Transplants Moving to Northshore - Help Requested
My wife and I (36M, 33F) are considering making the move from New Orleans to the Northshore and would love some perspective from people who have made a similar transition.
A little background — we have two young kids (newborn and 2 years old). We’re both transplants from different northern states and don’t have any family in Louisiana. My job is already on the Northshore, which is a big reason we’re considering the move. My wife would likely have to leave her job or commit to a pretty tough 60–75 minute commute, so it’s a big decision for our family.
One of her biggest concerns is starting over socially. We love how close-knit Louisiana is, but it can also be hard as transplants since so many people have lifelong friendships going back to childhood. A lot of our closest friends in New Orleans are other people who moved here.
A few questions for those familiar with the Northshore:
Are there certain neighborhoods/areas that tend to be easier for young families or transplants to build community?
For those who moved from New Orleans, what have been the biggest benefits of the Northshore with young kids? We obviously hear about the schools, space, safety, etc., but my wife worries about losing easy access to things like City Park, the Children’s Museum, the zoo, and everything else New Orleans offers.
Any church recommendations? We are looking for a non-Catholic church community. I grew up Methodist and my wife grew up Lutheran, but we’re open-minded.
Thoughts on schools? We always hear great things about the public schools, but we also know a lot of families still choose private options like OLL, Lake Castle, etc. Curious how families think through that decision.
Really appreciate any advice — especially from people who moved across the lake with young kids.