Moving to St Louis (University City, Kirkwood: rentals, houses, neighborhood)

[stcali]

We will be moving to St Louis in June... my husband will be working at Wash U. Where are some good places to live for a young family? Good schools and close commute to Wash U?

Any suggestions!

[STLCardsBlues1989]

University City is nice, as is Clayton. Richmond Heights may be more family-oriented than the other two. There's some residential areas south of Forest Park, too. City schools have issues, though. But there are some great private/Catholic schools.

Really I don't think you could go wrong with any of them.

What's your price range?

[stcali]

We are looking to rent first to see the area before we buy.

[TGS]

If you are renting, then the Central West End, South City, or University City would be great. If you can afford it, there are fabulous rentals in Clayton. Check out the area around DeMun street or in the Moorlands area.

The City schools have issues, so if your kids are of school age, then you will need to pay for private schools or see if one of the magnet schools has an opening. There are many inexpensive private schools in the city. The UCity schools aren't considered the best in the area, but they are safe, clean, and should be fine while you are renting. Clayton schools are considered some of the best in the area.

[aragx6]

If you don't think you will want to go the private school route and you like a more suburban experience I would also suggest looking into Kirkwood and Webster Groves- both filled with older homes and lovely tree-lined streets.

[breer23]

Originally Posted by stcali

We are looking to rent first to see the area before we buy.

You should also check out Quadrangle Housing; it a series of properties that are owned by Wash. U. and go for a little cheaper rate than some of the other local properties.

Welcome to Quadrangle Housing

Most of their properties are exclusively for Wash. U. faculty, staff, and grad students. My wife & I just moved to STL in August (I took a temp post at Wash. U.) and we have a 2BR/1BA (about 1300 sq. ft.) for $850/mo. We also have forced heat and central AC.

While I wouldn't suggest it for long-term living (more than 2-3 years) as most of the building are old and in need of some fixing, it certainly would get you in the neighborhood to be able to look for something to buy. Most of the properties are in U. City, Clayton, and the western edge of the city of STL.

[Bobster]

TGS is right on with his assessment! If you can afford it, Clayton has the best schools near the campus.

[Bobster]

Did a quick search on the MLS within a 4 mile radius of Wash U's campus there are 36 houses listed for rent ranging from $795.00/mth to over $4,500.00 per month.....