The cost of living in New Orleans continues to climb in 2025, but that doesn’t mean every neighborhood is out of reach. While areas like the French Quarter and Uptown see skyrocketing prices, several local communities still offer affordable housing options for renters and homebuyers alike.
If you’re looking to stay rooted in the Crescent City—or move here without breaking the bank—these five New Orleans neighborhoods offer culture, community, and affordability.
1. Gentilly
Gentilly remains one of the most underrated neighborhoods in New Orleans. With a mix of mid-century homes, bungalows, and post-war architecture, this area provides charm and affordability just minutes from the lakefront.
Why it’s affordable:
• Home prices below the citywide average
• Larger lots with driveways and yards
• Lower density with strong community roots
The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Gentilly is approximately $1,348 per month.
Vibe: Family-friendly and peaceful, with easy access to parks and local businesses.
2. New Orleans East
New Orleans East (“The East”) offers some of the most affordable housing stock in the city. Though underinvested in recent decades, this area has strong homeowner pride and long-term residents committed to revitalization.
Why it’s affordable:
• Spacious homes at lower prices
• Down payment assistance programs available
• Lower demand compared to the core city
In New Orleans East, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is about $1,050 per month, reflecting a slight decrease of 2.93% from the previous year.
Vibe: Diverse, resilient, and full of unrealized potential.
3. Hollygrove
Located between Mid-City and Uptown, Hollygrove is gaining recognition for its affordability and accessibility. With proximity to Earhart Expressway and Carrollton Avenue, the neighborhood offers quick commutes and a growing number of renovated homes.
Why it’s affordable:
• Modest home sizes keep prices down
• Increasing interest without full gentrification
• Good location near schools and transit
Given the range of available data and current listings, it’s reasonable to estimate that the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Hollygrove falls between $1,100 and $1,500 per month, depending on the property’s condition, size, and exact location.
Vibe: Close-knit and vibrant, with deep local history.
4. Leonidas (Upper Carrollton/Riverbend)
This neighborhood near Oak Street blends walkability with a mix of affordable rentals and homes. While parts of Leonidas closer to the streetcar line have seen price increases, many areas remain accessible for working families.
Why it’s affordable:
• Mix of older homes and duplexes
• Properties near S. Carrollton offer lower comps
• Close to universities, shops, and parks
In the Leonidas area, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,795 per month.
Vibe: Relaxed, artsy, and community-focused.
5. Lower Algiers (Old Algiers)
Old Algiers on the Westbank combines history, charm, and affordability. Just a short ferry ride from the French Quarter, this neighborhood has managed to retain lower housing costs despite its location.
Why it’s affordable:
• Less competition from developers
• Home prices and rents lower than East Bank counterparts
• Slower pace of gentrification
Specific data for Lower Algiers is limited, but nearby in Algiers Point, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is about $2,708 per month. Please note for this neighborhood this is an estimate only due to limited data and varies by source. This price is also more focused on Algiers Point due to more comps in this area.
Vibe: Historic, scenic, and deeply rooted.
Affordable Living Is Still Possible
Despite rising costs across New Orleans, these neighborhoods remain surprisingly affordable in 2025. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, longtime renter, or relocating professional, exploring these areas could open doors to homeownership and stability in a city that still has room for everyone.
