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Louisiana continues to rank among the more affordable states for renters in the U.S. in 2026. While national average rents hover around $1,600–$1,650 for apartments, Louisiana’s statewide average sits significantly lower at approximately $1,053–$1,500 per month (depending on the source and unit mix), with many cities and smaller parishes offering even better deals.
Baton Rouge remains a standout for affordability, especially compared to coastal or high-demand metros. It no longer cracks the absolute top national cheapest lists as prominently as years past (when some reports showed studio/1BR rents in the $500–$1,000 range), but it is still notably budget-friendly relative to the national median.
Current averages for Baton Rouge cluster around $1,024–$1,350/month overall, with 1BR units often in the $900–$1,100 range and studios even lower.
Current Louisiana Rental Snapshot (as of early 2026)
- Statewide average rent: ~$1,053–$1,500/month (variability due to data sources like Apartments.com, Zillow, Realtor.com). apartments.com
- Typical breakdowns: Studios ~$949, 1BR ~$1,053, 2BR ~$1,235, 3BR ~$1,464. apartments.com
- Rents have been relatively stable or modestly increasing (0–3% YoY in many areas), with some cooling in lower-priced segments.
Cheapest Places to Rent/Live in Louisiana (2026)
Smaller cities and parishes often provide the lowest housing costs. Here’s a selection based on recent analyses focusing on median rents, home values, and overall affordability:
- Bastrop — Median rent ~$700; very low cost of living.
- Minden — Median rent ~$775.
- Eunice — Median rent ~$700.
- Crowley — Median rent ~$750.
- Abbeville — Median rent ~$969.
- Bogalusa — Median rent ~$1,000.
- Jennings — Median rent ~$750.
- Shreveport — Median rent ~$904–$1,123; larger city with good inventory. houzeo.com
Other notably affordable larger areas include:
- Monroe: ~$869/month average.
- Alexandria: ~$935.
- Bossier City: ~$952.
- Lafayette: ~$991–$1,161.
- Lake Charles: ~$1,019–$1,162. apartments.com
Baton Rouge specifics (averages):
- Overall: $1,024–$1,350.
- Studios: ~$710–$943.
- 1BR: ~$900–$1,014 (some neighborhoods as low as $650).
- 2BR: ~$924–$1,123+
Recent reports (e.g., from ApartmentAdvisor in early 2025) still highlight several Southern and Midwestern cities for low rents, but Baton Rouge and other Louisiana spots compete well for value, especially factoring in lower overall cost of living. National 1BR medians were around $1,450+ in early 2025, making Louisiana options attractive.
Grand Forks and Fargo (ND) often top cheapest lists, but Louisiana cities like Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Monroe frequently appear in affordability rankings due to ample inventory and lower demand pressure compared to Sun Belt boom towns.
Tips for Renters in Louisiana in 2026
- Smaller parishes and cities outside New Orleans often have the lowest rents — ideal if you can work remotely or commute.
- Check resources like LAHousing
- Search.org for affordable/ subsidized units. lhc.la.gov
- Factor in total cost of living: Louisiana is generally below national averages for utilities, groceries, and transportation, which stretches rental dollars further.
- Inventory is decent in many metros; shop around on Zillow, Apartments.com, or Realtor.com, and consider negotiating as some markets show softening in lower tiers.
- Insurance and flood zones matter — especially in south Louisiana — so budget accordingly.
Louisiana offers strong rental value in 2026 for those seeking affordability without extreme rural isolation. Baton Rouge, in particular, balances reasonable rents, amenities, universities, and job opportunities (government, education, industry).
Rents have risen since the 2022 data in the original article, but the state remains a bargain compared to most of the U.S. Always verify current listings, as prices fluctuate with seasons and local conditions.
Final Word
Finding cheap rent is a job unto itself, but it can be done. Strangely enough, one major factor keeping rents high is the U.S. housing market, which continues to put stress on Americans.
While New Orleans is not one of the most expensive rental markets, but down I-10 it’s a different story. Here are some cheap apartments in Baton Rouge.
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Few things compare to putting on your jogging clothes and getting in a great run or job in the a.m. But where will you go?
In this article, we’ll list some of the best New Orleans parks for an early morning jog.
New Orleans: Where To Go For An Early Morning Jog
All of these parks are some beautiful places to run or walk in the daytime. Of course, you may also choose a brisk walk in the evenings after work. Ready to get started?
City Park
1 Palm Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124 | (504) 482-4888
Here’s what one family says about City Park: “Beautiful amazing park… Trails to walk, a butterfly garden, a pretty bridge to walk over and a pond with swan peddle boats and kayaks… The Louisiana Children’s Museum is here too, it’s an absolute must do when in New Orleans!! One of the best city parks I’ve ever been to.”
Lafitte Greenway
Jackson Square
701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 658-3200
Here’s what one park lover says about Jackson Square: “Absolutely beautiful. Would recommend a visit. And if your there in time I recommend going to the mass and the church right on the square. They have daily mass at 12:05.”
Louis Armstrong Park
701 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 658-3200
Here’s what one parent says about Louis Armstrong Park: “I really liked the artwork in the park and it was also beautiful there. I wish there was a splash pad for the kids somewhere in the park though…it is sooooooo very hot in New Orleans and it would be nice if we could cool off somewhere. A little playground would be nice too. The kids still enjoyed themselves running around and looking at the statues. I sat under a tree on the grass to try and cool down.”
Confetti Park
451 Pelican Ave, New Orleans, LA 70114 | (504) 658-3201
Here’s what one park lover says about Confetti Park: “Cute, little neighborhood park. The gate can be a bit tricky/difficult, but my toddler enjoyed playing here. There isn’t too much shade over the playground area, but there are plenty of seating areas and trees throughout.”
Crescent Park
Crescent Park Trail, 2300 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70117 | (504) 636-6400
Here’s what one parkgoer says about Crescent Park: “Very nice park with clean, well kept grounds. It is a cool place to see tucked between a set of train tracks and the Mississippi River. Superb for running, walking and features a decent sized Dog park so the pups can get their hooman(s) out of the house! Definitely worth stopping by on a nice afternoon.”
Final Word
Finding a place to run or walk around New Orleans, Louisiana is easy due to the city’s many pathways and parks.
When it comes to taking care of your body, the key is to have a consistent routine. One thing you’re definitely going to need is good gym equipment.
Don’t think you have to go to a fitness center either. You can make your own home gym.
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New Orleans is the perfect foodie city, and it’s not because of the gumbo, but the mojo at night. Yes, we’re talking patio restaurants. This article will cover some of the best New Orleans restaurants for outside dining.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, outside dining has become a thing in New Orleans. The city has even accommodated eateries with giving them sidewalk space for diners.
Best Patios, Rooftops And Sidewalk Dining In New Orleans
Let’s get into some of the best outdoor dining in New Orleans.
Shaya
4213 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 943-7231
Here’s what one customer says about Shaya: “Shaya is an absolute must-visit in New Orleans! The wood-fired pita is life-changing—pillowy, warm, and perfect for dipping into their incredible lamb ragout hummus. We also loved the cauliflower hummus and the halloumi, which were bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors.”
Arnaud’s
813 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70112 | (504) 523-5433
Here’s what one customer says about Arnaud’s: “We went to the bar for drinks and had an amazing experience. The drinks were fun, well balanced, and unique. We had several different cocktails and all of them were delicious. The architecture and design of the bar provides the perfect laid back atmosphere to relax in the juxtaposition of Bourbon st. This is a classy place with upscale food and drinks.”
Batture Bistro and Bar
111 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 699-8021
Here’s what a diner says about Batture Bistro: “WOW! Best meal I’ve eaten in New Orleans yet. Went for brunch– what a delightful menu! And the chef himself went out of his way to welcome us in, and even made my daughter anything she asked for. Very friendly, wonderful service, and AMAZING food, beautifully presented. Beautiful restaurant/lounge with a gorgeous patio that has a small pool and fountain. Highly recommend you eat here. It was the best decision we’ve made while downtown.”
Boucherie
8115 Jeannette St, New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 862-5514
Here’s what one customer says about Boucherie. “Came for the restaurant week special. The Lisbon by Noon drink was excellent. Reminiscent of a sangria, its light and citrus and slightly sweet. Fabulous for a summer cocktail. The boudin balls with garlic aioli were actually very pleasant. I’m not a fan of boudin, but those were very tasty. The shrimp and grit cake was excellent. Highly recommend. The brisket and garlic parmesean fries I was very excited about. However, it was disappointing. The meat was very tender but not seasoned well. (too smoky) the fries were just fries and frankly a little limp. The Krispie Kreme bread pudding was wonderfully redeeming.”
Cane and Table
1113 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | : (504) 581-1112
Here’s what one diner says about Cane and Table: “This place was amazing! It was recommended to us by a bartender at Cafe Amelie. We stopped in for some apps and drinks and found such an amazing menu! The dishes were creative and delicious. Even the saltines were homemade (and amazing! Saltines!) Highly recommend. Service was excellent, and the location was just fabulous – beautiful outdoor patio!
Coterie Restaurant & Bar
135 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | : (504) 529-8600
Here’s what one customer says about Coterie: “Tell Josh (bartender), You came because of Jackie’s post (HIS favorite Texan), lol. Dude this place has a great happy hour, and best raw oysters in town. I ate dozens while on my stay. Several other items on the menu are phenomenal and DO NOT DISAPPOINT: crab cake, fried gulf shrimp, shrimp etouffee, CAJUN EGGROLLS to die for, and Seafood platter. This place will keep you coming back!”
Herbsaint
701 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 524-4114
Come for the James Beard Award-winning Gumbo, stay for the Spaghetti.
Here’s what one diner says about Herbsaint: “The food deserve 5 stars, but I had to go with 4 because when we ate, almost everything was quite too salty. However we got there at almost 9pm with no reservation, and still they managed to give us a table, which was awesome. For VEGANS don’t be afraid to come eat here, the chef will prepare something at his discretion. And what I go it was Soo Good! My husband asked for 3 portion of short ribs, that’s how much he enjoyed them. My husband actually returned a dish back because it was too salty, and we appreciate that we were not charged for it. Service could have been more personable, but no complaints.”
Irene’s
529 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 529-8811
Here’s what you can expect at Irene’s: “Best Italian restaurant in New Orleans, full stop. A longstanding venue that is great for romantic dinners or to gather round with people you actually like. Great vibe, intimate spaces, clean, friendly servers, and of course outstanding food. Everything on the menu is great from end to end. Very highly recommended.”
Maypop
611 O’Keefe Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113 | (504) 518-6345
Come for the Dim Sum, stay for the Tom Yum Noodles.
Here’s what one customer says about Maypop: “Ok- you definitely need to give Maypop a try if you are a foodie. This place has an excellent menu with eclectic dishes that blend Asian, Cajun, Southern and healthy styles.”
Sylvaine
625 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 265-8123
Here’s what to know about Sylvaine: “Perfect romantic dinner. Do Not Skip Dessert, the banana pudding and chocolate pot de creme were AMAZING! Loved eating in the courtyard.”
Vyoone’s
412 Girod St, New Orleans, LA 70130| : (504) 518-6007
Here’s what one customer says about Vyoone’s “The service and atmosphere was everything! The food and drinks were great. Love both entrees a d the appetizer. We were able to be seated without reservations which was a plus.”
Final Word
New Orleans is known for its irresistible cuisine in all parts of the city. Do yourself a favor and check out the most romantic spots to take someone.
No matter where you go to get your gumbo, po-boys and other staples of New Orleans, it’s going to be a treat. You can get so many varieties of it to suit your taste.
The good gumbo generally has a dark roux stocked with chicken, sausage, shellfish or chicken. Of course, your gumbo could use all of those ingredients. In fact, the more stuff you put in there, the better.
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If you know New Orleans, you know that there are differing views on what the city’s signature dish is today. But if you watch what actually moves through the city’s kitchens, po’boy shops, gumbo pots, and late-night takeout windows, one dish rises above the noise: the gumbo.
The city regards it as a matter of pride that they can satisfy the most bland taste buds.
The city has a reputation for serving some of the most tasty dishes in the United States, but what is New Orleans really known for?
What Are New Orleans’ Most Popular Dishes?
Here are the most popular foods that are served in New Orleans, according to popularity.
Not only are those the most popular foods in New Orleans, but those are the best dishes in all of Louisiana.
Where To Get Gumbo In New Orleans
If you’re all in on gumbo, here are three restaurants to find it in the city.
Gabrielle
2441 Orleans Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 603-2344
Here’s what one reviewer says about Gabrielle’s: “It’s a family-owned and run so it provides great welcoming atmosphere. A loaf of fresh warm bread welcomes you as you await for your entre. We ordered the fish on a crab cake and served with corn and snap peas – it was really tasty and fresh. Then we also ordered the duck per the server’s recommendation, this was also great.”
Grand Isle Restaurant
575 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 520-8530
Here’s what one customer says about Grand Isle Restaurant: “Amazing seafood! Restaurant was nice, service was great! Definitely 5 stars, and will return!! I had the Blackened Gulf fish, hot Crab dip.”
Gumbo Ya-Ya
600 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 291-8600
Here’s what one customer says about Gumbo Ya-Ya: “We stopped by this gumbo place as we were walking toward the French Quarter. It was supposed to be a 30 minute wait but we were seated in about 10 mins. We ordered a seven steaks gumbo with jambalaya rice topping and a seafood and okra gumbo also with jambalaya rice topping for $6.50 each. It was a good portion, tasty, and filling. The view was very romantic and beautiful! And the service was fast and awesome – Kori was our server!”
Here are more of New Orleans’ top gumbo spots.
Where To Get The Best Beignets
Do you love beignets (who doesn’t love beignets)? These spots have the best ones around New Orleans.
Streetcar Cafe
312 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 218-7256
Here is what one customer says about Streetcar Cafe: “Best beignets I ever ate. They were huge. 3 covered a plate.”
The Vintage
3121 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 324-7144
Here is what one customer says about The Vintage: “Best beignets in New Orleans, very light and fluffy!! I highly recommend giving them a try!”
Loretta’s Authentic Pralines
13 French Market Pl, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 323-8350
Here is what one reviewer says about Loretta’s Authentic Pralines (French Market): “Beignets are the best! Far better than any other place in my opinion. These are light and fluffy, others are heavy and more like a pound cake or bread. Not my favorite pralines, but not the worst in town either.”
Here’s more on the best beignets in New Orleans.
Where To Find The Best Po-Boys
Here are some of the best places to find those good po-boys in New Orleans:
Parkway Bakery
538 Hagan Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 482-3047
Here is what one customer says about Parkway Bakery, which is the home of the po-boy: “My first trip to New Orleans and my first stop to eat was Parkway Bakery and Tavern for a Fried Shrimp Poor Boy Dressed. This and a Sweet Tea hit the spot. Great place to eat and a must if you are wanting a Poor Boy. I’ve been other places to get a Po Boy, but nothing like getting one in New Orleans. I highly recommend making a trip to Parkway and get your Poor Boy fix. Just need one in North Alabama. This was my first time dining here.”
Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar
5240 Annunciation St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 899-9126
Here’s what one reviewer says about Domilie’s: “Great little place. Classic NOLA po-boys. Quick service. Was not dine in when we were there, but it was 70 degrees outside with clear blue skies and our crew got a variety of sandwiches: shrimp, roast beef, ham/cheese – they were all good. Great fries – very substantial.”
Guy’s Po-Boys
5259 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 891-5025
Here’s what one custome says about Guy’s Po-Boys: “Amazing! Loved our shrimp po boy! Cheese fries were nothing to write home about. Staff was super friendly and we loved this quaint spot!”
Here’s more on the best po-boys in New Orleans.
Where To Find The Best Jambalaya In New Orleans
Now let’s look at some top places for some good old jambalaya.
Gumbo Shop
630 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 525-1486
Here’s what one reviewer says about the Gumbo Shop: “Best jambalaya in New Orleans. We were there for 8 days and searched out the best places for jambalaya on the internet… and we tried them all. This one was absolutely the best!”
New Orleans Creole Cookery
508 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 524-9632
Here’s what one customer says about New Orleans Creole Cookery: “The absolute BEST Jambalaya I have ever had In my life!!! I took a girls trip to New Orleans and found this little place by accident and we were so glad I did! We made sure to go back before we left! The jambalaya, the catfish and the hush puppies were to LIVE for!! Precious (The hostess) is the sweetest person, and the waiters (I don’t remember the first ones name I just remember he said he was newish but he was amazing) the second ones name was James and he was also amazing. I definitely recommend stopping through here if you want great cuisine!”
Mulate’s — The Original Cajun Restaurant
201 Julia St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 522-1492
Here’s what one customer says about Mulate’s: “The bread pudding is the best! Very good jambalaya. Good live Zydeco band!”
Final Word
New Orleans has a cuisine uniquely its own. All of its restaurants represent the Nola food heritage well. When you visit the city, “flavor” is a word that comes to mind.
New Orleans food is legendary around the world, but you might e surprised to learn which dishes stand out the most to people.
If you’re the type of person that doesn’t get out much, you’re missing out on the city’s top-notch cuisine. You can get your food to go or even delivered to you in most cases.
New Orleans is not only a world-class city, but a cultural centerpiece of the Southeast, from restaurants to its parks, the city stands out as a place to visit and live. Looking for something to do in the city? What To See And Do In New Orleans.
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As we move deeper into 2026, Louisiana’s job market continues to show signs of steady, if modest, recovery. According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 4.3% in November 2025—the most recent full month available as of mid-January 2026.
Unemployed in Louisiana? Read This
This figure is below the national average of 4.6% and represents a 0.3 percentage point drop from November 2024, when it was 4.6%.
This rate places Louisiana tied for 33rd among the 50 states, reflecting a labor market that’s “muddling through” with gradual improvement rather than dramatic shifts.
The number of unemployed residents fell to approximately 88,700 in November 2025, down from about 96,100 a year earlier, while the civilian labor force hovered around 2.08 million.
Key Economic Factors Influencing Louisiana’s Unemployment Rate in 2026
Louisiana’s economy remains tied to traditional strengths like energy (oil and gas), manufacturing, trade/transportation (via major ports), and tourism/leisure & hospitality.
Recent BLS data shows modest nonfarm employment growth of about 0.7% over the past year, with gains in sectors like education & health services (+4.1%) and leisure & hospitality (+3.3%), offset by declines in mining/logging (-2.8%) and trade/transportation/utilities (-1.9%).Several factors are at play:
- Energy Sector Volatility — Fluctuations in global oil prices continue to impact mining and logging jobs, contributing to slight declines.
- Tourism and Hospitality Recovery — Post-pandemic rebound in events, festivals, and visitor traffic supports growth in leisure sectors, especially in New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
- Healthcare and Education Expansion — Strong demand for workers in these stable fields helps keep unemployment in check.
- Overall Stagnation with Slow Growth — Economists describe the state as experiencing flat-to-modest progress, with real GDP growth projected around 1-2% in 2026 and employment rising slowly (forecasts suggest the rate could dip toward 4.1% by late 2026).
- National Trends — Broader U.S. economic conditions, including AI adoption and fiscal policies, influence local hiring.
Despite these dynamics, Louisiana benefits from a relatively low unemployment rate compared to historical highs (like 13.5% during the 2020 pandemic peak).
How To Find A Job Right Now in Louisiana
Use State Resources
Start with Louisiana Workforce Commission tools like Star Jobs (laworks.net/Stars) for high-demand occupations, or Geaux Jobs (geauxjobs.org) for free training, veteran/senior programs, and events.
Major Job Boards
Platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter list tens of thousands of Louisiana jobs. Filter for “remote” to find flexible opportunities—hundreds are available in customer service, admin, tech, and AI-related fields.
Remote Work Opportunities
Remote roles are booming, with companies hiring for everything from data annotation ($40+/hr) to sales and virtual admin. Sites like Remote.co, FlexJobs, and LinkedIn’s remote filters are goldmines.
Check out our Remote Jobs Guide for Louisiana.
These cozy remote workspaces show how locals blend NOLA charm with productivity.
Attend Job Fairs and Network
Virtual and in-person events through LWC or local chambers remain effective. Here’s a classic example of community job fairs in action:
Local and Regional Sites
Get online and check out WorkNOLA.com for Greater New Orleans professional listings. LED FastStart (opportunities.ledfaststart.com) for statewide career exploration. Government jobs via jobs.la.gov for state positions.
If you’re a jobseeker, there are certain ways you can increase your chances to find work.
- Network: Use your phone contacts or social media followers to reach out to people you may know or those who work at your prospective employers.
- Jobs Websites: Apply on career sites like Indeed.com, Monster.com and LinkedIn.
- Job Fairs: Companies and organizations are hosting job fairs again. Check with your local Department of Labor to see if they have a calendar of events with job fairs listed for your area.
Final Word
It’s one of the best times to be job hunting right now, so you need to take advantage. If you’re looking for employment, here’s how to find a job.
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This year, Christmas and Christmas Eve fall on a Wednesday, and Thursday, which is a surefire way to predict the most hectic days that people will be shopping until the last minute at grocery stores in New Orleans, Louisiana and elsewhere.
If you need to go pickup an item or two, you may be wondering what the operating hours are for local stores. For instance, is Kroger open today? How long will Publix close? You’ve got questions and we’ve got answers.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about the grocery store hours for the major supermarket chains around New Orleans.
Is Kroger, Walmart, Whole Foods And More Open For Christmas And Christmas Eve?
On holidays we know that grocery store hours tend to change. Some stores are closed, while some adjust their hours to remain open just a while.
For the latest information, you should call your local grocery store to see if they have changed their hours on any particular day.
Quick Links: Grocery Store Holiday Hours
Is Albertson’s Open For Christmas Eve And Christmas Day?
Albertson’s is abiding by modified holiday hours for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. On Christmas Eve, Albertson’s will close early. On Christmas Day, the supermarket and pharmacy will be closed.
Albertson’s Holiday Hours:
- Christmas Eve — 6:00 AM-4:00 PM
- Christmas Day — Closed
What Are Costco’s Holiday Hours?
Costco usually stays open from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily. For Christmas and Christmas Eve, things will be a bit different.
Costco Holiday Hours:
- Dec 24: 10 am – 8:30 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day
Rouses Market Holiday Hours
At Rouses stores, metro New Orleans locations will be closed for Christmas Day so that team members can enjoy it with their families. Stores will reopen as usual on Sunday, December 26.
Here are Rouses Market holiday hours:
- Christmas Eve — 8 p.m. close
- Christmas Day — closed
Sam’s Club Holiday Hours
Sam’s Club has altered its operating hours during the holidays, including on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Years Eve and New Years Day. Whole Foods is closed on Christmas Day.
Here are Sam’s Club’s holiday hours in New Orleans:
- Dec 24: 10 am – 10 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day)
Is Walmart Open On Christmas Or Christmas Eve?
Walmart will be closed on Christmas Day. It’s the only day of the year when Walmarts all over are shut down. On the day after Christmas, December 26th, Walmart will resume regular hours.
Walmart Holiday Hours:
- Dec 24: 7 am – 10 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day
Whole Foods Holiday Hours
Whole Foods is operating on modified hours during the holidays, including on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Years Eve and New Years Day. Whole Foods is closed on Christmas Day.
Here are Whole Foods holiday hours in New Orleans:
- Dec 24: 8 am – 7 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day)
Winn-Dixie Holiday Hours
Winn-Dixie is open on Christmas Eve and closed on Christmas Day. The following day, the grocery store will resume regular store hours.
Winn-Dixie Holiday Hours:
- Dec 24: 7 am – 10 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day
What’s Open On Christmas?
If you need any last-minute items, you can rest assured that gas stations will be open. But many drug stores, including CVS, Rite-Aid and Walgreens will all be open on Christmas Day.
Again, for specific stores near you, it is best to give them a call before you get in your car and drive there.
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Your credit report is the single most important financial document you own — and thanks to laws that never expired, you can now pull all three of your full credit reports (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) for free every single week. Not a summary. Not a score. The real 30–50-page report that lenders actually see.
In this article, I’m going to tell you how to access your credit report for free.
Your credit report is super-important because it contains your credit history and a record of how you’ve paid your debts.
What Is A Credit Report?
A credit report tells the businesses you want to borrow money from what type of risk they take in if they lend to you.
If you put yourself to n the shows of the lender, you may feel uncomfortable lending to someone who has shown that they don’t always pay the money back on time or at all.
How To Get A Free Credit Report
In this article I’m going to show you how you can get a free credit report.
The three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian and TransUnion — have one website that they all use to show consumers their credit report. Here’s where you should go:
- Go to AnnualCreditReport.com
This is a FREE website that allows you to get your annual reports easily.
If you want to order your free credit report in other ways you can also do the following two methods:
- Call 1-877-322-8228
- Complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form and mail it to:
Annual Credit Report Request Service
P.O. Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281
Final Word
Contrary to popular belief, many people still don’t know that they can access their credit report for free.
Your credit history is a window into your finances, but also your credibility. Your credit tells businesses what they need to know about you
The three national credit bureaus have put together this resource due to federal law, which has mandated that Americans be able to see their credit reports. Take advantage!
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Finding the perfect apartment in today’s rental market can feel overwhelming — record-high rents, fierce competition, and new digital tools have changed the game.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned renter, here’s the most up-to-date playbook to secure your next place without losing your mind (or your savings).
In this article, I’m going to go over what you need to know to rent in New Orleans.
Here’s How To Rent An Apartment In New Orleans
If you want to rent an apartment in New Orleans and don’t know where to start, here are the steps:
The average rent in New Orleans, Louisiana is $1,401, according to a RentCafe report. But price is not the only thing you should consider when you begin shopping for a place to rent.
First thing you need to do before you rent an apartment in New Orleans is find one that fits your needs. To do that, you can use a number of online services to help find a place:
If you don’t already know the specific areas of town like Uptown, the Garden District or Elysian Fields. Join NextDoor or Facebook Groups to get a feel for the areas that you want to live in.
Midtown New Orleans apartments have gone up 6% over the past year, according to the report mentioned above. The average square footage for a place? 893 feet.
Once you make a list of New Orleans apartments you want to check out from one of the services above, you can begin to make appointments to visit.
You’ll want to pay special attention to the amenities that each apartment offers. You may put a big emphasis on on-site laundry facilities, a pool, a courtyard, lounge and other things.
1. Get Your Finances Together
Before you begin to schedule visits, you need to have your financials in order. Landlords don’t just let you move in, you’ll need a credit check. The idea behind this is that you have to show income stability.
Get a free credit report at annualcreditreport.com, the only authorized website for free credit reports from the three major credit bureaus Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
When you get the credit reports, go over them with a finetooth comb to make sure they’re accurate.
If you see a discrepancy on your credit report, here’s how to dispute it:
Not only will you need to have your first and last month’s rent in your account (as we’ll get into), but you’ll need to have more money on hand for some incidentals.
Landlords and property managers now look at your total monthly housing cost, not just base rent.Do the math:
- Rent + utilities + renter’s insurance + parking + pet fees + internet should be no more than 30–35% of your gross monthly income.
- Average U.S. rent for a 1-bedroom in major cities (Dec 2025): $1,750–$2,100 (Zillow Rental Index).
- Many landlords now require your gross income to be 3× the rent (some 3.5× in hot markets like Austin, Miami, or Denver).
Pro tip: Get a free “rental résumé” from services like Rhino or TheGuarantors if your income is slightly below the threshold — they act as co-signers for a small fee.
2. Check Your Credit (Early)
- Pull your free credit report (annualcreditreport.com) and freeze it if your score is below 650 — many big management companies use automated denials.
- Most landlords now use online screening tools (TransUnion SmartMove, Experian Connect, or Avail).
- Fix errors now; it can take 30–60 days to update.
New in 2025–2026: Some states (California, New York, Colorado, Illinois) cap application fees at $20–$35 and require landlords to accept reusable screening reports. Use services like Rental Kharma or Self to turn on-time rent payments into credit boosts.
3. Visit The Apartment
When you visit the apartment, make sure you the age of the building and style is to your liking. Feel the walls so that you can gauge whether they’re thin and well built.
Look out for loud neighbors and other things that may affect your ability to have a good night’s rest.
If you like what you see, make an offer.
4. Negotiate Your Rent
You don’t have to accept what the landlord offers. See if you can negotiate. If you sign a two-year lease rather than one year, you may be able to get a better deal. You won’t know what’s capable until you ask.
If the leasing agent can’t make any concessions, see if you can get the hookup on parking or a one-month discount in lieu of a move-in special.
5. Sign The Lease Contract
When you sign the lease, you may need to have a list of references. These should be people you’ve contacted ahead of time who will have only good things to say about you.
Their input will be what decides your worthiness.
Before you sign your lease, you need to know what to expect as far as charges and fees. Here are some of the charges you may be asked to pay:
- Rental application fee
- Security deposit
- Last month’s rent
- Move-in fee or finders fee
Depending on where you rent your place and your specific circumstances, you may also be asked to pay a pet fee or even parking space fee.
Once you pay what you owe, your landlord or leasing agent will hand over the keys to your new apartment. Remember to keep it down and always be considerate of your neighbors.
What if you have bad credit?
How To Rent An Apartment With Bad Credit
The first thing you need to do is look for apartments that don’t do credit checks on potential tenants.
You’re also going to want to entice the landlord by offering to pay more upfront or even every month.
So, to recap, if you have bad credit, the way to rent an apartment is:
- Find apartments with no credit checks
- Offer to pay more upfront
- Negotiate for other amenities you want
You might also want to offer to fix small things so that you build up a good relationship with the landlord. This can be very valuable when it’s time to renew your lease, if you choose to do so.
Final Word
Renting an apartment takes some time and effort on your part, but it can be done. Look at the bright side: Once you get a comfortable and safe place, you will never regret it.
New Orleans is one of those cities that you can get lost in once you take the time to explore it. As the former capital of Louisiana, New Orleans is one of the most eclectic and eccentric cities in the world.
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New Orleans doesn’t have live music venues; it has living rooms with stages. On any given night you can walk out of a po-boy joint and straight into a trumpet solo that makes you believe in God. Here’s the current, no-BS list of where the real magic is happening in late 2025, from century-old shrines to brand-new rooms that are already legendary.
If you’re passing through the city or perhaps live here and want to enjoy some good music, you may have the following question:
Where Can I Catch Some Live Music In New Orleans?
This article will show you the best places for live music in New Orleans.
Tipitina’s
501 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 895-8477
Tipitana’s has for years been where the neighborhood parties. The tourists have found out about it and the show has just gotten bigger, but just as downhome.
Here is what one visitor says about Tipitina’s. “The drinks are to die for and the space is so open. I come here to see New Orleans greats in the hopes that one day I can perform along side them or have my own spot in this piece of heaven section. This night I saw the great Erica Falls she always gives me great advice on singing and performing and this is one of my fav places to see her shine. Keep up the great work and keep booking amazing talent you guys.”
House of Blues
225 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 310-4999
Here’s what one visitor says about the House of Blues. “Restaurant: Very savory jambalya with a healthy portion of shrimp and sausage, gumbo seemed a little salty, and everything had a good kick.
Venue: always opt for VIP. However, the smaller, intimate venue provides a great experience regardless. Two bars downstairs and one upstairs with food options (which is nice). I would watch any artist in this venue.”Preservation Hall
726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116
Here’s what one visitor says about Preservation Hall. “Loved it. Definitely recommend the seats vs standing. It was warm in there and the standing crowd didn’t look overly comfortable. Music was great, exactly what I was hoping it would be. Only thing that would have made it better would be an encore at the end.”
Palm Court Jazz Cafe
1204 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 525-0200
Here’s what one reviewer says about Palm Court Jazz Cafe. “This place is wonderful. The music 1st, owned by the darlingest woman on the planet, staff warm and welcoming, food is Delicious. We had crabcake, and steak pie, fried crawfish for app…. in love completely. Dinner and phenomenal Jazz. Like I felt a warm musical hug from NOLA “
The Spotted Cat Music Club
623 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70117
Here’s what one patron says about The Spotted Cat Music Club. “Love this jazz bar! The band (Pat Casey and the new sound) that was playing last night was simply amazing it is a bit small and rather tight. Even if you get a seat, you will be blocked by others standing around. Nonetheless, am glad me and my friends discovered this place as we were looking for a jazz bar. They started charging $10 cover fee at 9:30 p.m. and we got in just before that. Make sure you tip this band if you enjoy their music because that’s how they earn.”
Chickie Wah Wah
2828 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (844) 244-2543
Here’s what one visitor says about Chickie Wah Wah: “Had a real good time here seeing one of my favorite New Orleans artists. The owner died recently and the venue is up for sale with an uncertain future. Currently open under the existing management, it lacks some of its previous charm and is cash only. Hopefully things will work out and another unique music spot will be saved from pandemic shutdown.”
D.B.A.
618 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 942-3731
Here’s what one reviewer says about D.B.A. “Phenomenal jazz music venue! Wonderful bartenders, grateful for this incredible opportunity to listen to such amazing jazz artists! We saw the Palmetto Bug Stompers, wow, just wow!”
21st Amendment Bar at La Louisiane
725 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 378-7330
Here’s what one visitor says about 21st Amendment Bar at La Louisiane. “Awesome jazz bar. Pretty small seating but the vibe is amazing and the music is good. Right off bourbon street so it isn’t that crowded but still near the noise. Cocktails looked pretty good and service was nice.”
Blue Nile
532 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 766-6193
“We loved the vibe and decor of The Blue Nile! The feel was so much better than the insane, frat party vibe on Bourbon Street. After a long day walking around exploring the French Quarter we stopped here for cocktails while listening to the Washboard Chaz Blues Trio. The band was rocking and had great energy and banter with the audience.
“The cocktails are expensive ($15-20), but the fleur de lis cocktail was absolutely divine! (Grey Goose vodka, essence of peach & rosemary, elderflower, and tonic!) This place was the perfect experience to wrap up our first day in New Orleans. We’ll definitely be back again!”
Fritzel’s European Jazz Club
733 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 586-4800
Here’s what one visitor says about Fritzel’s. “Live music all day and eve starting at 12:30pm. Middle of the day piano man, takes requests and does traditional Nola jazz. Night time! Lookout. Katie Rogers on trumpet kills it, along with the band. A must. Drinks starting at $5.”
Last Word
As you can see, the city’s live music scene is on and popping! Going out around the city can be an interesting experience to say the least! There are so many events, parties and conventions going on that there’s so much to see and do.
You might be curious as to how safe the city is. Check this out.
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In a welcome show of solidarity, National Guard troops are set to roll into the Crescent City by late November, bolstering local law enforcement ahead of our biggest holiday bashes.
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick shared the positive update during an interview with CBS News, highlighting a smooth chat with a Guard major about the upcoming plans.
National Guard To Be in New Orleans for Bayou Classic, Other Big Events
“We’re teaming up on this – it’s all about collaboration, not control,” Kirkpatrick emphasized Tuesday night. “This is a true partnership to keep our streets safe during these high-energy events.”
While NOPD put in a request for Louisiana National Guard help specifically for New Year’s Eve crowds, the earlier wave of federal Guard support stems from a late-September ask by Gov. Jeff Landry.
Kirkpatrick confirmed the troops will touch down just in time for the electrifying Bayou Classic showdown – that legendary two-day college football clash between Grambling State and Southern University at the Caesars Superdome from November 27 to 29.
Expect them to stick around through the countdown to 2026 on New Year’s Eve and all the way to the wild vibes of Mardi Gras in February, with patrols filling the gaps to ensure smooth sailing in what is being called “Operation Swamp Sweep.”
This isn’t the first time the Guard has rolled into the Big Easy.
They stepped up big at the start of the year after the heartbreaking New Year’s Day terror attack on Bourbon Street, claiming 14 lives in the heart of our French Quarter.
And remember Super Bowl LIX right here in NOLA back in February? Those extra eyes and boots on the ground were present in the global spotlight.
Stripping away any political noise, Kirkpatrick stressed the rock-solid ties already in place.
“We’ve built strong bonds with the Guard over the years,” she said. “At the end of the day, my top priority is safety for everyone in this city – and if they can multiply our efforts, that’s a win for all of us.”
The feds have dispatched Guard units to hotspots like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Portland lately, responding to unrest tied to the Trump administration’s tough immigration stance.
But here at home, we’re seeing brighter numbers: NOPD’s latest stats show crime dipping across nearly every category compared to this time last year – a testament to the hard work of our officers and community partners.Kirkpatrick dropped these insights right in the thick of our annual Night Out Against Crime event, where neighbors and badges come together to build trust and tackle issues head-on. It’s events like these that remind us: When we stand united, New Orleans shines even brighter.
Stay tuned to NOLAFI.COM Now for updates on public safety and how you can get involved. Got tips or stories? Hit us up at news@nolanow.com.
