Metairie

Metairie: A Dynamic Suburban Hub with Deep Roots in Southern Louisiana

Strategically positioned between New Orleans and the shores of Lake Pontchartrain, Metairie is Jefferson Parish’s largest and most established community. A thriving suburb with its own unique rhythm, rich history, and strong local identity. Once a rural farming settlement along the Metairie Ridge, this area evolved in the early 20th century into a desirable residential destination for those seeking the comforts of suburban living without sacrificing access to the culture and commerce of New Orleans.

Today, with a population of over 140,000, Metairie is more than just a commuter town — it’s a self-contained city with diverse neighborhoods, reputable schools, regional shopping centers, and a growing culinary scene. It offers a relaxed, family-friendly environment that still feels connected to the heartbeat of the metro area.

A Market Defined by Growth, Variety, and Value

Metairie’s real estate reflects its ongoing evolution. Neighborhoods vary from well-established areas like Bonnabel Place and Bridgedale, with their tidy cottages and ranch-style homes, to upscale developments like Country Club Estates, where larger lots and custom builds are the norm. Post-Katrina reconstruction led to widespread revitalization. Many older homes were replaced or expanded, particularly west of Causeway Boulevard, allowing for larger footprints, open-concept layouts, and modern amenities.

The market here favors buyers, with homes generally priced more affordably than those in New Orleans proper. While the median single-family home sells for around $335,000, properties can range from under $100,000 for condos to well over $3 million for luxury estates in Old Metairie or along the lakefront. Condos, townhomes, and apartments are also readily available, offering options for a wide range of budgets and lifestyles.

A Major Education Center for Jefferson Parish

Metairie is served by the Jefferson Parish Public School System, the largest in Louisiana, supporting more than 70 schools and nearly 50,000 students. Several public schools, like Metairie Academy for Advanced Studies, are recognized for their strong academic performance. Private education is also a strong draw, with institutions like Metairie Park Country Day School offering rigorous, college-preparatory programs since 1929.

Families also benefit from proximity to top-rated universities just minutes away in New Orleans, including Tulane University, Loyola University, and Xavier University of Louisiana.

Retail, Recreation, and a Rich Culinary Culture

Metairie is home to Lakeside Shopping Center, one of the region’s largest malls, featuring over 100 stores and restaurants. The main commercial artery, Veterans Memorial Boulevard, connects residents to both national retailers and beloved local institutions like Martin Wine Cellar.

Neighborhoods like Bucktown, a historic fishing village turned local dining hot spot, offer a rich mix of seafood markets, Creole restaurants, and Latin American eateries reflecting the area’s diverse population. The Bucktown Seafood Festival and local art markets bring the community together throughout the year.

On the recreational front, Lafreniere Park stands out as Metairie’s green heart. This sprawling park features walking trails, a dog park, sports facilities, fishing ponds, and weekly farmer’s markets. Along the lake, the Bucktown Marsh Boardwalk and Pontchartrain Lakefront Trail provide peaceful, scenic escapes and stunning sunset views.

A Connected Community with Strong Employment Ties

Metairie plays a central role in the regional economy. Major employers like Ochsner Health, Breeze Airways, and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport are located nearby, making Metairie a key base for professionals in healthcare, transportation, and hospitality.

Its extensive highway network, including I‑10, Causeway Boulevard, and Veterans Boulevard, connects Metairie to New Orleans, the Northshore, and beyond. While public transit options are limited, the suburb remains car-friendly, though traffic on major roads like Causeway and Veterans can be heavy during rush hours.

Safe, Stable, and Built for Community

Post-Katrina, Metairie has benefitted from significant infrastructure improvements, particularly in drainage and levee protection. Residents cite a strong sense of safety and community, supported by a responsive local police presence and declining crime statistics in Jefferson Parish. Unlike the larger crowds and unpredictability of New Orleans parades, Metairie’s Mardi Gras celebrations are known for their family-friendly atmosphere, highlighted by events like the Irish-Italian Parade and smaller neighborhood krewes.

Whether you’re seeking spacious suburban living, access to strong schools, or a community that offers both convenience and charm, Metairie stands out as a top choice in the Greater New Orleans area.