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Desire, New Orleans,LA

Neighborhood Data
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Moving to Desire, a vibrant neighborhood in the southeast of New Orleans, offers a unique blend of rich history and community spirit that's hard to find elsewhere. Known for its close-knit atmosphere and cultural heritage, Desire appeals to those looking for an authentic New Orleans experience, away from the bustling tourist spots. The area is home to a variety of local businesses, community centers, and parks that foster a welcoming environment for families and individuals alike. Residents often enjoy the slower pace and the opportunity to connect with neighbors, making it a great choice for anyone wanting to settle into a supportive community.

One of Desire’s standout attractions is the Desire Street, which is more than just a name—it’s a hub of local flavor and history. The neighborhood also benefits from nearby recreational spots like the Desire Street Park, where residents can enjoy outdoor activities, sports, and community events. Another highlight is the proximity to the New Orleans Jazz Market, a cultural gem that celebrates the city’s legendary music scene. For food lovers, the area features several local eateries offering classic Creole and Cajun dishes, giving newcomers a delicious taste of Louisiana’s culinary traditions.

Conveniently, Desire is just a short drive from Downtown New Orleans, typically about 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. This close proximity allows residents easy access to the vibrant business district, entertainment venues, and major transportation hubs without sacrificing the neighborhood’s quieter charm. Whether you’re commuting for work or heading downtown for festivals and nightlife, Desire offers a perfect balance of accessibility and suburban comfort. For those relocating, this neighborhood presents an inviting option that combines cultural richness, community warmth, and practical convenience.

Community Snapshot

Population 4,054
Density (People/sqml.) 2,849
Median Age 35.0
Married Couples
27%
27% of the population of Desire aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
25%
25% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 27% of the Desire population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 25% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Desire neighborhood age breakdown chart

Desire demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 4,054 residents, Desire is notably smaller than many other New Orleans neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Desire has a population density of 2,849, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other New Orleans neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 35, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Desire

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Desire neighborhood age breakdown chart

Desire Crime Map

The Desire crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing

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Home Price $179,989
Median Rent $979
People/Household 2.9

Home Price Breakdown

Desire neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 61% Own 39%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 71% After 2010 29%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Desire, the median home price is $179,989, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Desire can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $979, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Pontilly Coffee
Coffee Shop
min.
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JuJu Bag
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

The Guardians Institute
Art Gallery
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New Orleans Community Print Shop & Darkroom
Theatre Arts
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Food & Drink

McDonald's
Fast Food
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New Orleans Original Daiquiris
Alcohol
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Groceries

Walmart Supercenter
Grocery Store
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Save-A-Lot
Grocery Store
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Parks

Edith Sampson Playground
Park
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Odile Davis Playground
Park
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Shops

AT&T
Electronics
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Dollar General
Discount Store
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Walmart Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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Walgreens
Pharmacy
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Health Care

Dentist
Dentist
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Safety

New Orleans Fire Department Engine 6 and Ladder 3
Fire Station
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New Orleans Fire Department Engine 8
Fire Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
St Augustine High School
2600 A P Tureaud Ave, New Orleans, LA
High School 8 - 12 School Score
G. W. Carver Preparatory Academy
3059 Higgins Blvd., New Orleans, LA
Elementary School M - M School Score
Mary Bethune Elementary Literature/Technology
2401 Humanity Street, New Orleans, LA
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Akili Academy Of New Orleans
3811 N. Galvez Street, New Orleans, LA
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
G W Carver High School
3059 Higgins Blvd, New Orleans, LA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
St Benedict The Moor School
5010 Piety Dr, New Orleans, LA
Elementary School PK - 4 School Score
Mary D. Coghill Charter School
4617 Mirabeau Ave, New Orleans, LA
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Desire. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Desire can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $18,328
Household Income $39,139
Unemployment 10.9%

Income Breakdown

Desire Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors play a key role in shaping the character and accessibility of a neighborhood, influencing everything from lifestyle to opportunity. Household incomes in Desire average around $39,139, which is lower than average. This affordability contributes to a more accessible lifestyle, making it an appealing choice for first-time homeowners, young families, and those looking to enjoy the benefits of the area without a high price tag.

The employment landscape can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In Desire, the unemployment rate is 11%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

Desire, located in New Orleans East, is known for its unique blend of residential charm and historic significance. One of the highlights includes the nearby Desire Street, which has a rich cultural history tied to the city's jazz and blues heritage. The neighborhood is also close to the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, offering residents access to beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities like bird watching and kayaking.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, Desire is historically significant due to the Desire housing projects, which were some of the largest public housing developments in New Orleans. While the original projects have been largely redeveloped, the area remains an important part of the city's history and cultural memory. Additionally, the nearby Michoud Assembly Facility, where NASA builds space vehicles, is a notable landmark in the broader New Orleans East area.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Desire is conveniently located near major thoroughfares such as Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 90, providing easy access to Downtown New Orleans and other parts of the city. Public transportation options include several bus routes operated by the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA), which connect Desire to key destinations like the French Quarter and Central Business District.

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