Is St. Louis Still an Affordable Place to Live in 2025?

Is it still affordable to move to the St. Louis region in today’s real estate market?

Yes — despite rising interest rates and low inventory, St. Louis remains one of the most affordable metro areas in the country. If you’re relocating or comparing housing costs across regions, the St. Louis area offers more value for your budget than most major U.S. markets.

Why Affordability Still Sets St. Louis Apart

While many metros have priced out the typical homebuyer, St. Louis has held its ground. As of mid-2025, it’s one of just three major U.S. metros where a median-income household can afford a median-priced home using about 30% of income — a key affordability benchmark. That means your housing dollar simply stretches further here.

Whether you're looking at historic neighborhoods in St. Louis City or newer developments in O’Fallon or Edwardsville, the region consistently offers options well below national pricing trends.

Median Prices That Fit Real Budgets

Here’s a breakdown of median home prices and what they mean for your wallet:

• St. Louis City: ~$190,000 — Homeownership costs about 17.4% of median income.

• St. Louis County: ~$235,000 — Still under 25% of median income.

• St. Charles County: ~$359,000 — A bit higher, but still below many national hotspots.

• Regional average rent: ~$1,412/month — Affordable compared to coastal metros.

Even in sought-after suburbs like Chesterfield and Edwardsville, you’ll find price points that work for first-time buyers, move-up families, and downsizers alike.

Yes, Interest Rates Are Still High — But…

You’ve probably heard that 30-year mortgage rates are in the 6–6.5% range. That’s true. And yes, it affects monthly payments.

But in St. Louis, the impact is softened by our lower home prices. For example, a $235,000 home in St. Louis County with 10% down still comes in far below the monthly cost of similar homes in markets like Nashville, Denver, or Chicago.

The bottom line? You can still buy smart here — especially if you work with an agent who knows how to spot opportunity.

Inventory Is Tight — But There’s Still Value

Like most places, the St. Louis housing market is facing a squeeze on inventory. As of late summer 2025, there are just over 3,100 single-family homes on the market — down 9% year-over-year.

However, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to buy. It just means you need a strategy — and a local guide who knows how to compete when homes sell fast (and often at asking price).

At The Blaylock Group, we help clients navigate this fast-moving market across St. Louis, Edwardsville, Chesterfield, O’Fallon, and nearby areas.

Why Buyers Are Still Moving Here

Here’s why affordability continues to attract movers to the St. Louis region:

• Lower housing costs mean more room in your budget for lifestyle, travel, or investing.

• Diverse neighborhoods offer options for every stage of life — from city condos to suburban homes with land.

• Steady home values protect your investment without the volatility seen in overheated markets.

Whether you’re relocating from out of state or just across the river, you’ll find that the St. Louis region offers real value — and real opportunity.

Final Takeaway

Moving to St. Louis in 2025 still makes financial sense. With lower home prices, manageable monthly costs, and a variety of housing options across markets like Edwardsville, Chesterfield, and O’Fallon, this region stands out for its rare mix of affordability and livability.

But in today’s market, getting the most value means being proactive — and working with someone who knows the area inside and out.

Ready to Explore Affordable Homes in the St. Louis Area?

If you're considering a move, let's connect. I'm Payton Blaylock with The Blaylock Group, and my team helps buyers and sellers make smart moves in St. Louis, Edwardsville, Chesterfield, O'Fallon, and surrounding communities. We’d love to help you find the right fit — and maximize your budget along the way.