A Starting Point, Not a Rule
Most homes in the Lafayette area land somewhere between 74 and 78 degrees for daytime comfort in summer, with a slightly higher setting overnight or when the house is empty. That said, the "right" number depends on the home's insulation, ductwork, and how well the system controls humidity — not a single number that works everywhere.
Humidity Changes the Math
A home with good humidity control can feel comfortable at a higher temperature than a home where the air stays sticky. If you find yourself constantly lowering the thermostat to "feel" cool, humidity — not temperature — may be the actual problem. Keeping the fan setting on Auto rather than On, and making sure the filter is clean, both support better humidity control at any thermostat setting.
When Thermostat Settings Cannot Fix the Real Problem
If lowering the thermostat is the only way to feel comfortable, and the electric bill keeps climbing as a result, the underlying issue is usually airflow, insulation, ductwork, or equipment performance — not the number on the wall. A thermostat that is unresponsive or reading inaccurately can also throw off the whole plan.
If your thermostat itself seems to be part of the problem, see Thermostat Not Working. If the real issue is a high bill despite reasonable settings, see High Electric Bill or explore Humidity & Airflow service.