Moving to New Orleans

So, you’ve decided to make the big move to the Big Easy. Congrats! This is a city with a style, culture, and way of life all its own. Whether you’re planning to move for work, family or you’re moving to New Orleans alone, you’ll come to love the city as much as any native New Orleanian.

The city’s motto is “laissez les bon temp rouler” or “let the good times roll.” Something the city, and its laid back people, embody. Don’t let that fool you though, while it’s portrayed as the celebratory, party capital in movies, it’s also a get-to-it town. Get ready to make yourself at home.

Things to Know Before Your Move

Now that you know all about why it’s a great place to live, it’s time to learn a little bit more.

Bugs

While the city itself seems larger than life, the sweltering summer heat gives way to massive insects. Some surprising crawlies you’ll encounter:

• Palmetto Bugs
• Asian Tiger Mosquito
• Mayflies
• Stinging Caterpillars

Hurricanes and Life Post-Katrina

Since the devastation in 2005 from Hurricane Katrina, the city is still working its way back to population numbers from that time. As time ticks on and technology gets better, the Big Easy continues to grow each year – with the art scene notably bringing creators in.

13 Districts to Choose From

Across its 350 square miles, New Orleans has over 70 distinct neighborhoods to call home. From suburban vibes to historic homes and bustling art areas, the districts include:

• Metairie/Kenner
• Lakeview
• Gentilly
• Mid-city
• Margin/By-water
• Esplanade Ridge
• Treme
• Arts/Warehouse District
• Westbank
• Algiers
• French Quarter
• Downtown

Festivals are Year-Round

While Mardi Gras (also known as Carnival) is the most prominent New Orleans festival, celebrations happen all year for a variety of things such as:

• Jazz & Heritage
• Food & Wine
• Pride
• Essence
• Running of the Bulls

Cemeteries are Mini-Cities

With the water table being so high, burying your loved ones isn’t underground. Mauseuleoms and other above-ground structures exist as a final resting place throughout the city, which is why they’re called cities of the dead. You can tour them and learn more about New Orleans history although, some do require a licensed tour group to visit.

Car Insurance, Roadwork, and Traffic Cameras

New Orleans ranks third in the country for highest insurance rates. Paired with the copious amount of roadwork constantly going on and the use of traffic cameras, you have to be careful while driving in the city. Good news for any future resident though, you can get around the city easily with public transportation, just be sure to account for the city’s friendliness and give yourself some extra time to get places.

Sports

From professional teams to little league, the city, and the entire state, take their sports seriously. If it’s a Friday night in the fall, you can bet that most of the town is watching high school football games.

More Than Mardi Gras

While New Orleans is widely known for jazz, creole and Mardi Gras, there’s plenty more to do than that. One thing that you’ll notice, is how friendly everyone is, its just the New Orleans way!

Haunts and Voodoo

Part of New Orleans life is the mystical and unknown parts that the city’s people embrace. As a big part of the culture, voodoo and other spiritual activities are embraced. If you’re looking to learn more about the history around these you can:

• Tour the Lalaurie Mansion
• Take a haunted tour across several hot spots
• Visit the History of New Orleans Voodoo Museum

One of the most commonly associated names with New Orleans and voodoo is Marie Laveau who has a museum as well. Take in all of the culture associated with the city before you hear old wives’ tales!

Cathedrals and Cemeteries

Since “cities of the dead” are a celebrated thing in the city, it makes sense that some of the biggest attractions include older cemeteries. On the flip side, the beautiful architecture that is around the area makes cathedrals a common attraction.

• Lafayette Cemetery
• St Louis Cemetery
• St Louis Cathedral
• St Roch Cemetery

Whether you choose to view the architecture or enjoy learning about the previous residents, these are great ways to learn about your new city.

Historical Landmarks

New Orleans has such a rich history, everywhere you go has charm from the past and significance to the city’s culture. Check out:

• The National World War II Museum
• Jackson Square
• Longue Vue House and Gardens
• New Orleans Jazz Museum
• Joan of Arc Statue
• Hurricane Katrina Memorial
• Mardi Gras World Behind-The Scenes

You can also stop by Decatur Street, Bourbon Street, Magazine Street to get in on all of the architecture and live music that happens across the French Quarter. While you’re also there, learn more about what life was like in the 1800s and take a plantation tour.

Outdoor Activities

With beautiful weather year-round and settled right along the Mississippi River, there are plenty of breathtaking views. From kayaking and canoeing to trolling the bayou, stay in the great outdoors with activities like:

• Bicycle Tours
• Gondola Rides
• Carriage Tours

Head over to City Park as well or just enjoy ‘porching’ with other locals. Many streets have a beautiful median that is well maintained so, you have a little bit of greenery everywhere.

There are also plenty of family friendly things to do in this fun-loving town. You can visit the Audubon Aquarium, also known as the Aquarium of the Americas, or head over to the Audubon Zoo and see some giraffes.

Settle Into the Big Easy

We might be biased but, New Orleans is a thriving place to live and work. When it’s time to make the move to New Orleans, be sure to vet your mover thoroughly. You want a reputable moving company, that knows the Big Easy and can help you regardless of whether you’re staying local or moving across the United States.