Safest and Most Dangerous Places in St. Louis MO: 2026 Guide

If St. Louis has a personality, it would be the kind that surprises you in the best way. At first glance, it's the iconic Gateway Arch, red-brick buildings, and deep-rooted sports loyalty. But spend a little time here, and you will quickly realize that St. Louis is a city of layers. It’s historic yet evolving, calm in some corners and buzzing in others. 

St. Louis is home to universities like Saint Louis University, University of Missouri-St Louis, Washington University Medical Campus, and Washington University. It offers that rare balance for students and professionals, like affordable living, great universities, a growing creative and startup scene, and plenty of places to unwind after a long day. From green parks and coffee shop-lined streets to late-night food spots and cultural festivals, life here feels approachable, not overwhelming. As a student planning to move to a new city for college, your main concern is not just finding an apartment near campus, but also ensuring it's safe

St. Louis is not one uniform city. Each neighborhood feels different; some are quiet and family-oriented, others are lively and urban, while a few struggle with long-standing crime issues. If you’re moving here for college, work, or relocation, knowing the safest and most dangerous places in St. Louis MO can completely shape your experience.

This guide offers a realistic look at crime rates in St. Louis MO, neighborhood safety, safest neighborhoods, dangerous areas, and what daily life truly feels like in the city.

Understanding Crime Rates in St Louis MO

St. Louis has one of the most talked-about crime reputations in the U.S., but context matters. The city’s crime is highly concentrated in specific neighborhoods rather than spread evenly. Based on recent data, crime rates in St. Louis MO, show a violent crime rate of approximately 8.4 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of around 41.2 per 1,000 residents. Violent crime includes homicide, aggravated assault, and robbery, while property crime includes theft, burglary, and vehicle theft.

While these numbers are higher than the national average, the violent crime rate of 4.0 per 1,000, and the property crime rate of 25.3 per 1,000, the safest areas in St. Louis MO often record crime levels comparable to suburban cities. Understanding the safest and most dangerous places in St. Louis MO helps residents make informed housing decisions and avoid high-risk zones.

Safest Areas in St. Louis MO

St. Louis has several neighborhoods that are known for low crime, strong community presence, and excellent quality of life. These areas are the most recommended by locals as the safest neighborhoods in St. Louis MO. 

1. Clayton

Safety Index - 9.2/10 (Very High)
Average Rent - $1,400 - $2,200 / month
Average Population - 16,000 - 18,000

Clayton consistently ranks as one of the safest areas in St. Louis MO. It’s home to corporate offices, luxury apartments, and tree-lined streets. Strong police presence, high-income residents, and walkable zones make Clayton ideal for students and professionals seeking safety and convenience.

2. Central West End

Safety Index - 8.7/10 (High)
Average Rent - $1,300 - $2,000 / month
Average Population - 7,500 - 9,000

Located near Washington University Medical Campus, the Central West End blends city energy with security. Cafes, hospitals, and parks keep the area active throughout the day. It’s often listed among the safest neighborhoods in St Louis MO, for students and healthcare workers.

3. Webster Groves

Safety Index - 9.0/10 (Very High)
Average Rent - $1,200 - $1,800 / month
Average Population - 24,000 - 26,000

Webster Groves offers suburban calm with excellent schools and low crime. Filled with families and long-term residents, making this area one of the most reliable answers when people ask about the safest areas in St. Louis MO.

4. Kirkwood

Safety Index - 8.9/10 (High)
Average Rent - $1,150 - $1,700 / month
Average Population - 27,000 - 29,000

Kirkwood has historic homes, a strong community vibe, and excellent public safety. It’s regularly named the safest neighborhood in St Louis MO, for families and professionals commuting downtown.

5. Lafayette Square

Safety Index - 8.3/10 (Moderate to High)
Average Rent - $1,200 - $1,900 / month
Average Population - 5,000 - 6,500

Lafayette Square combines historic charm with urban living. Gated streets and active neighborhood associations keep crime lower than nearby districts, placing it among the safest areas in St. Louis MO, close to downtown.

Dangerous Neighborhoods in St. Louis MO 

St. Louis has many safe neighborhoods, but there are areas where crime is significantly higher than in the rest of the city. These dangerous places in St. Louis MO are not always unsafe, but they do require extra caution, especially for newcomers and students who are new to the city. 

North St. Louis (Near Fairground & Wells-Goodfellow)

Crime Rate - 18.9 per 1,000 violent crime, 58.4 per 1,000 property crime
Average Rent - $650 - $950 / month
Crime Reported - Violent assaults, robberies, shootings

This area consistently ranks as a dangerous neighborhood in St. Louis MO, with limited economic development and high crime concentration.

2. Downtown St. Louis (Late-Night Zones)

Crime Rate - 12.7 per 1,000 violent crime, 49.6 per 1,000 property crime
Average Rent - $1,100 - $1,800 / month
Crime Reported - Assaults, theft, car break-ins

Downtown is active during business hours, but becomes one of the dangerous places in St. Louis MO, late at night, especially around nightlife areas. With crowded bars, alcohol-related fights take place a lot. 

3. Dutchtown

Crime Rate - 14.8 per 1,000 violent crime, 52.1 per 1,000 property crime
Average Rent - $700 - $1,000 / month
Crime Reported - Burglary, drug activity, vehicle theft

Crime statistics rate shows Dutchtown with higher crime rates than the city average. It remains a dangerous neighborhood in St. Louis Mo due to drug-related activities, property, and violent crime. 

4. Old North St. Louis

Crime Rate - 15.6 per 1,000 violent crime, 55.8 per 1,000 property crime
Average Rent - $650 - $900 / month
Crime Reported - Robbery, vandalism, arson

Old North is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, and despite many improvements, it is considered one of the most dangerous areas in St. Louis MO. This area has a high number os vacant homes and lots. Empty buildings reduce natural surveillance, making it easier for criminal activity to go unnoticed 

Practical Tips to Live Safely in St. Louis MO

Living in St. Louis can be a great experience if you know how to stay alert and prepared. While every city has areas that require extra caution, a few smart habits can significantly reduce everyday risk. These practical safety tips will help you navigate St. Louis with peace of mind. 

1. Choose housing in the safest neighborhood in St Louis MO when possible
2. Avoid walking alone at night, especially downtown
3. Use gated apartments with security and cameras
4. Never leave valuables visible in your vehicle
5. Stay informed about the crime rates of St. Louis Missouri

Reliable and Safe Student Housing in St.Louis MO

When you are moving to a new city, having a comfortable apartment near your campus that suits your lifestyle and feels safe makes all the difference. With amber you can find various student apartments in St. Louis MO, and choose the one that matches your comfort. 

Here are a few options that you can book through amber: 

1. West Pine Lofts St. Louis - from $849 per month 

Located at W Pine Blvd, St. Louis, 63108, USA, West Pine Lofts is an ideal choice for students who want an apartment near their campus. This place has various living options in 2B and 1B with many common amenities. With its proximity to the University of Missouri St. Louis, and Washington University

2. City Lofts, St Louis - from $870 per month

City Lofts, located at 3720 Laclede Ave, St Louis, MO 63108, is filled with buzzing cafes, a student crowd, and shops. This place offers various room types like studio, 3-bed, 2 bath, 1-bedroom 1-bathroom, 2-bedroom 1-bathroom, and 5-bed 3-bath units. 

3. The Standard, St Louis - from $870 per month

This place is a 4-5 minute drive from Saint Louis University and a 10-11 minute drive from Washington University. Located at  3853 Forest Park Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108, it offers various living options such as 1B, 2B, 3B, 4B, and 5B. 

4. Coronado Place & Towers, St. Louis - $995 per month 

Coronado Place and Towers, situated at 3701 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, 63108, offers 1-3 Bedroom apartments and studio rooms. It is just a 6-minute walk from Saint Louis University and Washington University Medical Campus, which is a 5-minute drive away.

St. Louis can be a beautiful place to live if you choose wisely. From lively cultural areas to quiet suburban communities, the city offers something for everyone. However, understanding the safest and most dangerous places in St. Louis MO is critical for your safety.

While the dangerous places in St. Louis MO often dominate headlines, the safest areas in St. Louis MO offer stability, security, and a high quality of life. Whether you’re a student, professional, or family, being aware of neighborhood differences helps you navigate the city confidently and safely.

#Lifestyle#Housing

Follow us on