In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore the various pros and cons of living in St. Louis, helping you decide if this historic city is the right place for you.
Fast facts about living in St. Louis
- What St. Louis is known for: The Gateway Arch and its rich musical heritage
- Population: Approximately 300,000 residents (city proper), 2.8 million (metro area)
- Average rent: $1,407 per month for a one-bedroom apartment
- Median home sale price: $262,500
- Public transit: MetroLink light rail and MetroBus services
- Public parks: Over 100 parks, including the 1,300-acre Forest Park
- Annual tourists: Approximately 25 million visitors each year
- Restaurants: Over 1,000, offering a wide variety of cuisines
1. Pro: Rich cultural heritage
St. Louis offers a rich cultural heritage with numerous museums, theaters, and music venues. The city is home to the St. Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and the Pulitzer Arts Foundation. The Fox Theatre and The Muny offer world-class performances, while the city’s jazz and blues scene is celebrated at venues like BB’s Jazz, Blues, and Soups. St. Louis also hosts various festivals and cultural events throughout the year, such as the St. Louis International Film Festival and the Shakespeare Festival St. Louis.
2. Con: Urban sprawl
St. Louis has experienced urban sprawl, leading to the spread of development into suburban and rural areas. This can result in longer commute times, increased traffic, and a loss of green space. Urban sprawl can also strain infrastructure and public services, impacting the overall quality of life for residents. Efforts are being made to manage growth and develop sustainable urban planning strategies, but the spread-out nature of the city remains a challenge for some residents.
3. Pro: Affordable cost of living
The cost of living in St. Louis is 11% less expensive than the national average. Housing, in particular, is very reasonably priced, with the median sale price for a home in St. Louis around $262,500 and the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in St. Louis about $1,407 per month. Housing costs are 22% less expensive than the national average. Utilities are slightly more expensive, at 1% above the national average, while transportation costs are 7% less expensive. Healthcare costs are also favorable, being 12% less expensive than the national average. This affordability makes St. Louis an attractive option for individuals looking to stretch their budgets further.
4. Con: Weather extremes
St. Louis experiences a wide range of weather conditions, from hot, humid summers with temperatures often reaching above 90°F to cold, snowy winters with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. The city is also prone to severe weather, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, and occasional flooding, particularly in the spring and early summer. Winter storms can bring significant snowfall, averaging around 18 inches per year, and ice storms that disrupt daily life. Residents need to be prepared for these weather extremes by having proper heating and cooling systems in place and taking necessary precautions during severe weather events.
5. Pro: Strong job market
St. Louis has a diverse and growing job market, particularly in the healthcare, education, and biotechnology sectors. The city’s economy is supported by numerous hospitals, research institutions, and universities, providing ample job opportunities for professionals in these fields. Additionally, St. Louis is home to several major corporations and a burgeoning startup scene, particularly in technology and finance.
Top employers in St. Louis
- BJC HealthCare
- Washington University in St. Louis
- Emerson Electric
- Anheuser-Busch
- Boeing Defense, Space & Security
6. Con: Limited public transportation
While St. Louis has a public transportation system, it is limited compared to larger cities. The city’s transit score is 43, walk score is 66, and bike score is 58. These scores indicate moderate public transportation options, meaning that while some transit services like MetroLink light rail and MetroBus exist, they may not be convenient or comprehensive enough for all residents. The walk score suggests that some errands can be accomplished on foot, but many daily activities still require a car. The bike score reflects that biking is possible, but the infrastructure could be improved. Most residents find it necessary to own a car to get around efficiently, which can add to the overall cost of living.
7. Pro: Diverse neighborhoods
St. Louis is a melting pot of cultures, with each neighborhood in St. Louis offering unique character and charm. From the historic streets of Soulard, known for its vibrant nightlife, to the trendy vibes of The Grove, home to hip bars and restaurants, there’s a place for everyone. Explore the art scene in the Central West End, enjoy the markets and eateries in The Hill, or relax in the cafes of Lafayette Square. This diversity ensures a variety of cuisines, festivals, and cultural experiences year-round.
8. Con: Educational disparities
While St. Louis is home to several prestigious educational institutions, there are disparities in the quality of education across different neighborhoods. Public schools in some areas may lack resources and funding, impacting the overall educational experience for students. These disparities can lead to differences in academic performance and opportunities. Efforts are being made to address these issues through various educational initiatives and community programs, aiming to improve the quality of education for all students in the city.
9. Pro: Green spaces
Despite its urban nature, St. Louis offers numerous green spaces where residents can escape the concrete jungle. Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., is a major attraction, offering museums, a zoo, and beautiful trails. The city also has over 100 parks, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Popular parks in St. Louis
- Forest Park
- Tower Grove Park
- Citygarden
- Lafayette Park
- O’Fallon Park
10. Con: Air quality issues
St. Louis occasionally experiences air quality issues, particularly during the summer months. Pollution from industrial activities, vehicle emissions, and regional weather patterns can contribute to poor air quality, which may affect residents with respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies. The city is working on initiatives to improve air quality, but it’s something residents should be aware of, especially during high pollution days when air quality alerts are issued.
11. Pro: Thriving food scene
St. Louis offers a diverse culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants offering cuisines from around the world. The city is famous for its barbecue, toasted ravioli, and gooey butter cake. Food festivals, such as the Taste of St. Louis and the St. Louis World’s Fare, showcase the city’s culinary creativity and bring together food lovers to celebrate local and international flavors. Additionally, the city is home to numerous breweries and coffee shops, adding to its vibrant food culture.
Popular restaurants in St. Louis
- Pappy’s Smokehouse: Renowned for its Memphis-style BBQ and flavorful ribs.
- Niche Food Group: Known for creative dishes and farm-to-table cuisine.
- Annie Gunn’s: A beloved steakhouse offering high-quality meats and seafood.
- Farmhaus: Celebrated for its seasonal menu and locally sourced ingredients.
- Sidney Street Cafe: Offers innovative American cuisine in a cozy setting.
12. Con: Limited nightlife
While St. Louis has a variety of dining and entertainment options, its nightlife scene is not as vibrant as in larger cities. The city has a more laid-back atmosphere, with fewer late-night venues and entertainment options. Residents seeking a bustling nightlife might find the options limited, though there are still plenty of local bars, breweries, and restaurants to enjoy. The nightlife is concentrated in specific areas like the Central West End and the Delmar Loop, offering a more relaxed and intimate experience.
13. Pro: Historic charm
St. Louis’s rich history is reflected in its architecture and historic districts. The city is home to several well-preserved historic neighborhoods, such as Lafayette Square and Soulard, which feature beautiful homes and tree-lined streets. Downtown St. Louis also boasts historic buildings and landmarks, including the Gateway Arch, adding to the city’s unique character and charm. Walking tours and historical sites like the Old Courthouse provide residents and visitors with a glimpse into the city’s storied past.