Lake Charles is the fifth largest incorporated city in the US state of Louisiana. "Lake Charles, Louisiana (LA) Detailed Profile" (notes), City Data, 2007, webpage: blank">C-LCh. "Census 2000 Data for the State of Louisiana" (town list), _US Census Bureau, May 2003, webpage: blank">C2000-LA. It is the major cultural and educational center in the southwest region of the state and one of the most important in _Acadiana. As of the 2000 U.S. census, Lake Charles' population was 71,757. The city serves as the parish seat of Calcasieu Parish.

Lake Charles is the principal city of the Lake Charles Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes the parishes of Calcasieu and Cameron. It is also part of the larger Lake Charles-Jennings Combined Statistical Area.

The city is considered a major petrochemical refining center, gaming center, and home to McNeese State University.

With over 75 festivals held annually, Lake Charles is referred to as the Festival Capital of Louisiana.