Just Got Orders to NAS JRB New Orleans? Start Here.

First, take a breath.

If you just received orders to Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, you may be feeling a mix of excitement, overwhelm, curiosity, and about 47 open browser tabs.

That’s completely normal.

If you’re coming here connected to the NALO Command, welcome. I serve as the Ombudsman for NALO here at NAS JRB New Orleans, and this site exists to help make your transition smoother. Whether this is your first PCS or your fifth, New Orleans is a unique duty station, and a really special one.

Let’s simplify the next steps.

Step 1: Understand Where You’re Moving

NAS JRB New Orleans is located in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, about 20–25 minutes from downtown New Orleans (without traffic).

You’ll hear people reference:

• Westbank

• Plaquemines Parish

• Jefferson Parish

• Orleans Parish

  
  

Louisiana uses parishes instead of counties.

Belle Chasse is in Plaquemines Parish. It’s quieter, suburban, and very family-oriented. Many military families choose to live:

• On base housing

• Belle Chasse

• Algiers (Westbank of New Orleans)

• Gretna

• Harvey

  
  

If you’re craving:

• Culture + walkability → Algiers or Uptown

• Suburb feel + quick base access → Belle Chasse

• Built-in community → On base

  
  

Step 2: Housing — On Base or Off?

On-Base Housing

Pros:

• Very short commute

• Strong military community

• Direct communication during storms

Cons:

• Waitlists vary

• Limited inventory based on rank and family size

  
  

For some families, especially those new to hurricane country, on-base housing offers peace of mind.

Off-Base Housing

If you choose to live off base:

• Ask about flood zones

• Understand evacuation zones and routes

• Review insurance carefully

  
  

Many realtors here are experienced with military relocations. Don’t hesitate to ask specifically about flood history and elevation.

Step 3: Schools & Homeschooling

Each parish runs its own school system, so research depends on where you live:

• Plaquemines Parish

• Jefferson Parish

• Orleans Parish

  
  

The school year here runs August through May, and yes, there is a Mardi Gras break built into the calendar. It’s one of the perks of living here.

If you are considering homeschooling, Louisiana offers multiple legal pathways and is generally homeschool-friendly. There are:

• Co-ops

• Hybrid programs

• Field trip groups

• Military-connected homeschool families

  
  

You will find community here.

Step 4: Sports, Clubs & Activities

One of the best things you can do before arrival is research activities your family already loves.

Ask yourselves:

• What sports are the kids in?

• Does your spouse golf? Fish? Run? Lift?

• Are you into CrossFit? Dance? Martial arts? Theater?

• Do your kids do gymnastics, soccer, piano, baseball?

  
  

Start searching in:

• Belle Chasse

• Gretna

• Algiers

• Metairie

  
  

You’ll find:

• Youth sports leagues

• Dance studios

• Gymnastics gyms

• Brazilian jiu-jitsu

• Running clubs

• Fishing charters

• Music programs

• Church groups

• Art studios

  
  

The New Orleans area is culture-rich. There is always something happening. Research early because some leagues fill quickly once the school year begins.

Step 5: Medical & Tricare

The base clinic handles routine care. Many families also establish providers in:

• Belle Chasse

• Metairie

• Greater New Orleans area

  
  

If you need pediatricians, specialists, or OB care, call early to establish care. Some providers book out months in advance.

Step 6: Hurricane Season. Let’s Talk About It (Calmly)

Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30.

If you’re new to this, it can sound intimidating.

Here’s what I want you to know:

• The base has clear procedures.

• Communication from command is structured and steady.

• Most storms are manageable with preparation.

  
  

You’ll want:

• A basic hurricane kit

• Important documents organized

• A simple communication plan

  
  

And don’t worry, we will go into much more detail as hurricane season approaches. You won’t be navigating that alone.

Step 7: What No One Tells You

New Orleans is layered.

It’s not just Bourbon Street.

It’s:

• Live oaks and Spanish moss

• Snowballs in summer

• Neighborhood parades

• Seafood boils

• Second lines

• Deep-rooted community traditions

  
  

There’s rhythm here. It may take a minute to adjust, but many families fall in love with this duty station.

Step 8: Your First 30 Days Checklist

Start here:

• Secure housing

• Confirm school or homeschool plan

• Register vehicles (Louisiana requires inspection stickers)

• Get base access squared away

• Locate grocery stores and pharmacies

• Join local spouse groups

• Find one family outing spot

  
  

Keep it simple. Build slowly.

A Note from Your NALO Ombudsman

If you are attached to the NALO Command, please know: You have support here.

As Ombudsman, my role is to be a communication bridge, a resource connector, and a steady point of contact. Whether you have logistical questions or just need direction, reach out.

PCS transitions can feel destabilizing, especially with kids, careers, and everything in between.

But this community is strong.

Welcome to NAS JRB New Orleans. Welcome to Belle Chasse. Welcome to the bayou.

You’re not alone in this.