Greater New Orleans, Jefferson County, LA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
492,126
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,770/yr
-1.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
219,053
0.3% year-over-year change

Greater New Orleans population

How many people live in Greater New Orleans

Greater New Orleans is home to 492,126 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Greater New Orleans locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
492,126
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
240,225
Female
51.2%
251,901
Value Percent YoY change
Male 240,225 48.8% -0.3%
Female 251,901 51.2% -0.3%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Greater New Orleans is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.8% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
19%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
26.8%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
17.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 93,741 19% -1.0%
15 to 24 55,675 11.3% 0.8%
25 to 44 131,947 26.8% -0.7%
45 to 64 122,818 25% -1.7%
Over 65 87,945 17.9% 2.3%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Greater New Orleans, 85.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 50.9% of locals are Caucasian, 25.3% are African American and 4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.7%
Non-citizens
7.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 420,190 85.4% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 33,024 6.7% -0.6%
Non-citizens 38,912 7.9% 5.3%
Racial breakdown
White
50.9%
Black or African American
25.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.1%
Asian
4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.5%
Other
6.2%
Value Percent
White 250,405 50.9%
Black or African American 124,604 25.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,433 1.1%
Asian 19,718 4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 149 0%
Two or more races 61,438 12.5%
Other 30,379 6.2%

Households in Greater New Orleans

A peek inside Greater New Orleans households

Greater New Orleans has 198,849 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.8% are families, while the remaining 39.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
198,849
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
78,055
Family households
120,794
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 78,055 39.2% 3.4%
Family households 120,794 60.8% -1.8%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Greater New Orleans

The housing landscape of Greater New Orleans

Greater New Orleans's housing consists of 219,053 units, with 65% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 3.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
219,053
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 142,483 65%
1 unit, attached 10,423 4.8%
2 units 7,912 3.6%
3 or 4 units 12,957 5.9%
5 to 9 units 9,676 4.4%
10 to 19 units 10,667 4.9%
20 to 49 units 7,457 3.4%
50 or more units 9,788 4.5%
Mobile home 7,387 3.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 303 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
1,720
130.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Greater New Orleans

In Greater New Orleans, the median construction year is 1979. About 2.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,025 2.8% -3.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 7,965 3.6% -9.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 23,739 10.8% 1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 40,365 18.4% 2.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 52,494 24% -2.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 34,638 15.8% -1.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 18,252 8.3% -6.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 22,724 10.4% 3.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 11,132 5.1% 20.3%
Built in 2020 or later 1,720 0.8% 130.6%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Greater New Orleans occupancy rates

Out of the 198,849 occupied housing units in Greater New Orleans, 63.8% are owner-occupied, while 36.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
198,849
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
72,056
Owner occupied
126,793
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 72,056 36.2% -0.8%
Owner occupied 126,793 63.8% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
9.2%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Greater New Orleans housing costs

Housing costs in Greater New Orleans come to a median of $1,080 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,168.

Median housing costs per month
$1,080/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Greater New Orleans
$1,168/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Greater New Orleans

Greater New Orleans education at a glance

About 37.2% of the population in Greater New Orleans went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 17.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 23,026 6.1% 6.8%
High school diploma 141,301 37.2% -1.4%
College diploma 85,754 22.6% -2.8%
Associate degree 25,937 6.8% 0.5%
Bachelor's degree 67,559 17.8% 2.2%
Graduate degree 36,012 9.5% 1.1%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Greater New Orleans

How much people earn in Greater New Orleans

The average annual household income in Greater New Orleans was $71,314 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,770, reflecting a -1.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Greater New Orleans
$71,314/year
5.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Greater New Orleans
$62,770/year
-1.5% year-over-year change

Greater New Orleans income by age

In Greater New Orleans, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $73,179. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $68,953 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,212, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,156 in earnings. Overall, 83% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,212 8.5%
25 - 44 $73,179 1.6%
45 - 64 $68,953 -6.6%
Over 65 $55,156 13.9%
Above poverty level
400,347
Below poverty level
81,715
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 400,347 83% -0.7%
Below poverty level 81,715 17% 1.5%

Employment in Greater New Orleans

Workforce and job types in Greater New Orleans

76.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.5% run their own businesses, 66.6% are employed by private companies, and 13.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
176,922
Blue collar
53,416
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 176,922 76.8% -0.7%
Blue collar 53,416 23.2% 0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
11.5%
Private companies
66.6%
Governmental workers
13.4%
Not for profit companies
8.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 26,549 11.5% -4.0%
Private companies 153,497 66.6% -1.0%
Governmental workers 30,983 13.4% 1.9%
Not for profit companies 19,310 8.4% 7.1%

Transportation in Greater New Orleans

How people get around in Greater New Orleans

In Greater New Orleans, the average commute time is 275 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 96.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
275 min
-18.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 197,985 96.4% -2.1%
Taxicab 1,222 0.6% 27.7%
Bus or trolleybus 1,628 0.8% -3.8%
Railroad 165 0.1% 194.6%
Motorcycle 90 0% -3.2%
Bicycle 515 0.2% 2.0%
Walk 3,674 1.8% -4.9%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Greater New Orleans by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
70001 38,950 17,808 $67,923 $98,141
70002 19,426 8,881 $65,436 $104,967
70003 39,344 16,244 $76,261 $103,072
70005 24,088 11,644 $89,194 $130,058
70006 16,170 6,092 $76,505 $97,279
70032 4,625 1,905 $56,813 $75,295
70036 544 227 $78,869 $94,363
70037 16,639 5,947 $98,983 $115,659
70038 125 58 $0 $0
70040 1,056 455 $83,649 $76,922

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Greater New Orleans demographics 

What is the total population of Greater New Orleans?

Greater New Orleans has a total population of 492,126 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Greater New Orleans?

The gender ratio in Greater New Orleans is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (240,225 residents)
  • 51.2% females (251,901 residents)

What is the median age in Greater New Orleans?

The median age in Greater New Orleans is 39.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Greater New Orleans?

The age distribution in Greater New Orleans is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19% (93,741 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (55,675 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.8% (131,947 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (122,818 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.9% (87,945 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Greater New Orleans?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Greater New Orleans is as follows:
  • White: 50.9% (250,405 residents)
  • Black or African American: 25.3% (124,604 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.1% (5,433 residents)
  • Asian: 4% (19,718 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (149 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.5% (61,438 residents)
  • Other: 6.2% (30,379 residents)

What percentage of the population in Greater New Orleans are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.4% of the population in Greater New Orleans.

How many housing units are there in Greater New Orleans?

There are 219,053 housing units in Greater New Orleans, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Greater New Orleans and what is the average household size?

Greater New Orleans has a total of 198,849 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Greater New Orleans?

Greater New Orleans has a median household income of $62,770, representing a -1.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Greater New Orleans?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.8% (176,922 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.2% (53,416 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.5% (26,549 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.6% (153,497 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.4% (30,983 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.4% (19,310 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025