Coast Guard Base New Orleans
Coast Guard Sector New Orleans oversees the busiest inland waterway system in the US and the critical Mississippi River and Gulf Intracoastal Waterway that are vital to the nation's commerce. Located in one of America's most unique and culturally rich cities, Coast Guard members in New Orleans experience Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, world-class Creole cuisine, and a vibrant music scene unlike anywhere else. Louisiana's low cost of living and New Orleans's legendary culture make this assignment genuinely beloved.
Neighborhoods Near Coast Guard Base New Orleans
Popular communities where military families stationed at Coast Guard Base New Orleans choose to live.
Metairie (Old Metairie)
15–25 min to base via I-10The most popular suburb for military families in the New Orleans area, Metairie offers established neighborhoods, excellent restaurants, top private and public schools, and easy I-10 access to the base.
Lakeview
15–20 min to baseA desirable Mid-City neighborhood adjacent to City Park and Lake Pontchartrain. Rebuilt after Katrina with newer infrastructure, Lakeview has become a sought-after area with great schools, restaurants, and a strong community.
Algiers Point
20–30 min to baseA historic neighborhood on the West Bank of the Mississippi River accessible by free ferry to the French Quarter. Algiers Point offers affordable Victorian shotgun houses and a quiet pace with French Quarter access.
Schools & Education
Jefferson Parish Public School System / Orleans Parish School Board
Families in Metairie are served by Jefferson Parish Public Schools, which is generally well-regarded and stable. Orleans Parish families navigate a mix of charter schools and traditional public schools; many military families opt for Catholic or private schools given the area's strong parochial school tradition.
- Isidore Newman School and Holy Cross are among Louisiana's top private schools in the metro
- Jefferson Parish's Lusher Charter School and Ben Franklin High are highly competitive magnet options
- Tulane and Loyola universities enrich the cultural and academic environment for military families seeking tuition assistance opportunities
Things to Do Near New Orleans
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the New Orleans area.
America's most famous neighborhood is a 15-minute drive from base, offering iconic architecture, live jazz on every corner, world-class Creole cuisine, and a party atmosphere 365 days a year.
A legendary New Orleans institution in Tremé serving refined Creole cuisine and fried chicken in a space adorned with African American art. One of the most historically significant restaurants in the South.
One of the largest urban parks in the country, featuring the New Orleans Museum of Art, Botanical Garden, Carousel Gardens amusement park, and 26 miles of lagoons for paddleboating and fishing.
A 6-mile corridor through several Uptown neighborhoods lined with antique shops, art galleries, boutiques, and acclaimed restaurants. New Orleans' premier shopping and dining destination.
One of the top zoos in the nation, home to white alligators, Louisiana swamp exhibit, sea lions, and a children's zoo, located in Audubon Park along the Mississippi.
The real New Orleans music scene. A two-block stretch in the Marigny neighborhood packs in a dozen live music venues with brass bands, jazz combos, and funk acts every night of the week.
Housing & Cost of Living
New Orleans offers relatively affordable housing for a major American city, though flood insurance is a significant added cost and a critical consideration. Metairie and the West Bank offer the best value for military families. BAH covers a modest rental or supports a purchase in Jefferson Parish.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Coast Guard Base New Orleans
- Contact the installation housing office early — wait lists can be long.
- Check BAH rates at the official DoD BAH calculator before setting your home budget.
- Get VA pre-approved before your PCS orders — it helps you move fast in competitive markets.
- Military-friendly real estate markets near bases can move quickly — be ready to act.