New Orleans, Louisiana is an iconic city with a rich culture and history, but it is not the best place to live for everyone. Here are 19 reasons why you may want to consider living elsewhere.
1. Weather
New Orleans is located in the deep south, so it has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot and humid with temperatures often reaching the mid-90s, and winters are mild with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. The city also experiences heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and the occasional hurricane.
2. Crime
New Orleans has a high crime rate. According to the FBI, it has the fourth highest violent crime rate in the US, with 886 violent crimes per 100,000 people in 2019. Property crime is also high, with 4,981 property crimes per 100,000 people in 2019.
3. Cost of Living
The cost of living in New Orleans is higher than the national average. According to Numbeo, the cost of living index is 103.3, which is 3.3% higher than the US average. Housing is especially expensive, with a median home price of $251,400.
4. Job Opportunities
New Orleans is not a great place to find a job. The unemployment rate in the city is 5.2%, which is higher than the national average of 3.7%. The job market is also limited, with many of the available jobs in the tourism and hospitality industries.
5. Education
New Orleans public schools are struggling. According to Niche, the public schools have a rating of 4.3 out of 10, which is lower than the state average of 6.2. The city also has fewer higher education options, with only three universities and one community college.
6. Traffic
Traffic in New Orleans is often congested. The city has a low Walk Score of 45 out of 100, which means most errands require a car. Additionally, public transportation is limited, with only one bus line and one streetcar line.
7. Air Quality
New Orleans has poor air quality. According to the American Lung Association, the city has an air quality index rating of 92.5, which is higher than the national average of 52. This means the air in the city contains higher levels of pollutants.
8. Housing
Housing in New Orleans is expensive and limited. The median home price is $251,400, and the median rent is $1,372. Additionally, the city has a high percentage of renters, with 62% of the population renting their homes.
9. Culture
New Orleans is known for its unique culture, but it can be a difficult place to live for those who are not used to it. The city is known for its nightlife and festivals, but the constant party atmosphere can be overwhelming for some.
10. Healthcare
New Orleans has a limited healthcare system. According to the US News & World Report, the city has only two hospitals that are ranked as high performing. Additionally, the city has a high rate of uninsured people, with 19.3% of the population lacking health insurance.
11. Diversity
New Orleans is not a very diverse city. According to the US Census Bureau, the city is 63.2% white, 32.6% black, and 2.7% Hispanic or Latino. Additionally, the city has a higher percentage of people living in poverty than the national average.
12. Taxes
Taxes in New Orleans are high. The state has a sales tax rate of 4.45%, and the city has an additional sales tax rate of 4.00%. Additionally, the city has a property tax rate of 0.92%, which is higher than the national average of 0.84%.
13. Quality of Life
The quality of life in New Orleans is lower than the national average. According to AreaVibes, the city has a livability score of 58 out of 100, which is lower than the US average of 66. This is due to the high crime rate, poor air quality, and limited job opportunities.
14. Natural Disasters
New Orleans is vulnerable to natural disasters. The city is located in an area that is prone to hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes. Additionally, the city is below sea level, so it is at risk for storm surge and flooding.
15. Economy
New Orleans has a weak economy. The city’s GDP per capita is only $45,400, which is lower than the national average of $59,800. Additionally, the poverty rate is higher than the national average, with 25.4% of the population living below the poverty line.
16. Housing Market
The housing market in New Orleans is not stable. The median home price has increased by 9.3% over the past year, and the number of homes for sale has decreased by 10.3%. Additionally, the city has a high foreclosure rate, with 1.9% of homes being in foreclosure.
17. Quality of Roads
The quality of roads in New Orleans is poor. According to the US Department of Transportation, the city has a pavement condition index of 63 out of 100, which is lower than the national average of 72. This means the roads are in poor condition and need to be repaired.
18. Public Transportation
Public transportation in New Orleans is limited. The city has only one bus line and one streetcar line, and both are slow and unreliable. Additionally, the city does not have any light rail or commuter rail lines.
19. Pollution
New Orleans has a high level of pollution. According to the American Lung Association, the city has an air quality index rating of 92.5, which is higher than the national average of 52. This means the air in the city contains higher levels of pollutants.
These are just a few of the reasons why you may want to consider living elsewhere. New Orleans is a great city with a lot to offer, but it is not the best place for everyone. Consider all of your options before making a decision.