Neighborhood Selection: St Louis (University City, Jennings: apartment, to rent, loft)

[WRalstonB]

First off this forum has been a huge asset to me as I have moved to and from several cities. So I thank you in advance for your insights and help. Anyway, here are several questions that might help guide your advice. I saw this format on another forum and think its pretty useful.

My wife and I are 28 and 29 years old and are relocating to St Louis from Cleveland, OH. Both of us are from Knoxville, TN but over the past 5 years we have lived in Colorado, New York City, and Cleveland, OH. At a high level, we would like to live in an active neighborhood that is conveniently located to restaurants, coffee shops, live music, etc... We will be in temporary housing until we find the right fit. Also, we are looking to rent as we will probably not be in St Louis for more than a few years.

1) In what area of town will you be working? Really important stuff, that. And what kind of commute time are you wanting?
- I will be working around Jennings, a little WNW of the city. In terms of a commute I am very flexible. 30 minutes is not an issue.

2) Do you have a price range for your house or apartment?
-We are looking to rent for at least a year before we buy in order to get a lay of the land. Ideally, we would like to stay under $1,500 / month, but if the right place is available we would consider up to $1,700.

3) Do you have children? Do they have unique educational needs?
-No children at this time.

4) What do you enjoy the most during your free time? The arts? Fine dining? Sports? Hiking? Or just getting away from it all?
-We are in our late 20's, and are very active and love to be outside (fly fishing, hiking, etc...). Additionally, we love good restaurants, coffee shops, culture, etc... We do not enjoy night clubs. Walkability would be nice, but not a deal breaker.

Looking forward to your responses!

[glamatomic]

I would start my search with the CWE and University City. Even the Washington Ave loft district might be a good fit.

You will have to travel for hiking / fishing etc but I think those areas would fit the bill otherwise! Good Luck!

[billiken]

Are you hoping for a SFH? Apartment? My first instincts say Central West End for apartment, Tower Grove South for a house. CWE because of the restaurant scene, walkability, everything culturally in STL being nearby with museums and theatre. It's close to the highway for commuting. Also very close to Forest Park for general being-outside purposes.

Tower Grove South because there's SFHs, still close to a great park, lots of ethnic restaurants nearby. Still close to live music venues and culture. Still pretty close to a highway.

Downtown has more a club scene. Not really my style.

I'd also consider Lafayette Square if you're a fan of a little more mature crowd than CWE, generally.

I don't think your budget will be much of an issue. While your job location is on the north side, I wouldn't recommend living there.