So you’re looking for a new St. Louis neighborhood to call home. You want a good school district and a safe area, but there are many other factors that play a role in how much you’ll love your St. Louis neighborhood.
Here are the eight best factors of a good St. Louis neighborhood.
Great Parks
A great park in your area can be a big perk. Parks with tennis, volleyball or basketball courts mean you’ll have plenty to do on warm weekend afternoons. Parks give you the opportunity to enjoy green space, even if your home doesn’t have it. Some parks even have special areas for dogs, so if you love running around with your dog, then dog parks can be great for helping your dog get plenty of exercise.
Just make sure the park isn’t in disrepair or a popular hangout for criminals. Before you buy, drive around at night to see the activity in the park.
Close Grocery Stores
Grocery stores nearby will save you time and energy. You’re always going to need to shop for food, and if you have to drive 30 minutes to find a good grocery store, then it’s going to get old really fast. Find a St. Louis home within a short driving or walking distance. Consider public transportation as well.
Delicious Local Restaurants
For those days when you don’t want to cook, you’ll want to order from your favorite nearby restaurants. Check out the restaurants and the menus online before buying. That way, you can make sure their prices are reasonable and that there’s more than just pizza in the area.
Large Trees and Nature
Fully grown trees can offer a lot of shade for your home and backyard. By blocking the sun, you’ll keep your energy costs down.
Town Library
If you have children, a trip to the local library is a great way to pass the time. Libraries host a number of free and low-cost events and activities for children, which can be great for helping kids meet new friends and improve their reading skills.
Park or Community Pool
Parks can be even better if they have a pool. Some recreational centers also have pools for people to swim in the summer. In areas where the summers get especially hot, having a pool nearby can be a lifesaver. You can cool off in just a short walk or drive from your home, and you can meet other people in your community.
Local Coffee Houses
If you love coffee and always grab a cup on your way to work, then having a local coffee house in your St. Louis neighborhood will be a huge plus. If you’re a regular, the staff will get to know your order, and you’ll feel like part of the neighborhood.
Farmer’s Market
During the summer and fall months, farmer’s markets are great places to find fresh produce and other fun homemade snacks. If you love having fresh food every week, a farmer’s market can be a great alternative to a grocery store. Sometimes they’re even a bit cheaper.
Farmer’s markets are also great for getting to know your neighbors and community. People love to hang out and chat at these events, so if you want to build relationships with neighbors and local growers, then this is the place to do it.