Downtown Development District Releases 2026 State of Downtown Report

Downtown Development District Releases 2026 State of Downtown Report
New data highlights strong visitation, population growth, and economic stability

NEW ORLEANS — The Downtown Development District (DDD) has released its 2026 State of Downtown report, providing a comprehensive look at the economic health and momentum of Downtown New Orleans. The report highlights continued resilience and growth across key sectors, reinforcing Downtown’s role as a critical driver of the city’s economy.

Key Highlights:

• 39.6 million visits to Downtown in 2025 with 2% increase in local visitation from within 10 miles, signaling sustained tourism and activity
• 7% year-over-year increase in residential population, the largest growth among New Orleans neighborhoods
• 8% increase in median household income, reflecting growing economic strength
• 12% office vacancy rate, significantly outperforming the 20.5% national average
• 100% recovery of professional, scientific, and technical services jobs since 2019
• 24 new retail openings, led by food and beverage establishments driving foot traffic

“This year’s State of Downtown report shows a district that is stable and positioned for continued growth as a vibrant, mixed-use urban core,” said Seth Knudsen, President and CEO of the Downtown Development District. “With strong visitation, a growing residential base, and continued investment across key sectors, Downtown remains the dynamic foundation for the city’s economy.”

The report underscores Downtown’s outsized economic impact, representing approximately 14% of the city’s total taxable real estate property value and generating 30% of all sales tax collected by Orleans Parish businesses.

Across sectors, the data reflect a diversified and strengthening economy:

• Office: Continued investment and one of the lowest vacancy rates in the country
• Retail: Evolving landscape driven by dining and experiential offerings
• Tourism & Hospitality: Strong performance fueled by major events and sustained demand
• Residential: Growing population and demand for urban living
• Tech & Innovation: Expanding ecosystem of startups, incubators, and co-working spaces

Downtown New Orleans remains the largest employment hub in the state, supporting more than 57,000 jobs across industries, including hospitality, healthcare, professional services, and innovation.

The DDD continues to support this growth through investments in public safety, cleanliness, economic development, and public space enhancements—working to ensure a Downtown that is cleaner, safer, and stronger.

View the full report here.