River Ridge: Because suburban development didn't begin in this area until the 1950's, and because it was nothing but rural farmland until that point, this census designated place was once called Little Farms.
River Ridge, in the Jefferson Parish of Louisiana, is a new community that doesn't yet have the rich and often spooky history of other places around New Orleans. Although it's a suburb of The Big Easy, River Ridge doesn't share the high crime rate of New Orleans. This is likely what led to the numerous luxury homes being built in the area.
Moving to River Ridge
People have differing viewpoints about moving to River Ridge. On the one hand, the census-designated area is right on the Mississippi River, which is pretty cool. On the other hand, some people believe that rental homes in River Ridge must face high crime rates from their proximity to a large city. Well guess what? The latter group is wrong. Most residents love this area, but you need to have everything in order and know the best way to move here before taking the big leap.
When to Start Looking
River Ridge is in the middle of the road when it comes to the number of places for rent in the area. There are places to go around, so you could probably get by starting your search a month in advance. If you're gunning for a really nice apartment, though, it wouldn't hurt to start your search even sooner. Come on, show a little initiative! If you can't handle this, you'll never survive Mardi Gras!
When to Make the Move
Although River Ridge is a world apart from New Orleans, it's still physically very close at 10 miles away. That means roads can get jammed when tourists flood the area, and the months of February through May see this occurring the most. Avoid moving during Mardi Gras -- way too many people then. Do it before -- otherwise, you'll never get the chance to pass out on the streets! The months of October through January are ideal since masses of tourists aren't usually around then.
What to Bring Along
River Ridge is your typical low-crime suburb. Your rental apartment won't see a high ticket price, but your landlord will want to check up on you. Help yourself by bringing along references from former landlords, proof of income, a credit check and, if you really want to stand out, a printed-out background check.
River Ridge Neighborhoods
You should be hooked by now. Seriously, how could you not love this place? Commitment issues? That's neither here nor there. The point is, River Ridge is pretty great, and the little perks of living in each neighborhood make it all the better.
Sauve Road: The area around Sauve Road is highly residential and so packed with homes that it's easy to understand why the population density in River Ridge is over 5,000 people per square mile. Hey, at least you can get out of the areas of packed-in homes and enjoy the afternoon at Little Farms Park.
Citrus Road: The area south of Citrus Road provides an ideal area for those who walk a lot. It's a small area with roads that are straight shots to restaurants and businesses along Highway 48. There's even a Goodwill if you're looking to save some money after getting that high-end new house rental!
Waterfront: The waterfront area is quite large. For those who need to get around town, the bus route along Highway 48 is within easy walking distance. Additionally, cyclists love that the Mississippi River Trail cuts right through the area.
Northwest Area: This area is another that has everything you need. Get some groceries at the D&D Mini Mart for an enjoyable night camping at New Orleans West KOA.
Living in River Ridge
Amazing neighborhoods not enough for you? That's fine! There's plenty more greatness that comes along with living in River Ridge.
Shops for Everything
If the little shops and grocers in River Ridge aren't enough, you're in luck. Just six minutes away is Elmwood Village Shopping Center, so you can be as picky with your shopping as you want.
Make a Night of It
The AMC Elmwood Palace 20 is right outside River Ridge. Well don't just sit there! There's bound to be a new Avengers movie out!
River Adventures
OK, you're not Huck Finn, but living by the Mississippi is still pretty cool. The Mississippi River Trail may look long from here, but it's actually 3,000 miles long. So have fun with that.
Early to Rise
River Ridge is on Louisiana's delta, which means you're far enough east to be the first to see the sunset. Since the delta goes into the Gulf, however, you'll also be one of the few Louisiana residents to see the sunrise over the ocean.