Changes in Household Makeup and Growth of Asian Populations in Metro New Orleans

The once-every-ten-year Census provides unique insights into important long-term demographic changes in the metro area. The population is shifting north and west, and an increasing number of people live alone. The Vietnamese population has more than doubled since 1980 and has also shifted toward Jefferson and St. Tammany parishes. From 1980 to 2010, homeownership increased across the metro but has since declined in every parish except St. Charles. In New Orleans, the number of vacant housing units that are used only seasonally has skyrocketed. These trends point to new demographic realities that leaders may need to consider when planning for housing and other services.