looking for rural home close to St. Louis

[ajf131]

You could try someplace in Franklin or Jefferson County.

[AJohnston_STL]

Don't forget, "rural" today that is within 45 miles of the city will probably be the crowded suburbs any day now. See: Wentzville, Chesterfield, Festus, even Fairview Heights only 12 miles from the city was a one stop light city in the 70s. Now the metro east stretches 20 miles out and I'm sure it will continue to. Remember that the people who want the peace and tranquility of rural America, but still within 45 mins of all the city has to offer, will probably be in the middle of cul de sac after cul de sac in 10 years and have to move again!

Festus statistics (35 miles out of the city);
Population in July 2007: 11,223. Population change since 2000: +14.6%

Give it until 2012 and there'll be 40,000 people there.

An even better example, Wentzville, MO, 42 miles from the city
Population in July 2007: 22,478. Population change since 2000: +200.0%

[desertwilite]

It's like that just about everywhere, but if you have animals, garden and need to park an RV and a pontoon boat..., I just don't fit into the city life. I would have been better off being born in a different era, but it is what it is. I plan on living there only until my folks don't need me around anymore (they are in their late 80's) Anyway, I appreciate all the advise here and I have a couple ideas now. Thank you.

[AJohnston_STL]

^ You're right, "suburbia" is spreading out, or sprawling, at ridiculous rates. If you plan on only being around for a few years, you are probably ok. But for long term, you might want to consider what I have said.