History of New Orleans in Timeline
New Orleans, situated on the Mississippi River in southeastern Louisiana, is the state's most populous city with a population of 383,997 (2020 census). As the largest city in French Louisiana and a major Gulf Coast port, it holds significant economic importance. New Orleans ranks third in population among Deep South cities and twelfth in the southeastern United States.
July 1900: Race riot erupts in New Orleans
In July 1900, a race riot broke out in New Orleans following the killing of a policeman by a young African American man named Robert Charles. The mob violence resulted in the deaths of Charles, an estimated 20 other black individuals, and seven white individuals. The conflict lasted for several days before being suppressed by the state militia.
1900: Start of Increased Residential Segregation
From 1900 onward, New Orleans experienced a rise in residential segregation, contributing to social and economic disparities within the city.
1902: French language usage in New Orleans
As of 1902, approximately 50% of the New Orleans population either spoke or understood French fluently.
1909: Grand Isle Hurricane
In 1909, the Grand Isle Hurricane brought flooding to portions of Greater New Orleans, highlighting the region's vulnerability to hurricanes.
1915: New Orleans Hurricane
The New Orleans Hurricane of 1915 caused significant flooding in parts of Greater New Orleans.
December 27, 1923: Closure of "L'Abeille de la Nouvelle-Orléans"
On December 27, 1923, "L'Abeille de la Nouvelle-Orléans" (New Orleans Bee), the last major French language newspaper, ceased publication after 96 years.
1929: New Orleans streetcar strike leads to unrest and the creation of the Po' boy sandwich
The 1929 New Orleans streetcar strike caused significant unrest in the city. This event is also credited with the creation of the Po' boy sandwich, a distinctly Louisianan culinary creation.
1938: United Cab Established
United Cab, the largest taxi service in New Orleans, was founded in 1938, providing consistent transportation services to residents and visitors.
1945: Persistence of French among older generations
Even as late as 1945, many elderly Creole women in New Orleans still primarily spoke French.
1946: Start of DeLesseps "Chep" Morrison's administration
DeLesseps "Chep" Morrison began his tenure as mayor of New Orleans in 1946.
1947: 1947 Fort Lauderdale Hurricane
The 1947 Fort Lauderdale Hurricane caused flooding in portions of Greater New Orleans, underscoring the region's susceptibility to hurricane-related flooding.
1948: Desire Streetcar Line Becomes a Bus Line
In 1948, the streetcar line to Desire Street, made famous by Tennessee Williams' play "A Streetcar Named Desire," was converted into a bus line.
1950: New Orleans surpassed in size by Houston, Dallas, and Atlanta
By 1950, New Orleans had been surpassed in size by Houston, Dallas, and Atlanta, marking a shift in the urban landscape of the South.
1954: New Orleans Adopts Home Rule Charter
New Orleans adopted a home rule charter in 1954, shaping its mayor-council government structure.
1954: Brown v. Board of Education
The Supreme Court ruled in 1954 on the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education, declaring segregation in public schools unconstitutional.
1955: Potential continuation of "Le Courrier de la Nouvelle Orleans"
According to some sources, "Le Courrier de la Nouvelle Orleans," another French language newspaper, may have continued publication until 1955.
1956: Hurricane Flossy
In 1956, Hurricane Flossy brought flooding to portions of Greater New Orleans, emphasizing the region's vulnerability to hurricanes.
1956: 1956 Sugar Bowl Controversy
The 1956 Sugar Bowl at Tulane Stadium sparked controversy over the participation of Bobby Grier, an African American fullback for the Pitt Panthers, due to his race and Georgia's Governor's opposition to racial integration. Despite the controversy, the game went on as planned.
1960: Population Decline and Economic Factors
Beginning in 1960, New Orleans experienced a population decline attributed to factors such as shifts in the oil and tourism industries and suburbanization trends.
1960: Miami's population surpasses New Orleans
In 1960, Miami's population grew larger than New Orleans', even as the latter reached its highest recorded population.
1960: New Orleans Civil Rights Movement
In 1960, New Orleans saw a series of confrontations due to the city's attempt to desegregate schools, following the Supreme Court ruling in Brown v. Board of Education (1954).
1960: Peak Population Before Decline
Prior to 1960, New Orleans had experienced steady population growth, reaching a historic peak of 627,525 residents.
1960: End of racial segregation in New Orleans public schools
Racially segregated public schools in New Orleans, a practice established by Jim Crow laws, finally came to an end in 1960.
1961: End of DeLesseps "Chep" Morrison's administration and start of Victor "Vic" Schiro's administration
DeLesseps "Chep" Morrison's time as mayor of New Orleans ended in 1961, and Victor "Vic" Schiro assumed the mayorship.
1963: New Year's Eve Snowstorm
On New Year's Eve of 1963, a significant snowstorm hit New Orleans, bringing 4.5 inches of snow to the city.
1964: Civil Rights Act of 1964
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed, bringing far-reaching changes to New Orleans by renewing constitutional rights, including voting rights for Black citizens.
1965: Hurricane Betsy
Hurricane Betsy in 1965 caused significant and, in some areas, severe flooding in New Orleans.
1965: Hurricane Betsy
Hurricane Betsy struck in 1965, causing significant flooding and dozens of deaths in New Orleans, highlighting the city's vulnerability to such events.
1965: Flood Control Act of 1965
The Flood Control Act of 1965 led to the construction of floodwalls and levees around a larger area of New Orleans, including former marshland, by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
1965: Voting Rights Act of 1965
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed, further solidifying the changes brought by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and marking a significant turning point in New Orleans' 20th-century history.
1970: First population decline in New Orleans since 1803
The 1970 census revealed the first absolute decline in New Orleans' population since becoming part of the United States in 1803.
1972: One Shell Square Becomes Tallest Building
Completed in 1972, One Shell Square became the tallest building in New Orleans, marking a turning point in the city's skyline.
1978: Super Bowl XII Hosted in New Orleans
The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans hosted Super Bowl XII in 1978, the first of its seven times hosting the event.
1979: New Orleans Reaches 242 Homicides
The year 1979 marked a grim milestone for New Orleans as the city experienced 242 homicides, setting a new record at the time.
May 31, 1980: States-Item Newspaper Closes
On May 31, 1980, the afternoon newspaper, the States-Item, ceased publication in New Orleans.
1980: Shift in Political Power
By 1980, the increasing African American majority in New Orleans resulted in the election of primarily officials from their community, marking a shift in the city's political landscape.
1980: End of Increased Residential Segregation
By 1980, New Orleans had experienced several decades of increased residential segregation, resulting in concentrated poverty and vulnerability in certain areas.
1981: Super Bowl XV Hosted in New Orleans
The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans hosted Super Bowl XV in 1981, its second time hosting the Super Bowl.
1986: Start of Barthelemy's Administration
Sidney Barthelemy's administration began in 1986, during which New Orleans saw an increasing dependence on tourism as a key economic driver.
1986: Super Bowl XX Hosted in New Orleans
The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans hosted Super Bowl XX in 1986.
December 1989: December 1989 United States Cold Wave
In December 1989, a severe cold wave impacted the United States, bringing unusually cold temperatures and snowfall to various regions, including New Orleans.
December 22, 1989: Snowfall During December 1989 Cold Wave
On December 22, 1989, during a significant cold wave across the United States, New Orleans experienced snowfall, with most of the city receiving 1-2 inches of snow.
December 23, 1989: Record Low Temperature at New Orleans International Airport
On December 23, 1989, New Orleans International Airport recorded its lowest temperature ever, plunging to a frigid 11 degrees Fahrenheit.
1989: Homicides in New Orleans Reach 250
By 1989, the number of homicides in New Orleans had climbed to 250, surpassing the previous record set in 1979.
1989: Douglas Wilder becomes the second African American governor of a U.S. state
In 1989, Douglas Wilder was elected governor of Virginia, making him the second African American to hold that position in the United States.
1990: Shifting Demographics in New Orleans
Beginning in 1990, New Orleans experienced a notable increase in its Black and African American population, a trend that continued in the following decades.
1990: Super Bowl XXIV Hosted in New Orleans
The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans hosted Super Bowl XXIV in 1990.
1991: Start of Climate Normals Period
The year 1991 marked the beginning of a 30-year period used to calculate climate normals for New Orleans, providing insights into the city's typical climate conditions.
1991: Homicides in New Orleans Soar to 345
The homicide crisis in New Orleans escalated in 1991, with the city recording a staggering 345 murders by the end of the year.
1993: New Orleans Experiences 395 Murders
In 1993, New Orleans suffered 395 murders, resulting in a homicide rate of 80.5 per 100,000 residents, highlighting the severity of the city's violence epidemic.
1994: New Orleans Becomes "Murder Capital"
From 1994 to 2013, New Orleans earned the grim title of "Murder Capital" due to its consistently high homicide rates, averaging over 200 murders annually.
1994: Start of Morial's Administration
Marc Morial's administration began in 1994, continuing the trend of New Orleans' reliance on tourism as a primary economic force.
May 8, 1995: Rain-Induced Flood
On May 8, 1995, a rain-induced flood exposed the vulnerability of New Orleans' pumping system, leading to measures to improve its capacity.
1996: New Orleans Refuses to Pay Court-Ordered Judgments
As early as 1996, New Orleans began refusing to pay court-ordered judgments when it lost lawsuits, utilizing a provision in the Louisiana Constitution that prevents the seizure of city property to satisfy judgments.
1997: Super Bowl XXXI Hosted in New Orleans
The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans hosted Super Bowl XXXI in 1997.
1998: Hurricane Georges
Hurricane Georges in 1998 resulted in flooding in parts of Greater New Orleans, highlighting the region's vulnerability to hurricane-related impacts.
1999: New Orleans' Murder Rate Decreases
New Orleans experienced a decrease in its murder rate in 1999, dropping to 158, a significant improvement from the peak years.
2000: New Orleans Records Highest Homicide Rate per Capita
From 2000 to 2004, New Orleans held the grim distinction of having the highest homicide rate per capita among U.S. cities, with 59 homicides per 100,000 residents annually.
2000: The Real World: New Orleans
The first season of the reality television show "The Real World: New Orleans" aired in 2000.
2000: Pre-Katrina Population Baseline
The year 2000 serves as a baseline for measuring New Orleans' population recovery after Hurricane Katrina.
2000: Population Benchmark Before Katrina
The year 2000 serves as a benchmark for New Orleans's population before the impact of Hurricane Katrina, which significantly affected the city's demographics in the following years.
2002: Super Bowl XXXVI Hosted in New Orleans
The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans hosted Super Bowl XXXVI in 2002.
2002: Louisiana's Tax Incentives Attract Film and Television Production
In 2002, Louisiana introduced tax incentives aimed at attracting film and television productions to the state. This initiative led to a surge in filmmaking activity in and around New Orleans, earning it the nickname "Hollywood South."
2002: End of Morial's Administration
Marc Morial's time as mayor of New Orleans concluded in 2002, marking the end of an era characterized by a focus on tourism as an economic cornerstone.
2003: Winter Without Freezing Temperatures
The winter of 2003-2004 was notable for not experiencing any freezing temperatures in New Orleans.
2004: New Orleans as a Top Tourist Destination
In 2004, New Orleans drew 10.1 million visitors, solidifying its position as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States.
2004: End of Highest Homicide Rate Period
In 2004, New Orleans' period of having the highest homicide rate per capita in the U.S. came to an end, though the city continued to grapple with high levels of violence.
2004: Pre-Katrina School Performance Assessment
In 2004, before Hurricane Katrina, the New Orleans school district had a performance score of 56.9.
2004: Tourism's Significance in New Orleans's Economy
In 2004, tourism and the convention industry played a crucial role in New Orleans's economy, generating $5.5 billion and contributing 40 percent of the city's tax revenue. The hospitality industry, a significant employer, provided jobs to 85,000 individuals.
2004: Snow on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
New Orleans experienced a rare occurrence of snowfall on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in 2004, with a mix of rain, sleet, and snow.
July 1, 2005: Pre-Katrina Population Estimate
The last population estimate for New Orleans before Hurricane Katrina was 454,865 as of July 1, 2005.
August 2005: Hurricane Katrina Impacts Sunset Limited Route
Following Hurricane Katrina's devastation in August 2005, the Sunset Limited Amtrak route, which previously extended from Los Angeles to Orlando, was truncated, ending in New Orleans.
August 2005: Hurricane Katrina devastates New Orleans
In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina caused widespread flooding, resulting in over 1,800 fatalities and displacing numerous residents. The disaster led to a significant population decline exceeding 50%.
August 29, 2005: Hurricane Katrina
On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina, one of the deadliest hurricanes in U.S. history, caused catastrophic damage to New Orleans due to the failure of the federal levee system.
September 2005: Hurricane Rita
In September 2005, as New Orleans was recovering from Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Rita further hampered recovery efforts and caused additional flooding in the Lower Ninth Ward.
2005: Hurricane Katrina Devastates Transit Service
Hurricane Katrina, in 2005, caused significant damage to New Orleans' transit service, with bus services severely impacted and taking years to recover.
2005: Hurricanes Katrina and Rita
In 2005, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita devastated New Orleans, causing catastrophic flooding and widespread destruction throughout the city and surrounding areas.
2005: High Poverty Rate in New Orleans
By 2005, New Orleans had a poverty rate of 24.5%, significantly higher than the national average, reflecting the city's economic challenges.
2005: Economic impact of the slave trade in New Orleans
A study in 2005 estimated that the slave trade in New Orleans generated significant revenue, with the sale of slaves estimated at 15% of the value of the staple crop economy. The ancillary economy associated with the trade, including transportation, housing, and fees, was estimated at 13.5% of the price per person, resulting in tens of billions of dollars (in 2005 dollars, adjusted for inflation) during the antebellum period.
July 2006: Population Increase Since July 2006
The August 2007 population analysis indicated an increase of approximately 50,000 residents in New Orleans since July 2006.
July 2006: Population Estimate
The U.S. Census Bureau estimated New Orleans' population to be 223,000 in July 2006, reflecting the significant population displacement following Hurricane Katrina.
November 7, 2006: Consolidation of Tax Assessors Approved
On November 7, 2006, a constitutional amendment was passed to consolidate New Orleans' seven elected tax assessors into a single, centralized office.
2006: Study on Subsidence and Marsh Drainage
A 2006 article in the journal Geology presented a study by a Tulane University associate professor exploring the potential link between the drainage of natural marshes and subsidence in the New Orleans area and southeast Louisiana.
2006: Construction of Louisiana Film & Television Studio Complex Begins
Construction of the Louisiana Film & Television studio complex commenced in 2006, situated in the Tremé neighborhood. This development further solidified New Orleans's growing reputation as a hub for film production.
2006: Louisiana Coastal Restoration Funding
In 2006, Louisiana voters approved a constitutional amendment to dedicate all revenue from offshore drilling to coastal restoration efforts, aiming to address Louisiana's eroding coastline.
2006: New Orleans Establishes Office of Inspector General
In 2006, New Orleans established an Office of Inspector General through an ordinance, aiming to provide oversight and review of city government activities.
2006: Study on Undocumented Immigrants
In 2006, a study conducted by researchers from Tulane University and the University of California, Berkeley, estimated that between 10,000 and 14,000 undocumented immigrants resided in New Orleans.
2006: New Orleans Faces Record Homicides After Hurricane Katrina
In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, with widespread displacement and disruption, New Orleans experienced another surge in homicides in 2006, ranking as the most dangerous city in the U.S.
2006: Return of Tourist Events and Revenue Streams
New Orleans witnessed the return of major tourist events and other revenue-generating activities in 2006, marking a significant step in the city's recovery.
January 2007: New Orleans Residents Demand Action on Crime
In January 2007, thousands of concerned New Orleans residents marched to City Hall, demanding that city officials and police address the city's rampant crime problem.
March 2007: Population Estimate
By March 2007, New Orleans' population was estimated at 255,000, indicating a gradual return of residents after Hurricane Katrina.
May 2007: Post-Katrina Decline in Hotel Capacity
By May 2007, following the impact of Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans witnessed a decrease in hotel capacity. The number of hotels and motels dropped to approximately 140, with around 31,000 rooms available, compared to the pre-Katrina figures.
June 2007: Population Estimate
According to mail delivery records, New Orleans' population had recovered to about two-thirds of its pre-Katrina level by June 2007, indicating a substantial return of residents.
June 2007: Post-Katrina Growth of Hispanic and Latino American Population
A study in June 2007 indicated a significant increase in the Hispanic and Latino American population in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, rising to over 50,000 from a pre-Katrina figure of 15,000.
July 2007: Population Estimate
Based on utility usage, New Orleans' population was estimated to be around 274,000 in July 2007, suggesting a steady increase in the city's population.
August 2007: Post-Katrina Population Analysis
A population analysis released in August 2007 estimated New Orleans' population to be 273,000, about 60% of the pre-Katrina population.
September 2007: Greater New Orleans Community Data Center Report
In September 2007, The Greater New Orleans Community Data Center reported that slightly over 137,000 households received mail, compared to 198,000 in July 2005, based on U.S. Postal Service data.
2007: Study on New Orleans' Elevation
In 2007, a study by Tulane and Xavier University indicated that a significant portion of the urbanized areas in Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Bernard parishes were situated at or above sea level, contrary to common perceptions.
2007: Return of the New Orleans Hornets
The New Orleans Hornets (now the Pelicans) returned to the city for the 2007-2008 season, signifying a return to normalcy and a boost for the city's morale.
2007: Creation of "The Running of the Bulls New Orleans"
A new annual festival called "The Running of the Bulls New Orleans" was established in 2007, adding to the city's vibrant cultural scene and attracting visitors.
2007: Tax Incentives Extended to Music and Theater Productions
Building on the success of film and television tax incentives, Louisiana expanded the program in 2007 to include music and theater productions. This initiative aimed to foster growth and diversify the city's cultural economy, leading some to refer to New Orleans as "Broadway South."
January 2008: Expansion of the Brazilian American Community
Following Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans saw a growth in its Brazilian American community. By January 2008, the estimated population reached around 3,000, with many working in skilled trades. The community established churches, shops, and restaurants catering to their culture.
October 2008: Inaugural World Cultural Economic Forum
The first World Cultural Economic Forum (WCEF) was held in October 2008 at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center. The annual event aims to promote cultural and economic development opportunities by bringing together cultural leaders and ambassadors from around the world.
December 11, 2008: Last Significant Snowfall
On the morning of December 11, 2008, New Orleans experienced its last significant snowfall, a rare occurrence for the city.
2008: Hurricane Gustav
Hurricane Gustav in 2008 caused flooding in portions of Greater New Orleans, emphasizing the ongoing hurricane threat to the region.
2008: New Orleans Hosts Major Sporting Events
In 2008, New Orleans hosted the NBA All-Star Game and Super Bowl XLVII, showcasing the city's resilience and ability to host major events after Hurricane Katrina.
2008: U.S. Census Bureau's Initial 2008 Population Estimate
In 2008, the U.S. Census Bureau initially estimated New Orleans' population, which was later revised upward in 2010.
2008: Census Bureau Revises Population Estimate
In 2008, the U.S. Census Bureau revised its population estimate for New Orleans upward to 336,644, demonstrating a more optimistic outlook on the city's recovery.
June 24, 2009: Record High Temperature at Audubon Park
Audubon Park in New Orleans experienced its highest temperature ever recorded on June 24, 2009, reaching a scorching 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
October 2009: Charter Schools Improve Academic Performance
In October 2009, an assessment revealed continued growth in New Orleans public schools' academic performance. The overall school district performance score reached 70.6, a 24% improvement from the pre-Katrina score of 56.9 in 2004.
2009: Tulane University Promotes Bicycle Traffic
Tulane University transformed its main street, McAlister Place, into a pedestrian mall in 2009, encouraging bicycle traffic and creating a more pedestrian-friendly campus environment.
2009: New Orleans Tops Travel + Leisure's "America's Favorite Cities" Poll
In 2009, a Travel + Leisure poll recognized New Orleans as "America's Favorite City," awarding it the top spot in ten categories. The city received accolades for its appeal as a spring break destination, vibrant nightlife, stylish accommodations, live music scene, unique shops, and dining experiences.
2009: The Real World: Back to New Orleans (Part 1)
The first part of "The Real World: Back to New Orleans" aired in 2009, marking the return of the reality show to the city.
2009: New Orleans Saints Win Super Bowl XLIV
The New Orleans Saints, a professional football team based in New Orleans, won Super Bowl XLIV in 2009.
2009: New Orleans Sees 17% Decrease in Violent Crime
New Orleans witnessed a 17% reduction in violent crime in 2009, a trend observed in other cities nationwide; however, homicide rates remained alarmingly high.
2010: New Orleans' Homicide Rate Drops to 49.1 per 100,000
New Orleans' homicide rate decreased to 49.1 per 100,000 residents in 2010, offering a glimmer of hope in the city's ongoing battle against violence.
2010: The Real World: Back to New Orleans (Part 2)
The second part of "The Real World: Back to New Orleans" aired in 2010, continuing the series' exploration of life in the city.
2010: U.S. Census Bureau Revises 2008 Estimate
The U.S. Census Bureau revised its 2008 population estimate for New Orleans upward to 336,644.
2010: U.S. Census and Population Growth
The 2010 U.S. Census revealed that New Orleans had experienced population growth, with a 12% increase from the previous census.
2010: New Orleans Implements Consolidated Tax Assessor System
New Orleans transitioned to a single, centralized tax assessor system in 2010, replacing the previous system of seven separate assessors.
2010: Merger of Criminal and Civil Sheriff's Offices
Louisiana Revised Statute 33:1500, enacted in 2010, led to the merger of separate criminal and civil sheriff's offices in New Orleans and other parishes in the state.
2010: New Orleans Ranks High in Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation
In 2010, New Orleans ranked eighth among U.S. cities for its rate of bicycle and pedestrian transportation, reflecting its pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and growing cycling community.
2010: Racial and Ethnic Composition of New Orleans
By 2010, the racial and ethnic makeup of New Orleans showed a significant proportion of Black and African American residents, followed by White residents, and smaller percentages of other racial and ethnic groups, including Hispanic or Latino American origin.
2010: Growth of Asian American Communities
By 2010, the Vietnamese American community became the largest Asian American group in New Orleans, with many arriving in the 1970s following the Vietnam War. The Filipino American community, while smaller, has a longer history dating back to the early 1800s.
2010: Language Diversity in New Orleans
According to data from 2010, a majority of New Orleans residents spoke English at home, while a significant percentage spoke other languages like Spanish, Vietnamese, and French.
2011: Continued Growth and Distribution of Hispanic and Latino American Population
By 2011, the Hispanic and Latino American population continued to grow in both New Orleans proper and the surrounding Greater New Orleans area, with settlements in areas like Kenner, Metairie, Terrytown, Eastern New Orleans, and Mid-City.
2011: Racial and Gender Disparities in Arrests
Data from 2011 revealed significant racial and gender disparities in arrests in New Orleans, with 97% of arrested individuals being Black and 95% being male, highlighting issues of racial profiling and over-policing in marginalized communities.
2011: New Orleans' Murder Rate Climbs to 57.88 per 100,000
The murder rate in New Orleans escalated by 14% in 2011, reaching 57.88 per 100,000 residents, pushing the city to 21st place in the world for homicide rates.
2011: Bad Girls Club: New Orleans
The reality show "Bad Girls Club: New Orleans" aired in 2011, bringing another reality TV series to the city.
September 2012: The Advocate Launches New Orleans Edition
In September 2012, Baton Rouge newspaper, The Advocate, launched a New Orleans edition, briefly making it the only daily newspaper in the city.
2012: Another Winter Without Freezing Temperatures
Similar to 2003-2004, the winter of 2012-2013 in New Orleans was also characterized by an absence of freezing temperatures.
2012: Hurricane Isaac
Hurricane Isaac in 2012 brought flooding to portions of Greater New Orleans, underscoring the region's susceptibility to hurricane-related flooding.
2012: New Orleans' Homicide Rate Rises Again
Despite a brief decline, New Orleans' homicide rate increased again in 2012, reaching 53.2 per 100,000 residents, the highest among cities with populations of 250,000 or more.
June 2013: Times-Picayune Resumes Daily Printing
The Times-Picayune resumed daily printing in June 2013 with a condensed tabloid edition called TP Street. This brought the number of daily newspapers in the city to two.
2013: End of "Murder Capital" Era
After nearly two decades, New Orleans' reign as the "Murder Capital" ended in 2013, though homicide rates remained a significant concern.
2013: Bus Service Restoration Efforts
By the end of 2013, bus services in New Orleans had only been restored to 35% of their pre-Katrina levels, highlighting the long-lasting impact of the hurricane on public transportation.
2013: Commuting Trends in New Orleans
In 2013, New Orleans had a high rate of residents who walked or biked to work, with 5% walking and 2.8% cycling. Among cities outside the top 50 most populous, New Orleans had the 13th highest rate of walking and biking commuters. Notably, in 2013, only nine of the fifty most populous cities had a higher percentage of commuters who walked or biked than New Orleans.
2013: Super Bowl XLVII Hosted in New Orleans
The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans hosted Super Bowl XLVII in 2013, marking the seventh time the stadium hosted the event.
2014: Charter Schools Take Over
At the beginning of the 2014 school year, New Orleans became the first city in the nation where all public school students attended independent public charter schools.
2014: Census Estimates Show Continued Growth
Census estimates from 2014 indicated that New Orleans continued to experience population growth, adding an average of over 10,000 residents annually since the 2010 census.
July 2015: Population Reaches 80% of 2000 Level
By July 2015, New Orleans' population had reached 386,617, marking a significant recovery to 80% of its 2000 level.
2015: Yet Another Winter Without Freezing Temperatures
The winter of 2015-2016 in New Orleans marked the third consecutive winter without any freezing temperatures.
2015: New Orleans as a Hub for LGBT Communities
A 2015 Gallup survey highlighted New Orleans as a significant city in the American South with a large LGBT population, particularly concentrated in areas like the Central Business District, Mid-City, and Uptown, where numerous gay bars and nightclubs are located.
2015: Lafitte Greenway Opens
The Lafitte Greenway, a bicycle and pedestrian trail, opened in 2015, providing a dedicated space for recreation and alternative transportation in New Orleans.
2015: Car Ownership in New Orleans
In 2015, 18.8% of New Orleans households did not own a car.
January 2016: Sucré Partners with United Cab
In January 2016, local sweet shop Sucré partnered with United Cab to offer on-demand king cake deliveries in New Orleans, providing the taxi service with a new revenue stream in the face of competition from ride-sharing companies.
February 28, 2016: New Orleans Police Department Immigration Policy
On February 28, 2016, the New Orleans Police Department implemented a new policy to no longer cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.
May 2016: NASA Study on Subsidence Rates
In May 2016, NASA released a study indicating that most areas in New Orleans were experiencing subsidence at varying rates, generally aligning with but slightly higher than previous research.
2016: New Orleans Records 176 Murders
According to the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), 176 murders occurred in New Orleans in 2016, underscoring the persistent challenges of violence in the city.
2016: Commuting Patterns in New Orleans
According to the 2016 American Community Survey, the majority (67.4%) of working residents in New Orleans commuted by driving alone, while public transportation accounted for 7.3% of commutes.
2016: ASCE Publishes Study on Subsidence
The ASCE Journal of Hydrologic Engineering published a study in 2016 that provided insights into the magnitude and variability of subsidence in the New Orleans area.
2016: Enduring Influence of Catholicism in New Orleans
Since 2016, Catholicism has remained a significant religious tradition in New Orleans, making up 40% of the population within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans. Its influence is visible in the city's cultural landscape, including parochial schools, street names, architecture, and festivals like Mardi Gras.
2016: Car Ownership in New Orleans
In 2016, the percentage of New Orleans households without a car rose to 20.2%, compared to the national average of 8.7%. That same year, New Orleans averaged 1.26 cars per household, while the national average was 1.8 cars per household.
2016: Job Accessibility Before Transit Changes
In 2016, prior to the transit service changes, approximately 83,722 jobs were accessible within a 30-minute walk or transit ride in New Orleans.
2017: Partial Restoration of Transit Services
By the end of 2017, New Orleans had restored only 51% of its pre-Katrina transit service levels, considering both streetcar and bus routes.
2017: New Orleans Leads in Gun Violence Rate
In 2017, New Orleans surpassed even the more populous cities of Chicago and Detroit in its rate of gun violence, highlighting the severity of the issue.
2017: Transit Service Changes and Job Accessibility
The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) implemented changes in 2017, including a streetcar line extension and bus route rerouting, leading to a rise in the number of jobs reachable within a 30-minute walk or transit ride.
2017: Major League Rugby Inaugural Season
The inaugural season of Major League Rugby took place in 2017, with NOLA Gold being one of the first teams in the league.
2017: New Orleans Ferry Services
As of 2017, New Orleans continued its long history of ferry services with three operational routes, connecting various parts of the city and surrounding areas across the Mississippi River.
January 17, 2018: Last Occurrence of 20 Degrees Fahrenheit in New Orleans
The last time New Orleans experienced a temperature of 20 degrees Fahrenheit was on January 17, 2018.
2018: Armstrong International Airport Traffic
By 2018, Armstrong International Airport, Louisiana's busiest airport, served over 13 million passengers annually, with nonstop flights to more than 57 destinations, including international routes.
2018: Louisiana Joins the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie
In 2018, Louisiana became the first U.S. state to join the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, leading to a resurgence of francophone and creolophone cultures and languages in New Orleans.
2018: LaToya Cantrell Becomes First Female Mayor of New Orleans
LaToya Cantrell was sworn into office in 2018, becoming the first female mayor of New Orleans.
2019: Two Consecutive Winters Without Freezing Temperatures
The consecutive winters of 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 were both notable for not experiencing any freezing temperatures in New Orleans.
2019: Muslim Community in New Orleans
As of 2019, Muslims constituted a visible religious minority in New Orleans, representing 0.6% of the religious population, according to Sperling's BestPlaces.
2019: Newspaper Merger
In 2019, The Times-Picayune and The New Orleans Advocate merged, creating a single newspaper entity.
2019: New Orleans Records Lower Murder Rate Before Pandemic
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, New Orleans had a lower murder rate in 2019 compared to the sharp increase experienced in 2020.
2020: Diverse Protestant Landscape in New Orleans
Data from the Association of Religion Data Archives in 2020 indicated a substantial non-Catholic Christian population in New Orleans, largely influenced by the Bible Belt. The city is home to a diverse range of Protestant denominations, with Baptists forming the majority.
2020: Hurricane Zeta
Hurricane Zeta, the most intense hurricane to directly hit New Orleans, caused flooding in 2020.
2020: Estimated Size and Composition of the Muslim Population
In 2020, the Association of Religion Data Archives estimated approximately 6,150 Muslims residing in New Orleans. The city's Muslim community comprises Middle Eastern immigrants and African Americans.
2020: New Orleans Experiences 68% Increase in Murders
New Orleans experienced a significant surge in murders in 2020, with a 68% increase from the previous year, resulting in a total of 202 homicides. Experts attributed this alarming rise to the impacts of COVID-19 and shifts in policing strategies.
2020: 2020 United States Census
The 2020 United States Census provided a comprehensive count of the population in New Orleans, revealing demographic changes and trends within the city.
2020: Continued Diversification and Population Changes
The 2020 census data for New Orleans revealed a more diverse population compared to pre-Katrina times, with growth in the Hispanic and Latino American population, reflecting national trends. However, the city's total population remained lower than in 2000.
2020: End of Climate Normals Period
The year 2020 marked the end of a 30-year period used for calculating climate normals for New Orleans.
August 29, 2021: Hurricane Ida
On August 29, 2021, the 16th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina's landfall, Hurricane Ida, a category 4 hurricane, struck near Port Fourchon, causing significant damage and tornadoes.
2021: Hurricane Ida
Hurricane Ida in 2021 caused significant flooding in New Orleans and the surrounding region.
2021: Susan Hutson Elected Sheriff of New Orleans
Susan Hutson was elected Sheriff of New Orleans in the 2021 New Orleans City Election, ending Marlin Gusman's 17-year tenure.
2022: Effort to Bring Professional Soccer to New Orleans Begins
In 2022, a consortium initiated an attempt to establish professional soccer teams in New Orleans, aiming to join the USL Championship (men's) and USL Super League (women's) by 2025.
2022: New Orleans experiences surge in violent crime
New Orleans faced a high rate of violent crime in 2022, with 280 murders recorded, leading to the highest per capita homicide rate in the United States.
2022: New Orleans Reclaims "Murder Capital" Title
Tragically, New Orleans regained the notorious title of "Murder Capital of America" in 2022, as its homicide rate skyrocketed, surpassing all other major cities. The city recorded 280 murders in 2022, a 26-year high, attributed in part to severe understaffing in the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD).
August 27, 2023: Record High Temperature at New Orleans International Airport
On August 27, 2023, New Orleans International Airport experienced its highest temperature ever recorded, reaching a scorching 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
2024: Susan Hutson Serves as Sheriff of New Orleans
As of 2024, Susan Hutson holds the position of Sheriff in New Orleans, having defeated Marlin Gusman in the 2021 New Orleans City Election.
2025: Target Date for Professional Soccer in New Orleans
The year 2025 was set as the target for New Orleans to have professional soccer teams competing in the USL Championship and USL Super League.