Having moved from NOLA to Jax many years ago and frequently visiting NOLA I have to say in many ways, yes New Orleans kicks Jax butt. As for the 2 that felt it was filthy, scary, and depressing,they must not get out in Jax much.Jax is filthy,our convention center is outdated,our crime is just as bad,in NOLA they were probably in the downtown area at night,have they done that in Jax? Chances are that would scare and depress them,also.Lightweights.lol
Bottom line,you CAN live comfortably in NOLA with no car! If you have never lived in a walkable city you have no idea how much that adds to the quality life.