When you’re ready to find your new home, the first decision you’ll need to make isn’t about square footage or floor plans—it’s about finding a city that aligns with your lifestyle, your values and your future. At Sunrise Homes, we understand that finding the right spot for your new home can help lay the foundation for all of life’s upcoming moments, so how do you choose the right city to call home? Read on to learn which questions you need to answer and why more buyers are looking to Pearl River, LA, Picayune, MS and Waggaman, LA as their ideal home destinations. 

What to Look For

First, you’ll want to start with the basics. What does your day-to-day look like? Do you commute to work? Do you want to be close to schools, shopping and dining? Each city has its own rhythm, and you’ll want to find a place that matches your pace and your priorities. Next, consider the cost of homes, property taxes, insurance and general living expenses like groceries and gas. 

The right city for you today should also be the right city for your future, so make sure you look at the local job market, the quality of schools, the infrastructure and the community investment to see if the city is growing and stable. Will it still feel like home in five, ten or twenty years from now? At Sunrise Homes, we believe there’s something special about life just outside the hustle of New Orleans. Our communities in Pearl River, LA, Picayune, MS and Waggaman, LA each offer their own distinct atmosphere of Southern living—with just the right balance of charm, comfort and convenience. 

Pearl River, LA

Tucked into the quiet landscapes of St. Tammany Parish, Pearl River offers a peaceful, nature-filled environment while keeping you connected to the places you need to be. With quick access to I-59 and Highway 41 and a short drive to New Orleans, Pearl River is ideal for those who want to live in a quieter setting without sacrificing access to shopping, dining and entertainment. 

Nature lovers are especially drawn to this town, thanks to its close proximity to the Pearl River Wildlife Management Area. Whether it’s kayaking, fishing or hiking, the outdoors here is something to be celebrated. For families looking for a safe, grounded community or retirees wanting to enjoy their days in peace, Pearl River checks all of the boxes in our Taylor Pointe community. 

Picayune, MS

Just a few miles across the Louisiana border lies the charming town of Picayune, Mississippi. This city offers a rare combination of affordability, friendliness and old-school Southern charm that many homebuyers are looking for right now, and our Heritage Oaks community has quickly become one of the area’s most desirable neighborhoods. 

Downtown Picayune has seen a quiet revitalization in recent years, with local shops, cafes and seasonal events bringing residents together throughout the year. Schools here are well-rated, and the atmosphere is perfect for raising a family or settling into a simpler lifestyle. Many commuters find Picayune to be the perfect middle ground—just under an hour from New Orleans, but a world away from the business of life directly in the city. 

Waggaman, LA

If your goal is to stay as close to the heart of New Orleans without dealing with the hustle and high prices, Waggaman is a place that you’ll want to explore. Located just west of the city in Jefferson Parish, this residential area is growing in popularity for its convenience, affordability and welcoming neighborhoods—like our two new home communities at Live Oak Estates and Water Oaks.

Waggaman offers easy access to everything the Greater New Orleans area has to offer, and whether you’re commuting downtown, working in the suburbs or just want to stay plugged into the culture and cuisine of the area, this location makes it easy. It’s ideal for young professionals, families with kids or anyone looking to establish roots in a place that’s close to the action, but still feels like home. 

Ready to Make the Move?

Choosing the right city is a big decision, but you don’t have to do it alone, and at Sunrise Homes, we make it easier with local expertise and personalized support. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil beauty of Pearl River, the small-town magic of Picayune or the convenient charm of Waggaman, we’re here to help you find the perfect place for your new home. If you’re ready to take the next step, give us a call at (985) 778-7636 or fill out our online form today.