Ponchatoula has established itself as the "Strawberry Capital of the World" on account of its vast strawberry production. In years gone by, strawberry cultivation was responsible for a great deal of local employment, however, now that the industry is heavily mechanized, the city now relies more heavily on tourism to propel the local economy.
Situated in an attractive location, not merely in terms of the alluring climate (which is particularly suited to strawberry cultivation among other things), but also with respect to its closeness to both New Orleans and to Baton Rouge, Ponchatoula makes for an attractive proposition to those who are looking to find a rental property within the little city of a mere 5,000 inhabitants. However, it's not so much about high rise apartment style blocks in this part of the world. Rather, think country living; think owls hooting in the middle of the night; think miles and miles and row upon row of strawberry bushes. This is what Ponchatoula truly represents - the perfect getaway after a long day at work!
Moving to Ponchatoula
With its pleasing climate, which ranges from an annual average high of around 92 degrees in July, down to an average annual low of around 38 in January, and its proximity to New Orleans to the southeast and Baton Rouge to the west, Ponchatoula certainly represents an attractive proposal for those who are looking for an apartment to rent in the area.
High Rise, or Little House on the Prairie Styling?
You're not exactly going to find too many high rise luxury apartments in or around Ponchatoula. However, what you will find in more than bountiful supply is Little House on the Prairie style accommodation, both in terms of offering expansive views of the surrounding area and a level of tranquility that is more than befitting to the locale.
How Long Will it Take?
It's advisable to allow yourself at least three weeks to search for apartments in Ponchatoula. There's plenty of availability so you really shouldn't be too hard-pressed when it comes to finding a place that you like.
What Should I Bring?
This represents a fairly typical affair when renting in Ponchatoula as it would be when renting in other parts of the country. Proof of ID and also of current income is certainly essential, as you'd likely assume, irrespective of whether dealing directly with a landlord or a representative realtor. You'll conceivably also need to undergo a credit check, and it's wise to come armed with a few character references as by way of demonstration that you're not actually some sort of Jekyll and Hyde type of character. Finally, you'll no doubt be expected to leave a deposit on your desired pad, which will equate to a single month's rent, and there will be a necessity to pay at least a single month's rental in advance.
Ponchatoula Neighborhoods
If you're looking to achieve wide-ranging country views from your new rental abode, then you'll have come to the right place when relocating to Ponchatoula! Ponchatoula really is almost all about getting in touch with nature at its very finest!
Raspberry St: Situated close to Interstate 51 and with a single restaurant (Cafe Nola) very close by, you'll be relatively well served if you choose to search for apartments in this quaintly named Ponchatoula neighborhood.
Weinberger Rd: Searching for the quintessential Little House on the Prairie type views? Then you'll have found it on Weinberger Rd which offers vistas out over the rolling countryside.
Fletcher Isle: Do you like the idea of listening to owls hooting from their hidden perches in the surrounding trees during the wee hours of the morning? If so, Fletcher Isle, together with its beautiful views over the Tangipahoa River, is the perfect location for you!
North 2nd St: Located on the city limits of Ponchatoula, North 2nd St perhaps rather surprisingly offers easy access to six schools (all within a mile) and seven restaurants, including Paul's Cafe on East Pine St and Mi Patio Mexican Restaurant on North Baronne St. This neighborhood is ideal if you're intent on 1 bedroom apartments or two bedroom apartments for rent.
Living in Ponchatoula
Transportation
For those looking to commute by car to either Baton Rouge in the west or New Orleans in the southeast, simply hop onto the Interstate 12 for Baton Rouge, or the Interstate 10 then the adjoining Interstate 55 for New Orleans. The nearest airport on the other hand is the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport at New Orleans, about 35 miles distant from Ponchatoula. Without too much traffic you can get there in under an hour.
Markets
How do folks in Ponchatoula keep themselves occupied? The Ponchatoula Country Market, which is held on Pine St, is actually an old train depot that's been converted into a market for selling local handcrafted products. This is also the location where the Strawberry Festival is held during the month of April each year.
Nightlife and Restaurants
If the clubbing scene is more your thing, then check out City Lights Nightclub on North Sixth Street, where you can dance all night long to the most popular hits. If extensive alcohol consumption and loud music makes for a rather unappealing proposition, then the thought of some tasty nosh may be more in line with the order of the day. The simplistic sounding Paul's Cafe on East Pine St is in fact one of the most popular dining establishments in the area and offers American fare and a friendly service to the hungry diner. Cafe Nola on Highway 51 serves up Italian, steak, and seafood by the boat-load. Taste of Bavaria Restaurant and Bakery on Highway 22 serves up European, American, and German food. Many of the food and beer on the menu is imported, so don't be too surprised to see some relatively high pricing going on at Taste of Bavaria. The Rox Restaurant on NW Railroad Ave has an interesting blend of cuisines in the form of American, Japanese, and Mexican. There are a variety of vegetarian options should you have the inclination, and the sushi bar is said to be "superior".
