St. Louis is considered a metropolis that contains some 2.8 million people.
However, it is not cramped, with 79 suburban areas holding up the corners.
Each area has its unique traits, including sprawling lots and greenery.
As with any large city, a certain amount of crime can be expected.
Violent and property crimes have decreased, with most crimes, including homicide, down by 22%.
St. Louis is a beautiful place to live and work, with an unemployment rate of 2.9%.
Continue reading about the safest St. Louis neighborhoods to live in, according to 2023 statistics.
Contents
Safest Neighborhoods in St. Louis
1. Ballwin, MO
Visual Capitalist has rated Ballwin, Missouri, as one of the top 50 safest cities in the United States.
It is located west of St. Louis and conveniently located for those working there.
The 2020 US Census claims the population to be 31,103 residents.
Approximately 9,900 single-family homes occupy the 10 square miles, along with condominiums and apartments.
Two school districts are Accredited with Distinction, and the low crime rate is attributed to the highly-trained Police Department.
2. Manchester, MO
Manchester, Missouri falls below the national average for violent and property crime.
It is considered a relatively safe place to live and raise a family.
There are 18,333 residents, which has held steady for the past 20 years.
3. Ellisville, MO
Ellisville, Missouri, earned an award as one of the best places to live by Money Magazine in 2009.
Ellisville rates far below the national average for violent crime.
On a scale of 1-100, it comes in at a meager 8.8 compared to the US average of 22.7.
Property crime is also lower.
4. Town and Country, MO
There are approximately 11,400 residents in Town and Country, Missouri.
Most are homeowners who enjoy a rural feel in a community.
The median home value is $795,000 and high-paying jobs can be found in the area.
Receiving an A+ rating as one of the best places to live in the US, Town and Country has a low crime rate.
Theft is the highest crime reported but falls 50% below the national average.
Murder, rape, and robbery are almost non-existent.
Retirees find this area perfect with its small-town atmosphere.
High-ranking schools attract the younger crowd wishing to raise a family.
5. Brentwood, MO
Brentwood, Missouri, ranks #4 in Missouri’s best places to live.
Due to its inner location in St. Louis, it ranked #3 among young professionals.
The crime rate is higher than in neighboring suburbs but much lower than the national average.
For example, assault crimes measure 73% lower than other areas in the US.
However, theft and motor vehicle crime are worrisome areas.
The median income is $81,500 per household, and the average home value is $235,000.
A strong community and great schools make Brentwood a wonderful place for couples starting a new life.
6. Ladue, MO
Ladue, Missouri, is known for its lavish homes and privacy.
It is the wealthiest suburb in St. Louis’s area.
According to a recent poll, crime is low, with a B- rating.
Burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft are the highest crimes but still below the national average.
Major crimes like murder, assault, and rape are very low or non-existent.
Being located in St. Louis’s inner ring brings some illegal acts to the area.
A great police team is very responsive whenever called.
The convenience of the short trip to the city makes owning a home in Ladue attractive to executives and professionals.
7. Chesterfield, MO
Chesterfield is the 14th largest city per capita in Missouri.
With over 47 million residents, the crime rate is low for a city of this size.
It has been rated #2 best place to live in Missouri by Niche 2023 statistics.
The crime rate is low, earning a B- grade.
Property crimes make up most of the criminal activity, while violent crimes are below 1% of the national average.
8. Clayton, MO
Clayton, Missouri, is the county seat of St. Louis County and lies next to the City of St. Louis.
With a population of 17,350, it is no wonder that overall crime is higher than other subdivisions.
With a crime rating of D, you might wonder how this city made the list.
This is because certain areas in the southwestern part of the city are considered safe enough to have an A+ crime rating.
There is a wide diversity of inhabitants in this city.
However, most crimes are committed in business districts and not residential areas.
9. Webster Groves, MO
Webster Groves, Missouri, has been rated #10 out of 353 cities in Missouri.
A beautiful and unique area, public schools, and family living earn an A rating.
Crime is the one factor that brings down the attractiveness of Webster Groves.
Although the number of violent and property crimes is lower than the national average, citizens feel uneasy in certain areas.
The crime rating is B- and it is still considered a good place to live, work, and raise a family.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to St. Louis, MO
- Tourist destinations are the safest areas in and around St. Louis, MO. Crime is less likely if you stay within the realm of cultural events and highly recommended sights. The southern neighborhoods are safer than those in the north. However, there are always exceptions to the rule. For instance, Tower Grove South and Dutchtown should be avoided due to the high crime rate.
- Vehicle break-ins can be found throughout all St. Louis areas. According to law enforcement, most trouble occurs when vehicle owners do not take the time to secure their cars properly. Always lock your vehicles and do not leave purses and valuables in sight that can tempt a burglar.
- Visiting nightclubs and restaurants after dark is generally safe. But, the trip back to your lodging can be dangerous, especially in downtown St. Louis. The best solution is to take a cab or park in a well-lit area.
- Familiarize yourself with the areas of St. Louis. Visiting a historical site off the beaten path may be tempting, but make inquiries before venturing into unknown territories.
- The weather around St. Louis can be extreme at times. Check with local news stations, and if you must go out, dress accordingly.
St. Louis Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: St. Louis Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: LOW
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What if an event occurs in downtown St. Louis, but I am afraid to go because of the crime statistics?
There are 15 Preferred Downtown Parking Facilities with higher security than on-street parking.
These are designated with red flags for visitor parking.
You can also contact the Downtown St. Louis Community Improvement District (CID) or the St. Louis Police Department, Downtown STL, Inc., to request a police officer to walk you to your car or public transportation.
I heard St. Louis had a higher crime rate than Chicago. Is this true, and should I avoid St. Louis altogether?
St. Louis indeed has a higher crime rate than Chicago.
However, unlike Chicago, St. Louis has separations in the areas where most crime occurs.
By focusing your itinerary on the best-rated areas, you can feel safe and enjoy much of what St. Louis and its surrounding towns offer.
What is the best time of the year to plan a vacation to St. Louis?
The peak tourist season in St. Louis is June-August.
Although this period can bring sticky, hot weather, there are many festivals and outdoor activities to visit.
Make your reservations months in advance to secure lodging.
If you are cost-conscious, November can deliver decreased transportation and hotel costs due to the off-season.
Temperatures range from 40 degrees F to 56 degrees F.
This is also when the St. Louis International Film Festival takes place.
The winter months between December and March should be avoided unless you do not mind harsh winter conditions.
