Cost of Living Action Plan
The Problem
A national affordability crisis is rising, but New Orleans faces compounding risks: an insurance market that is driving displacement, an energy system that burdens households, and a local revenue model that leans on penalties and fees.
From 2019-2024:
Rent in New Orleans rose 84%
Property insurance increased 71%
Electric bills jumped 85%
Yet, median income fell by 14%.
In the same period, New Orleans lost more than 7% of its population — the largest decline of any major U.S. city.
This rapid affordability shock has outpaced wages -- as a result, families are being priced out of New Orleans.
The Solution
Lower energy bills expand community solar
Fix Energy Smart; stop Entergy “ghost charges” tied to energy efficiency; oppose unjustified gas hikes.
Ban traffic cams
Stop the insurance spiral:
Lead a statewide strategy to provide basic, affordable property coverage on the first $175,000 in home value.
The First 100 Days
Pass a study resolution on the insurance crisis in the 2026 legislature to find:
How many people have dropped insurance,
How much insurance has increased,
Estimate insurance cost to local governments – cities, public schools, parishes, etc.; businesses; health institutions; congregations.
2. Approve a charter amendment banning the use of traffic cameras in Orleans Parish.