Moving to attend SLU Law...help! (St. Louis, Washington: real estate, apartments, to rent)

[illini84]

Hi everyone,
I am moving to St. Louis next month (May) to start law school at St. Louis University. The law school is located on the main SLU campus, which is on Lindell Blvd. about a mile east of Forest Park. Can anyone tell me if this is a decent area to live in? I'm looking to live close to SLU so I don't have to commute each day, but more importantly, I want to live somewhere that's relatively safe (it doesn't have to be Mr. Roger's Neighborhood, just someplace that my car won't get broken into every week) and has a lot of activity (e.g. coffee shops, cafes, nightlife, restaurants within walking distance). Any input would be much appreciated!

Thanks!

Rachel

[RickMG]

Rachel, I think you really ought to talk to the appropriate department at SLU. If you are looking to walk to campus you might have a problem finding something other than SLU housing as the university really isn't in a residential area. The places I would look for would be between Lindell and Forest Park Expressway and west of the campus. If you don't care if you drive a short way I would look anywhere between SLU and Washington University. Many people just like you living in those areas but you will want to discuss safety with people you know once you get here. I think you'll be alright.

[meekel1]

I just graduated from SLU Law in May 2006. I lived in the Central West End for three years and I recently just purchased a townhome there. It is about a 5 or so minute drive...you can walk, but it a little hike, although I have done it before. The area is great, there is a public library, trendy restaurants, boutiques, upscale bars and clubs. It is a very artsy area and very liberal. It is safe but you will be in the city so there are frequent incidents of cars being broken into and other petty crimes. But it is safe and very nice...I would check it out. I lived in a great condo...if you want more info send me a private message

[Bobster]

Hi Rachel: I would agree with Meekel above. The central west end is a cool area that is not that far from SLU. South city has some fairly affordable houses that are in 'safe" areas. Are you looking to buy or to rent? I own a real estate and mortgage company here and would be happy to answer any questions that you might have.

Bob

[Fishtacos]

I would concur with the Central West End...too far to walk...great for bike...or very short side streets 5 minute car ride up the road. St. Louis University is very safe, tons of campus security etc...there is a big large building across the street from the law school literally....called the Coronado which is apts for students...can't miss it on Lindell. Central West End is also home to a huge medical center and Medical Schools and several hospitals....along with plenty of apts condos, etc...shops restaurants..etc...eclectic group.

[sluprof1]

Rachel-
Don't live in the apartments near campus on Lindell. They just aren't very safe, you will encounter too many undergraduates who pay a lot to live in the Coronado and similar buildings. You can find much much more affordable, and safer (quick drivable) alternatives in the Tower Grove area (Shaw, Tower Grove Heights, Oak Hill), and on the Hill. If you want to live in the CWE many students do so, but do not live on the 1st floor of a building as there have been some students suprised by burglars. Campus parking is not too hard, and there are lots were you can get a pack of tickets to justpay on the days you have class. Whatever you do, do not walk by yourself at night from SLU to the CWE. There have been students who have been held up at gunpoint (often in the wee hours of the morning), when walking in pairs, much less individually.

[AdamK]

There are actually a ton of great places to live near slu. My buddy lived near there for 5 years, and I am a realtor so I have seen some really great places. But if you have a car, I would recomend Central west end, then south grand, then the hill