Metairie, Louisiana sits just outside New Orleans, making it an appealing spot for those who want city convenience without the constant hustle of a strictly urban area. But where is Metairie and how does it fit into the Greater New Orleans area? This guide breaks down Metairie’s location, how close it is to NOLA, and what makes it a great place to live.
Where Is Metairie Located in Louisiana? Key Details
Metairie, LA is part of the Greater New Orleans area, located just six miles west of downtown New Orleans. Its location makes it a wonderful place for people who want easy access to the city yet prefer living in a place with a more suburban feel. With well-connected roads and exceptional public services, Metairie is definitely a sought-after community.
What Parish Is Metairie In?
Metairie is part of Jefferson Parish, one of the most populated and well-established areas in the state. Residents benefit from well-maintained amenities because the parish plays a major role in maintaining Metairie’s infrastructure, parks, and public services. Homebuyers looking at houses for sale in Metairie will find that the area features a nice variety of neighborhoods—from historic homes to modern developments—and convenient proximity to the rest of the Greater New Orleans area.
Is Metairie a City?
Metairie feels like a city in many ways, but it’s technically not. As a census-designated place (CDP), it doesn’t have its own municipal government. Instead, Jefferson Parish handles public services, schools, and infrastructure.
However, that hasn’t stopped Metairie from developing its own identity with a thriving local economy, popular shopping areas, and a strong sense of community. It’s home to Lakeside Shopping Center, one of the largest malls in Louisiana, along with numerous restaurants, parks, and recreational facilities. It has everything you’d expect from a city, but it operates under Jefferson Parish’s jurisdiction rather than having its own mayor or city council.
How Far Is Metairie From New Orleans?
The short answer is: not far at all. Metairie is about six miles west of downtown New Orleans, so a drive into the city takes roughly 10-15 minutes via I-10, depending on traffic. Its location is great for commuting or visiting the city on a regular basis.
For those who travel often, Metairie is also very close to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport—just 10 miles away. Because the area benefits from strong transportation infrastructure, travel by car or public transit is a breeze. This makes it really easy to get where you need to go, whether you’re running everyday errands, meeting friends for dinner in the city, or traveling overseas for important business.
Why Metairie’s Location Works for Homeowners
One of the biggest advantages of living in Metairie is its truly prime location. Here are just a few of the reasons why homebuyers are drawn to this area.
- It’s extremely close to New Orleans. You’re just minutes from downtown but without the daily congestion. Enjoy all the perks of city life without living directly in NOLA.
- It offers access to Jefferson Parish amenities. Metairie offers an exceptional quality of life. Well-kept parks, libraries, and public spaces make daily life comfortable for all.
- It boasts a variety of neighborhoods. Whether you prefer quiet, tree-lined streets or easy access to shopping and dining, Metairie has a mix of options.
- It has great schools and family-friendly environments. Jefferson Parish has well-rated public and private schools, so it’s an attractive choice for families.
- It has plenty of travel connections. It’s never difficult to get where you need to go. Quick access to I-10, the airport, and surrounding areas makes commuting simple.
Housing Options in Metairie
Metairie also generally offers more affordable housing options than some other parts of New Orleans, especially when considering space and lot size. It offers a great mix of established neighborhoods that have a strong sense of community and newer developments that many first-time homebuyers find appealing.
Whether you’re looking for a classic New Orleans-style home, a modern subdivision, or a waterfront property near Lake Pontchartrain, Metairie has no shortage of real estate options.
Looking for nearby alternatives? If you’re considering Metairie but want to explore other spots, nearby cities like Kenner and Slidell offer some other options. Kenner, located just west of Metairie, is known for its suburban feel and close proximity to the airport. Slidell, also just outside of New Orleans, offers a historic downtown and a slightly slower pace of life.
Metairie Is a Great Place To Call Home
For many Louisiana residents, Metairie is where the magic happens. It’s right next to New Orleans in Jefferson Parish, giving residents and visitors a cool balance of city convenience and suburban comfort. With awesome local amenities, a nice housing variety, and an unbeatable location, Metairie is one of the most desirable places for homeowners looking to put down roots in Louisiana.
If you’re exploring houses for sale in Metairie, now is a great time to check out current listings to find a home that suits your lifestyle. Get started with HomeHelpers today!
