📍 About MSY & New Orleans
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is the primary commercial airport serving southeast Louisiana. Located in Kenner, just 15 minutes from downtown New Orleans, MSY offers a vibrant base with access to one of America’s most culturally rich and exciting cities.
🏡 Where to Live
Singles & Couples
- French Quarter – Iconic, lively, historic apartments and townhomes
- Mid-City – Centrally located, eclectic and walkable
- Warehouse District – Trendy lofts and access to nightlife
Families
🚗 Commute Times to MSY
- 5–10 min: Kenner, Metairie
- 15–20 min: Lakeview, Mid-City
- 25–30 min: Uptown, French Quarter, Warehouse District
🎓 Top School Districts
- Jefferson Parish Schools: Covers Kenner and Metairie; large district with diverse options
- Lake Forest Charter: One of the top-rated elementary schools in New Orleans
- Lusher Charter School: Highly competitive with strong academics and arts
🧳 Things to Do – Within 2 Hours, Year-Round
- French Quarter: Historic district, music, bars, and festivals
- Audubon Park & Zoo: Family-friendly fun and nature
- Swamp Tours: Explore Louisiana’s bayous and wildlife
- Gulfport or Biloxi, MS: Beaches and casinos (1.5 hours)
- Plantation Tours: Oak Alley and other antebellum mansions
✈️ Nearby Airports
- MSY: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
- BTR: Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (~1.5 hours)
- GPT: Gulfport–Biloxi International Airport (~1.5 hours)
🧭 Helpful Resources for Newcomers
🛡️ Crime & Safety + Town Websites
- Safest areas: Metairie, Lakeview, Uptown
- Watch zones: Certain downtown and 9th Ward areas
- NOLA Crime Map
💰 Cost of Living
- Median home price: ~$275,000
- 1-bedroom rent: ~$1,200–$1,600 depending on area
- Utilities: ~$150–$220/month
- Taxes: Low property taxes, no state tax on military pensions
🌆 Neighborhood Highlights
- French Quarter: History, nightlife, and charm
- Metairie: Suburban, quiet, with malls and parks
- Lakeview: Family-focused, access to Lake Pontchartrain
- Mid-City: Central, trendy, and walkable
☀️ Seasonal Weather
- Winter: Mild (50s–60s°F)
- Spring: Warm and breezy (70s°F)
- Summer: Hot and humid (90s°F+), watch for hurricanes
- Fall: Still warm and storm-prone
- Note: Hurricane prep and flood insurance are highly recommended
🚇 Public Transportation & Traffic
- RTA: Buses and historic streetcars in city proper
- Driving: I-10 connects most metro areas; traffic can be heavy during festivals
- Parking: Scarce and expensive in French Quarter
🏥 Healthcare & Urgent Care
- Ochsner Medical Center: Large medical system with locations throughout region
- University Medical Center: Academic and trauma care
- Tulane Medical Center: Downtown hospital
🫂 Social Life & Community
- Mardi Gras: Parades and parties every spring
- Festivals: Jazz Fest, French Quarter Fest, Po-Boy Fest
- Culture: Live music, second lines, Creole traditions
🍽️ Dining & Food Scene
- Café Du Monde: Beignets and coffee
- Commander’s Palace: Upscale Creole cuisine
- Cochon: Southern flavors with a twist
- Willie Mae’s Scotch House: Legendary fried chicken
🛫 ATC-Specific Tips
- Runways: 11/29, 2/20 – parallel and intersecting
- Traffic mix: Commercial, GA, and cargo ops
- Weather: Frequent thunderstorms, IFR ops, and hurricane disruptions
- Approach/Departure: MSY works closely with New Orleans TRACON (MSY Approach)
📦 Moving Tips
- Best time to move: Fall or early spring (mildest weather)
- Utilities: Entergy (power/gas), Cox or AT&T (internet)
- Storage: Ample units in Metairie, Kenner, and surrounding suburbs
❓ FAQs
- Is flood insurance necessary?
Yes, it’s highly recommended in nearly all parts of the city - Is downtown safe?
Yes in tourist-heavy areas, but be alert at night - Do I need a car?
Yes, especially if living outside downtown or Uptown