Established in 1764, St. Louis, Missouri has evolved into a vibrant metropolis that beautifully blends its rich past with a dynamic present. Known as the “Gateway to the West,” this iconic city played an integral role in the westward expansion of the United States. The atmosphere in St. Louis is friendly and welcoming with Midwestern hospitality, and residents take pride in their city and its diversity. From the iconic Gateway Arch to its thriving arts scene and world-class museums, St. Louis has plenty to offer for renters and buyers alike.

But what truly sets St. Louis apart is the diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality and charm. From historic districts to trendy urban hubs, you’ll find many characteristics, attractions, and amenities that make each neighborhood special. And with the average rent falling by 9% over the past year, St. Louis boasts affordable rental options, with one-bedroom apartments averaging around $899. Here are the 10 best neighborhoods in St. Louis, chosen for their amenities, schools, parks, and Community engagement.

1. Central West End

If you’re planning to make St. Louis your new home, you’ll love the energetic vibe of the Central West End, nestled between Forest Park and St. Louis University. Whether you’re a devoted foodie or just enjoy a great meal, Central West End has a diverse collection of restaurants that can satisfy your tastes. And if you’re a fan of eclectic shopping experiences, head down Euclid Avenue for a bustling business district with charming boutiques, bookstores, and live music venues.

The Central West End is also a hotspot for nightlife. With numerous pubs and nightclubs in the area, residents have no shortage of options to meet up with friends for a happy hour or an unforgettable night on the town. The community is also home to several local events, such as the St. Nicholas Taste of the Greek Festival and The Legendary CWE Halloween celebration. With its vibrant atmosphere and endless opportunities for fun and entertainment, the Central West End is an ideal locale for renters and buyers alike.

2. Soulard

Soulard is known for its active blues scene and live music events every year, such as the Soulard Concert Series. Tracing its establishment back to 1779, Soulard is an ideal choice for renters looking for historic charm. It’s on the higher end of the rental average for St. Louis neighborhoods, though. Soulard’s rental options include one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,150, two-bedroom apartments averaging $1,500, and three-bedroom residences averaging $2,300.

If you’re looking for a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of options for dining, entertainment, shopping, and recreation, Soulard is one area to consider. Soulard Market is a popular tourist destination, bringing in hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Head south to the Anheuser-Busch brewery if you’re looking for historical activities with a cold brew in your hand. Nature enthusiasts can find plenty of parks and opportunities to get outdoors, including Soulard Community Garden, Pontiac Square Park, and the Frenchtown Dog Park. With so much to offer, it’s no surprise Soulard continues to attract new residents.

3. Lafayette Square

This charming neighborhood is just south of downtown St. Louis and within walking distance of Soulard Market. Lafayette Square has a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling city center. It boasts peaceful streets with picturesque Victorian houses and cozy townhomes throughout the neighborhood. Another registered historic district, Lafayette Square traces its heritage to the mid-1800s. 

Lafayette Park is a delightful 30-acre green oasis that sits in the center of the community. But it’s not just a park; it’s a way of life for many residents, with areas for hiking and jogging, biking, and walking dogs. The park hosts a variety of events such as movie nights, food festivals, and an exciting summer concert series, all of which help foster a strong sense of community among its residents. One of the best things about Lafayette Square is its convenient location. You have easy access to major roadways so commutes to other areas are fast and easy. This means you can enjoy all the attractions of downtown while still maintaining a quiet lifestyle.

4. The Hill

The diversity of St. Louis is highlighted in The Hill, where Italian immigrants established their roots in the early 1800s. Today, residents can enjoy a large variety of family-owned delis, grocers, bakeries, pizzerias, markets, and food stands that speak to the long-standing Italian traditions of this historic locale. The Hill hosts multiple community events throughout the year where you can find plenty of food vendors, local artists, and crafters offering a unique experience for locals and visitors. The community also provides easy access to St. Louis’ downtown scene.

With a population of around 2,200, The Hill has a small-town vibe that long-term residents find charming and engaging. Named for its proximity to the highest point in St. Louis, the community also has plenty of opportunities for individuals and families to enjoy historical attractions and outdoor activities. Ambrose Church is a beacon of the neighborhood, going back to the earliest periods when Italian families began immigrating to the area. Today, the church hosts community events along with its normal services and plays an integral part in supporting the close-knit atmosphere of the community.

5. Tower Grove South

Tower Grove South is one of St. Louis’ largest communities, with just over 13,000 residents. It’s part of a larger community, where Tower Grove East and Tower Grove Heights add to its boundaries. The Morgan Ford Strip and South Grand business districts are close by, making it an ideal location for professionals looking for new rentals. The neighborhood also boasts a diverse mix of architectural styles that showcase its changes and developments over the centuries.

Over the years, Tower Grove South has become home to families, singles, retirees, and local businesses, making it a vibrant and thriving area. There are plenty of eateries, restaurants, and cafes for everyday outings or special events with friends and family. You’ll also find many opportunities for getting out in nature, with Tower Grove Park just blocks away. From family fun to solo adventures, Tower Grove South has much to offer renters looking for their next place to call home.

6. Shaw

Shaw is located adjacent to Tower Grove Park, south of the bustling business districts of South Grand and Morgan Ford Strip. It’s a quiet community with picturesque Victorian homes and tree-lined streets, with families and individuals alike calling it home. Similar to many St. Louis communities, Shaw is a local historic district with diverse architecture and nearby amenities for residents.

You’ll find plenty of green space in Shaw, too. Tower Grove Park offers serene outdoor recreation areas, and the Missouri Botanical Gardens has tranquil spots for admiring native and naturalized flowers and plants. It’s also one of the oldest and most distinguished botanical research centers in the nation. For pet-friendly excursions, head to Shaw Dog Park where you’ll have open space, walking trails, and special areas for furry friends to interact. These hot spots are all within walking distance of Shaw.

7. Benton Park

Rooted in post-Civil War history, Benton Park was created by senator Thomas Benton in 1866 after its original use as a 10-acre cemetery in the 1840s. Today, Benton Park sits on 17 acres and is St. Louis’ second-oldest park. Nearby, Cherokee Park features a fitness center and indoor pool, while Carnegie Park offers athletic fields and playgrounds.

The community is engaged and active, with the Benton Park Neighborhood Association providing family-friendly activities and entertainment that celebrate and support the neighborhood. Just south of the city center, modern Benton Park has plenty to offer its residents. From its easy access to the interstate to its charming historical character, Benton Park is an ideal place if you’re looking for apartments to rent. It’s one of the more affordable communities in St. Louis, with one-bedroom units averaging around $895 and two-bedroom units around $1,450.

8. Clayton

Clayton offers a mix of downtown vibes and a quiet, residential atmosphere where professionals and families alike can find housing options that suit any preference. Clayton boasts one of the most affluent business districts as the hub for many Fortune 500 company headquarters. Although the community is mostly devoted to residential areas and parks, its small business district offers professionals the ideal balance of fast-paced business and laid-back living.

Clayton is also located near highly rated schools, shopping, and entertainment. If you’re looking for unique shopping experiences, Clayton’s local boutiques and art galleries are home to eclectic items you won’t find anywhere else. Dining is delightful with the many restaurants, pubs, cafes, and bakeries within walking distance from the center of Clayton. It’s also close to Forest Park, so you have more outdoor options for relaxing and just enjoying nature.

9. Dogtown

Dogtown is one of those communities that has the best of everything. The Riverfront Times 2021 Best of St. Louis Readers’ Choice awards listed Dogtown as both St. Louis’ Best Neighborhood to Live and Best Place to Live. If that’s not enough, this community is also home to award-winning locales, including the best barbeque, best trails, best movie theater, and best public park. Dogtown is a part of the larger Clayton-Tamm community but is also part of the Ellendale, Franz Park, and Hi-Pointe neighborhoods.

Dogtown’s Irish heritage supports a bustling restaurant and pub scene, and the community comes together for a huge St. Patrick’s Day parade and celebration every year. For family-friendly adventures, Turtle Park offers light walking trails and fun turtle sculptures for kids to climb on. The City Museum is also close by and hosts various events for kids and families throughout the year. If you’re looking for an engaged and active community with a relaxed way of life, Dogtown is one area you’ll want to add to your list of options when looking for a place to rent.

10. Forest Park Southeast (The Grove)

Forest Park Southeast is aptly named, as it sits southeast of Forest Park and just south of Central West End. Also called The Grove, it’s an engaging and vibrant community that offers affordable rental options, with the average hovering around $1,100 for a one-bedroom apartment. While this is slightly above the St. Louis average, it’s lower than some of the city’s other neighborhoods. Amenities aren’t lacking here, either. Its close distance to Forest Park and Central West End makes it convenient to reach shopping, entertainment, dining, and local events throughout the area.

You’ll find plenty of rental options, too, with charming historical homes, cozy bungalows, and modern apartment buildings. Singles, families, and retirees call this neighborhood home, and residents take pride in the community through The Grove’s seasonal and regular events, arts festivals, and revitalization initiatives.

Find your next rental in one of St. Louis’ best neighborhoods

There’s no doubt that the neighborhoods of St. Louis present an enticing option for anyone considering relocation. With a rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse offerings, St. Louis tops many renters’ lists of ideal places to live. Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of Soulard, the trendy vibes of the Central West End, or the family-friendly atmosphere of Shaw, the affordable cost of living in St. Louis means there’s a neighborhood to suit every taste and lifestyle. With the 10 best neighborhoods in St. Louis to choose from, you’re sure to find your next rental.

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