Location, Location, Location: Deciding Where to Move in New Orleans

*700-02 Poland Avenue, Listed By Debra Howell

New Orleans is one of the gems of the southern United States. Its unique blend of American, African, Caribbean, and French cultures creates an urban sprawl unlike any other city on Earth. 

Let’s discuss some important factors that will help you decide which NOLA location is best for you.

Popular Districts

Several housing districts remain popular destinations for newcomers. These three districts have set themselves apart: 

• French Quarter: The French Quarter is home to some of the oldest homes and apartments in the city. It lies in a great spot, right at the bend of the Mississippi River and just a mile south of New Orleans’ central business district. Lots of activities and job opportunities are in this area. It’s also the headquarters of the Mardi Gras festivities.
• Garden District: The Garden District sits farther inland, just north of the French Quarter, so it’s still close to New Orleans’ uptown and downtown areas. It also has some historic homes, but it’s primarily known for a wide variety of shops and restaurants. A local streetcar route also provides a unique source of transportation.
• Marigny-Bywater: Every city has a “hipster” district, and Marigny-Bywater is that district for New Orleans. It’s full of colorful apartments of many sizes. Live music and art galleries are near constants. The Marigny-Bywater neighborhood is perhaps the hottest market for young renters in the city.

There are also many housing options for incoming residents. You’ll find shotguns, double shotguns, townhomes, bungalows, creole cottages, and classic Victorian-era centre hall houses. New Orleans is one of the most historically rich cities in the world, and this quality shines through in the timeless architecture.

Transportation

One huge advantage of urban living is that you save big on vehicle expenses such as gas and minor repairs. You can maximize your car savings in New Orleans, as the city’s regional transit buses and streetcars charge just $1.25 for a journey across town. There are also public ferries at multiple locations that traverse the Mississippi River throughout the day.

Other major American cities have lots of hills, making certain areas almost inaccessible to cyclists. NOLA’s flat geography solves this problem and provides a perfect cycling environment. The city contains more than 100 miles of bike lanes that many commuters use to their advantage.

Education Opportunities

New Orleans has one of the best collections of public K-12 schools in Louisiana. The Archdiocese of New Orleans also has many tradition-rich private Catholic schools. Religion has been a huge part of the city’s culture since French and Spanish colonists established the first neighborhoods along the Mississippi.

NOLA also has several prominent universities. Tulane University is one of the southern United States’ most prestigious schools. Other private universities, such as Dillard University and Xavier University of Louisiana, have gorgeous campuses near the heart of the city. Of course, the vibrant party scene is another reason why people attend college in New Orleans.

Recreational Activities

New Orleans is world-renowned for its parties, music, and food. The ever-popular Mardi Gras gets all the attention, but there are also these annual celebrations:

• New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
• National Fried Chicken Festival
• French Quarter Festival
• Oktoberfest

You’ll have a hard time walking a few blocks without seeing a live music performance. Local artists perform on almost every corner, especially near the Mississippi River. Jazz and blues are the most popular music genres, but you also might hear reggae, Latin rock, and other tunes from the Caribbean and Latin America.

New Orleans’ food is perhaps the most important part of its culture. It’s the original home of cajun and creole cuisine – jambalaya, gumbo, crawfish, and all the cornbread you can eat. Locals expect every restaurant to live up to the city’s historically high culinary standards.

New Orleans Has a Home for You

With so many districts and attractions, New Orleans has a home that is fantastic for you. You just have to find the right location!

*Written By Rose Morrison of renovated.com