Forest Park, St. Louis,MO

If you’re considering a move to the north west part of St. Louis, Forest Park is an absolute gem to explore. Known for its vast green spaces and vibrant cultural scene, this neighborhood offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and urban amenities. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an art lover, or someone who enjoys a lively community vibe, Forest Park has something special to offer. The park itself is one of the largest urban parks in the country, providing residents with scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful lakes to unwind by after a busy day.

One of the standout attractions in Forest Park is the Saint Louis Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art from around the world and offers free admission to visitors. The park also hosts the Saint Louis Zoo, a favorite spot for families and animal lovers, boasting a wide variety of species and interactive exhibits. For those interested in science and history, the Missouri History Museum and the Saint Louis Science Center are also conveniently located within the park’s boundaries, making this area a cultural hub. Plus, Forest Park is home to the iconic Muny, the nation’s oldest and largest outdoor musical theater, providing fantastic entertainment during the summer months.

Commuting to Downtown St. Louis from Forest Park is relatively easy and quick, usually taking around 10 to 15 minutes by car depending on traffic, or a bit longer if you opt for public transportation. This close proximity means residents can enjoy a peaceful neighborhood retreat while still having easy access to the bustling city center. With a mix of charming homes, excellent schools, and plenty of recreational opportunities, Forest Park is an inviting option for anyone relocating to the St. Louis area who wants both culture and convenience at their doorstep.

About 30% of the Forest 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 10% 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.

Forest 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 1,289 residents, Forest 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.

Forest Park has a population density of 2,597, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other St. Louis neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 34, 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 Forest 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 Forest Park, the median home price is about $329,388, 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 Forest 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 $1,334, 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.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Forest Park. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Forest Park offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.