Moving to New Orleans, LA
New Orleans is a one-of-a-kind city where French, African, and Caribbean cultures blend into legendary music, cuisine, and celebration. Home to Mardi Gras and the birthplace of jazz, the Big Easy offers historic charm, a vibrant street life, and a soulful, unhurried pace.
New Orleans at a glance
- Population: 383,997
- Median rent (2BR): $1,600/month
- Cost of living index: 96 (100 = national average)
- Walk Score: 58/100
- Average high temperature: 78°F
Best neighborhoods in New Orleans
- French Quarter — Historic & Lively, avg $1,900/mo
- Marigny — Bohemian & Musical, avg $1,600/mo
- Garden District — Elegant & Historic, avg $2,000/mo
- Uptown — Charming & Collegiate, avg $1,700/mo
- Bywater — Artsy & Eclectic, avg $1,500/mo
Local moving costs in New Orleans
For a 2-bedroom local move, expect roughly $246 for a DIY truck rental and about $1,490 for full-service movers.
New Orleans facts
- New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz
- Mardi Gras draws over a million visitors each year
- The French Quarter is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the U.S.
- The city's cuisine, from gumbo to beignets, is world-famous
Moving tips for New Orleans
- Hurricane season runs June–November; keep move dates flexible
- Avoid moving during Mardi Gras — streets and parking are chaotic
- Summers are hot and humid; protect wood furniture from warping
- Some areas are below sea level; research flood zones carefully
Popular moving routes
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to move to New Orleans?
- A local move within New Orleans for a 2-bedroom home typically costs about $246 for a DIY truck rental up to $1,490 for full service. Long-distance moves to New Orleans vary with the origin distance.
- What is the average rent in New Orleans?
- The median rent in New Orleans is approximately $1,600 per month for a 2-bedroom. Studios average around $1,120/month.
- What are the best neighborhoods in New Orleans?
- Popular neighborhoods in New Orleans include French Quarter (Historic & Lively), Marigny (Bohemian & Musical), Garden District (Elegant & Historic).