Relocating to a new city brings a mix of excitement and anxiety—and if St. Louis, Missouri, is your destination, you’re in for a dynamic and affordable rental experience. With its rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and a cost of living well below the national average, St. Louis has become an appealing city for students, young professionals, families, and retirees alike.
Whether you’re moving from another state or relocating within the metro area, understanding the rental market in St. Louis is crucial for making informed decisions. In this complete guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from rental prices and neighborhood breakdowns to market trends and moving logistics.
Why St. Louis?
Located along the Mississippi River, St. Louis offers a perfect blend of Midwestern hospitality and big-city amenities. The city is known for its iconic Gateway Arch, deep-rooted music scene, award-winning restaurants, historic architecture, and expansive park systems. In addition to its cultural offerings, St. Louis boasts a strong job market in healthcare, education, biosciences, and logistics.
Key Benefits of Living in St. Louis:
- Affordable cost of living
- Diverse and unique neighborhoods
- Excellent schools and universities
- Central location for national travel
- Lively arts, sports, and food scene
Now, let’s dive into the details of the local rental market so you can start your St. Louis journey with confidence.
Current Rental Trends in St. Louis
As of early 2025, the St. Louis rental market is relatively stable, with slight annual increases in rent largely driven by growing demand in key neighborhoods.
Average Rent Prices:
- Studio apartment: $850–$1,100/month
- 1-bedroom: $950–$1,250/month
- 2-bedroom: $1,200–$1,600/month
- 3-bedroom+: $1,500–$2,000+/month
Rent in downtown and upscale areas like Central West End is higher, while outer neighborhoods like South City or Ferguson offer more affordable options.
Best Neighborhoods for Renters
St. Louis is a patchwork of distinct neighborhoods, each offering its charm, price range, and amenities. Here’s a look at some of the most popular areas for renters:
1. Central West End
- Who it’s for: Young professionals, medical students, urban lifestyle seekers
- Highlights: Upscale apartments, walkable, near Barnes-Jewish Hospital, cafes, nightlife.
- Average Rent: 1-BR around $1,400/month
2. Soulard
- Who it’s for: History buffs, party lovers
- Highlights: Brick townhomes, vibrant bar scene, annual Mardi Gras celebrations
- Average Rent: 1-BR around $1,200/month
3. Tower Grove South
- Who it’s for: Families, creatives
- Highlights: Access to Tower Grove Park, farmers markets, artsy vibe
- Average Rent: 1-BR around $1,000/month
4. The Grove
- Who it’s for: the LGBTQ+ community and nightlife enthusiasts
- Highlights: Trendy restaurants, music venues, progressive atmosphere
- Average Rent: 1-BR around $1,200/month
5. Clayton
- Who it’s for: Professionals, students, upscale living
- Highlights: Top-rated schools, modern apartments, quiet environment
- Average Rent: 1-BR starts around $1,600/month
6. South St. Louis County
- Who it’s for: Budget-conscious renters, families
- Highlights: More suburban feel, larger homes, quiet streets
- Average Rent: 2-BR around $1,200/month
Factors That Affect Rental Prices
Rental prices in St. Louis are generally more affordable than the national average, but there are a few key factors that influence what you’ll pay:
1. Proximity to Downtown
The closer you are to the city center, the higher the rent. Neighborhoods like Downtown, Midtown, and Central West End command higher prices.
2. Amenities
Apartments with features like in-unit laundry, fitness centers, pools, or pet-friendly policies often cost more.
3. Seasonality
Rental rates tend to peak during the summer (May–August), so if you’re looking to save, consider moving in the off-season.
4. Unit Condition
Renovated or new-build apartments with modern appliances and finishes are priced at a premium.
Tips for Renting in St. Louis
Renting an apartment, whether short- or long-term, requires planning. Here are some tips to help you navigate the St. Louis rental market like a pro:
1. Use Local Listing Sites
In addition to Zillow or Apartments.com, check local Facebook groups, Craigslist, or community bulletin boards.
2. Understand Lease Terms
Many landlords require a 12-month lease, but you can also find flexible or month-to-month options, especially near universities.
3. Check Safety Ratings
Use tools like NeighborhoodScout or SpotCrime to research safety statistics in different areas.
4. Inspect in Person
Whenever possible, visit the apartment before signing. Pictures can be misleading.
5. Budget for Utilities
Inquire with the landlord about the utilities included in the rent. In older buildings, heating and cooling can be costly.
6. Know Your Tenant Rights
Missouri law tends to favor landlords over tenants, so please ensure you review your lease carefully and document everything when you move in.
Rental Market Outlook for 2025
Experts predict that the St. Louis rental market will remain relatively stable through 2025. Rent increases are expected to be modest (2–4%), driven primarily by population growth and revitalization in areas like The Grove and Midtown.
The demand for affordable housing is rising, particularly among younger renters and remote workers moving in from higher-cost cities like Chicago and Denver. New apartment complexes are being built, particularly around Cortex and Forest Park, to meet this demand.
Moving to St. Louis? Here’s What You Need to Know
Whether you’re coming from across the state or across the country, your move to St. Louis should be as smooth and stress-free as possible. Choosing the right moving partner is key.
How to Choose a Reliable Moving Company in St. Louis
With so many moving companies in St. Louis, it’s essential to choose one that offers
- Transparent pricing
- Licensed and insured movers
- Positive customer reviews
- Local expertise
- Long-distance service if needed
If you’re relocating from another state, look for experienced St. Louis long distance movers who understand the logistics and timelines of cross-country moves.
Storage Options for Renters
In many rental situations, storage space is limited. Whether you’re downsizing or waiting for your new lease to start, secure storage can be a lifesaver.
Look for moving companies that also offer:
- Climate-controlled storage
- Short-term and long-term solutions
- 24/7 access
- Secure facilities
The St. Louis rental market offers variety, affordability, and plenty of character—whether you’re looking for a loft in a historic district or a quiet retreat in the suburbs. Armed with this guide, you’ll be better prepared to find the right home and settle into this vibrant, growing city.
Moving with Confidence: Choose Cord Moving and Storage
At Cord Moving and Storage, we’ve been helping families and professionals make smooth transitions for over 100 years. We are your trusted St. Louis movers, dedicated to making your move simple, safe, and stress-free.
Why Choose Cord Moving and Storage?
- Full-service local and long-distance moves
- Climate-controlled storage solutions
- Packing, loading, and unpacking services
- Licensed, insured, and experienced movers
- Rated one of the top moving companies in St. Louis
Ready to make your move to St. Louis Stress-free?
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, Cord is your go-to team of St. Louis long- distance movers. Our trained crews, modern equipment, and personalized approach ensure your move is efficient and hassle-free—so you can start enjoying your new home right away.
Get a free moving quote today from Cord Moving and Storage!!
Visit our website for free quote or call (800) 873-2673 to get started.
And remember—when it’s time to move, let the pros at Cord Moving and Storage handle the heavy lifting. From local moves to long-distance relocations, our team has the experience and dedication to help you every step of the way.
