Benton Park, St. Louis,MO

Benton Park is a charming and vibrant neighborhood in southeast St. Louis that perfectly blends historic character with a lively community atmosphere. Known for its beautiful 19th-century brick homes and tree-lined streets, the area offers a warm, welcoming vibe that makes it a favorite among newcomers and longtime residents alike. If you appreciate a neighborhood with a strong sense of history and local pride, Benton Park’s well-preserved architecture and friendly streetscapes will quickly make you feel at home.

One of the standout attractions in Benton Park is, of course, Benton Park itself—a lovely green space that serves as the heart of the community. This park is a popular spot for picnics, summer festivals, and outdoor events, providing a great spot to relax or socialize with neighbors. The area is also known for its thriving craft beer scene, with several well-regarded breweries and taprooms nearby. For food lovers, Benton Park boasts a variety of cozy cafes, artisanal eateries, and the famous Benton Park Market, which offers fresh local produce and unique goods. Whether you’re a fan of the arts, food, or just spending time outdoors, Benton Park has something special to offer.

Being just a short 10- to 15-minute drive from Downtown St. Louis, Benton Park strikes a wonderful balance between urban convenience and neighborhood calm. Residents enjoy easy access to the cultural attractions, sports venues, and business centers downtown, while returning to a quieter, community-focused environment. The neighborhood also benefits from good public transportation options, making commuting or exploring the greater city hassle-free. For anyone relocating to St. Louis, Benton Park provides a dynamic yet cozy place to settle down, with plenty of local charm and easy access to the city buzz.

About 34% of the Benton Park population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 18% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Benton Park demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 3,559 residents, Benton Park is notably smaller than many other St. Louis neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Boasting a population density of 8,599, Benton Park is more densely populated than many other St. Louis neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 36, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Benton Park crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Benton Park, the median home price is about $244,914, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Benton Park have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,093, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Benton Park. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Benton Park can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.