When you think of St. Louis, the first image that likely comes to mind is the Gateway Arch—a striking monument that stands as both an architectural wonder and a symbol of the city’s rich history. Known as the “Gateway to the West,” St. Louis played an instrumental role in America’s expansion, marking Lewis and Clark’s starting point for their westward travels.
There’s always something to do in St. Louis thanks to a blend of sports, music, history, and festivals. The city offers affordable living, job opportunities, and a welcoming sense of community.
The five most affordable neighborhoods in St. Louis, Missouri are:
Dutchtown South
- Average 1-bedroom rent in St. Louis: $1,142
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Dutchtown South: $598
- Median home list price in Dutchtown South: $155,000
The Dutchtown South neighborhood in St. Louis, MO, is steeped in historical charm. Many of its stately homes and buildings reflect German architectural styles. From brick cottages to two-story houses with intimate detailing, walking through Dutchtown South feels like stepping into a living museum.
Things to do in Dutchtown South
Marquette Park is one of the neighborhood's standout gems, offering activities like free movie nights and kickball tournaments. The park also features amenities such as a large outdoor pool, tennis courts, a soccer field, and a baseball diamond. Take a drive down South Grand Boulevard for an array of dining options, from vegan cuisine to Vietnamese specialties.
Grab a membership at the Missouri Botanical Garden, located a short distance away, and enjoy free access to its stunning gardens year-round. The Garden also hosts special events throughout the year, including wine tastings and the ever-popular Japanese Festival.
Transportation
If you plan to commute, Dutchtown South provides convenient access to major routes like I-55. This proximity to downtown St. Louis makes it an attractive neighborhood if you desire a quick and straightforward trip. The neighborhood’s walkable streets provide convenience, whether you’re picking up groceries or simply enjoying a stroll to nearby parks and shops.
Convention Center
- Average 1-bedroom rent in St. Louis: $1,142
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Convention Center: $1,122
- Median home list price in Convention Center: $160,000
Convention Center is nestled in the larger Downtown Saint Louis area and offers renters convenience and affordability. The neighborhood has upscale and affordable rentals alike and is perfect for renters who want big-city living on a budget. Whether you’re visiting the city or want to take advantage of St. Louis’s nightlife scene, there’s something for everyone in Convention Center.
Things to do in Convention Center
Convention Center is designed to showcase the best that St. Louis has to offer for visitors and locals alike. Concerts and shows are abundant at America’s Center Convention Center, drawing large crowds and keeping the neighborhood busy. Locals can enjoy entertainment at America’s Center or walk over to Downtown Saint Louis where renters can explore restaurants, bars, and shops throughout the area.
Proximity to downtown means the Gateway Arch National Park is nearby, giving renters access to green spaces and benches on a sunny day. Take an afternoon riverside stroll along the Mississippi River or spend time indoors and visit one of the many museums nearby. A local favorite is the National Blues Museum, a nonprofit that explores and celebrates the music genre that gained popularity in St. Louis.
Transportation
Interstates 44, 64, 55, and 40 all converge in Downtown St. Louis, making travel in and out of Convention Center easy. Residents are no strangers to walking and biking in and around the area with wide sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets.
Downtown St. Louis
- Average 1-bedroom rent in St. Louis: $1,142
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Downtown St. Louis: $1,193
- Median home list price in Downtown St. Louis: $199,000
Music, sports, and adventure are just a few things that await renters in Downtown St. Louis. Downtown St. Louis is home to historic and nationally recognized landmarks, perfect for every kind of renter. You’ll find a new restaurant, shop, or bar on nearly every street, making Downtown St. Louis a hub of discovery.
Things to do in Downtown St. Louis
Blues culture runs deep in St. Louis, but nowhere does it run deeper than in Downtown. Visit BB’s Jazz or Soups to hear local jazz ensembles while dining on St. Louis favorites. You can find cuisine of any kind on Washington Avenue and even discover your new favorite hole-in-the-wall bar. The Mercantile Exchange District, also on Washington Avenue, is home to over 50 vendors hand-selected by fashion experts.
Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park is a local favorite and occupies 91 acres in Downtown St. Louis along the western bank of the Mississippi River. Here, renters can visit iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch, the Old Courthouse, and the Museum of Westward Expansion. Enjoy a riverside stroll while taking in American history.
Transportation
There is a Metrolink station available near The Gateway Arch that takes residents around the city, based on bus times and schedules. Cabs and taxis are sprinkled through the area for convenient transportation, and sidewalks support biking and walking needs. Major interstates are close for those who prefer to drive.
Downtown West
- Average 1-bedroom rent in St. Louis: $1,142
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Downtown West St. Louis: $1,201
- Median home list price in Downtown West St. Louis: $149,900
Downtown West St. Louis is in the west part of downtown St. Louis, as the name would suggest. This neighborhood lies a few miles away from the Mississippi River and the Gateway Arch. Even though Downtown West resides in one of the city’s bustling areas, there are still amenities and landmarks that make this neighborhood stand out.
Things to do in Downtown West
Downtown West is close to office buildings and situated in the downtown area, meaning there are ample job opportunities for residents. The Saint Louis Wheel offers scenic views of the Mississippi River and Gateway Arch, while the Enterprise Center and Stifel Theatre hosts concerts and shows year-round. For even more options, venture into Downtown St. Louis where you will find unique shopping and dining.
Memorial Plaza and Aloe Plaza provide walking paths and green spaces to stretch your legs or relax. Kaufman Park is perfect for a picnic on a sunny day or to take pictures on a snowy one. When the weather permits, the park hosts races and events throughout the year.
Transportation
With its proximity to downtown, Downtown West supports a variety of transportation. Walking, biking, driving, or taking public transit are all possible in this community. Major interstates are close by, making it easy to travel throughout St. Louis and beyond.
Midtown St. Louis
- Average 1-bedroom rent in St. Louis: $1,142
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Midtown St. Louis: $1,290
- Average home value in Midtown St. Louis: $265,878
Midtown St. Louis is located on the outskirts of the city and is a Missouri hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Residents span generations with the neighborhood being home to Saint Louis University and several historic landmarks. If you’re looking for a close-knit community a few miles away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, Midtown St. Louis may be a great fit.
Things to do in Midtown St. Louis
St. Louis favorites like Café Ventana, where you can order soups, salads, sandwiches, and coffee, and Best Steak House, a local hotspot since 1964, are in Midtown St. Louis. Wine lovers can add Dark Room Wine Bar & Photo Gallery to their bucket list, where you’ll find a selection of hand-picked wines from around the world. Lindell Boulevard is where most residents do their shopping, with grocery stores and everyday necessities available.
Midtown borders Forest Park, a 1300-acre space that has served the area since 1876. Paved trails, lakes, and open green spaces welcome renters for any and all recreation.
Transportation
Forest Park Parkway Road runs right through the heart of Midtown St. Louis and offers residents easy access to the surrounding neighborhoods and the rest of St. Louis. Interstates 64 and 40 border Midtown and most residents prefer to get around using their personal vehicles. Public transit is available via the city’s MetroBus route and MetroLink rail system, called Grand.
Find the Perfect Place with Apartments.com
St. Louis is a bustling city that has hidden neighborhoods just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking to be close to the action in Downtown St. Louis or prefer a close-knit small community like the one in Midtown, Apartments.com can help you find the place you’re looking for.
Use Apartments.com to narrow your search filters by amenities, price, and square footage. Your next rental is just a click away. Start your search on Apartments.com!
This article was originally published on August 11, 2025 by Sharon Livsey.
