Having a job BEFORE you move is always recommended, however, if you have some money saved up, enough to survive on for a couple of months, then by all means take the plunge without the job first. I have heard this 'hiring locals only' from someone else and it's surprising as this hasn't always been the case...hmmmm...maybe I'm helping too many people move here! LOL

Either way good luck with your job search and let me know if I can help with anything. You can reach me at EmilyInNewOrleans@yahoo.com for a quick response.

Em

If you are looking for a place to live while securing a job and a permanent residence, I recommend Fig House, it's a guest house that offers short term or long term rentals. I lived there when I moved to NOLA from Miami. Furnished rooms, use of a full kitchen and more. Their web site is: www.figstreet.com

Good luck!