The birthplace of jazz, Mardi Gras, and some of the best food on Earth. Here's everything you need to know about living in NOLA — from neighborhoods and housing costs to schools and how to buy a home.
The numbers that matter most when you're evaluating a move to New Orleans.
Culture, food, and a way of life you won't find anywhere else in America.
How New Orleans compares to the Louisiana average and the national average across major spending categories.
| Category | New Orleans | Louisiana Avg | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Median) | $306,000 | $253,100 | $368,581 |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,350/mo | $906/mo | $1,200/mo |
| Groceries | 99 index | 96 index | 100 index |
| Utilities | 72 index | 82 index | 100 index |
| Property Tax | 0.55% | 0.53% | 1.1% |
| Transportation | 96 index | 97 index | 100 index |
New Orleans is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own personality. Here are some of the most popular for newcomers.
Tree-lined St. Charles Avenue, the iconic streetcar, Audubon Park, and some of the city's best schools including Isidore Newman and Academy of the Sacred Heart. Historic homes range from $400K to well over $1M.
Grand antebellum mansions, Magazine Street shopping, and a walkable, historic atmosphere. One of the most desirable (and expensive) addresses in the city.
Diverse, central, and home to Bayou St. John. Great restaurants, easy access to City Park, and a mix of historic shotguns and renovated homes. More affordable than Uptown.
Rebuilt after Katrina with modern construction. Suburban feel within city limits, near Lake Pontchartrain. Family-friendly with newer homes in the $300K–$500K range.
Artsy, walkable, and close to the French Quarter. Colorful shotgun homes, live music venues, and a strong creative community. Growing rapidly in popularity.
Suburban living just minutes from downtown. Top-rated schools, lower insurance costs, and median home prices around $275K. Popular with families.
New Orleans has a unique charter school system — one of the largest in the country — giving parents significant school choice.
New Orleans operates almost entirely on a charter school model through NOLA Public Schools. Parents can apply to schools across the city through the OneApp enrollment system, meaning you're not locked into a neighborhood school.
New Orleans has a diversified economy anchored by healthcare, tourism, energy, and a growing tech sector.
What you need to know before buying — from flood zones and insurance to the best loan programs for New Orleans buyers.
Property insurance in New Orleans is higher than the national average due to hurricane and flood risk. Most properties require flood insurance, and costs vary significantly by zone. Factor this into your monthly housing budget — it can add $100–$400/month or more depending on the property.
New Orleans buyers have access to every major loan program. FHA loans are popular for first-time buyers, and many suburban areas qualify for USDA zero-down financing.
Every city has tradeoffs. Here's an honest look at what you're getting — and what you're signing up for.
Considering other areas? Check out these nearby cities and our statewide relocation guide.
Common questions about moving to and buying a home in New Orleans.
Get a free quote in 60 seconds — no credit pull, no obligation. We'll match you to the best loan program for your situation.
Thinking about buying soon? See how mortgage pre-qualification in Louisiana works and what paperwork you'll need to gather.
