When you think of Louisiana, your mind might first go to food and Mardi Gras. While Louisiana is certainly well known for these things, the state is also full of amazing nature and landscape.
The abundance of brown pelicans along the coast gives the state the popular nickname of “The Pelican State,” with one appearing on the state flag as well. Another nickname is the “Bayou State” because of the small streams that spread across the state.
Whether for food or nature, Mayflower has all you need to get you started on your move to Louisiana. Learn more about what you need to know when moving to the Bayou.
Bayous in the Bayou State
The bayous and marshes that give Louisiana one of its nicknames also played a big role in the state’s history. Bayous were once an essential channel for transportation in the Cajun culture and served as communities and homes.
Now, many of these historical areas are part of the National Park Service so residents and visitors can explore them and learn and understand the history while protecting the land.
At the Barataria Preserve inside of Jean Lafitte Park, you can explore over 26,000 acres of wetlands and find turtles, alligators, and more out on the water. Houma, Louisiana is known as Bayou Country, and you can discover more Bayou wildlife and immerse yourself in Cajun culture.
Mardi Gras in Louisiana
If you’re in Louisiana around Mardi Gras, you’ll often hear, “Laissez les bon temps rouler!” or “Let the good times roll!” Mardi Gras officially became a state holiday in 1875 and continues today.
Mardi Gras is more than just a one-day parade celebrating Fat Tuesday. In the weeks leading up to the big day, there are balls where the King and Queen of Mardi Gras are revealed. These individuals will later be featured in the parades.
Two weekends before Mardi Gras, Family Gras is just as exciting! The official location is just outside of New Orleans, and allows families and kids to experience the parades, culture, and authentic cuisine of a real Mardi Gras parade.
The intricate floats and performances in the Mardi Gras parade celebrate the history and traditions of Louisiana and its people. The free event brings a sense of pride and community to not just New Orleans, but throughout all of Louisiana.
The Big Easy – Moving to New Orleans
Besides being known as the host for the Mardi Gras celebration in the United States, the Big Easy is home to much more.
The theory behind New Orleans’ nickname includes a gossip columnist who compared NOLA to NYC, saying New York had a rushed atmosphere, while New Orleans had an easy, laid-back feel. Others say the name comes from the history of blues and jazz music, and the accessibility artists had to make it big in New Orleans.
While strolling around town, visit the French Quarter, home to the St. Louis Cathedral, world-famous beignets from Café du Monde, and shops throughout the French Market.
New Orleans City Park is another kid and family friendly spot with a 1,300-acre green space, of botanical gardens, 25 sculptures, fishing, paddle boats, and cafes throughout the park.
Just outside of the city, Bayou Segnette State Park offers salt and freshwater fishing and swimming in the swamps and marshes. When you’re in the Big Easy, you can’t forget about the food! Some classic New Orleans food includes gumbo, po’boys, jambalaya, red beans and rice, oysters, beignets and Cajun cuisine.
Cost of Living in the Pelican State
Louisiana’s cost of living* ranks below the national average, making it the 16th most affordable state to live in. On a national average of 100, the overall cost of living in the Bayou State falls at 93.4.
Grocery, housing, utilities, transportation, and health costs all also fall below the national average here.
Different areas of the state are more expensive than others, with St. Tammany Parish ranking as the most expensive place to live in Louisiana. Cities within the parish include Covington, Mandeville, Folsom, and Madisonville.
Louisiana’s low cost of living offers opportunities to explore the state and make the most of your time in your new home, at a low cost!
Louisiana Weather
Louisiana weather is known to be hot and humid, due to the marshes and rivers throughout the state. The state’s location on the Gulf of Mexico also impacts the weather, bringing cool breezes in the winter but devastating tropical storms in the spring and summer.
Late spring and early summer are the most humid seasons in the state and can be uncomfortable. Heavy rainfall also leads to flooding in certain parts of the state, and late summer is usually when hurricanes are seen the most.
Fall has less rainfall and more comfortable temperatures. While winter can get cold, it is not often bitter or very harsh. Check out Mayflower’s tips and tricks for how to pack like a pro, no matter the weather.
Moving to Louisiana Soon? Let Mayflower Get You There
Mayflower’s professional Louisiana movers can help you move no matter where you’re going or coming from. Our long-distance movers help with moves across the country, and everything else you need to complete your move to Louisiana. Ready to make your move? View our full line of moving services and complete an online quote to get started.
MyMayflower Move Portal
Mayflower makes it easy to coordinate your move to Louisiana and stay organized along the way. The MyMayflower Move Portal can be personalized and streamlines your moving experience. Use customized tools to keep track of all major moving milestones, organize contacts, and book your move online.
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