Is Lake Oaks safe?
New Orleans, Louisiana · safety score updated nightly
Yes — it is one of the safer places in the metro to walk around.
VibeLoco rates Lake Oaks as “Go”.
What makes up this score?Recent news
Gogo's take on Lake Oaks
“Go. Lake Oaks is one of the most peaceful, affluent, and safe residential neighborhoods in New Orleans. While it is almost entirely residential with no commercial core, visitors can safely enjoy quiet streets, mid-century architecture, and easy access to the Lake Pontchartrain waterfront.”
About the area
Situated along the southern shore of Lake Pontchartrain adjacent to the University of New Orleans, Lake Oaks is an upscale mid-century residential enclave. It features wide lots, manicured lawns, and low traffic, serving as a tranquil retreat from the bustling historic core of New Orleans.
- Quiet / Suburban
- Lakefront Views
- Affluent
- Mid-Century Modern
- Car-Dependent
Walking and biking in Lake Oaks
Walk score: 28/100 · Bike score: 58/100
The Lakefront Trail offers a continuous, dedicated multi-use paved path along the water, though city Blue Bikes bikeshare hubs are generally not located directly in the neighborhood.
Reasons to go, and reasons to think twice
Pros
- Violent crime rates are exceptionally low compared to the New Orleans citywide average
- High median household income and high homeownership rate exceeding 85%
- Immediate access to the scenic, paved Lakefront Trail along Lake Pontchartrain
- Low-traffic, well-lit suburban streets with active neighborhood security patrols
Cons
- Virtually no commercial amenities, shops, or dining options within neighborhood boundaries
- Heavily car-dependent for all daily errands and access to central city attractions
- Susceptible to opportunistic property crimes such as vehicle break-ins
Homelessness: Visible homelessness is not a notable presence within Lake Oaks, with encampments and panhandling virtually absent inside the residential perimeter.
What Lake Oaks is like at each time of day
- Morning · 5a – 11a
- Very safe and peaceful, with residents walking dogs and runners utilizing the adjacent lakefront paths.
- Afternoon · 11a – 5p
- Calm and quiet with minimal local vehicle traffic and a relaxing suburban ambiance.
- Evening · 5p – 10p
- Serene and safe for sunset strolls along the levee and residential blocks.
- Late night · 10p – 5a
- Very dark and quiet with little activity; overall safe, but standard situational awareness is advised.
Transit, parking and getting around
Public transit is provided by New Orleans RTA, with bus routes 51 (St. Bernard) and 55 (Elysian Fields) stopping at the adjacent University of New Orleans campus, though direct service into interior residential streets is absent.
Street parking is free, ample, and unrestricted throughout the neighborhood and along Lakeshore Drive public parking bays.
Things to do in Lake Oaks
- Stroll, run, or cycle along the Lakefront Trail overlooking Lake Pontchartrain
- Take an architectural walk to view custom mid-century modern and ranch-style residences
- Attend a concert, graduation, or athletic event at the adjacent UNO Lakefront Arena
Local favorites
- UNO Lakefront Arena · Arena & Event Venue · 4.5★ (2350)Major multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, sports tournaments, and community events on the UNO campus.
- Felix's Restaurant & Oyster Bar - Lakefront · Seafood Restaurant · 4.4★ (2820)Popular waterfront eatery nearby on Lakeshore Drive serving chargrilled oysters and classic Creole seafood.
- The Blue Crab Restaurant & Oyster Bar · Seafood Restaurant · 4.4★ (4650)Bustling lakefront dining destination featuring boiled seafood, po'boys, and outdoor deck views.
Neighborhoods near Lake Oaks
Common questions about Lake Oaks
Is Lake Oaks safe to walk at night?
Generally yes — use the same awareness you would anywhere after dark.
Is Lake Oaks a good place to live?
On safety, Lake Oaks scores 84/100 — safer than most of the areas we score, which is a good start for anyone looking to live here.
How walkable is Lake Oaks?
Walk score 28/100 and bike score 58/100. Most trips need a car.
Which areas near Lake Oaks are safer?
Lake Oaks scores as high as or higher than its closest neighbors.
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