Job and Housing Markets (New Orleans: apartments, motel, school)

[Xcaped NOLA]

Hi All,

I was born and raised in NO LA (don't plan on going back) and after HK, I relocated (not by choice but by last resort) to Little Rock, AR. The pace is way slower and seemingly not much anything to do here once you've see all that the city has to offer. By New Orleans standard its rural. Nevertheless, after 7 weeks in a motel after the storm, I was able to find a decent job w/ bene's in the Automotive Financial Services industry and have been working over a year here. Some of my family is moving to BR. I am considering that move as well but am afraid of the post K situation as it relates to jobs and apartment availability. I remember stuggling in New Orleans (even with a BA) as the jobs I've had paid crappily. The time prior to the storm I enrolled back in school with the plan on leaving to Houston after I had completed school. That lasted 1 week, then the storm came and with the backlash that evacuees are receiving in Houston, I'm doubtful that I'll move there now. I've visited about 3 times to BR , but that really does not give you an idea of anything. I would hate to have to go there and struggle again like in NOLA. (And yes I am one New Orleanian that has a good work ethic) My questions:

1. Whats the job situation like in BR? What is it like in the Finance area?

2. What are the pay rates like here? Im looking for $13-$14 to start.

3. Are the apartments still filled to capacity? are they affordable?

If my research shows that this may not be a prudent move, I will stay put for a while in LR.
Any insight is appreciated. Thanks!