Safety in St. Louis
Detailed safety data — sourced from authoritative datasets and normalized for direct comparison.
Safety in St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis faces significant challenges regarding safety, with crime rates that are notably higher than national averages. As of 2024, the city recorded a violent crime rate of 1,367 incidents per 100,000 residents, placing it among the highest nationwide, with aggravated assaults, robberies, rapes, and homicides contributing to this figure. Property crime is also a substantial concern, with a rate of 5,707 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2024, well above the U.S. average, largely driven by larceny-theft and motor-vehicle thefts. While the overall safety grade for St. Louis is a 'C' with an overall crime index 5% above the national average, safety levels vary dramatically by neighborhood, with some areas being considerably safer than others.
Safety Scores
About St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis, Missouri, a city rich in history and culture, is situated along the western bank of the Mississippi River. Known as the 'Gateway to the West,' it is famously home to the iconic Gateway Arch, symbolizing its historical role in westward expansion. The city boasts a vibrant arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and numerous free attractions, making it an appealing destination for residents and visitors alike. Despite a declining city population, the broader St. Louis metropolitan area has experienced growth, driven partly by international immigration. People are drawn to St. Louis for its unique blend of urban amenities, historic charm, and relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other major U.S. cities.
About Missouri
Missouri, known as the "Show-Me State," offers a diverse landscape from the Ozark Mountains to the Missouri River, characterized by a continental climate with hot, humid summers and cold winters, experiencing all four seasons. Its economy is highly diversified, with major industries including agriculture, manufacturing (especially transportation equipment and food processing), financial services, and a growing presence in high-tech fields like agtech and cybersecurity. Living in Missouri is generally affordable, consistently ranking among the states with the lowest cost of living, with housing costs significantly below the national average. The lifestyle offers a blend of urban amenities in cities like St. Louis and Kansas City, known for their arts, music, and professional sports, alongside abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.