Is New Orleans Safe to Visit? Insider Travel Tips

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New Orleans is a city unlike any other — it dances to the beat of its own drum, has vibrant culture, music, and cuisine. Its unique blend of French, African, and American cultures has birthed a city that’s rich in tradition, from the jazz notes that fill the air to the tantalizing Creole and Cajun flavors that define its culinary scene.

However, as a city that has so much personality and life, New Orleans also has its challenges when it comes to safety. As you plan your journey to the heart of the Big Easy, it’s essential to understand the city’s safety landscape.

In this article, we’ll delve into the safety aspects of New Orleans, providing you with a comprehensive guide to navigate this vibrant city with confidence and peace of mind. From understanding the general safety situation to exploring specific areas of concern, we’ve got you covered.

Is New Orleans Safe?

New Orleans does face its share of crime-related challenges. The city’s crime rates have seen a fluctuation over the years. A significant increase in homicides was recorded in 2022, a peak that hadn’t been seen since before Hurricane Katrina. However, recent trends show a decrease in these numbers, though they remain higher than in the years before the surge.

The types of crime in the city are varied, with certain crimes more common in specific areas. The French Quarter, a popular spot for visitors, has seen a few serious incidents, usually in the early hours. These incidents are relatively rare given the area’s high visitor count, which makes The French Quarter relatively safe.

According to NeighborhoodScout, New Orleans has a crime rate of 54.97 per 1,000 residents, with violent crimes at 13.85 per 1,000 residents and property crimes at 41.12 per 1,000 residents. This places New Orleans as safer than only 2% of U.S. cities. The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in New Orleans is 1 in 72, and property crime (burglary, larceny, theft, arson, shoplifting, etc.) is 1 in 24.

Here is a bar chart that compares the violent and property crime rates in New Orleans with the national median. In this chart, the types of crimes are represented by different colors, and the locations (New Orleans and National Median) are represented on the x-axis:

While these statistics may seem concerning, most visitors to New Orleans enjoy their stay without any issues. The higher crime rates are largely concentrated in certain neighborhoods, areas that visitors typically don’t frequent. The city’s authorities are actively working to improve safety measures and reduce crime rates.

Safe and Unsafe Areas in New Orleans

While New Orleans may not be the safest place to visit, some areas are much safer than the rest. Below, we’ll talk about some of the safest neighborhoods, and some of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the city. 

Safest Neighborhoods in New Orleans

Here are the safest places you can visit in New Orleans:

1. West End: Known for its suburban living, safety, and affordability. It offers plenty of outdoor activities, including fishing at Lake Pontchartrain. It is 94% safer than other New Orleans neighborhoods.
2. Old Aurora: Located across the Mississippi River from the French Quarter, it is perfect for families and retirees. It is 77% safer than other neighborhoods in New Orleans.
3. Lake Shore-Lake Vista: A subdistrict of Lakeview, it is 66% safer than the Louisiana average. It offers beach access and nearby parks.
4. French Quarter: Famous for its vibrant nightlife and the iconic Bourbon Street, it has a relatively low crime rate for New Orleans.
5. Central Business District: Home to stylish hotels and a wide variety of dining options that stay true to New Orleans cuisine.
6. Lafitte: Known for its abundance of jazz clubs, soul food, and strong Creole heritage.
7. Gentilly Terrace: A quiet suburban part of New Orleans with many new homes. It offers many local dining options.
8. St. Roch: One of New Orleans’ safest and most historic neighborhoods. It offers a wide variety of dining options and has its own market with historical ties to the neighborhood.
9. Lakeview: Bordered by the massive New Orleans City Park, it has a reputation for being an active, friendly, and safe place to live.
10. Central City: A revitalized working-class area known for its Mardi Gras parades and Cajun Cuisine.

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in New Orleans

On the other hand, the ten most dangerous neighborhoods in New Orleans are:

1. Pines Village: The most dangerous neighborhood in New Orleans with a crime rate that is 469% above the national average.
2. West Lake Forest: Known for being mainly poor and working class, its overall crime rate is 423% higher than the national average.
3. Central City: It has a crime rate that is 420% higher than the national average. Violent crime alone is extremely high, with gang activity and the drug trade being contributing factors.
4. Desire: Known as one of the poorest and most underserved parts of New Orleans. The overall crime rate is 383% higher than the national average.
5. Saint Claude: Has a crime rate of 11,087 per 100,000 people, which is 373% higher than the national average.
6. Seventh Ward: Has a crime rate of 10,995 per 100,000 which is 369% higher than the national average.
7. Saint Roch: Has a crime rate that is 365% higher than the national average.
8. Venetian Isles: A small but dangerous New Orleans neighborhood with a crime rate that is 314% higher than the national average.
9. Florida Area: Crime is still 296% higher than the national average.
10. Lower 9th Ward: Has a crime rate that is 265% higher than the national average.

Tips on How to Stay Safe in New Orleans

Here are some specific tips for staying safe in New Orleans:

• Understand the Layout of the City: New Orleans is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. Familiarize yourself with the layout of the city and the neighborhoods you plan to visit. The French Quarter and the Central Business District are generally safe and well-patrolled, but some neighborhoods can be less safe, especially at night.
• Use Reputable Transportation Services: New Orleans has a variety of transportation options, including taxis, rideshares, and public transportation. The streetcars are a popular and safe way to see the city. If you’re using a taxi or rideshare, make sure it’s from a reputable company. Be cautious of unlicensed taxis.
• Be street smart on Bourbon Street: Bourbon Street is one of the city’s most famous destinations, known for its vibrant nightlife. However, it can also be a hotspot for pickpocketing and other petty crimes, especially during large events like Mardi Gras. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: New Orleans can be hot and humid, especially in the summer. Make sure to stay hydrated, especially if you’re enjoying the city’s famous cocktails. New Orleans is also known for its food, so make sure to eat well to keep your energy up.
• Know the Safe Neighborhoods: Areas like the Garden District, Uptown, and the Warehouse District are generally safe and popular with tourists. Do some research before venturing into unfamiliar neighborhoods.
• Respect the Local Culture: New Orleans has a rich and diverse culture. Respect local traditions and customs, whether you’re enjoying a jazz performance, visiting a historic neighborhood, or participating in a local festival.
• Be Aware of Local Wildlife: New Orleans is located in a subtropical climate and is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators and snakes. If you’re exploring the city’s parks or natural areas, stay on marked trails and be aware of your surroundings.
• Hurricane Season: If you’re visiting between June and November, be aware that this is hurricane season. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and listen to local authorities in case of a storm.
• Visit Reputable Tourist Attractions: Stick to reputable tourist attractions and guided tours, especially if you’re exploring the city’s historic sites or participating in a ghost or voodoo tour. These tours should respect the city’s history and culture and prioritize the safety of their guests.

Safety During Events

New Orleans is famous for its events like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest. While these events are generally safe, large crowds can sometimes lead to unpredictable situations. Here are some tips to ensure your safety during these events:

• Stay in Groups: There is safety in numbers. Try to stay with a group, especially at night.
• Plan Your Transportation: Events can lead to road closures and heavy traffic. Plan your transportation in advance to avoid getting stranded.
• Keep Valuables Close: Pickpocketing can happen in large crowds. Keep your valuables close to you and be aware of your belongings at all times.
• Follow Event Rules and Guidelines: Each event will have its own set of rules and guidelines designed to keep everyone safe. Make sure to follow them.

FAQs on Visiting New Orleans

The Bottom Line: Is New Orleans Safe?

New Orleans, with its vibrant jazz notes and amazing culinary scene, is a city that promises an unforgettable journey. While it’s true that the city has its share of challenges when it comes to safety, it’s also a city that rewards the vigilant traveler. 

By staying alert, sticking to well-trodden paths, and embracing the city’s unique charm, you can ensure your New Orleans adventure is as safe as it is memorable. So, pack your bags, tune in to the rhythm of the Big Easy, and get ready for a journey that’s as enchanting as the city itself.