Many, when first hearing of New Orleans, think of the region’s rich culture, beautiful architecture, and jazz. Others think of the hurricane Katrina disaster. Some just like to PARTY! They just can’t wait for Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday with all its beads, parades, and parties. Amidst Bourbon Street, the French Quarter, the rich culture, and the music, one of the nation’s most prestigious institutes of higher learning, Tulane University, is sometimes forgotten.
All 50 states and 40 different countries are represented in Tulane’s student body. In fact, 75% of the 10,500 students come from over 500 miles always making Tulane one of the nation’s most geographically diverse universities. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching rated Tulane in the top 2% of 4,300 education institutions for its very high levels of research. Tulane’s Latin American studies program ranked 2nd in the nation according to Gourman Report of Undergraduate Programs in American and International Universities. Tulane's Department of Spanish and Portuguese is alo ranked second nationally. The university’s business school is also highly respected. Entrepreneur magazine rated 15th best in the nation for entrepreneurs. It was also rated 10th best in the world by London’s Finanacial Times
To enjoy one of the most challenging and fulfilling college experiences, plus the amazing culture and traditions of New Orleans, it will cost you about $36,610 for the year and about another $8,414 for room and board. Don’t let that figure scare you though, the average financial aid awarded to incoming students is $29,400.
The Carrollton/Riverbend area, near the bend of the Mississippi River where St. Charles Ave turns into Carrollton, remains one of the most popular with Tulane students. It also happens to be one of the more reasonably priced in the downtown area. Expect to spend about $96,000 to $111,000 here. For those that must live in the middle of all the excitement in the French Quarter, you can expect to spend about $250,000. The median sales price in this area has increased 47.7% in the last 5 years.
To the east of campus is the garden district, one of New Orleans’ most extravagant neighborhoods, with lots of upscale shopping. Average sales price in last five years has increased a full 100%! The uptown university area is a good financial prospect as well with an increase of 75% in the median price of homes the last 5 years.
Tulane’s main campus resides in a historic residential area with architecture ranging from Creole cottages to Greek Revival mansions. Directly across the street from campus is huge 400-acre park called Audubon Park. It has tennis courts, golf courses, even horse stables and a zoo.
For those that just can’t wait, Bourbon St. and the French Quarter are only minutes to the north in downtown New Orleans. You should probably take a bus though. Parking downtown can be a tricky ordeal.
Start looking for a place about 3 months before you want to move in. The most readily available leases will probably be available in June for the coming school year in August.
Apartments near campus go between $600-$1,100 for a one bedroom. In the popular Carrollton area you can find a two bedroom for as low as $850.