What To Know Before Moving to Louisiana

Skyline view of New Orleans during sunrise

Louisiana is a rich blend of cultures that helped influence everything that is unique about our beautiful state. Living in most parts of Louisiana won’t break the bank, and you’re in for a treat when it comes to its mouthwatering dishes. If you’re considering making Louisiana your home, you’re likely brimming with questions about life here. Read on as we’re here to guide you! Dive deeper with us as we share key insights about what to expect before making your move to Louisiana

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

What to Know Before Moving to Louisiana

1. They Call Louisiana a Sports Paradise

When you arrive in Louisiana, take a look at some car license plates. You’ll notice the nickname “Sportsman’s Paradise” is imprinted there. We would argue Louisiana’s a paradise for all people who love sports, including fishing, hunting, hiking, and much more. You’ll also find plenty of pro sports teams here that are excellent. That includes the 2010 Super Bowl-winning New Orleans Saints, as fabled an NFL team as they come.

One thing to remember is that New Orleans, while not directly on the Gulf of Mexico, is still close. That means all sorts of opportunities for deep-sea fishing and boating as well as surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There are also charter fishing excursions to be found for a day on the water you’ll not soon forget. In short, sportspeople of all types will love the life in Louisiana!

2. Dive Into Louisiana’s Growing Job Market

Another essential aspect to consider when relocating is the state’s job and career market. Louisiana presents a diversified economy, with sectors ranging from energy and manufacturing to tourism and agriculture. Baton Rouge and New Orleans are hubs for businesses, especially in the fields of health care, education, and oil and gas industries. Moreover, the state’s ports, one of the largest in the U.S., play a crucial role in trade and commerce. However, like many places, some areas have more job opportunities than others, so make sure to do more research before making the move out here!

3. Your Hard-Earned Income Will Stretch Farther in Louisiana

One of the best things about Louisiana is its cost of living—it’s among the lower ones in the U.S. A big reason for this is the good housing prices. Homes in the Bayou State tend to be more affordable than in many other places. So, knowing you can save on housing is great if you’re thinking of moving to Louisiana!

4. Hurricanes Are A Real Threat in Louisiana

One of the biggest concerns of many Louisiana residents is hurricanes and flooding. Both happen here rather frequently, primarily due to Louisiana being smack in the middle of Hurricane Alley. Although severe weather is a problem for much of Louisiana, they suffer most in the south. Indeed, parts of New Orleans are still cleaning up after Hurricane Katrina, which happened in 2005!

5. Louisiana has a Love Affair with Great Food

Overhead view of Pot of Gumbo

At the heart of Louisiana is a rich blend of cultures, and this vibrant mix has birthed some of the most delicious  and complex dishes. Louisiana is the state where Creole flavors dance with Cajun spices, bringing forth food like beignets, a sweet treat perfect with morning coffee; boudin, a savory sausage; andouille, a spicy delight; and the ever-comforting gumbo, a warm bowl of goodness. While all of these wonderful foods might be what first come to mind, it’s the state’s seafood that truly stands out. The abundant waters serve as a source for some of the freshest shrimp, crabs, oysters, and crawfish, making Louisiana a seafood lover’s paradise. If you’re considering a move to Louisiana, here’s a little advice: never pass up an invitation to dine. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a sit-down meal, every bite in Louisiana promises a taste adventure.

6. A Vibrant Cultural and Arts Scene Awaits You

Louisiana, especially New Orleans, is renowned worldwide for its rich cultural heritage and dynamic arts scene. From jazz and blues festivals to Mardi Gras parades and countless art galleries, there’s never a shortage of events and exhibitions to enjoy. The state’s passion for music, dance, and the arts is palpable, offering residents an opportunity to immerse themselves in unique traditions and contemporary showcases alike. Make sure to mark your calendar for some of the annual festivals; they’re events you won’t want to miss!

7. The Schools in Louisiana Need Some Help

There’s no denying the fact that Louisiana’s school systems are in need of help. Indeed, Louisiana is one of the top five states where public education is ranked worst, unfortunately. High school graduation rates are less than 80% here, which could use some improvement. If you have children in school, do everything you can to support them and their teachers.

8. Louisiana Offers Shorts Weather All Year Long

Bring some shorts if you’re moving from a northern state like New York, New Jersey, Vermont, Michigan, Connecticut, or Pennsylvania! In fact, bring only shorts if you can help it because that’s all you’ll ever need living down here. In winter, for example, the temperature during the day rarely falls below 70 degrees. Many days see temps in the low 80s, a winter paradise for those who love sandals and tank tops. But, of course, there’s always Louisiana’s summer weather which we’ll see in just a moment can be a bit sketchy.

9. Summer In Louisiana is Typically Hot and Humid

If you’ve never known hot, humid summers, moving to Louisiana might be quite a shock. It can be unbearably hot and steamy down here, especially from June through September. So much so that many folks simply stay inside the whole time and venture out only at night. Of course, with heat and humidity this high, nighttime isn’t all that refreshing, either. If you’re sweating like mad at midnight just from sitting on your front porch, you’re in Louisiana. Our advice; make sure you’ve got a fan and some cold iced tea handy at all times.

Swamp with mossy trees

10. Louisiana’s Natural Beauty is a Sight to Behold

Beyond the urban allure of cities like Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Louisiana boasts an array of natural wonders. The state is home to numerous state parks, wildlife reserves, and swamps that offer breathtaking views and an array of outdoor activities. Birdwatching, swamp tours, and hiking trails through the bayous are just a few of the nature-inspired adventures awaiting you. For those who cherish the outdoors, Louisiana is an unexplored gem.

Check Out One of These Louisiana Cities

At Southern Self Storage, our heart is set on the Louisiana vibe, and we’re proud to be part of this vibrant community. With us, you get more than just storage; you get a taste of the true Louisiana spirit and southern hospitality. Our units? Spotless, secure, and affordable, all sprawled across the Creole State for your convenience.

Got a question or two? Chat with our managers online whenever you like. Reserve or rent a storage unit online in mere minutes. And if face-to-face is more your pace, come on down to your nearest Southern Self Storage. Our friendly team is always eager to walk you through and explain everything you need to know. In the meantime, as you find your footing in our beloved state, we hope you soak in every bit of its beauty, just like we do every day. Don’t wait—dive in and let Louisiana work its magic!

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