St. Louis At-A-Glance
“Many people’s knowledge of St. Louis starts and stops at the Arch. But for us, our world-famous monument is a doorway to discover the unexpected diversity of people, culture, values, industry, and even geography that thrive in this unique Midwest metropolis. Even those who’ve lived here all their lives are continually surprised to discover something new.” – Greater St. Louis Inc.
St. Louis, often referred to as the “Gateway to the West,” boasts a population of over 300,000 residents within the city limits, with the Greater St. Louis metropolitan area encompassing nearly 3 million people. Founded in 1764 by French fur traders, the city has evolved into a major cultural and economic hub in the Midwest led by its iconic Arch, which symbolizes the city’s historical significance and modern aspirations.
Nestled along the mighty Mississippi River, St. Louis is a vibrant city with a rich history, thriving economy, and diverse neighborhoods that cater to all lifestyles. From its booming job market to its charming neighborhoods and everything in between, St. Louis is a fantastic place to live.
Living in St. Louis
Living in St. Louis offers a unique blend of urban excitement and Midwestern charm. Residents enjoy a low cost of living compared to other major cities, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The city’s diverse population contributes to its dynamic cultural scene, evident in its wide array of restaurants, museums, and festivals.
If you know St. Louis, then you’ve likely heard of its iconic toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, “square” pizza and Clydesdale beer. But much like its thriving local arts scene, there’s more to the culture here than meets the eye. In fact, as the region’s food-and-beverage scene continues to grow, St. Louis could become one of the great culinary tastemakers.
St. Louisans take pride in their city’s rich heritage, evident in its historic architecture and landmarks as well as their sports. While almost every baseball fan is a die-hard Cardinal, the emergence of a Major League Soccer team, St. Louis CITY SC, has re-energized the city around a new passion. From the bustling streets of downtown to the tree-lined avenues of its residential neighborhoods, there’s always something new to explore in St. Louis.
St. Louis Economy
St. Louis boasts a robust economy supported by a diverse range of industries, including advanced manufacturing, bioscience and health innovation, ag tech, financial services, mobility and transportation and digital transformation. The city is home to several Fortune 500 companies, including Express Scripts, Emerson Electric, Edward Jones, Graybar, Energizer and Centene Corporation, providing ample job opportunities for professionals across various sectors. In fact, the STL 2030 Jobs Plan has a goal to position the area as a leader in inclusive growth, especially for Black and Brown people.
Furthermore, St. Louis has positioned itself as a burgeoning tech hub, attracting startups and entrepreneurs with its supportive business environment and affordable office space. The city’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem has garnered national attention, including as Entrepreneur’s #1 Heartland City Essential to the Future of American Innovation, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to launch their own ventures.
St. Louis Low Cost of Living
One of the most enticing aspects of living in St. Louis is its affordable housing market. Whether you’re in the market for a historic home in the charming Central West End or a modern condominium downtown, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your taste and budget.
At just $207K, the median home price in St. Louis is well below the national average (a whopping 49% lower!), making homeownership attainable for many residents. Additionally, the city offers a variety of housing styles, from Victorian mansions to cozy bungalows, ensuring there’s something for everyone. If you prefer to rent, you’ll save there too. The average rent in St. Louis is $1,250 compared with the national average of $2,050.
Greater St. Louis Inc. says, “We’re proud of the fact that our low costs and higher than average salaries make a full, rich life possible, whether you’re living in an apartment with roommates or buying a home for your family.”
