In this guide
Understanding safety is a key step when planning a move to St. Louis. The city often appears in national crime discussions, which can create concern for potential residents. However, like many large metropolitan areas, St. Louis has significant variation in crime levels depending on the neighborhood.
If you are relocating, it is important to look beyond general statistics and focus on neighborhood-level safety, lifestyle, and community development. At Arch Moving, we help individuals and families move with confidence by providing not only reliable moving services but also clear, practical insights about local living conditions.
Overview of Crime in St. Louis
St. Louis has historically reported higher crime rates compared to the national average. This includes both violent crime and property crime.
Violent crime rate
Higher than U.S. Average
Property crime rate
Also above the national average
Trend
Gradual improvements in certain neighborhoods over recent years
Crime in St. Louis is highly concentrated in specific areas, meaning safety can vary significantly by neighborhood.
Violent Crime vs Property Crime
Understanding the difference between crime types is important when evaluating safety.
Violent Crime
Includes offenses such as:
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Assault
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Robbery
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Homicide
St. Louis has one of the highest violent crime rates among major U.S. Cities, but incidents are often concentrated in limited zones.
Property Crime
Includes:
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Theft
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Burglary
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Vehicle break-ins
Property crime is more common and affects a wider range of neighborhoods.
For most residents, property crime is a more likely concern than violent crime.
Crime by Neighborhood, Where Safety Varies
Safety in St. Louis depends heavily on location.
Safer Neighborhoods in St. Louis
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Clayton, Affluent, low crime, strong community
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Ladue, Very low crime, upscale residential area
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Kirkwood, Quiet, well-established community
Areas with Higher Crime Concerns
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North St. Louis, Higher concentration of violent crime
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Downtown St. Louis, Property crime and theft in busy areas
Choosing the right neighborhood can significantly reduce safety concerns.
Crime Rate Statistics (Estimated 2026)
While exact numbers vary year to year, general estimates show:
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Violent crime rate: ~1,500+ incidents per 100,000 residents
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Property crime rate: ~4,000+ incidents per 100,000 residents
These figures are higher than national averages, but again, they are not evenly distributed across the city.
Factors Influencing Crime in St. Louis
Several factors contribute to crime patterns:
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Economic disparities in certain areas
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Population density differences
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Urban vs suburban development
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Law enforcement presence and community programs
Suburban areas and well-developed neighborhoods typically experience lower crime rates.
Safety Tips for New Residents
When moving to St. Louis, following basic safety practices can make a big difference:
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Research neighborhoods before choosing a home
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Visit areas at different times of the day
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Use home security systems where possible
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Avoid leaving valuables in vehicles
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Stay aware of your surroundings in busy areas
These steps help reduce risk and improve peace of mind.
Cost of Living vs Safety Trade-Off
Lower-cost housing is one of St. Louis’s biggest advantages.
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Lower home prices compared to national averages
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More space for the price
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Lower-cost rent in many areas
However, lower-cost areas may sometimes have higher crime rates.
Balancing lower costs with safety is essential when choosing where to live.
Job Market and Community Development
St. Louis continues to grow in several sectors:
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Healthcare
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Education
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Manufacturing
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Technology
Ongoing development and investment are improving infrastructure and community safety in many neighborhoods.
Pros and Cons of Living in St. Louis
Pros
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Lower-cost housing
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Diverse neighborhoods
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Strong cultural and historical presence
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Growing job opportunities
Cons
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Higher crime rates in certain areas
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Safety varies significantly by neighborhood
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Property crime concerns
About the author
Hayden Mattingly
Owner, Arch Moving · St. Ann, MO
Hayden Mattingly owns and runs Arch Moving, a locally owned moving company in St. Ann serving St. Louis, St. Charles County and the rest of Missouri. He leads a crew with a combined 20 years in the moving industry, trains movers from within, and oversees residential, commercial, packing and long-distance moves. He writes these guides from what his crews handle on real St. Louis moves.
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Quick tips
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Assault
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Robbery
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Homicide
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