Jimmy Swaggart House is more than just a home—it’s a landmark in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and a symbol of both success and controversy. People from all over the world have heard about this famous televangelist’s mansion, but not everyone knows what makes it so special. The house is huge, packed with luxury, and wrapped in stories of faith, fame, and even scandal. But what’s really behind those tall fences? And how did Jimmy Swaggart go from humble beginnings to living in one of the most talked-about homes in Louisiana? Let’s take a closer look at the Jimmy Swaggart House, its value, and the life of the man who calls it home.
Who is Jimmy Swaggart?
Jimmy Swaggart was one of the most well-known televangelists in America. Born in Ferriday, Louisiana, in 1935, he started out with almost nothing. He spent his early years singing gospel and preaching wherever he could, often earning just $40 a week and driving an old, beat-up car. But over the years, his ministry exploded. He built a religious empire with his TV programs, gospel music, and the famous Jimmy Swaggart Ministries.
Swaggart’s life wasn’t just about preaching. He owned luxury cars, and his net worth was estimated at around $10 million in 2025. He also had access to private jets for his ministry work, though there’s no public record of him owning a yacht or private islands. His son, Donnie Swaggart, and other family members have also been deeply involved in the ministry, making it a true family affair. The Swaggarts have owned several homes, but none as famous as the mansion in Baton Rouge.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jimmy Lee Swaggart |
| Birth Date | March 15, 1935 |
| Death Date | July 1, 2025 |
| Birthplace | Ferriday, Louisiana, USA |
| Spouse | Frances Swaggart (m. 1952) |
| Children | Donnie Swaggart |
| Net Worth (2025) | $10 million |
| Main Residence | Baton Rouge, Louisiana |
| Mansion Size | 5,452–9,337 sq ft (sources vary) |
| Mansion Value | $1.5 million (tax assessor, 1988) |
| Cars | Multiple luxury vehicles |
| Private Jet | Used for ministry travel |
| Yacht/Islands | No public record |
| Other Homes | Family homes in Baton Rouge |
| Ministry Revenue (1987) | $150 million/year |
| Main Source of Wealth | Televangelism, Gospel music, Ministry |
Where Does Jimmy Swaggart Live Now?
Jimmy Swaggart lived in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, until his passing in July 2025. His main home—the Jimmy Swaggart House—is just a short drive from the Family Worship Center, the heart of his ministry. This location made it easy for him to balance family life, ministry work, and his broadcasting duties. The mansion is not just a private residence; it’s also a symbol of his journey from a small-town preacher to a world-famous televangelist.
Jimmy Swaggart House
The Jimmy Swaggart House has always attracted attention. Some call it a mansion, others a parsonage, but everyone agrees it’s impressive. The house stands on about 20 acres of beautifully landscaped land in Baton Rouge. It’s surrounded by a tall, expensive fence—reportedly costing $250,000—to keep the family’s life private. The estate has been home to not just Jimmy Swaggart but also his wife, Frances, and their family for decades.
1. Where Is Jimmy Swaggart House?
Jimmy Swaggart’s house is located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, close to the Family Worship Center and the headquarters of Jimmy Swaggart Ministries. This spot was chosen for both privacy and convenience. Being near the church and ministry offices meant Swaggart could easily manage his work and family life. The neighborhood is known for its large homes and is one of the more upscale areas in Baton Rouge.
2. Features of Jimmy Swaggart House
The design of the Jimmy Swaggart House is a mix of classic Southern style and modern luxury. The mansion is big—some sources say it’s about 5,452 square feet, while others claim it’s over 9,300 square feet. The house was built in the 1980s, during the height of Swaggart’s ministry success. It has ten bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and plenty of space for both living and working.
The outside of the house has traditional brickwork, big windows, and grand gables. There are two circular driveways and several balconies for enjoying the view. The landscaping is carefully planned, with mature trees, gardens, and walking paths. Inside, the house is just as fancy. There are high ceilings, elegant chandeliers, and plush furniture. The living room features a polished parquet floor and an Oriental rug. The master bedroom has a step-up Jacuzzi with gold swan-shaped faucets—a detail that always gets people talking.
3. House Amenities
Jimmy Swaggart House is packed with amenities. There’s a private swimming pool, a patio for outdoor gatherings, and an outdoor kitchen for entertaining guests. The home has a custom office for ministry work, a special music room, and several fireplaces for cozy nights. Large windows let in lots of sunlight, making the house feel warm and inviting. The gardens and walking paths offer peaceful spots for relaxation or family time.
4. Neighborhood Area
The neighborhood around Jimmy Swaggart House is quiet, safe, and full of other large homes. It’s a community where privacy is respected, and many residents are professionals or business owners. The area is close to schools, parks, and shopping centers, but the tall fence and big yard make the Swaggart home feel like a world of its own. Because it’s near the Family Worship Center, the house is also a hub for ministry events and family gatherings.
Market Value
Here’s a breakdown of the Jimmy Swaggart House’s market value over the years:
| Detail | Value/Year |
|---|---|
| Build Year | 1980s |
| Purchase Year | 1980s |
| Purchase Value | Not publicly listed |
| Tax Assessor Value | $1.5 million (1988) |
| Security Fence Cost | $250,000 |
| Current Estimated Value | $1.5–$2.5 million (2025, estimate based on market trends and property improvements) |
The house has held its value well, especially considering the size, location, and luxury features. The $1.5 million tax value from the late 1980s would likely be higher today, but exact recent figures aren’t public. Still, it remains one of the most valuable homes in the area.
Jimmy Swaggart Real Estate Portfolio
Jimmy Swaggart’s real estate story is mostly centered on Baton Rouge. He started with very little, living in small homes during his early ministry days. As his ministry grew, so did his living arrangements. The mansion in Baton Rouge is the crown jewel, but the Swaggart family also owns other properties in the area, including homes for his son Donnie and other relatives.
There’s no record of Jimmy Swaggart owning homes outside Louisiana or in exotic locations. The Baton Rouge estate has always been the main family home and the base for ministry operations. Over the years, the property has been updated to keep up with modern needs, but it still reflects the Southern charm and style that Swaggart loved.
Conclusion
The Jimmy Swaggart House is more than just a mansion; it’s a symbol of a life filled with faith, fame, and a fair share of controversy. From its grand design to its luxurious amenities, the house tells the story of a man who started with nothing and built a religious empire. While some see it as a sign of success, others question the mix of wealth and spirituality. No matter how you look at it, the Jimmy Swaggart House remains one of the most famous homes in Baton Rouge and a lasting part of Swaggart’s legacy.
FAQs about Jimmy Swaggart
What led to the downfall of Jimmy Swaggart?
Jimmy Swaggart’s downfall was caused by a series of prostitution scandals in the late 1980s. In 1988, he was caught on camera with a prostitute in New Orleans, which led to his public confession and apology. The Assemblies of God church suspended him and later defrocked him after he refused to follow their punishment, which included a two-year rehabilitation program and a year-long preaching ban. These scandals caused his multimillion-dollar ministry and large audience to shrink dramatically, though he continued preaching with a much smaller following.
Was Jimmy Swaggart related to Jerry Lee Lewis?
Yes, Jimmy Swaggart was a cousin of rock ‘n’ roll legend Jerry Lee Lewis and country singer Mickey Gilley. All three grew up together in Ferriday, Louisiana, and each found fame in their own way—Swaggart in gospel and televangelism, Lewis in rock music, and Gilley in country music.
Did Jimmy Swaggart go to Mickey Gilley’s funeral?
There is no public record or confirmed report stating that Jimmy Swaggart attended Mickey Gilley’s funeral. Both Gilley and Lewis passed away in 2022, but available sources do not mention Swaggart’s presence at Gilley’s service.
What was Jimmy Swaggart’s cause of death?
Jimmy Swaggart died at age 90 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his home in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in June 2025. He was hospitalized but did not recover. His ministry announced his death, noting he had been gravely ill in the weeks leading up to his passing.
