Is St. Louis Safe? Crime Rates Plummet Despite Old Reputation

"Is St. Louis dangerous? I heard it has one of the highest crime rates in the country!" This was my mother-in-law's concerned response when my wife Sarah and I announced our plans to spend a week in the Gateway City. Meanwhile, our well-traveled friends raved about the city's incredible food scene and friendly Midwest hospitality. So which is it - a crime-ridden danger zone or an undiscovered gem?

As a middle-aged couple (okay, I'm still clinging to 39!) from Florida who work remotely while exploring the world, Sarah and I are no strangers to navigating unfamiliar cities. But St. Louis presented an intriguing challenge. Known for its iconic Gateway Arch and rich cultural heritage, the city has battled a reputation for high crime rates in recent years. However, recent data shows significant improvements in safety, with crime at its lowest level in a decade.

Determined to uncover the truth, we spent 7 nights in St. Louis, splitting our time between working remotely and exploring the city - sometimes together, sometimes solo. Our mission? To provide you with an honest, researched assessment of St. Louis's safety landscape, peppered with our personal experiences and, of course, some mouthwatering food recommendations (because what's the point of staying safe if you're not enjoying delicious local cuisine, right?).

So, grab a gooey butter cake (a St. Louis specialty - trust me, you'll thank me later), and let's dive into our "Is St. Louis Safe?" adventure!

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we lace up our walking shoes and hit the streets, let's take a look at the three key factors we used to assess St. Louis's safety:

01 - State Department Travel Advisory

First things first - what does the U.S. government say about visiting St. Louis? While the State Department doesn't issue advisories for domestic cities, we can look at Missouri's overall status.

As of July 2024, there are no specific travel advisories for St. Louis or Missouri from major international organizations. This lack of warnings is generally a good sign, suggesting that the city doesn't pose any extraordinary risks to visitors.

However, it's worth noting that the U.S. State Department uses a 1-4 scale for international travel advisories:

1. Exercise normal precautions
2. Exercise increased caution
3. Reconsider travel
4. Do not travel

If we were to apply this scale to St. Louis based on current crime statistics and safety improvements, it would likely fall under Level 2: Exercise increased caution. This means visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take standard safety precautions, but there's no need for extreme concern.

State Department Travel Advisory Check: PASS (with caution)

02 - Latest News

Next, we dove into recent news about St. Louis's safety situation. And boy, were we pleasantly surprised!

According to a January 2024 report, St. Louis experienced a significant 22% reduction in overall Part 1 crimes in 2023 compared to the previous year. This marks the lowest crime level in a decade - a pretty impressive turnaround!

Some key statistics that caught our eye:

• 21% reduction in homicides
• 24% reduction in shooting incidents
• 39% reduction in felony theft
• 19% decrease in auto theft

Mayor Tishaura Jones attributed these improvements to "targeted investments in crime prevention, intervention and enforcement." While experts caution that it's difficult to pinpoint exact causes for crime reduction, the trend is undeniably positive.

We also came across news about recent gun safety legislation signed by Mayor Jones, including a ban on open carry of firearms without a permit. This suggests a proactive approach to addressing safety concerns in the city.

Latest News Check: PASS

03 - Community Forums

Finally, we turned to the real experts - fellow travelers and locals. We scoured TripAdvisor forums and Reddit threads to get a sense of on-the-ground experiences.

The general consensus? St. Louis is like any big city - exercise common sense and be aware of your surroundings, and you'll likely have a safe and enjoyable visit.

One TripAdvisor user noted, "I've been using MetroLink for over a decade and have never had a serious issue. It's all about being alert and using common sense."

On Reddit, a local resident shared, "St. Louis is like any big city - be smart and aware of your surroundings and you'll be fine. I've lived here for years and love it."

We did notice that opinions varied depending on specific neighborhoods, with some areas consistently described as safer than others. This highlighted the importance of researching where to stay and visit within the city.

Community Forum Check: PASS

First Hand Experience in St. Louis

Armed with our research, Sarah and I set out to explore St. Louis. We based ourselves in the Central West End neighborhood, which we chose for its central location and positive safety reviews. From there, we ventured out to various parts of the city, both together and solo. Here's our neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdown:

St. Louis by Foot

Downtown

The heart of St. Louis, downtown is home to iconic attractions like the Gateway Arch and Busch Stadium. During our daytime explorations, we found the area to be bustling with tourists and office workers, with a visible police presence.

We felt completely at ease walking around the Gateway Arch National Park and enjoying the views of the Mississippi River. The National Park Service rangers were friendly and informative, adding an extra layer of security to our visit.

For dinner one evening, we tried the famous toasted ravioli at Mama's on the Hill. As we walked back to our Uber pickup point around 9 PM, we noticed the streets were quieter but still felt safe due to good lighting and the presence of other pedestrians.

Highlights:

• Gateway Arch National Park
• Busch Stadium (even if you're not a baseball fan, the atmosphere on game day is electric!)
• City Museum (a quirky, all-ages playground that's a must-visit)
• Citygarden (a lovely sculpture park with good security)

Is Downtown Safe? YES, especially during daylight hours. Exercise standard caution at night.

Central West End

Our home base for the week, the Central West End quickly became our favorite neighborhood in St. Louis. This area is known for its beautiful historic homes, tree-lined streets, and vibrant dining scene.

According to crime statistics, the Central West End is 59% safer than the city average, and we certainly felt that during our stay. We frequently walked to nearby restaurants and shops, even after dark, and always felt secure.

One evening, I (Tobi) worked late while Sarah ventured out solo to Taste, a cozy cocktail bar. She reported feeling completely safe walking the few blocks from our rental apartment, noting the well-lit streets and presence of other pedestrians.

Highlights:

• Forest Park (a massive urban park that rivals NYC's Central Park)
• Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis (breathtaking mosaics!)
• Left Bank Books (a charming independent bookstore)
• The Chase Park Plaza (historic hotel with a great cinema)

Is Central West End Safe? YES, one of the safest areas in St. Louis.

Soulard

Soulard, one of St. Louis's oldest neighborhoods, charmed us with its red-brick buildings and lively atmosphere. Known for its farmers market and Mardi Gras celebrations, Soulard has a vibrant bar scene that attracts both locals and tourists.

We visited Soulard during the day to explore the market and grab lunch. The neighborhood felt safe and welcoming, with plenty of people out and about. However, we did notice an increased police presence compared to the Central West End, likely due to the concentration of bars in the area.

While we didn't experience Soulard's famous nightlife firsthand (we're more early-bird than night-owl these days), fellow travelers on TripAdvisor reported feeling safe while bar-hopping, though they advised standard nighttime precautions like staying in groups and being aware of your surroundings.

Highlights:

• Soulard Farmers Market
• Anheuser-Busch Brewery (free tours and tastings!)
• Mission Taco Joint (fantastic tacos and margaritas)
• 1860 Saloon (live music and a fun atmosphere)

Is Soulard Safe? YES, but exercise increased caution late at night in the bar areas.

The Hill

As food lovers, we couldn't miss The Hill, St. Louis's famous Italian neighborhood. Known for its fantastic restaurants and specialty food shops, The Hill feels like a small town within the city.

We spent a sunny afternoon strolling the neighborhood, popping into delis and bakeries, and working up an appetite for dinner. The area felt incredibly safe, with families and older residents out and about, creating a warm community atmosphere.

For dinner, we indulged in some of the best Italian food we've had outside of Italy at Charlie Gitto's. Walking back to our Uber pickup after dinner (around 8:30 PM), the streets were quiet but well-lit, and we felt completely at ease.

Highlights:

• Missouri Baking Company (get the cannolis!)
• Gioia's Deli (home of the famous hot salami sandwich)
• Zia's Restaurant (classic Italian in a cozy setting)
• St. Ambrose Catholic Church (beautiful architecture and a center of community life)

Is The Hill Safe? YES, one of the safest-feeling neighborhoods we visited.

Delmar Loop

The Delmar Loop, named one of the "10 Great Streets in America," is a six-block entertainment and dining district known for its eclectic vibe. We visited on a Saturday afternoon and found the area buzzing with activity.

According to local safety resources, the Loop has seen increased security measures in recent years, including added police patrols and security cameras. We noticed a visible security presence, which contributed to a general feeling of safety.

During our visit, we enjoyed browsing the many unique shops and grabbing a bite at Blueberry Hill, a Loop institution. The diverse crowd of students, families, and tourists created a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

While we didn't stay into the late evening hours, we spoke with a group of Washington University students who frequented the area. They reported feeling generally safe in the Loop at night, though they advised staying on the main strip and using ride-sharing services for transportation after dark.

Highlights:

• Delmar Hall (great live music venue)
• The Pageant (larger concert venue with a variety of acts)
• Vintage Vinyl (huge selection of records and CDs)
• Fitz's Root Beer (watch soda being bottled while you eat)

Is Delmar Loop Safe? YES, especially during the day and early evening. Use standard precautions late at night.

Forest Park

No visit to St. Louis would be complete without exploring Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Home to many of the city's top attractions, including the St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, and Science Center, Forest Park felt like an oasis of tranquility and safety.

We spent two full days exploring the park and its attractions, and never once felt uneasy. The park was always busy with joggers, families, and tourists, creating a safe, communal atmosphere. Park rangers and security staff were visible throughout the park, particularly near major attractions.

One aspect of Forest Park safety we appreciated was the "Forest Park Rule" - locals advised us to avoid being in the park after dark unless attending a special event. We followed this advice, limiting our visits to daylight hours, which seemed to be when the park was at its busiest and safest.

Highlights:

• St. Louis Zoo (it's free!)
• St. Louis Art Museum (also free for the main collections)
• Missouri History Museum (great for understanding St. Louis's rich history)
• Boathouse at Forest Park (rent a paddleboat or just enjoy lunch with a view)

Is Forest Park Safe? YES, very safe during daylight hours. Follow the "Forest Park Rule" and avoid the park after dark.

St. Louis by Uber

While we walked a lot during our St. Louis adventure, there were times when we opted for Uber, either due to distance or as a safety precaution. Here's a breakdown of our Uber experiences:

1. Airport to/from hotel: We used Uber for this trip due to distance and convenience. The drivers were professional and the rides smooth.
2. Late-night returns: When attending evening events or dining out late, we often chose Uber for our return trips. This felt like a safer option, especially in areas we weren't as familiar with.
3. Traveling between distant neighborhoods: For longer trips, like from our Central West End base to Soulard or The Hill, we sometimes used Uber to save time.
4. Rainy days: On a couple of rainy afternoons, we opted for Uber to keep dry and avoid slippery sidewalks.

Our Uber experiences in St. Louis were consistently positive. The drivers were friendly and often offered local tips and recommendations. We always felt safe and found the service to be reliable and affordable. One evening, after enjoying a late dinner at Vicia in the Central West End, we decided to Uber back to our apartment despite it being just a 15-minute walk. Our driver, a long-time St. Louis resident, shared fascinating stories about the city's history and recent developments. It was one of those unexpected moments of connection that make travel so rewarding. Is Uber Safe in St. Louis? YES, we found it to be a reliable and secure transportation option. Final Thoughts After a week of exploring St. Louis, working remotely from cafes, and indulging in the local cuisine, we can confidently say that St. Louis feels much safer than its reputation might suggest. Like any large city, it has its challenges, but with recent safety improvements and a bit of common sense, visitors can have a secure and enjoyable experience. Here are our key takeaways and tips for staying safe in St. Louis:

1. Do your research: Understand which neighborhoods are safest and plan your accommodations and activities accordingly.
2. Stay aware: Keep your wits about you, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
3. Use reliable transportation: Uber or official taxis are great options for nighttime travel or longer distances.
4. Trust your instincts: If a situation feels unsafe, remove yourself from it.
5. Enjoy the popular attractions: Places like Forest Park, the Gateway Arch, and major museums are well-patrolled and very safe for visitors.
6. Engage with locals: St. Louisans are friendly and often happy to offer advice or recommendations.
7. Keep valuables secure: Don't leave items visible in parked cars, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
8. Follow the "Forest Park Rule": Avoid city parks after dark unless attending a special event.
9. Use well-lit ATMs: When getting cash, stick to ATMs in busy, well-lit locations.
10. Stay informed: Keep an eye on local news and weather forecasts during your visit.

We were pleasantly surprised by St. Louis's blend of Midwestern charm, rich history, and urban excitement. From the world-class (and free!) attractions in Forest Park to the delectable Italian cuisine in The Hill, St. Louis offered a diverse array of experiences that we enjoyed without ever feeling unsafe. Is St. Louis perfect? No city is. But it's a far cry from the dangerous urban jungle some might imagine. With crime rates at their lowest in a decade and continued efforts to improve public safety, St. Louis is positioning itself as an increasingly attractive destination for travelers. So, should you visit St. Louis? If you're a food lover, history buff, or just someone who enjoys exploring unique American cities, our answer is a resounding yes! Pack your bags, bring your street smarts, and prepare to be charmed by the Gateway to the West. Remember, as Mark Twain (a Missouri native) once quipped, "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness." Our preconceptions about St. Louis's safety were challenged and ultimately disproved by our experiences. We encourage you to visit and form your own opinions – you might just be surprised by what you discover! About Us We're Tobi and Sarah, a middle-aged couple (well, Tobi insists he's "perpetually 39") from Florida who recently tied the knot. We're on a mission to explore the world while working remotely, sharing our experiences to help others travel safer and smarter. As foodies and culture enthusiasts, we believe in fully immersing ourselves in local cuisines and traditions wherever we go. Our diverse backgrounds in risk assessment (Tobi) and cultural anthropology (Sarah) give us a unique perspective on travel safety. We aim to provide balanced, well-researched insights that cater to various types of travelers – from solo adventurers to families and everyone in between. By reading our articles, you'll get the inside scoop on staying safe while discovering the best local eats and experiences. It's a win-win: you stay secure, and you get to enjoy amazing adventures. So come along for the ride – we promise it'll be tasty, informative, and above all, safe!