MISSOURI
St. Louis County

Ballwin
This municipality is a thriving suburb because of its proximity to Manchester Road. The strip, which has been a busy commercial stretch since the late 19th century, still offers residents easy access to a wide array of restaurants and shops. Ballwin’s newest addition, The Pointe, is a comprehensive fitness facility that includes a double gymnasium, indoor-outdoor aquatic facilities and a family -friendly atmosphere. The area’s housing options include high-end, single-family homes developed over the last 30 years, as well as a supply of luxury condominiums and apartments.

Population: 30,121
Median Home Value: $245,500
Website: www.ballwin.mo.us

Brentwood
Known as the “City of Warmth,” Brentwood offers the advantages of a small town atmosphere in addition to its close proximity to the city. Conveniently located off I-64/US40, Brentwood is only minutes from Forest Park, the St. Louis Science Center, the Art Museum and the St. Louis Zoo. Brentwood offers a diverse retail shopping area, specialty shops, the annual Brentwood Days Festival and Charity Golf Tournament, and its own Historical Society.

Population: 7,963
Median Home Value: $184,695
Website: www.brentwoodmo.org

Chesterfield
Located in the high-tech corridor of I-64/US40 in West County, Chesterfield’s varied housing options include established homes, luxury condominiums, town homes and new construction, and single-family homes – some of them mansion-like in stature. Named in 2003 by Money magazine as one of the 100 desirable communities with a population under 100,000, Chesterfield offers quick and easy access to its many restaurants, schools, churches, shopping malls, retail districts and fitness facilities, yet it retains a woodsy atmosphere thanks to its abundance of trees and natural ambience. The family-oriented community also boasts a top-rated school district and attractions such as Faust Park Historical Village and the adjoined Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House.

Population: 46,272
Median Home Value: $372,000
Website: www.chesterfield.mo.us

Clayton
As the county seat, Clayton is a natural magnet for commerce and culture. The central business district is home to Forbes and Fortune 500 companies, as well as upscale restaurants, wine shops, galleries, boutiques and specialty shops. Clayton’s residential areas, many of which are within walking distance of its retail and business district, range from stately brick homes on tree-lined streets to high-rise condominiums. This area also offers upscale, renovated homes, luxury apartments, and new developments built to blend in with older, historic structures. Clayton’s school district is one of the finest in the St. Louis area, and residents have easy access to MetroLink, Lambert-St. Louis International Airport and Downtown. Shaw Park, located near the center of the city, has plenty of green space, as well as a municipal swimming pool and ice rink.

Population: 15,935
Median Home Value: $663,400
Website: www.ci.clayton.mo.us

Clarkson Valley
Clarkson Valley is a small city comprised of more than a dozen subdivisions, including Forest Hills, whose country club features a championship golf course. In addition, the city’s schools include top-ranked Crestview Middle School and Marquette High School. Direct any questions to City Hall at 636-227-8607.

Population: 2,675
Median Home Value: $656,976
Website: www.clarksonvalley.org

Crestwood
Crestwood is a great community in which to raise a family and conduct business. Located in the southwestern portion of St. Louis County and just east of Interstates 270 and 44, the airport and Downtown St. Louis are easily accessible in less than 30 minutes. Crestwood offers a large selection of single-family houses, which have consistently proven to maintain and increase their value as they age. Fifteen churches, four school districts, several parks, the Sappington House Historic Site and the Crestwood Aquatic Center make the area a wonderful family community.

Population: 11,863
Median Home Value: $206,098
Website: www.ci.crestwood.mo.us

Creve Coeur
Named for Creve Coeur Lake, which legend says took on the shape of a broken heart after a lovesick American Indian princess drowned herself in its waters, Creve Coeur is home to many of the St. Louis area’s largest information technology firms. The surrounding area to Creve Coeur’s business corridor on Olive Boulevard offers restaurants and shops, with nearby parks, a municipal golf course and an ice arena. This city’s upscale residential neighborhoods – many of them dense with established homes – tend to be tucked away from the busy hum of Olive Boulevard, and home options include luxury mid-rise condominiums, smaller ranch homes and sprawling residences surrounded by wooded lots. Its mid-county location also offers quick access to highways, Lambert-St. Louis International Airport and Downtown St. Louis.

Population:16,933
Median Home Value: $433,000
Website: creve-coeur.org

Des Peres
Des Peres is a city that is growing quickly and is expected to expand through annexation in the next five years. Recently, West County Center underwent an impressive renovation and contains St. Louis’ first Nordstrom store, as well as fine dining options. The city also added The Lodge Des Peres, a kid-friendly, municipal fitness facility with an indoor-outdoor aquatic center, fitness area, basketball/volleyball courts, meeting rooms and classrooms.

Population: 8614
Median Home Value: $395,700
Website: www.desperesmo.org

Ellisville
Designated “Tree City USA” for the past 27 years, Ellisville boasts an acre of parkland for approximately every 40 residents. Eleven parks weave through a well-balanced mix of beautifully maintained residential neighborhoods and business developments. Easily accessible by Interstates 40/64, 44 and 270, Ellisville is just 13 miles from the western city limits of St. Louis and a little over 30 minutes from the airport. A newly built Lifetime Fitness Center and Straub’s Fine Grocers are among the exciting additions to the city.

Population: 9,104
Median Home Value: $238,598
Website: www.ellisville.mo.us

Eureka
Located along Interstate 44 at the southwestern end of St. Louis County and in the award-winning Rockwood School District, Eureka is within easy driving distance to several two-year and four-year colleges and universities, as well as many technical schools. Spacious homes on wooded lots are hallmarks of the city’s residences. It is also home to Six Flags St. Louis, a regional theme park that draws millions of visitors to the community every year. Local restaurants and a variety of shopping venues add to Eureka’s small-town atmosphere.

Population: 9,133
Median Home Value: $224,329
Website: www.eureka.mo.us

Fenton
Located along the Meramec River, the City of Parks has more than 340 acres of parkland that offer a wide variety of activities. The Fenton Parks and Recreation Department staff offers programs for children age 3 through senior citizens, and the RiverChase of Fenton, the city’s recreation facility, offers indoor and outdoor pools, a competition pool, basketball courts, a fitness area, a dance studio and much more.

Population: 4,305
Median Home Value: $261,268
Website: www.fentonmo.org

Florissant
Florissant is home to what may be the oldest remaining house in St. Louis County, the antebellum Taille de Noyer House, constructed in 1790. Florissant itself dates back to the fur-trading colonies that established themselves here in 1767, and elegant 18th- and 19th-century homes still grace many of the residential streets. Careful to preserve its historic heritage, this North County suburb prides itself on a progressive attitude and continues to develop new residential and business areas. Home-buying options include single-family homes, historic homes and new home developments such as Weatherly Place. Florissant’s other amenities include 20 parks, two community centers, an 18-hole golf course and the 600-seat Florissant Civic Center Theatre.

Population: 50,919
Median Home Value: $117,500
Website: www.florissantmo.com

Frontenac
This small suburb of St. Louis has not deviated far from its historical French roots. The land of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Wood was sold and divided into what became several subdivisions of Frontenac, yet the city has maintained its predominantly one-acre lots. This area is part of two school districts – Ladue and Kirkwood – and has churches, synagogues and businesses. Frontenac continues to be the area’s upscale retail destination with Plaza Frontenac’s benchmark shops, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Population: 3,483
Median Home Value: $701,366
Website: www.cityoffrontenac.org

Hazelwood
Home to more than 1,000 businesses, including Fortune 500 companies and numerous corporate headquarters, the City of Hazelwood is conveniently located near Lambert-St. Louis International Airport and other close major transportation routes, which makes Hazelwood an ideal place to start a business. In addition to its dynamic business community, Hazelwood has a highly accredited public school district, vibrant neighborhoods, a variety of home options and shopping venues such as St. Louis Mills – a large mall complete with an indoor skate park, ice rink where the St. Louis Blues hockey team practices and an indoor NASCAR race track.

Population: 25483
Median Home Value: $125,878
Website: www.hazelwoodmo.org

Huntleigh
Situated between Lindbergh Boulevard and Geyer Road, Huntleigh is a small St. Louis suburban niche – dotted with rolling hills and sprawling homes – made up of approximately 130 residences within close proximity to nearby Frontenac and Town & Country.

Population: 330
Median Home Value: $1,455,207
Website: http://www.city-data.com/city/Huntleigh-Missouri.html

Kirkwood
Kirkwood was developed in 1853 as a railroad-commuting suburb, and the train station is still the center of the city’s charming downtown. The pedestrian-friendly business district retains its historic look, with commercial space mostly occupied by smaller businesses and local restaurants such as Café Provencal. A farmer’s market, pocket parks and specialty shops add to the city’s small-town atmosphere. If you’re searching for historic homes with character, Kirkwood is a good place to look, but those who prefer newer quarters might check out the newly opened Station Plaza, a $43 million, 40,000-square foot development project modeled after European city living. Retail stores, restaurants and attached Georgetown-style town homes are located at street level; 215 apartments and 60 lofts are located on the upper levels. Kirkwood also offers 600 acres of municipal park space, an aquatic center, ice rink, tennis courts and community center/theater.

Population: 26,818
Median Home Value: $250,500
Website: www.ci.kirkwood.mo.us

Ladue
One of the United States’ most affluent suburbs, Ladue prides itself on its excellent community services and tranquil, private neighborhoods. Traditional colonial and Tudor-style mansions surrounded by generous lots are the norm, with about a dozen new luxury homes added each year. Nearby, there are three exclusive country clubs, several private schools, upscale boutiques, and a variety of galleries, antiques shops, specialty stores and spas. Restaurants and sports bars such as Sportman’s Park and Lester’s Sport Bar & Grill are popular night spots. Local restaurants include Truffles, a European-style eatery that was one of only two Missouri establishments to receive a 2004 Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator. Ladue is also the site of the highly regarded L’Ecole Culinaire.

Population: 8,215
Median Home Value: $913,600
Website: www.cityofladue-mo.gov

Manchester
The community of Manchester is more than 200 years old and is comprised of seven parks, the Manchester Aquatic Center, great schools – in the districts of Parkway and Rockwood – and quality municipal services. It has a small-town atmosphere, yet residents have the advantage of easy access to the entire St. Louis Metropolitan area.

Population: 18,667
Median Home Value: $228,768
Website: www.manchestermo.gov

Maplewood
In a matter of just a few years, Maplewood has transformed itself from an empty outer-ring suburb to a vibrant neighborhood, attracting young families from all over the region. Maplewood’s section of Manchester Road is no longer a quiet stretch of empty storefronts, but a street lined with four-star restaurants and unique businesses that offer goods and services you will not find anywhere else. Farther from the main business district, but no less popular, you will find Schlafly Bottleworks, which offers dining and brewery tours, and Saratoga Lanes, the oldest bowling alley west of the Mississippi. Homes tend to be traditional St. Louis-style brick units, though due to Maplewood’s increasing popularity, a great deal of rental housing is being converted to answer the demand for owner-occupied homes. The newest of these is Coachlight Village, a 36-unit development that features two-bedroom town homes.

Population: 8,688
Median Home Value: $110,500
Website: www.cityofmaplewood.com

Maryland Heights
Maryland Heights is the sixth largest municipality in St. Louis and home to the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, Westport Plaza, Creve Coeur Park, Harrah’s Casino and Aquaport. With 1,600 businesses, Maryland Heights is becoming a regional hospitality and entertainment destination complete with dining and recreation opportunities. In the past 24 years, Maryland Heights has developed a variety of housing styles, and it has no city property tax.

Population: 27,000
Median Home Value: $201,300
Website: www.marylandheights.com

Olivette
More than 80 acres of beautiful parkland grace this small St. Louis County community just west of University City and Downtown St. Louis. Nestled along Olive Boulevard, its locale offers easy access to surrounding St. Louis attractions. A wide array of youth and adult activities make Olivette a well-established family community.

Population: 7,740
Median Home Value: $247,476
Website: www.olivettemo.com

Richmond Heights
This St. Louis municipality is melding “Progress with Tradition,” and in doing so, it offers an array of attractive homes in desirable neighborhoods, public and private schools, and a variety of city services. Located at the intersection of Interstates 64 and 170, Richmond Heights is part of four public school districts, has two private schools, and is within close proximity to seven advanced education institutions including Washington University, St. Louis Community College and Webster University.

Population: 10,000
Median Home Value: $215,293
Website: www.richmondheights.org

Shrewsbury
What used to be a 278-acre farm owned by General John Murdoch is now a municipality full of homes, condominiums, apartments, shopping areas and a wonderfully renovated City Center. Conveniently located along Interstate 44, Downtown St. Louis is just minutes away, which is convenient for all St. Louis sporting events and entertainment. The Shrewsbury Aquatic Center, parks, tennis courts, and baseball, softball and soccer fields offer recreational activity that makes Shrewsbury a perfect place for families to call home.

Population: 6,277
Median Home Value: $179,305
Website: www.cityofshrewsbury.com

St. Albans
Thirteen different neighborhoods make up the St. Albans community along the Missouri River. As Missouri’s premier golf community, St. Alban’s has two championship golf courses, a luxurious country club, and a variety of low-maintenance villas and elegant million-dollar estates. The community is complete with a historic restaurant, The Gardens at Malmaison, which offers continental fine dining or a casual menu, as well as The Studio Inn – an enchanting European-style inn, the popular Head’s store and the Fulton School at St. Albans.

Population: 300 families/ approx. 800 people
Median Home Value: $750,000
Website: www.cityofmaplewood.com

Sunset Hills
Located on a Mississippi flyway, Sunset Hills is a relatively young city incorporated in 1953. Bordered on the west by the Meramec River, the city has over 70 acres of parkland. Updated Minnie Ha Ha Park, located along the river south of Highway 30, now includes additional shelters, playgrounds and new trails. The city’s largest park, Watson Trial Park, offers a nine-hole frisbee golf course, tennis courts, trails, picnic shelters and a municipal swimming pool. Sunset Hills, known to be a safe, family-friendly area, also offers a country club, private prep school and superior city services. Homes, which range from brick ranch homes to luxury developments often include large lots that attract more than 75 bird species passing through the area.

Population: 8,232
Median Home Value: $338,700
Website: www.sunset-hills.com

Town and Country/ Country Life Acres
Town and Country is a prestigious suburban community that was once primarily woodland and farmland, which has transformed into a residential community complete with large lots. It’s the perfect municipality to maintain a rural lifestyle while enjoying the convenience of a short drive to the city. This community prides itself on its quiet, restful green residential areas with few commercial developments and excellent educational options.

Population (Town and Country): 10,737
Population (Country Life Acres): 80
Median Home Value (Town and Country): $734,341
Median Home Value (Country Life Acres): $1,387,195
Website: www.town-and-country.org

University City
Although not technically located in St. Louis City, this suburb, which borders Washington University, definitely has an urban vibe. Delmar Boulevard, passing through the heart of U. City, is rarely devoid of foot traffic for good reason; this stretch is home to the Pageant, a popular concert venue, as well as the Tivoli – one of St. Louis’ only art-house theaters. U. City also offers hip boutiques, independent bookstores, coffee shops, ethnic restaurants, music stores, gourmet food stores and unique specialty stores. Grand older homes, multiple-family apartments, condominiums, and single-family ranch houses are just a few of the housing options. U. City is also one of the most diverse communities in St. Louis County. The city’s park system includes a public golf course, fitness center and an indoor soccer field. U. City is also just minutes away from Forest Park, home of the Saint Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, St. Louis Science Center and St. Louis Zoo.

Population: 36,545
Median Home Value: $163,600
Website: www.ucitymo.org

Warson Woods
Established in 1936 and situated between Laude and Glendale, Warson Woods is divided into four unique wards – a feature of the township that makes the area so diverse. A wonderful business district, restaurants, parks, notable schools – including Webster Groves and Kirkwood School Districts – and local shopping venues make Warson Woods a close-knit community.

Population: 1,872
Median Home Value: $400,305
Website: www.warsonwoods.com

Webster Groves
Classic, single-family homes and oak-lined streets give Webster Groves a timeless feel, and its proximity to Webster University means that professors, students and other forward-thinkers who keep the city young and progressive populate neighborhoods. Residents say this combination of tradition and innovation is what makes Webster an ideal place to live, work and raise a family. Many of the area’s historic homes have been well cared for throughout the years and range from single-family dwellings to large, extravagant houses. Residents have quick access to culture and entertainment with The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, the Webster University Film Series and Opera Theatre of Saint Louis. The city also maintains more than 15 parks and a large recreational complex with an ice rink, gymnasium and outdoor aquatic facilities that include a lap pool, as well as a kid’s pool play center.

Population: 22,494
Median Home Value: $249,600
Website: www.webstergroves.com

Wildwood
Located near Highway 109, Wildwood offers residents a blend of country and county living, with easy access to both state parks and the greater metropolitan area. The city was incorporated in 1995 in order to protect the integrity of the municipality, which includes Babler State Park and Rockwoods Reservation. Residential development includes luxury homes and large, traditional subdivisions surrounded by plenty of green space. The business district features the newly constructed Wildwood Town Center, which contains retail, office and residential units. Educational options include the highly rated Rockwood School District and excellent private and parochial schools. Wildwood also earned third place in Money magazine’s list of best Midwest towns with a population under 100,000.

Population: 34,344
Median Home Value: $380,700
Website: cityofwildwood.com

City of St. Louis

Benton Park West
Described as a “largely intact historic and architecturally significant neighborhood” by Kathleen Shea of St. Louis Cultural Resources Office and designated as a sustainable neighborhood in 2004, Benton Park West was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005. Most homes date back to the late 19th century, many with the original moldings, stained glass and fixtures intact. Century-old trees shade streets, and residents tend to maintain meticulous porches, lawns and gardens. Because Cherokee Street’s antiques row is nearby, homeowners have a convenient source of furniture and decorative pieces that dovetail with the historical era in which their home was built. Benton Park West also has an active neighborhood association that holds meetings on the last Thursday of every month.

Population: 5,438 (2005)
Median Home Value: $60,000 (2005)
Website: www.stlouis.missouri.org/bentonparkwest

Central West End
The Central West End is straight across from Forest Park, caddy-corner to Washington University and five minutes from downtown. However, most residents find few reasons to leave the neighborhood. The business district’s cobblestone streets are dense with restaurants, stores and galleries. The CWE is home to one of St. Louis’ few remaining independent bookstores, Left Bank Books, as well as Mezzanine Wearables, recently mentioned in Lucky magazine as one of the best boutiques in the Midwest. Not far from the Central West End’s business district, you will find gated streets lined with turn-of-the-century mansions and larger historic homes. The area also includes high-rise apartments, condominiums, and luxury apartments, including units in the restored Chase Park Plaza Hotel.

Population: 14,144 (2005)
Median Home Value: $109,117 (2005)
Website: www.thecwe.com

Dogtown
Just south of Forest Park is a neighborhood affectionately known as “Dogtown.” This lively, tree-lined neighborhood consists of smaller, older homes, apartments and local restaurants and bars; it also boasts a front-row view of the St. Patrick’s Day parade route for the city’s popular Irish celebration.

Population: 480
Median Home Value $55,756
Website: www.downtowndogtown.com

Downtown St. Louis
Thanks to an urban renewal project, Downtown St. Louis is one of the hottest housing tickets in the city! Revitalization of Washington Street and other areas is bringing business and residents back to this urban locale. Downtown is growing with citizens across many demographics, from empty nesters who no longer want to maintain a full-size, suburban home to the young professional beginning his or her new career. Lofts and apartments range from small rental units to lavish penthouse lofts. The neighborhood has access to dry cleaning services, a hardware store and a grocery store, as well as a large selection of fine and casual dining spots.

Within walking distance of the lofts and condominiums are the famous sports and entertainment venues. Historical landmarks such as the Arch, the Old Courthouse, The Campbell House and Union Station, provide a glimpse into the city’s famous past that helped to shape America as we know it today.
The Grand Center Creative and Cultural District is home to the Contemporary Art Museum, Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts, Fox Theatre, Sheldon Concert Hall and Powell Symphony Hall – home of the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra.

The city of St. Louis is rich in history, architecture and culture, and thanks to years of restoration, it is rapidly becoming the ideal place to live and work again!

Population: 9,601 (2005)
Median Home Value: $170,000 (2005)
Website: downtownstlouis.org

The Hill
Settled in the late 19th century by immigrants from northern Italy and Sicily, this well-established neighborhood clings tight to its heritage. The neighborhood boasts meticulously maintained homes, locally renowned Italian-American restaurants, bakeries, delis and specialty grocers. Saveur magazine called the area “America’s other Little Italy.” Baseball greats Yogi Berra and Joe Garagiola, Sr., grew up in homes across from each other on Elizabeth Avenue.

Population: 2,692
Median Home Value: $70,623
Website: www.stlouis.missouri.org/thehill

Lafayette Square
Named after a Revolutionary War hero, Lafayette Square is all about history, from streets lined with Victorian “painted ladies” to 30-acre Lafayette Park, which contains two cannons rescued from the HMS Acheron and hosts vintage baseball games during the summer. Located north of downtown, Lafayette Square is two minutes from Soulard, home base for St. Louis’ annual Mardi Gras festivities. Although Soulard is known for its bars and restaurants, Lafayette Square has a fine collection of its own, including SqWires Restaurant and Market, Bailey’s Chocolate Bar and Soda Fountain Square. In addition to Victorian mansions, you will also find luxury apartments, lofts and condominiums.

Population: 1,962 (2005)
Median Home Value: $79,668
Website: www.lafayettesquare.org

St. Louis Hills
Constructed between 1930 and 1960, most of the homes in St. Louis Hills are brick, but their architectural styles include gingerbread bungalows, larger ranch houses and an eight-sided Art Deco house. Like many St. Louis City neighborhoods, the community is centered around green space, in this case, 13-acre Francis Park, which hosts a weekly outdoor concert series during the summer months. The neighborhood association is intensely engaged with the community and hosts many events throughout the year, including a Christmas tree lighting ceremony. St. Louis Hills is a good choice for individuals and families who want to live in the city but prefer suburban-style neighborhoods.

Population: 7,650 (2005)
Median Home Value: $238,000
Website: www.stlouis.missouri.org/stlouishills

The Shaw Neighborhood
Bordering the west side of this historic neighborhood is the Missouri Botanical Garden, planned and installed by Harry Shaw. The Shaw neighborhood received its historic designation in 1985 and boasts beautiful, grand homes from the turn of the century and spacious multi-family dwellings within walking distance of the Garden and Tower Grove Park. Today, the neighborhood is filled with bistros, coffee houses, florists and art galleries.

Population: 8,243
Median Home Value: $92,595
Website: www.shawstlouis.org

Skinker-DeBaliviere
Beautiful tree-lined streets and historic single-family homes characterize this neighborhood. Skinker-DeBaliviere’s development began during the 1904 World’s Fair. Within walking distance of Forest Park, Washington University and the Delmar “Loop”, the neighborhood was designated a Local Historic District in 1978. The large single-family homes and expansive apartment buildings, ranging in styles from Classic to Tudor Revival, as well as bungalow-style, boast of exquisite early 20th-century architectural details in their art glass, millwork and fireplace mantles.

Population: 4,505
Median Home Value $134,980
Website:  www.stlouis.missouri.org/skinkerdebaliviere

Soulard
One of the oldest communities in the city, Soulard is filled with renovated brick rowhouses and breathtaking Victorian-style homes, restaurants, bars, pubs and businesses – many of which are centuries old. Named after Antoine Soulard, the first developer in the neighborhood, the two-block area of land known as Soulard Farmer’s Market was donated by Julia Soulard in 1838 with the stipulation that it remain a public market. Today, the market remains open all year. Soulard also is home to the largest Mardi Gras celebration in the Midwest.

Population: 3,187
Median Home Value: $110,747
Website: www.soulard.org

Tower Grove
This area actually includes two neighborhoods – Tower Grove South and Tower Grove East. They both surround Tower Grove Park and the Missouri Botanical Garden, home to 8,000 trees and countless birds and animals. Tower Grove Park also features a series of charming Victorian pavilions that find constant use throughout the spring and summer. Homes in this area range from impressive mansions to quirky, turn-of-the-century flats with pocket doors and fireplaces. Both neighborhoods are demographically mixed, housing everyone from residents in historic homes to Washington University graduate students. Also of note is South Grand Boulevard, an up-and-coming stretch of ethnic restaurants, hip bars and shops. This is a good neighborhood for urban nature-lovers and younger couples looking for an affordable historic home to rehab.

Population: 14,749 (2005)
Website: stlouis.missouri.org/towergrovesouth and
               stlouis.missouri.org/towergroveeast

ST. CHARLES COUNTY

Lake St. Louis
“Lake St. Louis” is not a misnomer. Built on the edge of two man-made lakes, this municipality offers plenty of recreational opportunities, making it a popular settling place for both retirees and young families. In addition to swimming, boating, waterskiing and sailing, Lake St. Louis offers riding stables, hiking trails, ball fields, an 18-hole championship golf course and two par-three nine-hole golf courses. Lake St. Louis’ housing units are built to accommodate a spectrum of lifestyles and budgets. Units range from small, efficient condominiums to luxury homes on the edge of the lake. Lake St. Louis offers easy access to the entire metro area.

Population: 13,904
Median Home Value: $259,900
Website: lakesaintlouis.com

O’Fallon
O’Fallon is the fastest-growing suburb of St. Charles. Housing and business developers have been hard at work keeping up with the city’s population boom. One of the city’s most ambitious projects is Winghaven, a large planned community that incorporates green space and new-economy businesses, including the world headquarters of MasterCard Technology and Operations. Because of the healthy local population, large retailers have been eager to invest in the community. Shopping, dining and entertainment options are plentiful and family-friendly. O’Fallon is also home base for the minor league baseball team, the River City Rascals. Homes tend to be affordable, single-family units situated in well-maintained neighborhoods.

Population: 74,976
Median Home Value: $205,200
Website: www.ofallon.mo.us

St. Charles
As the former state capitol and launching point for the Lewis and Clark expedition, St. Charles is steeped in history and charm. Founded in 1765, the city’s downtown is still paved with cobblestones and has retained its traditional look and feel. Main Street offers fine dining, antique shops, boutiques, museums and bars. Despite its reverence for its heritage, the city is definitely forward-thinking, with many prosperous companies headquartered here. Due to its historical significance, St. Charles’ housing options include older, historic homes, as well as newly constructed developments. Recreational opportunities abound with the Missouri River, the Katy Trail and the Lewis and Clark Trail just a stone’s throw away.

Population: 63,644
Median Home Value: $188,100
Website: www.stcharlescitymo.gov

Wentzville
Founded in 1855, Wentzville was named for Erasmus Livingston Wentz, the chief engineer of St. Louis, Kansas City and the Northern Railway. Contemporary, rustic ranch homes and farm sites are all available at affordable prices, along with newer two-story homes. Conveniently located on I-70 west of St. Louis, Wentzville combines a rural lifestyle with convenient living, as it offers easy access to the commercial, educational and recreational amenities of St. Louis.

Population: 7,058
Median Home Value: $112,300
Website: www.wentzvillemo.org

Winghaven
Located just west of the Missouri River off of Highway 40, residents of WingHaven enjoy quick access to Chesterfield and just a 30-minute drive to Downtown, but they have the advantage of enjoying all that WingHaven has to offer: jogging trails, a movie theatre, swimming, golf, spa, library, shops and fine dining.

Population: 2500 +
Website: www.experiencewinghaven.com

ILLINOIS
St. Clair County

O'Fallon
Known as one of the fastest-growing communities in the Metropolitan St. Louis area, O’Fallon, IL has a rich history of trade and industry, which has laid the foundation for its continued growth and prosperity. Hardworking residents, including personnel from nearby Scott Air Force Base, make up the diverse community in this charming small town just across the Mississippi River from Downtown St. Louis.

Population:29,000 +
Median Home Value: $184,575
Website: www.ofallon.org

Belleville
Situated near several major transportation routes as well as I-255 and I-64, Belleville is a convenient and comfortable city for business. It is also a wonderful community in which to raise a family with its commitment to excellent education – elementary to higher education – in addition to attractive, safe neighborhoods. Belleville’s wide array of shops, cultural opportunities, including historical and philharmonic societies, and local shopping add to the charm of this growing city.

Population: 41,035
Median Home Value: $138,071
Website: Belleville.net

Madison County

Edwardsville
The third oldest city in Illinois, Edwardsville’s picturesque Main Street, thriving downtown commercial district, Children’s Museum and golf courses make Edwardsville the charming city that it is. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville – a vibrant, growing metropolitan university – is an excellent option for higher education.

Population: 25,073
Median Home Value: $161,506
Website: cityofedwardsville.com

Glen Carbon
From dawn to dusk, residents of Glen Carbon can enjoy the Glen Carbon Heritage Trails complete with restored prairie areas and access to the nearby communities of Troy, Edwardsville, Maryville and the Southern Illinois University Campus at Edwardsville. The Village of Glen Carbon also offers sports leagues, several parks, a conservation area, more than 10 churches, and it is part of the Edwardsville School District.

Population: 12,517
Median Home Value: $200,507
Website: www.glen-carbon.il.us

Bethalto
Surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque farms, Bethalto is one of the fastest growing communities in Madison County – named after James Madison, the fourth President of the United States. Home to the St. Louis Regional Airport, an extensive public library, a senior citizens center and several parks, this village offers a relaxed lifestyle – perfect family living. Yet its close proximity to Downtown St. Louis allows residents to enjoy the cultural and entertainment opportunities of the city.

Population: 9,894
Median Home Value: $125,904
Website: www.bethalto.com

Godfrey
As one of Illinois’ newest municipalities, the Village of Godfrey is expecting continued residential and commercial growth. Though much of Godfrey has been primarily residential and remains devoted to agriculture, this large community offers a golf course, movie theatre, the Alton Symphony and Youth Symphony, and several schools and churches. Godfrey is located 35 miles north of St. Louis in beautiful natural settings wonderful for outdoor excursions.

Population: 17,415
Median Home Value: $145,162
Website: www.godfreyil.com

Alton
Residents of and visitors to Alton enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the Mississippi River by traveling down the Great River Road by car, bicycle or foot. With 15 parks and several attractions – such as the Clark Bridge, Alton Marina and Amphitheater – Alton is a wonderful place to raise a family, work and enjoy life. Alton is also home to hundreds of American bald eagles from November to February. And just a short drive north along the Great River Road, the quaint town of Grafton awaits those who love to bike, hike, fish, shop, eat and enjoy fine wine. Recently revitalized, Grafton is a charming small town with antique shops, fish stands, ice cream shops and wineries – and beautifully constructed condominiums overlooking the river. Five miles west of Grafton is the beautiful Pere Marquette State Park with 8,050 nature-filled acres.

Population: 30,500
Median Home Value: $89,654
Website: www.alton-il.com

Monroe County

Columbia
Located on the Mississippi River bluffs, Columbia’s beautiful scenery adds to its small-town charm, but its residents have the advantage of easy accessibility to St. Louis just 12 miles away. Columbia residents also enjoy a wide variety of restaurants, three golf courses, and children and adult sports programs. Columbia is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the St. Louis Metropolitan area.

Population: 9,818
Median Home Value: $207,260
Website: www.columbiaillinois.com

Data from: www.city-data.com