Directly across the Mississippi River from New Orleans proper, Gretna is a small West Bank city with a historic heart. Founded in 1836, the city grew after a dedicated ferry landing was built on its shores. Since then, Gretna has come to encompass almost 5 square miles, and its 130-acre historic downtown, Old Gretna, is on the National Register of Historic Places. “Gretna’s very historic with a lot of New Orleans architecture, and the city’s done a great job of keeping up commercial standards and historic properties. It’s almost like Mayberry over here,” says Realtor Courtney Kattengell with TCK Property Marketplace.
Gretna is a small West Bank city with a historic heart.
Gretna is a quiet community along the West Bank of the Mississippi River.
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Commutes across the Mississippi to New Orleans
While Gretna initially grew due to its New Orleans ferry connection, the city does not currently offer consistent ferry services. The nearest ferry terminal today is north of Gretna at Algiers Point. Most commuters in this car-dependent city get to New Orleans via the Crescent City Connection, which crosses the Mississippi to the heart of the Big Easy. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is 18 miles away for longer trips.
The Gretna Ferry stop is directly opposite City Hall in Gretna.
Many Gretna residents traverse the Crescent City Connection to the East Bank.
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Gretna's peaceful atmosphere and historic architecture
Gretna's roughly 17,000 residents often prefer its calmer atmosphere to the bustle of New Orleans. “It’s good for people who want to live away from the city,” says Edward Prange, a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty New Orleans. “It’s a quiet area.” Gretna also offers lower housing prices. Its median price of $235,000 is lower than the New Orleans median of $330,000 and the national median of $406,100. Shotgun homes, bungalows and cottages with gingerbread-style ornamentation are concentrated downtown, while ranch-style houses and custom builds sit further from the river.
Shotgun homes are found throughout the Gretna area.
Bungalow home styles can be found throughout Gretna.
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Residents and visitors attend the annual Gretna Fest
Gretna Fest draws over 75,000 attendees to the city's historic district each fall. Visitors find food and drink, local crafts and well-known musicians, such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, the B-52s or Earth, Wind and Fire. Downtown has many attractions besides the festival, including the Gretna Cultural Center for the Arts and the German-American Cultural Center and Museum.
Downtown Gretna has many attractions including the Gretna Cultural Center for the Arts.
The German-American Cultural Center tells the stories of the village that became Gretna.
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Restaurants and shops in historic downtown Gretna
Gretna's historic district is not only the cultural epicenter of the city but also its commercial core. Restaurants and shops line Huey P Long Avenue, with popular spots including River Shack, which features a rooftop patio with views overlooking the Mississippi. In the median of Huey P Long Avenue, the Gretna Farmers Market sells fresh produce every Saturday. The Westside South Shopping Center sits off the Westbank Expressway, with a supermarket alongside other department stores.
Local Ponchatoula strawberries are a crowd favorite at the Gretna Farmer’s Market.
The Westside South Shopping Center has many retail options in Gretna.
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Jefferson Parish Schools and private options
The Jefferson Parish Schools system serves Gretna and has a B grade on Niche. Students can apply to the system’s Advanced Study Academies, including the Thomas Jefferson Academy for Advanced Studies, which receives an A-minus. The area offers many private school options, predominantly Catholic parochial schools. St. Cletus Catholic School receives an A-plus and serves kindergarten through seventh grade, while Catholic high schools include Archbishop Shaw and Academy of Our Lady, both rated B-plus. Colleges and universities in New Orleans include Tulane University, the University of New Orleans and Loyola University.
The Thomas Jefferson Academy for Advanced Studies serves the Gretna Community.
St. Cletus Catholic School provides an education rooted in Catholic faith and teachings.
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Mel Ott Park, named after a baseball legend
Baseball hall-of-famer Mel Ott hailed from Gretna, so the city named one of its main parks in honor the iconic player. Fittingly, the park features three baseball fields as well as a playground and an indoor recreation center. Meanwhile, Gretna City Park is larger and includes trails around a pair of ponds and a kayak launch point.
Gretna City Park is the largest park in Gretna.
Mel Ott Park celebrates its namesake patron.
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Crime rates and flood risk
According to FBI data, violent crime rates tend to be below the national figure, while property crime hovers around the national and state rates. While violent crime rates have stayed steady, property crime rates have slightly risen over the past five years.
Gretna’s climate includes hot, humid summers and mild winters. The city’s low elevation and location along the Gulf Coast makes it vulnerable to hurricanes, which can bring damaging winds and floods. While much of the city is protected by levees along the river, significant portions are within FEMA-designated flood zones. Flood insurance may be required.
Written By
Brendan Doyle
Photography Contributed By
Andrew Williams
Video By
Scott Wiggins
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Reach out to
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On average, homes in Gretna, LA sell after 76 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Gretna, LA over the last 12 months is $235,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Come see 433 Monroe St at our Open House Sunday May 3rd from 2pm-4pm! Assumable 2.75% mortgage available! 1st time homebuyers could qualify for down payment/closing costs grants through JPFA! Beautifully renovated (2021) 4-bed/2-bath corner-lot home in the historic McDonoghville neighborhood. Built in 1921, this 1,714-sq-ft residence blends period charm with modern finishes. Open living/dining, a
Charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home located in the heart of Gretna, LA. This well-maintained property offers a comfortable layout with spacious bedrooms, a functional kitchen, and inviting living areas for everyday living and entertaining. Enjoy the convenience of a great location schools, shopping, dining, and easy access to major routes. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to downsize,
Located in the heart of Old Gretna just a few blocks from the Mississippi River, this beautifully built 2024 home offers modern comfort with timeless charm. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, the open floorplan is designed for both everyday living and effortless entertaining. Soaring ceilings and abundant natural light create a bright, airy atmosphere throughout. The kitchen is a true centerpiece
House is vacant and available for rent for $2200/mo. The 4th room could be turned into a 4th bedroom or something suitable for your needs and preference. A great buy in the Terrytown subdivision, a well-established neighborhood. The property is roomy with a free standing enclosed space that could be used as an outdoor 'kitchen' in the back yard making the preparation of meals for a family
HOME CURRENTLY LEASED MONTH TO MONTH-TENANT OCCUPIED- SHOWN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. NICE OPEN FLOORPLAN- FIREPLACE - HIGH CEILINGS, LARGE REAR BACK WITH COVERED PATIO.
Charming single family 2BR/2BA home with beautiful yard space in central Gretna. Features a spacious kitchen, plus living and den areas offering flexible space. Enclosed laundry room, office area, sunroom, and back porch add versatility. This home is ready for its next owner to make it their own. Located in a peaceful, family-oriented neighborhood. NEW ROOF as of 1/30/2026
Welcome to 1320 Lake Louise Dr, an impressive single-family home offering 2,900 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. This home features 4 spacious bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a total of 9 rooms, perfect for comfortable living and entertaining. Its southern exposure fills the interior with natural light, complementing the blend of carpet and tile flooring throughout. The heart of
Discover a rare opportunity in historic Gretna: a property that combines a single-family home, a spacious two-bedroom apartment, and a versatile commercial space--all in one location. Main Home: The residence features an oversized living/family room great for entertaining, along with an open kitchen and dining area great for gatherings. Two bedrooms and a hall bathroom are located on one side of
UPDATED MODERN ACADIAN CENTRALLY LOCATED IN GRETNA WITH LOTS OF SPACE !!- SUPER OPEN FLOORPLAN WITH CUSTOM INGROUND POOL (RE-PLASTERED 2 YEARS AGO) ALSO POOL EQUIPMENT RECENT UPDATES, STONE SPA (HOT TUB) AND 2 NATURAL GAS FIRE PITS. THERE IS A BATHROOM/DRESSING AREA ACCESS TO INSIDE OF HOME. DECORATIVE TOUCHES WITH UPDATED CABINETS, STONE COUNTER TOPS, COMMERCIAL GRADE STAINLESS APPLIANCES,
Beautifully renovated Terrytown home with a pool and multiple living spaces designed for both relaxing and entertaining. This 4-bedroom home features a spacious den with fireplace, updated kitchen, and a backyard retreat perfect for gatherings. The layout offers both formal living and dining areas along with a separate den lined with windows, allowing natural light to fill the space while
DOUBLE IN HARVEY LA OF JEFFERSON PARISH! INTRODUCING THIS DOUBLE RESIDENCE, OFFERING A BLEND OF MODERN LIVING AND INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES. EACH SIDE HAS SPACIOUS LIVING WITH 3 BEDROOMS/2 BATHROOMS ON ONE SIDE AND 2 BEDROOMS/2 BATHROOOMS ON THE OTHER. PRIVACY IS KEY WITH EACH MASTER BEDROOM FEATURING ITS OWN ENSUITE BATH AND WALK IN CLOSET. THE OPEN CONCEPT LIVING AND DINING AREA HAS VINYL
Here, at Oak Alley Apartments, we offer high quality, affordable living. We are the only community on the West Bank where **ALL UTILITIES ARE INCLUDED** in the rental rate. NO UTILITY DEPOSIT IS REQUIRED. Our community is designed to make every convenience accessible to you. We offer spacious one, two, and three bedroom flats. Our gated community features an onsite courtesy officer, on-site
Lovely 3-bedroom, One bath ranch charmer with open living space, lovely rear yard and covered parking. Fresh paint throughout and fresh exterior paint. Located just minutes to everything on the Westbank as well as to downtown New Orleans. CCC just one mile away.Additional amenities include: • new ceiling fans • hurricane shutters • covered carport • covered patio • 2-inch wooden blinds
Welcome home to Whitney Manor Apartments. You will find comfort and convenience when renting one of our beautiful apartment homes here. We now offer newly remodeled one, two, and three-bedroom flat and townhome options. Whitney Manor offers all of todays modern essentials and convenience to local amenities and public transportation. We cant wait to show you your new home. Contact us and schedule
Looking for a place in Old Gretna...here is a 2 bedroom/1.5 bathroom home (one side of a double/duplex) with refrigerator, washer, dryer, range/oven, and microwave in place for tenant's use. Tenant is responsible for all utilities-electricity, water, and gas. Owner handles lawn care. Pets are considered on a case-by-case basis and subject to a non-refundable pet fee if accepted. Sorry, unable to
Welcome home to The Boulevard Apartment Homes. Here, you will find comfort and convenience when renting one of our beautiful apartment homes. We now offer newly remodeled one-, two- and three-bedroom options. Enjoy our Dog Park and BBQ Picnic area provided on the property. Located in the City of Gretna our community is conveniently located across from Gretna Elementary and Gretna Middle School.
This lovely home offers a spacious areas to move around in and the living spaces and family rooms are open for gatherings and entertainment in all the right areas with spacious yard everyone can enjoy.
Choose from our studio, 1 & 2 bedroom apartments in Gretna, Louisiana, and have it all. From a spacious layout, light-filled rooms, and convenient features and amenities, simply everything you need is right here at Stonebridge Manor Apartments. Our prime location in Gretna puts you in proximity to the best of everything in the area. With a near-perfect neighborhood like this, you’ll be mere
Beautifully renovated 4-bedroom, 2-bath home in the heart of Terrytown! This move-in ready property offers an open-concept layout with a spacious living room for entertaining. Enjoy a brand-new kitchen featuring modern cabinetry and all-new appliances. Recent upgrades include new underground plumbing and a roof in excellent condition for added peace of mind. The covered back patio is a perfect
Welcome Home to Baywood!Choose from our 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments in Gretna, Louisiana, and have it all. From a spacious layout, light-filled rooms, and convenient features and amenities, simply everything you need is right here at Baywood Apartments. Our prime location in Gretna puts you in proximity to the best of everything in the area. With a near-perfect neighborhood like this,
Stylish, move-in ready cottage in the heart of desirable McDonoghville! This beautifully renovated home blends historic charm with modern upgrades throughout. Fully updated in 2021—including roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, water heater, kitchen, and baths—this home offers worry-free living. Recently updated again with brand new vinyl plank flooring throughout—no carpet in sight! The inviting
* Pricing and availability subject to change without notice. Shadowlake Villa Apartments is conveniently located to shopping, dining and the central business district. Shadowlake Villa Apartments offers its residents spacious one and two bedrooms with fully equipped kitchens, intrusion alarms, washer/dryers and roman tubs to name but a few of the amenities waiting for you. An electronic gated
Charming Shotgun-Style Single Family Home in Old Gretna! This property offers 2 bedrooms, 1 full bathroom, and features central air and heating. Conveniently located just 10 minutes from downtown NOLA and 3 minutes from downtown Gretna. Easy access to Highway 90. Enjoy proximity to parks, restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops, local markets, and views of the bridge from the front porch.
Developed in 1959, Timberlane became part of the New Orleans neighbor Gretna in 2009. The inviting West Bank community is surrounded by 100-year-old oak trees and has more than 500 homes on 150 acres. Timberlane is a planned community built with its golf course in mind, and new homes are still being built around the links.<br><br>In addition to having a golf course built in the late 1950s, Timberlane offers a city lifestyle in a tranquil setting. The area surrounding the course is a gated community with a homeowner’s association called the Timberlane Estates Improvement Association. It is also part of the Timberlane Neighborhood Improvement and Beautification District. Outside the gated community, larger, renovated homes are becoming more popular, and plenty of lots are available for construction. You’ll mostly find ranchers here, but you may stumble upon Federal-styled houses with side-gabled roofs or a Greek Revival with a full-façade porch.<br><br>Schools aren't too far from the neighborhood with Paul J. Solis Elementary and George Cox Elementary being part of the Jefferson Parish Schools system.<br><br>Given Louisiana’s unpredictable weather, residents head to Oakdale Playground when it’s sunny outdoors. The park has a half-mile walking trail, a tot lot, tennis courts and picnic tables. There are also baseball and football fields, batting cages, fitness classes and rentable meeting rooms. Not too far away is the Bellemeade Walking Trail, a short accessible trail for everyone except pets. If you’re looking for a longer course, head to the Harvard Walking Trail. You can hit a mile if you go around the trail five times. The view is fantastic as it sits next to community-operated gardens.<br><br>If you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Reginelli’s Pizzeria. This local chain was established in 1996 and has grown to half a dozen locations. Then there’s Rizzuto’s Ristorante and Chop House. This upscale spot, established in 2017, began life as a pizza parlor but evolved into a 60-seat white-tablecloth eatery. The restaurant specializes in southern Italian food. Everything from the red sauce to the bread is made in-house.<br><br>For a more casual night out, Vinnie’s Sports Bar and Grill began in the early 1990s and has since become a West Bank landmark. With a wide selection of beer and food, it’s easy to kick back and enjoy the live music here. There are also pool tables, video poker, darts and trivia nights.<br><br>Café Hope is a nonprofit culinary arts and life-skills program for ages 17 to 24. The Red, White and Blue Thrift Store has an evolving inventory of clothing, furniture, décor, kitchenware, small appliances, electronics and more.<br><br>Timberlane Golf and Recreation, established in 1959, became the first private country club on the West Bank. The course was designed by famed architect Robert Trent Jones and was originally only nine holes. It was expanded to the customary 18 and now includes four tee areas — and 17 water hazards. The club also features sand volleyball, tennis and an Olympic-sized swimming pool.<br><br>The club hosts many events. The not-so-haunted hayride is a favorite fall pastime. There’s also the Gretna Green Knickers Golf Tournament and Clubhouse Affair, where everyone is encouraged to dress in decade-appropriate attire for that year’s theme.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Gretna Has More Renters
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
63
Median Rent
$1,675
Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,850
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$2,140
Median Townhouse Rent
$1,500
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$1,600
Median Condo Rent
$1,500
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$1,500
Demographics
Total Population
17,844
Median Age
41
Population under 18
22.7%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
18.5%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$44,280
Significantly below the national average
$79,597
Average Household Income
$62,557
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
77.8%
Below the national average
89%
College Graduates
23.6%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
9.4%
% Population in Labor Force
61.2%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
67''
Average Winter Low Temperature
46°F
Average Summer High Temperature
93°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Fairly friendly
Bike Score®®
50/ 100
Moderately friendly
Walk Score®®
60/ 100
Somewhat friendly
Transit Score®®
20/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
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.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
