Eat Po' Boys
Massive sandwiches for $10-15. One can be two meals.
Save $15-25 per dayBudget tool
New Orleans Trip Cost Calculator
NOLA costs $100-150/day for budget travelers. Jazz, Cajun food, and laissez les bons temps rouler in America's most unique city.
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Accommodation$0
Hostel Dorm
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Food & Dining$0
Po' Boy
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Beignets
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Cajun/Creole Dinner
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Transportation$0
Streetcar Ride
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Jazzy Pass
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Airport Shuttle
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Activities & Attractions$0
Live Jazz
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Cemetery Tour
$0 per person
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Swamp Tour
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French Quarter Walk
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Miscellaneous$0
Hurricane Cocktail
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Beer
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New Orleans Budget Guide
Your NOLA Budget at a Glance
New Orleans offers incredible food and culture at reasonable prices. Budget travelers should expect $100-150 per day, mid-range travelers $200-350 per day, and luxury seekers $500+ per day.
Where Your Money Goes
Drinks add up quickly on Bourbon Street. Food is excellent value. Music is often free. The good news: streetcars are cheap, walking is easy, and the vibes are free.
Budget Traveler Tips
Maximize your dollar by:
- Eating po’ boys and beignets
- Catching free jazz on Frenchmen Street
- Taking the streetcar
- Avoiding festival weekends
- Drinking in to-go cups (legal here!)
Money-Saving Tips
See Free Jazz on Frenchmen
Frenchmen Street has live jazz with no cover nightly.
Save $20-40 per nightTake the Streetcar
St. Charles streetcar is cheap transport and a tour in one.
Save $10-20 per dayVisit Outside Festivals
Hotel prices triple during Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest.
Save $100-300 per nightBest Time to Visit
Prices can vary by 150% depending on the season
Peak Season (More Expensive)
- Mardi Gras (February/March)
- Jazz Fest (April/May)
- French Quarter Festival (April)
Low Season (Best Deals)
- June - August (Hot)
- December (except holidays)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a week in New Orleans cost?
A week in NOLA costs $700-1,050 for budget travelers, $1,400-2,450 for mid-range, and $3,500+ for luxury travelers.
Is New Orleans expensive to visit?
NOLA is moderately priced. Food is excellent value. Drinks add up on Bourbon Street. Accommodation spikes during festivals.
What is the cheapest time to visit New Orleans?
June to September is cheapest but hot and humid. Avoid Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and major events.
Keep exploring
Ready to Explore New Orleans?
Check out our curated travel guides from local experts.