Serving in New Orleans

The Greater New Orleans region offers a variety of vibrant communities, each with its own unique charm and lifestyle. Whether you're looking for historic city living, a quiet suburban retreat, or a waterfront oasis, you'll find a place to feel at home. Here’s a look at what some of the communities near the Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans have to offer.
 

Algiers Point

The historic heart of the area, is known for its beautiful 19th-century houses, tree-lined streets, and strong community spirit. Residents enjoy a relaxed pace of life with easy access to the excitement of downtown New Orleans. The neighborhood is a melting pot of artists, professionals, and families who have lived there for generations. 
 
Distance & Commute: Approximately 2 miles to the Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans, with an average driving time of about 5 minutes.

Family Life: Families can enjoy numerous parks, including Confetti Park, and a bike path along the levee with stunning skyline views, and family-friendly events like the annual Algiers Bonfire & Concert.

Algiers is served by several charter and public schools. 
 
The median home price in Algiers Point is approximately $347,367. 

BELLE CHASSE

Located on the West Bank of the Mississippi River, Belle Chasse is a welcoming community known for its close-knit feel and strong military presence, as it is home to the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans. Belle Chasse offers a unique blend of suburban convenience and rural tranquility. It's a place where neighbors know each other and a strong sense of community prevails.
 
Distance & Commute: Approximately 10 miles to the Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans, with an average driving time of about 30-40 minutes.

Family Life: The area boasts excellent schools and numerous parks, including the 30-acre Louisiana Medal of Honor Park and Museum. Families can enjoy annual events like the Plaquemines Parish Seafood Festival and the Orange Festival. For younger children, The Hive on Woodland offers an indoor playground, camps and other activities. 
 
Belle Chasse has a population of just over 10,000 and a median home price of around $280,000. 

SLIDELL

Situated on the Northshore of Lake Pontchartrain, Slidell is a thriving and family-friendly city that offers a high quality of life with a slightly more suburban feel. Slidell offers a diverse range of housing options, from waterfront homes to properties in quiet, wooded subdivisions. It’s known for its low crime rate and a strong sense of community.
 
Distance & Commute: Approximately 30 miles to the Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans, with an average driving time of about 45-60 minutes.

Family Life: Slidell is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with easy access to the Honey Island Swamp for tours and the Tammany Trace for biking and walking. The city hosts a variety of family-friendly events, including Christmas Under the Stars and Mardi Gras parades. There are numerous parks and recreational opportunities, and a wide array of camps and classes are available for children. 

Belle Chasse has a population of just over 29,000 and a median home price of around $220,000. 

MANDEVILLE

Located on the scenic north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, Mandeville is a vibrant and growing community known for its stunning lakefront, excellent schools, and abundant recreational opportunities. Mandeville offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with a strong emphasis on outdoor living. The historic downtown area is filled with charming shops and restaurants, while the lakefront provides a beautiful backdrop for a variety of activities.
 
Distance & Commute: Approximately 35 miles to the Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans, via the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, with an average driving time of about 45-55 minutes.

Family Life: Mandeville is renowned for its highly-rated public and private schools.  Families can enjoy Fontainebleau State Park, the 31-mile Tammany Trace bike path, and a variety of water sports on the lake. The city offers a wide range of programs and camps for children, from cooking classes to indoor bounce houses. 
 
The median household income is $76,768, and the population is just over 13,000.

The New Orleans area offers a diverse range of high-performing public charter, magnet, and private schools. For military families, top-performing options are available throughout the region, including Plaquemines Parish. Families should be aware that admission to many of these institutions is highly selective and may require specific entrance exams or application processes, so researching individual school requirements in advance is strongly encouraged.

Disclaimer: The school statistics and rankings presented here are based on commercially available and open-source information. This list is a partial sampling and not a comprehensive guide. Inclusion does not constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Government or the United States Marine Corps.

  Credit:  Louisiana Department of Education (School and District Performance Scores - 2024-2025)

Lake Forrest Elementary Charter School
https://www.lakeforestcharter.org/

Rankings:
#13 in Louisiana Elementary Schools
#4 in Louisiana Middle Schools

Lake Forest Elementary Charter School, a K-8 institution serving over 650 students in New Orleans, Louisiana, shows impressive academic outcomes. Proficiency rates are high, with 94% of students scoring at or above the proficient mark in reading and 77% achieving that level in math.
 

Student/Teacher Ratio                   Math Proficiency                   Reading Proficiency       
15:1                                                77%                                      94%

---

Metairie Academy for Advanced Studies
https://metairie.jpschools.org/

Rankings:
#1 in Louisiana Elementary Schools

Metairie Academy for Advanced Studies, a public school serving students from Pre-K through 5th grade, is located in the mid-sized city of Metairie, Louisiana. The school is distinguished by its exceptional academic achievement, with an impressive 98% of its 377 students demonstrating proficiency in both math and reading.  

Student/Teacher Ratio                   Math Proficiency                   Reading Proficiency       
14:1                                                98%                                      98%

---

Gretna No. 2 Academy for Advanced Studies
https://gretna2.jpschools.org/

Rankings:
#4 in Louisiana Elementary Schools

Gretna No. 2 Academy for Advanced Studies is a public elementary school known for its high academic standards. An impressive 98% of its students are proficient in math, and 92% are proficient in reading. Located in Gretna, LA, the school educates 366 students in grades PK-5.

Student/Teacher Ratio                   Math Proficiency                   Reading Proficiency       
18:1                                                98%                                      92%

Benjamin Franklin Elementary Math and Science
https://www.babyben.org/

Rankings:
#2-3 in Orleans Parish Public Schools Elementary Schools
#25 in Louisiana Charter Middle Schools

Lake Forest Elementary Charter School, a K-8 institution serving over 650 students in New Orleans, Louisiana, shows impressive academic outcomes. Proficiency rates are high, with 94% of students scoring at or above the proficient mark in reading and 77% achieving that level in math.
 

Student/Teacher Ratio                   Math Proficiency                   Reading Proficiency       
13:1                                                21%                                      29%

---

Belle Chasse Academy
https://www.bellechasseacademy.org/

Rankings:
#7 in Louisiana Charter Elementary Schools
#10 in Louisiana Charter Middle Schools

Serving 939 students in grades PK-8, Belle Chasse Academy is a public charter school in a suburban setting. Its students have achieved proficiency rates of 73% in reading and 54% in math. The school operates with a 14:1 student-teacher ratio and a staff that includes 69 full-time teachers and three full-time counselors. Approximately 41% of its student population is considered economically disadvantaged.

Student/Teacher Ratio                   Math Proficiency                   Reading Proficiency       
14:1                                                54%                                      73%

---

New Orleans Military & Maritime Academy
https://nomma.net/

Rankings:
#60 in Louisiana Charter Middle Schools
 

Operating with a military and maritime focus, the New Orleans Military & Maritime Academy serves grades 8-12 within a large city setting. The charter school's population of 943 students is 62% male and 74% economically disadvantaged. In terms of academic achievement, 33% of students have scored at or above the proficient level for reading, while 20% have done so for math. The academy supports its students with a robust staff of 75 teachers and 5 school counselors, allowing it to maintain a 13:1 student-teacher ratio, which is on par with the local district.

Student/Teacher Ratio                   Math Proficiency                   Reading Proficiency       
13:1                                                20%                                      33%

Benjamin Franklin High School
https://www.bfhsla.org/

Rankings:
#1 in Louisiana High Schools
#99 in National Rankings

Holding the #1 rank for high schools within Louisiana, Benjamin Franklin High School is distinguished by its strong emphasis on college preparation. This is demonstrated by a 91% participation rate in its Advanced Placement® (AP®) program. The school's diverse student population is composed of 61% minority students, with 32% of the total student body being economically disadvantaged.

Graduation Rate                   Math Proficiency                   Reading Proficiency       
99%                                      91%                                       99%

---

Belle Chasse High School
https://bchs.ppsb.org/

Rankings:
#6 in New Orleans, LA Metro Area High Schools
#22 in Louisiana High Schools

Ranked 22nd within the state, Belle Chasse High School serves a diverse student population where 39% of students are minorities and 47% are economically disadvantaged. The school, which is part of Plaquemines Parish Public Schools, offers Advanced Placement® (AP®) coursework, with a participation rate of 28%.

Graduation Rate                   Math Proficiency                   Reading Proficiency       
92%                                      56%                                       97%

---

New Orleans Military & Maritime Academy
https://nomma.net/

Rankings:
#13 in New Orleans, LA Metro Area High Schools
#66 in Louisiana High Schools

Ranked #66 in Louisiana, the New Orleans Military & Maritime Academy functions as a single-school district. It offers Advanced Placement® (AP®) courses with a 34% student participation rate. The school's demographic profile shows a 78% minority enrollment, and 74% of its students are classified as economically disadvantaged.

Graduation Rate                   Math Proficiency                   Reading Proficiency       
92%                                      22%                                       39%

A Safer New Orleans: By the Numbers

It's true that New Orleans has worked hard to overcome a reputation for high crime, particularly in the years following Hurricane Katrina. However, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) and local government, the city has seen a dramatic and sustained decrease in crime rates, making it a much safer place to live, work, and raise a family.

Recent statistics show a significant downward trend in nearly every major crime category. According to a 2024 year-end report from the NOPD, the city has experienced remarkable reductions in violent crime:

ARTICLE:  Violent crime fell in 2025 for a third straight year in New Orleans.



LINK:  New Orleans City Council Crime Dashboards 

These numbers aren't an anomaly; they are part of a larger trend. In fact, New Orleans is leading the nation in violent crime reduction. While the FBI's quarterly data shows a 23% decrease in murder nationally, New Orleans has seen an even sharper 39% drop. 
 
This sustained progress demonstrates the city's commitment to creating a safer environment for all its residents.

Proactive Policing and Community Engagement
These impressive results are not accidental. They are the product of a multi-layered approach that includes:

Smart Deployment and Innovative Technology: The NOPD has implemented a crime reduction and department improvement plan that focuses on smart deployment, violence reduction strategies, and innovative technology to deter criminal activity. This includes the use of drones, a high-tech network of private cameras, and hundreds of license-plate readers to increase arrests. 

ARTICLE:  New Orleans Homicide Rate at Lowest Level in 50 Years

Increased Law Enforcement Presence: In addition to a growing NOPD force, the Louisiana State Police have established a dedicated troop in New Orleans to assist with patrols and enforcement, further enhancing safety. 

Safe Havens: Algiers and Belle Chasse
It's important to note that the perception of widespread crime doesn't reflect the reality of many New Orleans neighborhoods, especially those near the Marine Corps Support Facility and the Naval Air Station.

Algiers: Located directly across the Mississippi River from the bustling French Quarter, Algiers offers a quieter, more community-focused lifestyle. Neighborhoods like Algiers Point are known for their low crime rates and strong neighborhood associations.  While some parts of the broader Algiers area have faced challenges with crime, the areas closest to the Support Facility are generally considered safe and family-friendly. 

Belle Chasse: Home to the Naval Air Station, Belle Chasse is a suburban community with a low crime risk. It's a popular choice for military families due to its excellent schools and safe environment. The overall crime rate in Belle Chasse is significantly lower than the national average, making it a secure and peaceful place to call home. 

New Orleans is a city in transformation. The significant and ongoing reduction in crime, coupled with proactive policing and strong community partnerships, has made the Greater New Orleans area a safer and more attractive option for families than ever before. Marine Corps families considering a move to the area can be confident that they are choosing a community that is not only culturally rich and vibrant but also deeply committed to their safety and well-being.

A City That Cares: Family Services and Resources in Greater New Orleans

Beyond the vibrant culture and exciting attractions, the Greater New Orleans area is a community deeply committed to the well-being of its families. From world-class healthcare to a vast network of public resources, the city provides a supportive environment for military families to thrive.

Exceptional Healthcare for Your Family
New Orleans is home to a robust network of hospitals and healthcare facilities, ensuring that your family has access to excellent medical care. These institutions are renowned for their pediatric services and comprehensive care.

Children's Hospital New Orleans: A 201-bed, not-for-profit pediatric medical center offering a complete range of healthcare services for children from birth to 21 years. It is the only full-service hospital exclusively for children in Louisiana and the Gulf South.

Ochsner Medical Center: A large, comprehensive medical center with a dedicated pediatric unit and a wide range of specialized services for all ages. It is consistently ranked as one of the best hospitals in the state.

Touro Infirmary: Known for its Family Birthing Center, Touro offers a warm and supportive environment for expecting parents and newborns. It also provides a full spectrum of healthcare services for the entire family.

East Jefferson General Hospital: Located in Metairie, this hospital provides a wide array of services, including a dedicated pediatric emergency department and comprehensive women's and children's services.
 
Libraries, Parks, and Community Enrichment
The Greater New Orleans area is rich with public resources that offer educational and recreational opportunities for family members of all ages, all at little to no cost.

New Orleans Public Library
With 15 locations across the city, the New Orleans Public Library system offers far more than just books. Families can enjoy free access to homework help, summer reading programs, cultural passes for free museum entry, and a vast digital collection of e-books and audiobooks. Many branches host regular story times and family-friendly events.
https://nolalibrary.org/

Audubon Nature Institute
While there is an admission fee for the Zoo and Aquarium, the Audubon Nature Institute is a non-profit organization that manages several public parks and green spaces. This includes the beautiful riverfront Woldenberg Park and the sprawling Audubon Park, with its playgrounds, walking paths, and picnic areas.
https://audubonnatureinstitute.org/

New Orleans Recreation Development (NORD)
Commission NORD operates dozens of parks, playgrounds, and community centers throughout the city, offering a wide array of free and low-cost programs. These include after-school activities, sports leagues, summer camps, and fitness classes for all ages.
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve Just a short drive from the city, this national park offers free admission to its Barataria Preserve. Families can explore boardwalk trails through the bayou, spot wildlife, and learn about the region's unique ecosystem from park rangers.
https://nordc.org/home/

The New Orleans area is home to a significant population of Active Duty, Active Reserve (AR), and Selected Marine Corps Reserve (SMCR) personnel, creating a Total Force environment.
 

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve (MARFORRES)
MARFORRES is comprised of the following major subordinate commands, all headquartered in New Orleans:
 

4th Marine Division
https://www.marforres.marines.mil/Units/4th-Marine-Division/
The ground combat element. Its structure includes: 

14th Marine Regiment
23rd Marine Regiment
25th Marine Regiment
4th Assault Amphibian Battalion
4th Combat Engineer Battalion
4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion
4th Reconnaissance Battalion

4th Marine Aircraft Wing
https://www.marforres.marines.mil/Units/4th-Marine-Aircraft-Wing/
The aviation combat element, with a diverse array of squadrons and groups. While many are geographically dispersed, the headquarters element provides command and control from New Orleans.

Marine Aircraft Group 41
Marine Air Control Group 48
Marine Aircraft Group 49
Aviation Command and Control Team (AC2T)
Site Support Miramar
MATSG-42

4th Marine Logistics Group
https://www.marforres.marines.mil/Units/4th-Marine-Logistics-Group/
The logistics combat element, providing all functions of combat service support. Key subordinate units include: 

4th Dental Battalion
4th Medical Battalion
6th Engineer Support Battalion
Combat Logistics Regiment 4
4th Combat Readiness Regiment

Force Headquarters Group
https://www.marforres.marines.mil/Units/Force-Headquarters-Group/
Provides unique capabilities to the Total Force. 

4th Law Enforcement Battalion
Intelligence Support Battalion
Marine Corps Individual Reserve Support Activity
6th Communication Battalion
3rd ANGLICO
4th ANGLICO
6th ANGLICO
DPC-RSU East
DPC-RSU West
1st Civil Affairs Group
3d Civil Affairs Group
4th Civil Affairs Group
Marine Corps Advisor Company A
Marine Corps Advisor Company B
DCO-IDM
Marine Innovation Unit

Headquarters Battalion
https://www.marforres.marines.mil/Units/Headquarters-Battalion/

Provides administrative and services support to the command. It includes a variety of critical billets for Marines of all ranks and MOSs.
 

U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South (MARFORSOUTH)
https://www.marforsouth.marines.mil/

MARFORSOUTH is the Marine Corps component for U.S. Southern Command, responsible for planning and executing security cooperation, contingency operations, and humanitarian assistance/disaster relief in its area of responsibility. 

Structure: A stand-alone headquarters that coordinates the deployment of Marine forces into the region. 

Opportunities: An assignment with MARFORSOUTH offers unparalleled opportunities for joint and international experience, including working with partner nations throughout Latin America.