Orleans Parish, LA

Orleans Parish
Parish
Parish of Orleans
Location within the state of Louisiana
Coordinates:
State	Louisiana
Founded	1807
Parish seat	New Orleans
Area
• Total	900 km2 (350 sq mi)
• Land	440 km2 (169 sq mi)
• Water	470 km2 (181 sq mi)
Population  (2020)
• Total	383,997
• Density	420/km2 (1,100/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC-6 (CST)
• Summer (DST)	UTC-5 (CDT)

Orleans Parish is a parish located in the southeastern region of the U.S. state of Louisiana. The parish is coterminous with the city of New Orleans, which serves as its parish seat. As of the 2020 census, the population of Orleans Parish was 383,997.

History

Orleans Parish was established in 1807, making it one of the original parishes of Louisiana. The area has a rich history, deeply influenced by its French and Spanish colonial past. The city of New Orleans, founded in 1718, became a major port and cultural center, known for its unique Creole culture and Cajun influences.

Geography

Orleans Parish covers a total area of 350 square miles, of which 169 square miles is land and 181 square miles is water. The parish is situated along the Mississippi River, which has played a significant role in its development and economy. The area is known for its low-lying topography and is protected by an extensive system of levees and flood control structures.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Orleans Parish had a population of 383,997. The parish is known for its diverse population, with significant African American, Caucasian, Hispanic, and Asian American communities. The area is also home to a large number of Creoles and Cajuns.

Economy

The economy of Orleans Parish is diverse, with major sectors including tourism, shipping, healthcare, and education. The city of New Orleans is a major tourist destination, known for its Mardi Gras celebrations, French Quarter, and vibrant music scene, particularly jazz.

Education

Orleans Parish is served by the Orleans Parish School Board and various charter schools. The area is also home to several institutions of higher education, including Tulane University, Loyola University New Orleans, and the University of New Orleans.

Healthcare

The parish is served by several major hospitals and healthcare facilities, including Ochsner Medical Center, Tulane Medical Center, and University Medical Center New Orleans.

Government

Orleans Parish operates under a consolidated city-parish government, with the Mayor of New Orleans serving as the chief executive. The New Orleans City Council serves as the legislative body.

Culture

Orleans Parish is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including its Creole cuisine, jazz music, and annual Mardi Gras celebrations. The area is also known for its historic architecture, including the French Quarter, Garden District, and numerous antebellum homes.

Related Pages

• New Orleans
• Louisiana
• Mardi Gras
• French Quarter
• Mississippi River
• Creole culture
• Cajun culture
• Tulane University
• Loyola University New Orleans
• University of New Orleans