Straddling the Mississippi River, New Orleans is the largest city in Louisiana, bounded by the parishes of St. Bernard, St. Tammany, Jefferson and Plaquemines. New Orleans real estate is also a major port city in southeastern Louisiana. The city is one of the oldest in the state and is well know for its annual Mardi Gras, jazz music, multicultural heritage, architecture and cuisine. Many people say that New Orleans is the most unique city in the nation.
History of New Orleans
The fascinating past of New Orleans real estate begins when it was once inhabited by the Chitimacha Indians before it was founded by a French Mississippi Company in May 1718. The city was named after Philippe II, Duke of Orleans. In 1763, the town was under the Treaty of Paris (Spanish control) that lasted until 1801. Control of the town was then given back to the French, who sold it to the United States in 1803. By then, much of the well known French Quarter was built, which can still be seen and enjoyed today.
After 1803, the city grew rapidly with a mixture of Creole French, French and American citizenry. Major commodity crops of sugar and cotton kept the town going. Soon, the city became a major trade port. The river became filled with sailing ships, flatboats and steamboats passing in and out of New Orleans real estate.
During the Civil War, the city was spared destruction when the Union captured it early on in the war. By the 20th century, New Orleans had progressed into a major city. Land development was mostly limited to higher grounds until inventor Baldwin Wood devised a pump system that would pump water from lower lying areas. The city was then able to expand several feet below sea level. Toward the end of the 20th century, the city became almost completely dependent on tourism for its economy.
In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina devastated over 80% of the city with flood waters when the city's floodwalls and levees failed. Since then, the floodwalls and levees have been repaired and New Orleans real estate has regained two-thirds of its pre-Katrina population. Many tourist events and other attractions have also returned to the city.
Transportation In and Around New Orleans
New Orleans has six great ways to get around town and tour the city. The streetcar line system is a great way to get where you need to go. The oldest streetcar line in the US is the St. Charles line. Each one of its cars is a historic landmark. Bus transportation is operated by the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority, also known as the "RTA". The RTA recently ordered 38 Orion VII Next Generation clean diesel buses that arrived in July. These new buses run on biodiesel. Public transportation between New Orleans real estate and suburbs is provided by the Jefferson Transit, which is operated by the Jefferson Parish Department of Transit Administration.
There are several Interstates for easy access to the city, which include Interstates 510, 610 and 10. I-10 travels in the east-west direction, directly through the city. Highways include US 61, US 11 and US 90. Each highway gives direct access to the city.
Air travel is provided by the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. Smaller regional airports include Lakefront Airport and Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans. Rail service is provided by Amtrak and ferry service is provided by the Canal Street Ferry.
Education in New Orleans
New Orleans schools are served by the New Orleans Public Schools District and the Jefferson Parish School District. It is the largest school district in the state. There are 15 elementary schools, two middle schools, two junior high schools, seven high schools and 41 charter schools operating in New Orleans real estate. There are also over 200 private and parochial schools in the Greater New Orleans Metro Area.
There are many institutions for higher learning in New Orleans. Private universities include Loyola University New Orleans and Tulane University. Public universities include Xavier University of Louisiana, Southern University at New Orleans, the University of New Orleans and Dillard University. Other universities include Delgado Community College, Notre Dame Seminary, Herzing College, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, William Carey College School of Nursing, Our Lady of Holy Cross College, Commonwealth University and the Culinary Institute of New Orleans.
Things To See and Do In New Orleans
New Orleans real estate is rich in activities and attractions for residents and tourists alike. The city experiences a subtropical climate, making it a great place for outdoor activities. The French Quarter and Bourbon Street are two of the most visited places in all of New Orleans. Both contain several jazz clubs, nightclubs, bars, restaurants and hotels.
There are a few great parks to enjoy and soak up the sun. Audubon Park and Zoo is one of the most popular spots, located just across from Tulane University. Here, you can see zoo animals at their best and rollerblade, play tennis or golf, play on the playground, walk, jog or relax in the park.
When it comes to music and festivals, no one does it like New Orleans. There are many celebrations held here, with the most popular being Mardi Gras. It's the most famous carnival celebration in the world. The festivities begin on the Feast of the Epiphany, or the Twelfth Night. The largest and most popular music festival in the United States is the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, or better known as Jazz Fest. People come from all over the world to Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest to experience food, arts, music, crafts and much more. Several other festivals can also be enjoyed throughout the year.
Eating in New Orleans has become somewhat of an activity. The city is world famous for its creole cuisine. This cuisine has become distinctive and influential throughout the world. And, you will find several restaurants that cater to that Louisiana Creole flavor.
New Orleans real estate has it all: good neighborhoods, good people, great food and many wonderful activities. Come for a visit and stay for a lifetime.
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New Orleans Demographics
Population: 223,388
Median Household Income:
$30,711
Median Home Value:
$133,700
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