans month-by-month rates →
Book within the Louisiana lodging cap
Otto finds hotels at or under the GSA lodging cap for your Louisiana destination — $110/night at the standard rate, higher in the 2 listed areas — and books them for you.
Louisiana per diem FAQ
- What is the per diem rate in Louisiana?
- Louisiana has 2 GSA non-standard per diem areas with their own rates for FY2026. Everywhere else in Louisiana uses the standard CONUS rate of $178 per day: $110 for lodging plus $68 for meals & incidental expenses (M&IE).
- What is the meal reimbursement (M&IE) rate in Louisiana?
- Meal reimbursement in Louisiana ranges from $68 to $80 per day for FY2026, depending on the area. The first and last day of travel reimburse at 75% of the daily M&IE rate.