8 Best Neighborhoods to Live in New Orleans

New Orleans stands in a class of its own when it comes to southern coastal living. Most people in the US have at least heard of the Big Easy, if for nothing else than for its Mardi Gras celebration, Creole culture, or Hurricane Katrina.

But there’s so much more to living in New Orleans than the French Quarter and po’boys. People who live in NOLA–as locals call it–have an affordable cost of living compared to similarly sized cities. The lower expenses are paired with a rich culture and history, giving life here a unique flavor not found in other cities.

Moving to New Orleans can have benefits, but where do you live if you’re not familiar with the area? Luckily, NOLA has plenty of great neighborhoods to choose from! Our list has handpicked a few to help you start your home search and familiarize yourself with New Orleans.

Why Live in New Orleans?

The elephant in the room is undoubtedly the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina. New Orleans has definitely been through its share of disasters. However, the city has invested in protecting its citizens, promoting growth, and revitalizing the impacted areas. People moving back to New Orleans have become part of its ongoing recovery and are helping shape the city’s future.

The economy is bouncing back and only picking up steam. Yes, tourism remains a significant part of the economy, but there are also major industries, like the Fortune 500 company Entergy. Energy, manufacturing, and healthcare are the top employers.

Of course, New Orleans has a distinct and unique culture that people come from around the world to experience. It’s displayed in the Gothic, Spanish, Victorian, and shotgun-style architecture of the 26 historic districts. You can taste it in the Café Du Monde beignets, jambalaya, and andouille sausage. You can hear and see it in the colorful Mardi Gras parades or the traditional lively funeral parades.

Music is an integral part of the lifeblood of the city. You can’t walk or drive without encountering some kind of street music or live music venues. There were 31 live music options in the French Quarter alone! The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is a major NOLA event.

Locals enjoy the warm, coastal climate all year round. Outdoor attractions include biking along the Mississippi River, visiting the Audubon Zoo, and or gondola rides at the lagoons of New Orleans City Park. As a coastal city, recreation often involves fishing or boating in some capacity.

So much makes living in the Big Easy a joyful and enriching experience. But where should you live to maximize your NOLA lifestyle? Here are a few options:

Where to Live in New Orleans

Central Business District

What’s a downtown doing on a place-to-live list? Well, New Orleans’ downtown is not your traditional skyscraper 9-to-5 business district.

The CBD, as locals call it, is renowned for its liveliness. A trendy district with some sub-sections, residents can take advantage of its walkability. Head to the South Market District for award-winning restaurants, bars, and shops. Its Warehouse District has transformed into an innovative arts district with Gallery Row and museums. Two theaters and the Superdome are at-your-door music venues, theater, and sporting options. The other famous NOLA districts are nearby, making it extra convenient when you want to experience Mardi Gras but not fight to park.

The CBD is where college students and young professionals live and work close to each other. Housing options vary from high-rise condos to 18th-century homes. In January 2023, the CBD had 100 homes for sale with a median list price of $599,000.

French Quarter

How can you talk about New Orleans without mentioning the French Quarter? The historic French Quarter is home to many of the city’s oldest buildings and has unmistakable charm.

Even though this is perhaps the most tourist-driven part of the town, if you like a lively, entertainment-filled lifestyle, this could be a great place for you to live. All you have to do is get out and walk to it. The award-winning restaurants, street performances, and music of Bourbon Street await outside your doorstep.

But there are also quietly charming areas in the French Quarter, like a stretch of antique shops and art galleries from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue, and Jackson Square. Jackson Square is a historic park surrounded by historic buildings and considered the heart of this colorful neighborhood.

The area is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with street performers, artists, and musicians frequently entertaining visitors. The square also serves as a gathering place for various events and celebrations, including festivals and parades.

If you love the area, chances are high you’re purchasing a historic home. These homes may not look opulent from the outside, but inside, many have elegant features like manicured courtyards and spacious layouts. The French Quarter had 123 homes for sale in January 2023, with a median list price of $496,000.

The Garden District

For those looking for a more residential area, the Garden District boasts oak-lined cobblestone streets and historic mansions with beautiful gardens. These are NOLA’s original suburbs. Part of the greater area called Uptown, because it’s up the river from the French Quarter, this location attracts many who want classic NOLA living with a more family-friendly vibe.

You won’t miss out on any New Orleans culture as the Mardi Gras parade route runs down Saint Charles Street. For dining, pick from the numerous po’boy cute shops and long-running family restaurants. Retailers and dining line Oak, Maple, Ferret, and Magazine Streets. Nearby are Tulane and Loyola universities and, for families, Audubon Park and Zoo.

The Garden District got its name because of the opulent residential homes with well-maintained yards and luscious tree canopies. The Garden District has distinctive pockets, like Carrollton and Oretha Castle Haley. January 2023 had 27 homes for sale with a median list price of $645,000.

Irish Channel

Speaking of the Irish Channel, this Uptown historic neighborhood between Jackson Avenue, Magazine Street, and the Mississippi River oozes character. The name came from the Irish immigrants who first set up shop in the 1830s and began building its shotgun-style homes. This architectural style is noted for its long, narrow construction with a central hallway.

Today the locals love living near all the dining and shopping options of Tchoupitoulas Street and Magazine Street. The NOLA Brewery & Taproom is a bustling hot spot, but there are plenty more taprooms and bars to hit up happy hour. Best of all, it’s a highly walkable neighborhood, so there is no need to call that rideshare.

Housing here is predominantly colorful shotgun homes tucked close together. The residential community had 38 homes for sale at a median $485,000 list price in January 2023.

Marigny/Bywater

Turning downriver, Faubourg Marigny and Bywater are becoming trendy neighborhoods known for having a hipster crowd. This is the kind of place where you walk on the street by a record store or a vegan-friendly restaurant. Locals respect it for its diverse music scene, where you’ll hear everything from reggae to rock.

Frenchmen Street is the cultural center and has a reputation in NOLA for its many fantastic live music venues, with around 25 as of 2022. Residents like how the clubs have fewer crowds than the French Quarter, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be packed on the weekend.

Locals are also near the famous JAMOLA, St. Claude Arts District, Washington Square Park, and the riverfront Crescent Park.

Architecturally, you’ll find many Creole-style cottages and shotgun homes in lively colors. Marigny and Bywater were first settled in 1806, so there’s some historic real estate here. January 2023 found 62 homes for sale at a median of $521,500. The Bywater section was more affordable than Marigny and is further from the neighborhood’s attraction.

Mid-City

Located halfway between Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi awaits Mid-City, which offers easy access to outdoor activities while still being close to downtown. That said, you won’t be walking to the French Quarter from here.

One of Mid-City’s claims to fame is the annual Jazz and Heritage Festival. The community nourishes the artsy crowd, thanks to the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) and Mid-City Art Studios.

Like many New Orleans neighborhoods, there is a strip with many breweries, bars, and restaurants. For Mid-City, this is Carrollton Avenue. But when you don’t wanna party, find peace at the 1300-acre city park, beautifully landscaped with walking paths. The NOMA, Botanical Gardens, and golfing are inside the park. Kids will love the Carousel Gardens amusement park and Storyland.

Mid-City had 62 homes for sale at a median list price of $415,000 in January 2023. As the area developed over time, you’ll find a range of styles from the shotgun to Craftsmen cottages.

Gentilly Terrace

Gentilly Terrace rocks the suburban vibe filled with oak-lined streets and craftsman bungalows. Students like it because it is close to Dillard University and the University at New Orleans.

The community developed in the 1900s with a Spanish-influenced and Tudor home aesthetic, making it different from the shotgun and Creole styles closer to downtown. It’s very much a residential area, with a busy neighborhood improvement association, garage sales, potlucks, and house decorating contests. Locals do have some great restaurants, bars, and live music venues nearby.

The name comes from the man-made terraces many of the homes are built on, helping them sit above street level. The charming neighborhood had 37 homes for sale in January 2023, listed at a median of $285,000.

Old Aurora

Finally, Old Aurora offers spacious homes that have been around for more than 100 years. Tucked inside the Algiers neighborhood, another NOLA historic district, it’s an excellent choice for those looking for a quiet area with charm and a strong sense of community.

Residents live across the Mississippi from the French Quarter. Lakewood Golf Club runs tournaments and has an acclaimed junior golf program. Across General De Gaulle Drive is Brechtel Park, where locals can enjoy walking, biking, and fishing. Nearby shopping and dining are available at the corner of Da Gaulle and Holiday.

The homes on the tree-lined streets have a dominant Victorian or bungalow style. Some are beautifully restored or have skyline views. Many started as small two-bedroom ranches but have been expanded thanks to the average quarter-acre lots.

Old Aurora posted a median list price of $239,000, with 54 single-family homes for sale in January 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Live In New Orleans, LA

 What’s a livable salary in Louisiana?

According to MIT Living Wage Calculator data, a single adult without children needs about $41,233 annually before taxes to afford living expenses in Louisiana. If it’s a household with children, the amount grows drastically. In this city, a single adult with a child needs to make $68,038 per year, while one adult with two children requires $84,210 annually to meet basic living expenses, which includes housing, groceries, healthcare, and transportation.

What are the best residential neighborhoods for families in NOLA?

The best residential neighborhoods for families in New Orleans offer a combination of top-notch schools, safety, comforts & services, and a strong sense of community. Here are our top choices, but remember that it is always a good idea to visit the area and see for yourself before committing to a single-family home in New Orleans.

1. Lakeview: With high-performance public schools, family-friendly amenities, and tight knight community feel, Lakeview is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods for families in New Orleans. The area is safe, with a bunch of parks and recreationnal options, making it ideal for raising children of all ages.
2. East Carrollton: Near Uptown is beautiful East Carrollton, as lovely as popular among new families due to its top-rated schools, university proximity, and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a safe neighborhood with a myriad of parks and green spaces, local stores, coffee shops, and family-oriented activities.
3. Audubon: This entire neighborhood is coveted for its top-tier schools and amenities. Audubon combines urban convenience with residential charm, offering access to parks, the Audubon Zoo, and a variety of family-friendly activities.
4. West End: Just a short drive from Downtown, West End offers a quieter, suburban feel close to city amenities. West End it’s well-known for its safety (low crime rates) and highly rated school options. An excellent choice for families with school-age children.
5. Fillmore: This community is in the Gentilly area. It’s a cozy, affordable neighborhood with good schools and family-centered amenities. It offers a mix of good-sized bungalows and new construction homes for sale, making it attractive for families looking for space.

Is it expensive to live in New Orleans?

With a cost of living index of 101.6, living in New Orleans is somewhat expensive compared to the state average and the national averages. The cost of living is about 13% higher than the Louisiana average and 1.6% higher than in the rest of the United States.

Home prices in New Orleans average around $372,000, and the median monthly rent is approximately $1,700. While utilities are cheaper, healthcare costs are higher than the national average.

What is the nicest area of New Orleans?

Niche.com has named Lake Terrace & Oaks as the #1 best place to set residence in beautiful New Orleans, especially for homebuyers seeking a quiet neighborhood with plenty of suburban charm while still being within the city attractions and commercial areas.

Lake Terrace & Oaks is considered to be a very safe neighborhood with plenty of waterfront appeal (it is located at the banks of Lake Pontchartrain) spacious homes, and well-maintained streets. The area offers residents scenic views and access to outdoor activities. It is also noted for its strong sense of community, home to the University of New Orleans and green areas like Lake Oaks Park and Lake Terrace Park.

Do you need a car if you live in New Orleans?

The need for a car while living in New Orleans depends on your neighborhood’s location and lifestyle specifics. According to Walk Score, New Orleans has a score of 58, meaning it is somewhat walkable for residents. However, you will walk more if you live in neighborhoods like the French Quarter, the Central Business District, or Marigny. These areas have Walk Scores ranging from 93 to 97, meaning most everyday errands can be easy to fulfill on foot, and public transit options like streetcars and buses are readily available.

How many historic districts are in New Orleans?

If you’re making New Orleans your new home, you won’t be short on history and charm. The city is home to 26 National Register Historic Districts, all of which showcase the city’s unique blend of American history, architecture, and culture.
The city’s historic districts range from small areas like Dillard University, to larger neighborhoods like Uptown, covering 750 blocks. Some favorites include gorgeous Esplanade Ridge, with stunning Creole-style homes, and the Garden District neighborhood, filled with grand, antebellum mansions.

What architectural designs are predominant in New Orleans?

As we have stated before, New Orleans is rich in architectural heritage, with a wild variety of designs that show its history.

The predominant architectural styles and designs in this southern city include the grand Greek Revival homes in the Garden District, iconic and colorful Shotgun Houses in Bywater and the Irish Channel, and the carefully ornated Creole Townhouses lining the French Quarter streets.

While you explore the area, it won’t be rare to find some fine examples of Victorian and Italianate houses near Uptown as well as antique French Colonial designs. See below a list of popular architectural designs in New Orleans:

• Greek Revival
• Shotgun Houses
• Creole Style Townhouses
• Victorian and Italianate
• French Colonial

Does New Orleans have good public transportation?

The New Orleans public transportation system is decent, but its effectiveness depends on where you live. The Regional Transit Authority (RTA) oversees the operative buses, streetcars, and ferries. Streetcar lines are particularly iconic and popular among locals and tourists.
With a Transit Score 44, New Orleans has public transit available, but it may not be convenient for all trips, especially to the suburbs. Public transportation access is reasonably good in neighborhoods like the French Quarter, Marigny, and the Central Business District, making it easier to get around without a car. On the other hand, reliable transportation may be helpful for daily commuting in less central areas.

New Orleans’ Top Neighborhoods

New Orleans oozes charm and culture at every turn. If you love live music, southern-style cuisine, the arts, and coastal living, New Orleans mixes it all up and gives it a special flavor. With its unique culture, unbeatable weather, and lower rent costs, it’s not hard to see why so many people choose to live in this vibrant city!

No matter your preferences, there is sure to be a distinct neighborhood in New Orleans that has everything you’re looking for. A local real estate agent can help you find it.