U City question (University City: homes, neighborhood, middle school)

[townhome_seeker]

Does anyone have insight into the area in University City around Ruth Park Golf Course? (probably between McKnight and Hanley, south of Olive) We're looking into some of the housing options in their area but don't know much about the neighborhood.

We've heard schools in U City aren't great, but that's not a major concern currently. We're more interested in safety, convenience to shopping/grocery/etc, and general vibe of the area.

Would appreciate any help!

[zach_33]

I don't think I would have a lot of safety concerns in that area. It is ethnically mixed - many Jewish families, African Americans, non-Hispanic whites, and some Asians as well. Just east of the golf course is working class, kind of gritty looking in parts, but not not what I'd call dangerous. South of the golf course is pretty swanky, homes fetching 200, 300, 400+ with nice tree lined streets. Right around the course itself is mostly well maintained brick ranches from the 1950s. Given your handle I might guess you are looking at Presido Ct?

[townhome_seeker]

Hey Zach,

Thanks for the reply. Yep, we're looking around at our various options, and the presidio court listing caught our eye. The units there look quite nice, but we're just not too sure about the area -- can certainly see what you mean about it being a bit more "gritty" than some of the other parts of the metro area.

[zach_33]

That little cul de sac is fine, as is the area immediately to the east and southeast. A bit further to the east, the area bounded by the river des peres and Olive Blvd (all around the Hebrew Cemetary) is where you are likely to notice a big step-down in home value. Smaller, more run down homes, but still not what I would classify as dangerous. North of Olive is pretty much all blue collar and is rough in some patches, especially as you go further north and/or east. I can't really speak to the vibe right around Ruth Park because I don't live there, but having played Ruth Park golf course on many occasions, and having watched many a youth soccer game across the street at Brittany Woods middle school, I'd say Presidio is probably a bit isolated if you are a young single/couple looking for lots of nearby amenities, like within walking distance or a short bike ride, but it is a central area with a lot of good stuff within 5 minutes drive.