Saint Elmo, Chattanooga,TN

Chattanooga’s Saint Elmo neighborhood is a charming and vibrant community nestled in the southeast part of the city. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and historic roots, Saint Elmo offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities that make it an attractive place to call home. One of the standout features of this neighborhood is the famous Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, an iconic attraction that provides stunning views and a fun way to explore the scenic beauty of the area. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the easy access to outdoor activities, including hiking trails and nature parks, perfect for those who love an active lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty.

For people relocating to Chattanooga, Saint Elmo offers a peaceful residential vibe while still being conveniently close to the bustling Downtown area—just about a 10 to 15-minute drive away. This proximity means you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a quiet neighborhood with a friendly community feel, coupled with quick access to the city’s dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The neighborhood also boasts a number of local businesses, cozy cafes, and unique boutiques that contribute to its distinct character. Whether you’re grabbing a bite or meeting neighbors, there’s a strong sense of community that makes Saint Elmo truly special.

Families moving to Saint Elmo will appreciate the excellent schools and family-friendly parks nearby, while the active social scene and cultural events make it an engaging place for young professionals and retirees alike. From exploring the historic homes to enjoying the seasonal festivals and farmer’s markets, there’s always something happening in this lively neighborhood. Saint Elmo’s combination of scenic beauty, community spirit, and easy access to the heart of Chattanooga makes it an ideal spot for anyone looking to settle in a welcoming and dynamic part of the city.

About 35% of the Saint Elmo 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 21% 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.

Saint Elmo 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 1,874 residents, Saint Elmo is notably smaller than many other Chattanooga 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.

With a lower than average population density of 1,139 people per square mile, Saint Elmo offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Chattanooga neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 38, 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 Saint Elmo crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Saint Elmo, the median home price is $182,800, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Saint Elmo can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $1,110, 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 Saint Elmo. 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 Saint Elmo 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.