What Lies Ahead for New Orleans in 2024

As we begin 2024, it’s the perfect time to consider what lies ahead for New Orleans. Below, we’ll break down this year’s defining aspects of the Big Easy, from noteworthy events and real estate trends to the traits that set this city apart.

New Orleans is a big city, and urban living often comes with a hefty price tag. While serving as a primary economic center in Louisiana, New Orleans remains relatively affordable for prospective real estate buyers. According to Redfin, as of December 2023, the median sale price for a home in New Orleans was $298,000, a figure below the national average.

Throughout 2023, prices in the city experienced a decline compared to 2022. While the market is stable, the frenzied bidding wars that characterized 2020 and 2021 appear to be a thing of the past. As a result, New Orleans is currently more of a buyer’s market, bringing promising news for those considering a move to the city. 

New Orleans is a lively and energetic city throughout the year, refusing to hibernate even during the winter months. Mardi Gras is, undoubtedly, the pinnacle of the city’s winter festivities. This iconic tradition, one of the nation’s largest festivals, features fantastic parades, lively parties, traditional foods, and colorful costumes. While the official date for Mardi Gras is February 13th this year, the city comes alive with various celebrations leading up to this grand extravaganza.

Mardi Gras may take center stage in New Orleans during the winter, but the city offers many other significant events throughout the year. Among these are the New Orleans French Film Festival from February 22nd–26th and the New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University from March 14th–16th. And don’t miss the Irish Channel St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 16th. 

If you seek an affordable home in a city with non-stop excitement, New Orleans should rank high on your list. Renowned for its vibrant culture and some of the country’s best cuisine, especially Cajun and Creole dishes, the city is a haven for food enthusiasts. Also, as a city that has contributed significantly to the evolution of jazz, blues, and soul, numerous live music venues are scattered throughout.

New Orleans’s charming historical areas, such as the French Quarter, further enhance its appeal. Preserving its distinct history in its architecture, monuments, and museums, the Big Easy offers plenty for history buffs to admire and explore.