The seat of St. Tammany Parish, Covington is a long-established community north of Lake Pontchartrain. Along with neighboring Mandeville, Madisonville and Abita Springs, it’s part of what locals call the Northshore, the collection of cities and towns north of New Orleans, connected to the Big Easy by the lengthy, linear Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. Aesthetically, the old world is alive and well in downtown Covington, where numerous landmarks speak to the early 1800s history of southern Louisiana. Even the public parking lots in downtown are historic, predating the invention of the automobile, back when the spaces were used as ox lots for farmers who came to town to sell their goods. But the city of 11,000 has also adapted to the modern world. Old storefronts now house galleries, museums and coffee shops, while former bastions of Black nightlife have transitioned into quieter residential neighborhoods. Beyond history, residents take pride in their city’s growing economic opportunities and lively event calendar. "I learned a long time ago that the more residents know about the history of their community, the more connected they feel to the community, the more involved they want to be in the community," says Mayor Mark Johnson.
Explore colorful art at Marianne Angeli Rodriguez Gallery in Covington.
Relax by the water and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at Sunset Point Park.
Visit Covington’s historic ox lots, a nod to its agricultural past.
Historic downtown Covington offers a charming street scene to explore.
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Southern Louisiana architecture and new affordable housing
The leafy streets of Covington spread across most of the area between the Tchefuncte River and Bogue Falaya, including a small downtown surrounded by a grid of suburban neighborhoods that taper off into rural areas. Because it's impossible to reach the city without crossing a bridge, locals often cheekily refer to Covington as an island. "In the 1800s, we were the northernmost port on Lake Pontchartrain," Mayor Johnson says. "People would come up the river to the Columbia Street Landing, where today we have concerts on the third Friday of each month. 1898 is when the train came down Gibson Street, and the center of economy sort of drifted from the port to the center of town, where the train depot was." The city's architectural heritage is on full display in town center, providing an array of designs popular across southern Louisiana, including two-story gallery homes, shotgun doubles, and Acadian, Creole and Craftsman cottages. Downriver, the city's premier neighborhoods, Old Covington and Old Landing, include larger homes in a variety of regional designs, especially French-inspired Colonial Revivals. New construction has also come into these areas, though not as vigorously as in some of the city's less affluent neighborhoods, namely the West 30s. "As a city and as a community, we've come together and taken some strong actions and have noticeably improved the quality of life of those residents," Mayor Johnson says. "We actually have a nonprofit that has built affordable housing in the neighborhood and then works with residents financially." Covington remains a buyer's market. The median price of a single-family home is around $340,000, generally in line with nearby markets like Metairie or New Orleans. But prices vary dramatically: Cottages in the West 30s needing repairs sell for around $80,000, while new construction in Old Covington can sell for over $1.2 million.
Stroll Covington’s tree-lined streets for scenic southern beauty.
A shotgun double in Covington’s West 30s preserves classic architecture.
Covington’s Old Covington features cozy Acadian-style cottages.
Affordable housing developments enhance life in Covington’s West 30s.
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Historic downtown dining and big-box stores at Claiborne Hill Shopping Center
The Covington Historic District, known by locals as Saint John, is the primary place for entertainment. A downtown revitalization project has improved the city's central area with simple but effective interventions, like streetlights and improved sanitation, plus a windfall of new businesses, including numerous new restaurants. Several old favorites have stuck around, too. Located in the oldest structure in Covington, The Chimes is a local favorite for Louisiana cooking, right on the banks of the Bogue Falaya. For errands, residents often cross Bogue Falaya to the Claiborne Hill shopping center on Tammany Parkway, where numerous big-box stores can be found.
Downtown Covington’s restaurant row offers a variety of dining options.
Claiborne Hill Shopping Center provides convenient shopping in Covington.
Enjoy Louisiana cuisine at The Chimes, a Covington favorite by the river.
The Bogue Falaya Bridge near The Chimes connects scenic Covington.
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The Tammany Trace and city parks on the National Register of Historic Places
Covington marks the beginning of the Tammany Trace Trail, a 31-mile hike and bike trail that extends east all the way to Slidell, passing through Abita Springs, Mandeville and Lacombe and offering connections with parks across the parish, like Fontainebleau State Park. Several public boat launches throughout Covington allow residents to float south along the Tchefuncte River to other parks in St. Tammany Parish, like Fairview-Riverside State Park. At the south end of New Hampshire Street, historic gates open up to Bogue Falaya Wayside Park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Explore the trails and relax in the park at Tammany Trace Trailhead.
Relax by the river at Bogue Falaya Park’s peaceful pavilion.
Watch the sun dip below the horizon from the pier at Fontainebleau Park.
Families enjoy relaxing walks at Riverside Park North.
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Free outdoor concerts and zumba with the mayor
Although New Orleans, roughly 40 miles south, is the beating heart of arts and culture in Southern Louisiana, Covington pulls its weight with a number of art galleries and a local history museum downtown, which occupies an old-timey hardware store. There was a time when Covington neighborhoods, namely the West 30s, housed a number of Black-owned music halls and social clubs where famous New Orleans musicians like Fats Domino and Irma Thomas played. Today, a small, shady plaza at the Tammany Trace trailhead offers free outdoor concerts every Thursday in October and April. "It's surrounded by restaurants and a beer garden. It's just a wonderful place to host those events," Mayor Johnson says. "We have a couple of concerts and festivals in Bogue Falaya Wayside Park. But the park is one way in, one way out, and so all the parking comes into a residential neighborhood. So, the Trailhead is actually better." Covington also hosts the Three Rivers Art Festival, one of the largest juried art festivals in the Southeast. In a nod to the area’s more conservative side, the trailhead is also home to the world's largest statue of Ronald Reagan. As for today’s leader, Mayor Johnson can be spotted at least once a month dressed like Elvis Presley, driving a golf cart through town on his way to lead a public Zumba class.
Visitors enjoy the Ronald Reagan statue at Tammany Trace Trailhead.
Mayor Johnson leads a lively Zumba class in downtown Covington.
Saladino Gallery adds artistic flair to Covington’s downtown.
Celebrate art and culture at Covington’s Three Rivers Art Festival.
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Commutes across the Pontchartrain Causeway
Following Katrina, the petroleum refining company Chevron moved its Gulf of Mexico headquarters from New Orleans to Covington, which brought hundreds of jobs to the city. Since then, additional major employers have popped up in Covington, including the Zen-Noh Grain Corporation and telecom company Globalstar. The St. Tammany Parish Hospital, the leading healthcare facility in the area, is also a major employer for the city. Covington is also home to Tulane University's National Primate Research Center, a leading infectious disease research facility that offers training and educational opportunities for undergrad and post-grad students, as well as professional opportunities for visiting researchers. Covington is one small part in a commute-heavy region. Every morning and evening, thousands of drivers cross the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, a 23-mile-long straight shot to New Orleans. Some are traveling to Covington while others are traveling from it. That makes Covington highly subject to different traffic flows throughout the day, with rush hour slowdowns constant on major roads and highways. To circumvent the gridlock, the city adopted some alternative road designs. "We have thousands of people that come into the city each day, and then thousands who leave each afternoon. So, this is where the traffic challenge comes from," Mayor Johnson says. "We've embraced roundabouts, and we have a couple more under design that will help channel the traffic on some of the main arteries and make it easier to get in and out of town." The city does not offer public transportation, aside from on-demand bus service through STAR Transit, a regional authority. As an alternative, many residents make trips around town using golf carts.
Visitors love watching the lake shimmer at Sunset Point Park.
Zen-Noh Grain is a key part of Covington’s thriving economy.
Covington’s Chevron office complex drives local economic growth.
Globalstar contributes innovation and jobs to Covington’s community.
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A top-10 school district statewide
Covington is part of the St. Tammany Parish Public School District, which receives a Niche rating of A-minus while being ranked the 10th-best district in Louisiana. Nearly 40,000 students are spread across 55 schools in a school system that also earns distinction for its athletics, ranked the 6th-best in Louisiana. The district consistently earns the 2nd-highest ACT scores of any district in the state, and many older students also take advantage of the district's dual-enrollment program with Northshore Technical Community College, the largest of any such program in Louisiana.
Scenic riverfront views define afternoons at Bogue Falaya Wayside Park.
Covington’s water tower stands tall as a local landmark.
Saint Paul’s School encourages students to grow academically and personally every day.
Teachers at Covington High School motivate students to reach their full potential.
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Things to consider
Southern Louisiana is among the most flood-prone regions in the U.S., and Covington is no exception. The rivers that skirt past Covington create expansive flood zones that capture a decent share of the city's residential areas. Many homeowners are thus required to purchase a flood insurance policy. "We're about eight miles inland, so we're really not subject to storm surges," Mayor Johnson says. "We are subject to heavy rains upstream from us. A big, big rain up in the Folsom area means all of that watershed eventually comes right through Covington." Mitigation primarily takes the form of upstream retention ponds and the clearing of debris from tributaries every two years. The city also implemented a low-impact development plan to improve drainage within Covington, which includes green infrastructure solutions to help with drainage, including bioswales and permeable paving materials. The northern parts of Covington also tend to have higher crime rates than the southern parts. For example, the West 30s has a CAP Index score of 6, which is 2 points higher than the national average, while Covington's southernmost neighborhood, Old Landing, has a CAP Index score of 2. But recent interventions have helped curtail violent crime across the city, including in the West 30s and downtown, which also has an above average CAP Index score. "We introduced a very proactive police department," Mayor Johnson says.
Families gather at Tammany Trace Trailhead for fun and live music.
Live music at the Tammany Trace Trail adds rhythm to Covington life.
An old downtown building in Covington highlights its rich history.
Enjoy seafood favorites at Half Shell Oyster House in Covington.
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Written By
Tom Jakob
Photography Contributed By
Michael Forbes
Video By
Alex Finneran
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Covington, LA sell after 71 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Covington, LA over the last 12 months is $335,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
"Better than new! This beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers over 2,100 square feet of thoughtfully planned living space in desirable Preston Vineyard. The open-concept floor plan features upgraded quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and a spacious kitchen overlooking the living and dining areas. Enjoy energy-efficient construction with a
Located in the heart of Covington, Estates at Watercross is tucked along the scenic Tchefuncte River, preserving 30+ acres of natural bottomland hardwood habitat and lush greenery. Built in 2024, this beautifully appointed 4 bedroom, 3 bath home checks every box. The living room features a gas fireplace flanked by custom built-ins and picture windows overlooking the backyard. The kitchen offers
Space, privacy, and the freedom to enjoy country living await at 52 Bleu Lake Drive in the peaceful Bleu Lake Hills subdivision. Situated on 2.5 acres, this well-maintained property offers room to spread out both inside and out, with a spacious backyard featuring a large patio perfect for grilling, boiling crawfish, entertaining friends, or gathering around the firepit on cool Louisiana evenings.
LOWEST PRICE Condo PLUS includes a 1-Car Garage AND conveniently located on the Ground-Floor! Open and airy w/ high ceilings, plenty of natural light and neutral decor. Ideally located near the gorgeous pool!! Emerald Forest is a Gated Community with lovely amenities include a resort-style pool and spa, 24/7 fitness center, clubhouse with library, and professionally maintained grounds. Well
Beautiful new construction 4-bedroom, 2-bath home in Covington's Robindale subdivision featuring over 1,900 sq ft of living space. Step inside to an open floorplan with soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, and a cozy gas fireplace. The chef's kitchen offers quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, soft-close cabinetry, and a large island--perfect for gathering and entertaining. The
New Price! Welcome to your dream home in the highly sought-after Maison du Lac community in Covington! Only three years young, this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence, located in Flood Zone C, features a spacious upstairs bonus room and is perfectly positioned on a premier lot bordering picturesque greenspace. Enjoy peaceful views of the pond and fountain, creating a tranquil
**Recently reduced -- seller ready to move forward. Bring offers.** Renovated raised 4BR/2BA home on 1.17 acres in the peaceful Lazy River Subdivision! This Covington beauty offers deep water access to the Tchefuncte River via the Sally and Dorothy waterways just minutes away and is located in the highly sought-after School District. Inside, you'll find an open floor plan featuring fresh interior
2040 Prestwood Lane, Covington, LA 70433 Well kept 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home with 2,237 square feet in a great neighborhood, sitting on the second largest lot around. The kitchen is big, with a gas stove and plenty of room to work. Upstairs you'll find a second living room, perfect for a media space, playroom, or home office. Two covered porches plus a covered gazebo in the backyard give you
Practically new construction! This charming home was just constructed in 2023 and is still in excellent condition. Three bedrooms with two full baths, and an open floor plan, makes for easy living. The location is ideal, with easy access to I-12 and is only minutes from the causeway, and all of Mandeville and Covington shopping and restaurants. The brick and hardie plank exterior is a breeze to
Designed by builder J. Hand with interiors by Jeff Taaffe Designs, this exceptional TerraBella residence is a true showpiece where luxury, craftsmanship, and thoughtful design converge. Ideally situated across from the Bocage Court park, the home offers 4 bedrooms plus a spacious second-floor flex room that can easily serve as an office, media room, art studio, playroom, or 5th bedroom. The
Beautifully remodeled and move-in ready, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the perfect blend of modern updates and comfortable living -- all with **no HOA and no flood insurance required** Completely renovated in 2024, the home features a bright, open floor plan with seamless flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating an ideal space for both everyday living and entertaining.
Situated on a generous lot with a wooded rear setting, this home offers a rare blend of privacy, nature, and convenience. Inside, you'll find generous living spaces, a welcoming floor plan, and large windows that fill the home with natural light while framing peaceful backyard views. The kitchen comes fully equipped with all appliances, and the washer and dryer are included, making your move that
Seller just installed a NEW fence & shutters. BONUS FOR BUYERS! SELLER IS IN PROCESS OF INSTALLING A 2-CAR CARPORT. Prime Location & Beautiful New Construction -- This One Truly Has It All! Ideally situated in the heart of New Covington just off S. Tyler Street, this stunning new construction home places you minutes from everything Downtown Covington has to offer, including fine dining, boutique
Discover the best of downtown Covington in this beautifully maintained 4 bedroom, 3 bath home, ideally situated on a spacious, professionally landscaped lot just minutes from the area's favorite restaurants, boutique shopping, the Southern Hotel, and the Covington Trailhead on the Tammany Trace. Designed with flexibility in mind, the inviting floor plan features two generous living areas with
Beautiful Marseilles Plan Loaded with Upgrades! This 4-bedroom, 2-bath home features an open, split floor plan with a dedicated office and energy-smart design. From the moment you enter, you’ll notice the thoughtful upgrades throughout — wood floors in the living room and hallway, 3 cm granite countertops in the kitchen, bathrooms, and around the gas fireplace, plus stainless steel appliances and
Covington’s newest and most modern, non-smoking apartment community! Our luxurious community offers unique, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, many with direct-access one- and two-car garages! Living at The Collins offers a unique, neighborhood-like design spread over 22 acres offering easy access to I-12 & Hwy 190. Shopping, dining and businesses are literally moments away. At The Collins, our
Welcome to this beautifully maintained home in the highly sought-after Maison Du Lac gated community, where low maintenance living meets modern comfort. Designed with both style and functionality in mind, this move in ready home features abundant natural light, recessed LED lighting, and durable epoxy-finished stained concrete flooring throughout. The spacious kitchen is ideal for entertaining
Brand new luxury apartments in Covington, Louisiana - just 10 minutes from the Causeway! Elan at Terra Bella is now pre-leasing luxury studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments for rent soon. Elan’s design includes great gathering places for hosting activities for residents and guests. The immediate and convenient access to entertainment, retail outlets, and restaurants will give residents a highly
So much charm in this FULLY FURNISHED, 2bd/2bth Covington Cottage rental home! ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED in monthly rental rate! Just blocks from Downtown Covington, Hwy 21, St. Tammany Hospital, shops, fine dining, boutiques, galleries, and more! This turn-key rental home is perfect for mid-term (6 months) occupants or longer. Fabulous common area courtyard features stunning sugar kettle fountain,
Step into a more refined take on Covington, LA apartments at The Linden. Designed for those who value both style and substance, our pet-friendly studio, one-, and two-bedroom homes feature stainless steel appliances, hardwood-style flooring, and spacious, open layouts. Enjoy a curated amenity experience with a fully equipped fitness center, resort-style pool, media center with movie theater-style
For lease or for sale, like New Covington Home-Fully Renovated With Pool-Move In Ready Welcome to 1012 West 11th Avenue — a completely reimagined home offering effortless living just minutes from the heart of Covington. Set in a quiet, established neighborhood where kids ride bikes and neighbors know each other, this 3-bedroom, 3-bath home blends modern comfort with relaxed, everyday luxury.
Stay a Week. Stay a Month. Stay a Year!Welcome to Pinnacle Residences!Discover your perfect home at Pinnacle Residences, a premier extended stay residence located in the heart of Covington. Offering 70 well-appointed efficiency residences, we provide the ideal living experience for those seeking a convenient and comfortable lifestyle. Explore our modern amenities, thoughtful floor plans,
Welcome to 79463 Hwy 1129 (N Lee Rd). Well appointed home situated on 2 acres filled with majestic Oak trees! This home offers southern charm with modern touches inside. New roof installed Sept. 2025. Breathtaking entry foyer with 19-foot ceiling and floating staircase. Kitchen boasts large breakfast bar, plenty of cabinets and counter space, prep sink, gas cooktop, ice maker and much more. Open
Easily accessible, yet nestled in Covington's wooded greenery, The Green at Northpark is your centrally located sanctuary, offering a variety of floor plans to fit your lifestyle. As easy to come home to as it is to start your day, our beautiful community offers a complete living experience, equally familiar to an urban, active, social lifestyle, quietly nestled in peaceful privacy.
Updated in 2024 with new roof, new floor tiles no carpet, and updated bath. In 2026 fresh paint throughout. Home features large fenced yard and seperate Utility room under carpart. The updated interior combines modern convenience with cozy character, creating a welcoming space in this 3 Bedroom 1 Bath Ranch stlye home. Enjoy the best of Covington living with convenient access to downtown shops,
Affordable Housing at St. John Village, our new 2 and 3 bedroom single family homes for lease will inspire that sensation of home. We intend to pamper our residents with apartment amenities designed for their comfort. You'll love the wood-like vinyl plank flooring and ceiling fans in the bedrooms and living room. Beautiful all wood cabinetry and energy star kitchen appliances in each home are
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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