Best Neighborhoods in St. Louis, MO for Renters

The Gateway City offers renters an affordable alternative to more expensive metros while maintaining the cultural amenities that make city-living desirable. St. Louis provides diverse living options from restored brick buildings in historic districts to modern apartment communities near downtown.

With neighborhoods ranging from the historic district of Central West End to Downtown Saint Louis where there is no shortage of attractions, St. Louis caters to various lifestyle preferences.

Based on rental data, local amenities, and lifestyle factors, here are the five best neighborhoods in St. Louis for renters:

1. Central West End
2. Soulard
3. Forest Park Southeast
4. Downtown Saint Louis
5. Convention Center

Central West End

• Average one-bedroom rent in St. Louis: $1,142/month
• Average one-bedroom rent in Central West End: $1,480/month
• Average one-bedroom size in Central West End: 708 square feet

Why Central West End is good for renters

Central West End stands as one of St. Louis's most walkable neighborhoods, featuring early 20th-century architecture and upscale dining options. Renters benefit from easy walking access to Forest Park, the Cathedral Basilica, and Washington University's medical campus. The neighborhood's MetroLink station provides direct rail service to downtown and Lambert Airport, making car-free living possible.

Keep in mind

This is one of St. Louis's more expensive neighborhoods, and street parking can be competitive during evening hours when restaurants and bars are busy.

Soulard

• Average one-bedroom rent in St. Louis: $1,142/month
• Average one-bedroom rent in Soulard: $1,325/month
• Average one-bedroom size in Central West End: 712 square feet

Why Soulard is good for renters

Soulard, the oldest neighborhood in St. Louis, offers renters historic charm with its cobblestone streets and restored brick row houses. The neighborhood hosts the second-largest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States and maintains a lively nightlife scene throughout the year. Its proximity to downtown means easy access to employment centers while retaining residential character.

Keep in mind

Weekend festivities can bring crowds and noise, particularly during Mardi Gras season and summer street festivals.

Forest Park Southeast

• Average one-bedroom rent in St. Louis: $1,142/month
• Average one-bedroom rent in Forest Park Southeast: $1,588/month
• Average one-bedroom size in Forest Park Southeast: 732 square feet

Why Forest Park Southeast is good for renters

Forest Park Southeast, known locally as "The Grove," has transformed into an arts and entertainment district. Renters enjoy direct access to Forest Park's 1,300 acres of green space, along with the neighborhood's growing collection of galleries, theaters, and the Saint Louis Zoo. The area's industrialization boom has brought new apartment communities offering affordable and upscale rentals alike.

Keep in mind

As an up-and-coming neighborhood, some blocks are more developed than others and construction may temporarily affect daily routines.

Downtown Saint Louis

• Average one-bedroom rent in St. Louis: $1,142/month
• Average one-bedroom rent in Downtown Saint Louis: $1,189/month
• Average one-bedroom size in Downtown Saint Louis: 783 square feet

Why Downtown Saint Louis is good for renters

Downtown Saint Louis sits along the Mississippi River and features iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch National Park. Renters have easy access to St. Louis’s nightlife scene along Washington Avenue. Loft-style apartments and upscale rentals are more affordable than similar options in other metro cities. Getting around is convenient with metro lines and interstates connecting Downtown to the rest of the city.

Keep in mind

Living in the hustle-and-bustle of downtown can bring noise, overcrowding, and competitive parking.

Convention Center

• Average one-bedroom rent in St. Louis: $1,142/month
• Average one-bedroom rent in Convention Center: $1,121/month
• Average one-bedroom size in Convention Center: 791 square feet

Why Convention Center is good for renters

Convention Center is nestled in Downtown Saint Louis and borders Gateway Arch National Park, putting renters in the heart of the city. Affordable apartments paired with nearby metro stations make city-living a breeze. Entertainment, dining, and nightlife are steps away thanks to the neighborhood’s proximity to downtown. Residents enjoy easy access to the Mississippi River, the National Blues Museum, and other historic landmarks.

Keep in mind

While metro stations are available for travel in the area, many residents still rely on personal vehicles for everyday errands.

Ready to Make the Move?

St. Louis is the perfect place for renters who want to live in a bustling up-and-coming city for an affordable price. Whether you’re looking for a view of the Mississippi River from your window or want the convenience of downtown steps from your front door, Apartments.com gives you plenty of options to choose from.

Our detailed listings include photos, floor plans, and neighborhood information to help you make an informed decision about your next home. Don’t wait—the perfect place is waiting for you on Apartments.com.

Methodology

Rent and cost of living data are sourced from the Apartments.com Rent Trends pages and Cost of Living Calculator. Walkability, transit, drivability, and bikeability ratings are sourced from the Apartments.com Area Guides, courtesy of Local Logic.

This article was originally published on December 12, 2025, by Sharon Livsey, and has been updated to reflect 2026 data.