Areas and Suburbs in New Orleans

The best places to live in New Orleans

Thanks to the wide variety of areas and suburbs in New Orleans, there really is something for everyone. The eclectic mix of neighbourhoods ranges from bohemian Bywater, popular with a creative crowd, to the oak-lined Garden District, which is perfect for couples and active retirees.

There's a lot to bear in mind when house hunting, and finding accommodation in New Orleans can be a daunting prospect. Aspects such as budget, nearby amenities and proximity to work should be considered when narrowing down the options to the right area to suit your needs.

Here are our picks for some of the best areas and suburbs in New Orleans.

City living in New Orleans

Marigny/Bywater

These adjacent neighbourhoods are famous for their vibrant art scene. Full of local art galleries, relaxed live music venues and craft markets galore, Marigny and Bywater embody the creative spirit of New Orleans. You'll also be spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. From trendy local eateries to humble soul-food spots, foodies really can take their pick. 

Distinctive Creole cottages, a type of residential architecture quite unique to New Orleans, line the streets. The community is relatively young with most people in the area renting properties.

Uptown/Garden District

The leafy Garden District with its ancient magnolia trees and scents of jasmine transports visitors and residents to a grander, more opulent era. It's no wonder this is one of the most popular places to live in New Orleans. 

With loads of sophisticated bars, smart restaurants and trendy coffee shops, there is rarely any reason for residents to want to leave the Uptown area. Home to a diverse community ranging from young professionals to retirees, the area has a liberal and welcoming spirit, and is a great place to start your New Orleans experience.

Gentilly/New Orleans East

Tucked away in a lesser-known part of the city, Gentilly and New Orleans East are hidden gems that are just waiting to be discovered. Shotgun homes were once a common architectural feature of the area, but since the destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina, the neighbourhood has seen the rise of more modern houses. 

The communities in this part of New Orleans are ethnically diverse and well established. Historically home to large African-American and Vietnamese populations, new arrivals will find themselves surrounded by a real depth of culture in everything from the festivals to the food. 

Gentilly and New Orleans East are particularly popular with families as well as young couples looking to get a foot on the property ladder.

Family-friendly areas of New Orleans

Algiers Point

Located just beyond the Mississippi River, Algiers Point allows residents to see a different side of New Orleans. A historic neighbourhood where jazz once flourished, the pace of life is a little slower here but the sense of community is strong, with Confetti Park being a popular gathering spot among the locals. The suburb is full of architectural gems with beautiful Victorian touches. Living in Algiers Point will allow new arrivals to take a step back and embrace a more relaxed way of doing things.

Audubon

Home to one of the city's largest parks, after which it is named, Audubon is one of the most popular residential neighbourhoods in New Orleans. Also known as the ‘University District’ thanks to its proximity to Tulane and Loyola Universities, the area is home to a large student population. The presence of several good public schools makes this a great suburb for those looking to raise a family in New Orleans. 

Properties are spacious and comfortable, and house prices are reasonable. New arrivals will also benefit from the strong sense of community here. 

Lakeview

This family-friendly suburb of New Orleans is home to a small population of around 1,500 residents. Located on the lakefront, Lakewood offers residents a sparse urban feel which combines the best of city living with the benefits of being part of a tight-knit community. 

Nestled by City Park, Lakeview residents enjoy having the Besthoff Sculpture Garden on their doorstep. Being close to the StoryLand amusement park is a bonus for those with children. Harrison Avenue is the place to be when it comes to shopping, restaurants, bars and coffee shops.