Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm a teacher here and The unemployment rate is 1.9%, which is pretty low. Poverty rate is 3.4%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Wentzville sits at 205.2 per 100K. You can expect to pay around $1,264 for rent here. The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
Pros:
- Nice parks and trails
- Low taxes
- Good airport connections
Cons:
- Traffic can be terrible
- Lack of diversity
- Few job opportunities in some fields
- Limited cultural events
Property taxes are high but you get good services. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. The suburbs are where most families end up.
9 upvotes
14 Replies
Ezekiel J.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely underrated and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Greenfield) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
40 upvotes
houstonheart2025
nah I disagree
34 upvotes
Leo Carter
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor recreation is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
30 upvotes
Jaxon Smith
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 5 years. Moved from Dallas for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are solid. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Limited public transit options. Can feel isolated. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
25 upvotes
Samuel Miller
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great Mediterranean places. the quality of life is solid.
24 upvotes
Peyton Anderson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 3 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into running, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
19 upvotes
Santiago
Moved here from Atlanta about 1 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to job market but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
17 upvotes
Jerry M.
As someone who grew up here, I love the pace of life here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. cost of living used to be much pricey but now it's hit or miss.
15 upvotes
Theodore Brooks
preach
14 upvotes
boston_noah
been saying this for years
11 upvotes
Audrey
thanks for sharing
10 upvotes
Mackenzie Mitchell
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Denver about 6 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Dating scene is rough
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are developing, gas is challenging.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
7 upvotes
Maya R.
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in Old Town area are solid. Kids love it here.
7 upvotes
Weston N.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 35, moved here 9 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Springfield and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The cost of living situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for young professionals. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Tampa, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $40K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
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