New Orleans Ranks High on Best and Worst US City Lists

SHREVEPORT, LA – One Louisiana city is near the top of a very prestigious list. But this list is a little bit confusing when you consider other reviews of this amazing city.

New Orleans is #2 on a list of the “Top 10 best” cities in the United States. Timeout ranks the cities based on “culture trends, nightlife, and the things that make you love where you live.”

But as the Crescent City is listed as one of the best cities in the country, we have to remember New Orleans also landed at #28 on a list of cities to "avoid at all costs."

So, what do you believe?

Vacationer put together the list of cities to avoid and more than 1,000 Americans voted to narrow the city list to 34 cities you should stay away from.

Detroit, Chicago and Atlanta were the top 3 cities on the communities you should avoid.

But TimeOut also asked thousands of people to rank the 10 Best Cities in America in 2025. New York leads the nation, but New Orleans is next on the list.

What Are the Top 5 Cities in the U.S.?

1. New York

2. New Orleans

3. Chicago

4. Los Angeles

5. Washington D.C.

New Orleans is cited as a top city for several reasons.

1. Unique history and architecture
2. Iconic restaurants and bars
3. Thriving arts community
4. Live music scene
5. Rich culture

READ MORE: Lt. Governor Critical of New Orleans Mayor

In light of all the attention on New Orleans during the Super Bowl, things are looking better. Security is much tighter and State Police are helping to patrol the iconic French Quarter which is a massive draw for thousands of visitors.