Saint Louis, MO

Founded in 1764 as a French fur trading post, the city showcases that history in neighborhoods like Soulard, one of the oldest districts west of the Mississippi River. The Gateway Arch commemorates the city's role as the "Gateway to the West," and the attached Museum of Westward Expansion offers context for those curious about how St. Louis became a launching point for American expansion.

History buffs moving here will find plenty to explore beyond what meets the eye. Forest Park was the site of the 1904 World's Fair and still contains institutions from that time, including the Art Museum. The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis downtown features stunning Byzantine mosaics, and each February, Soulard's Mardi Gras celebration honors the city's French Catholic roots with parades and street parties that draw crowds from across the metro area.

St. Louis is best known for a few culinary creations that you won't find anywhere else. The St. Louis-style pizza, characterized by its cracker-thin crust, square-cut slices, and Provel cheese, is a local favorite. Barbecue also holds a proud place in St. Louis, with the city lending its name to the famous St. Louis-style pork ribs — a trimmed, meaty cut that has earned favor across the country.

The St. Louis Food & Wine Experience is a popular annual celebration drawing culinary enthusiasts from across the region, while the Taste of St. Louis festival brings together local chefs and restaurants for a large outdoor food celebration in the heart of the city.

Most St. Louis residents rely on a car to get around, and the city is connected by a network of major interstates. I-70 runs east-west, linking downtown St. Louis to St. Louis Lambert International Airport and beyond. I-64 is another major east-west highway, while I-55 and I-44 run south and southwest from the city. I-270 and I-255 form a loop around the city, making it easier to travel between suburbs without passing through downtown.

For those who prefer not to drive, St. Louis has public transit options through Metro Transit, which operates the MetroBus routes and the MetroLink light rail system. Cyclists have a growing number of dedicated bike lanes and trails throughout the city. Areas like the Central West End, Soulard, and Downtown offer solid walkability, while car-dependent patterns are more common in outer neighborhoods.

Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks at over 1,300 acres, surpasses even New York's Central Park in size. Forest Park is home to local attractions including the St. Louis Zoo, the St. Louis Art Museum, and the Missouri History Museum. Miles of walking and biking trails, golf courses, tennis courts, and open picnic grounds encompass the park. For a more rugged outdoor experience, Castlewood State Park along the Meramec River offers hiking, rock climbing, and stunning river views within about 30 minutes of the city.

The Gateway Arch National Park sits along the Mississippi riverfront and offers a unique park experience centered around the 630-foot arch. Riverfront trails, museum exhibits, and sweeping views of the city skyline are just a few of the highlights. Shaw Nature Reserve is roughly 35 miles west of downtown and has over 2,400 acres of tallgrass prairie, wetlands, and native wildflower gardens, sure to make any nature lover happy.

The average rent in St. Louis is $1,142 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Renters can expect to pay an average of $1,371 for a two-bedroom and $1,664 for a three-bedroom. Missouri’s statewide rent average places the city well below higher-cost markets, positioning St. Louis as a relatively affordable option. On average, renters can expect to pay 0.7% less for groceries, 5.8% less for utilities, and 10.0% less for transportation.

The Central West End is a neighborhood known for its boutiques, specialty shops, and art galleries along Euclid Avenue. Not far away, the Delmar Loop — named one of the "10 Great Streets in America" by the American Planning Association — is a go-to destination for record stores, independent retailers, and locally owned shops. For those who prefer traditional mall shopping, West County Center and Saint Louis Galleria in Richmond Heights offer a selection of national retailers and department stores. The Cherokee Street Antique Row district is a haven for vintage and antique hunters, drawing collectors from across the city.

St. Louis carries centuries of history while remaining one of the Midwest's most dynamic cities. Beyond its famous skyline, St. Louis offers a range of attractions, from local museums and dining to a thriving sports culture thanks to the Cardinals and Blues. Many of the city's top destinations, including the St. Louis Zoo, the Missouri Botanical Garden, and the St. Louis Art Museum, are free to visit. With no shortage of things to explore, St. Louis stands out as one of the most engaging cities in the country.