We strive to provide you with authoritative, trustworthy, and expert advice. In doing so, the staff at texaswalkabout.com performs extensive research, editing, and fact checking to every post on this webiste. If you feel that this article can improve, please feel free to reach us at staff@texaswalkabout.com
New Orleans, Louisiana, and Austin, Texas, are both vibrant cities, each with its unique charms and attractions. Whether you’re considering a visit or contemplating a move, comparing these two cities can help you make an informed decision.
In this blog post, we will explore the differences between New Orleans and Austin in terms of walkability, cost of living, atmosphere, demographics, and other factors.
Walkability
New Orleans is generally more walkable than Austin, especially when it comes to the French Quarter and downtown areas.
Most attractions in these parts of New Orleans are accessible on foot[1]. On the other hand, Austin is not as walkable, and it’s essential to have a car to get around the city, like most Southern cities[1].
Cost of Living
The cost of living in New Orleans is generally higher than in Austin. Housing costs in New Orleans are about 25% higher, with a median 2-bedroom apartment rent at $1,797 compared to $1,734 in Austin[2].
Overall, Austin is 27.4% less expensive than New Orleans, with housing costs being 116.5% less expensive[6]. However, health-related expenses are 0.3% lower in Austin[6].
Atmosphere and Vibe
Austin is a newer city with a quirky Texas vibe, characterized by a mix of Texas politicos, college 20-somethings, and laid-back tech professionals[3].
New Orleans, on the other hand, has a more old-school atmosphere, with long-standing institutions, old Southern money, and a street-savvy, “Euro-Caribbean” vibe[3]. The city is known for its historic restaurants that have been serving patrons for generations[3].
Demographics
New Orleans is slightly more densely populated than Austin[4]. People in New Orleans are 22.3% less likely to be married, and the median age is 3.2 years older than in Austin[4].
In terms of employment, Austin has a 1.9% lower unemployment rate compared to New Orleans, with an average salary of $5,710.51 in Austin and $3,411.11 in New Orleans[5].
Public Transportation
Public transportation in Austin is generally cheaper than in New Orleans. The monthly public transport ticket in Austin costs $41.25, whereas it costs $55.00 in New Orleans[5].
However, it’s worth noting that Austin’s public transportation system may not be as extensive as in other major cities, and having a car can be crucial for getting around.
Culture and Entertainment
Both Austin and New Orleans boast rich cultural scenes and diverse entertainment options. Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” with numerous live music venues, music festivals like South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits, and a thriving arts scene. The city is also home to the University of Texas, offering access to academic and cultural events.
New Orleans is famous for its historic architecture, vibrant music scene, and unique culinary delights. The city is synonymous with Mardi Gras, an annual carnival celebrated with colorful parades and lively street parties. New Orleans is also home to the famous French Quarter, with its charming streets, antique shops, art galleries, and world-class dining.
Weather and Climate
Austin has a warmer climate compared to New Orleans, with an average maximum temperature of 27.2°C, 4.4°C higher than New Orleans’ 22.8°C[5].
Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters, but New Orleans is more humid due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico.
Outdoor Recreation
Both cities offer plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. Austin is known for its parks, green spaces, and numerous outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports on Lady Bird Lake and the Colorado River. The city also boasts a beautiful skyline and popular swimming spots, such as Barton Springs Pool and Deep Eddy Pool.
New Orleans, while not as focused on outdoor recreation, still offers opportunities to enjoy nature through its beautiful parks, such as City Park and Audubon Park. The city also has access to water-based activities along the Mississippi River and Lake Pontchartrain.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans and Austin each have unique qualities that make them appealing destinations. Deciding between the two cities depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and priorities. If you value walkability, history, and a vibrant cultural scene, New Orleans might be the better fit for you.
On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a youthful atmosphere, a thriving tech scene, and access to outdoor activities, Austin may be your ideal choice. Both cities offer an unforgettable experience, and you won’t go wrong by visiting or living in either one.
Robert is a native Texan writer for TexasWalkabout, passionate about Texas culture and food, wearing cowboy boots daily. He interviews local pitmasters and chefs, tastes and reviews innovative dishes, and explores hidden gems and iconic landmarks. Graduating magna cum laude in Cyber Security from the University of Texas at San Antonio, Robert excels academically and professionally while also being knowledgeable in Texas history and culture. After living in Texas for over 28 years, he provides first-hand and trustworthy information for all your Texas needs!
