Considering a move to a new city brings up a lot of questions. What’s it really like to live in that city? Are there qualities specific to that place I should know before moving there? New Orleans is known internationally for its active nightlife, laid-back Southern vibes, and being, arguably, the birthplace of Jazz music. But what do you really know before living there? Before you consider a move to the Big Easy, here are the pros and cons of living in New Orleans.
Pro: There are festivals for everything in New Orleans
If there’s one city that has a festival for everything, it’s New Orleans. Sure, you know all about the Mardi Gras festival that happens every year in February, but did you know New Orleans is home to dozens of events and festivals? In fact, it’s the self-proclaimed Festival Capital of the World. Check out the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, the New Orleans Oyster Festival, French Market Creole Tomato Festival, and the Boudin, Bourbon, and Beer Festival.
Pro: New Orleans is a history haven
Living in New Orleans means having access to rich Southern history, spooky haunts, and a endless amount of culture. New Orleans is known as the birthplace of jazz music, which some say originated from the drumming of the voodoo rituals that took place in the city before the Civil War. Some of the most well known jazz performers are from New Orleans, including Louis Armstrong. One of the best things about living in New Orleans is the soundtrack of the city. As you walk the cobble streets your ears will be treated to the music that defines the history of NOLA. New Orleans is also known for being a mysterious and spooky city. There are many famous houses that are considered haunted, including the LaLaurie Mansion. There are many walking tours you can take through the French Quarter that detail the rich history of New Orleans, including the dark and mysterious. We recommend the Lafayette Cemetery tour.
Con: New Orleans is known for its intense weather
New Orleans is also known for its weather, the good and the bad. This southern city is a great place for northerners to defrost during the winter months, but you can expect hot and humid temperatures in the summer. NOLA is also subject to extreme weather conditions, particularly during hurricane season. Hurricane season for New Orleans officially starts on June 1, and continues through the end of November. When living in New Orleans you will need to be prepared for possible storms, even potentially catastrophic conditions. Many residents have had to evacuate the city ahead of oncoming weather to avoid being in the path of one of these major storm occurrences.
Pro: The New Orleans restaurant scene
In NOLA, you don’t just have the pick of the litter when it comes to Creole food, you also have some downright delicious restaurants that have made this city a foodie mecca. You can get the best fried chicken in America one day and try a spot created by Food & Wine’s Best New Chef of 2016 the next. Explore the less tourist-heavy New Orleans neighborhoods and you’re bound to find some true gems.
Pro: New Orleans architecture
In line with the rich history of New Orleans is its distinct and unique architecture. Visitors often take note of the city’s European vibe and atmosphere, and the architecture is indicative of this. The Creole style, sometimes referred to as “French Colonial” showcases the merging of Spanish, French, and Caribbean influences that are the roots of the city’s history. Creole Cottage, and Shotgun style homes are two common types of buildings found throughout NOLA. The houses were built to accommodate the heat and humidity of the city, and allow for natural airflow throughout the home. When living in New Orleans, chances are you’ll have the opportunity to call one of these unique styles of buildings your home, giving your space the character and charm of NOLA.
Con: The bugs
You might be used to most creepy crawlers, but NOLA has its own specific pests you should keep an eye out for. The buck moth caterpillar is falls out of oak trees in the spring; it stings too, so watch out for these bugs. The brown recluse is also known to wreak havoc on New Orleans, so always be careful and inspect your clothes, bedsheets, and shoes. Finally, fire ants are common in the city, appearing especially during the Mardi Gras time.
Pro: Lower cost of living
You’ll be happy to hear that NOLA doesn’t even make the top 20 most expensive cities in the country to rent. With median rental prices at $1,430 and $1,880 for a one and two-bedroom, respectfully, New Orleans is cheaper than places like Atlanta, Baltimore, and Philly. With all that extra cash you can go to the bars (longer) and buy your friends (more) drinks.
Pro: Drink anytime, anywhere (practically)
Anyone who’s ever been to New Orleans can attest to this. Not only is drinking alcohol in public legal, but the bars also stay open much later than in other cities; and, a select few never close! With late closing times and the ability to drink in public spaces, you can just about just anywhere and anytime. Friends getting into town on a late night flight? No problem. Want to drink at the park on a nice spring day? You got it.
New Orleans is a city full of festivals and boozy streets, but it’s also home to charming highly-rated local restaurants and laid-back communities. If you think it’s the place for you, check out all of our apartments for rent and find the one you’ll call home. Welcome to NOLA!
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