Most Expensive Places to Live in Missouri in 2026

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Rankings: 10 Most Expensive Places in Missouri

Westwood, MO

How do you rate Westwood?

Westwood may be small in size, but it remains one of the wealthiest Zip Codes in Missouri. Quiet streets, custom homes, andand mature trees give it a relaxed sense of privacy. Country Club Plaza is just minutes away for upscale dining and shopping. People spend their weekends browsing the Fairway Shops or grabbing a meal along State Line Road with neighbors. Housing inventory stays extremely limited, and property values reflect that consistently. Westwood remains one of the richest cities in Missouri, with median household incomes far above the state average.

Home Prices in Westwood

$2,250,000

Median Home Rent

$2,800

Homes for Sale in Westwood Link

(View 3 homes)

Ladue, MO

How do you rate Ladue?

Ladue is often considered the heart of old-money wealth in the St. Louis area. Large estate homes along Ladue Road and Warson Road sit on lands covered with large trees with gated entrances and private drives. Plaza Frontenac, loc...

86/100

Safety Score

Why is Ladue safe?

Personal Safety : 86

Personal Safety: 86/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

100%

Kidnapping / Abduction

100%

Property Safety : 77

Property Safety: 77/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

30%

Larceny

15.09%

Motor Vehicle Theft

83.33%

Arson

Theft From Building

25%

Community Safety : 80

Community Safety: 80/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

16.67%

Stolen Property Offenses

100%

Vandalism

25%

Weapon Law Violations

25%

Drug / Narcotic Violations

Home Prices in Ladue

$1,900,000

Median Home Rent

$2,870

Homes for Sale in Ladue Link

(View 39 homes)

Frontenac, MO

How do you rate Frontenac?

Frontenac combines luxury shopping, upscale homes, and convenient access to downtown St. Louis. Residents often spend weekends shopping at stores like Tiffany & Co. or dining at refined restaurants inside Plaza Frontenac. Many hom...

86/100

Safety Score

Why is Frontenac safe?

Personal Safety : 100

Personal Safety: 100/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

100%

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 49

Property Safety: 49/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

70%

Larceny

3.33%

Motor Vehicle Theft

66.67%

Arson

Theft From Building

66.67%

Community Safety : 75

Community Safety: 75/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

15.38%

Stolen Property Offenses

100%

Vandalism

62.5%

Weapon Law Violations

100%

Drug / Narcotic Violations

100%

Home Prices in Frontenac

$1,695,000

Median Home Rent

$4,357

Homes for Sale in Frontenac Link

(View 14 homes)

Town and Country, MO

How do you rate Town and Country?

Town and Country is renowned for the huge estates, horse farms, and forested lands on the west side of St. Louis. Homes near Mason Road and Clayton Road often sit on multi-acre lots hidden behind private gates and long driveways. ...

86/100

Safety Score

Why is Town and Country safe?

Personal Safety : 91

Personal Safety: 91/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

100%

Robbery

100%

Aggravated Assault

350%

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 74

Property Safety: 74/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

128.57%

Larceny

120

9.09%

Motor Vehicle Theft

28.57%

Arson

Theft From Building

100%

Community Safety : 78

Community Safety: 78/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

20%

Stolen Property Offenses

100%

Vandalism

6.67%

Weapon Law Violations

Drug / Narcotic Violations

23.53%

Home Prices in Town and Country

$1,299,000

Median Home Rent

$2,600

Homes for Sale in Town and Country Link

(View 65 homes)

Clarkson Valley, MO

How do you rate Clarkson Valley?

Clarkson Valley sits quietly among rolling hills west of St. Louis and draws buyers who value privacy above everything else. Large luxury properties and tree-lined roads give the area a secluded feel that is rare this close to the...

100/100

Safety Score

Why is Clarkson Valley safe?

Personal Safety : 100

Personal Safety: 100/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 100

Property Safety: 100/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

Larceny

Motor Vehicle Theft

Arson

Theft From Building

Community Safety : 100

Community Safety: 100/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

Stolen Property Offenses

Vandalism

Weapon Law Violations

Drug / Narcotic Violations

Home Prices in Clarkson Valley

$1,145,000

Median Home Rent

$5,000

Homes for Sale in Clarkson Valley Link

(View 5 homes)

Lake Winnebago, MO

How do you rate Lake Winnebago?

Life in Lake Winnebago centers around waterfront living, boating, and private lake access. Many homes sit directly along the shoreline, featuring large patios, private docks, and scenic sunset views across the water. These luxury ...

93/100

Safety Score

Why is Lake Winnebago safe?

Personal Safety : 100

Personal Safety: 100/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 78

Property Safety: 78/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

100%

Larceny

50%

Motor Vehicle Theft

Arson

Theft From Building

100%

Community Safety : 81

Community Safety: 81/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

Stolen Property Offenses

100%

Vandalism

100%

Weapon Law Violations

Drug / Narcotic Violations

50%

Home Prices in Lake Winnebago

$1,095,000

Median Home Rent

$6,250

Homes for Sale in Lake Winnebago Link

(View 22 homes)

Clayton, MO

How do you rate Clayton?

Clayton works as both a luxury residential area and one of the most important business districts in the St. Louis region. High-rise condos near Carondelet Plaza put executives within walking distance of restaurants, law firms, and...

78/100

Safety Score

Why is Clayton safe?

Personal Safety : 95

Personal Safety: 95/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

100%

Robbery

33.33%

Aggravated Assault

41.67%

Kidnapping / Abduction

100%

Property Safety : 56

Property Safety: 56/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

33.33%

Larceny

112

16.67%

Motor Vehicle Theft

46.15%

Arson

100%

Theft From Building

16.67%

Community Safety : 48

Community Safety: 48/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

38.1%

Stolen Property Offenses

Vandalism

10.84%

Weapon Law Violations

45.45%

Drug / Narcotic Violations

23.08%

Home Prices in Clayton

$945,700

Median Home Rent

$1,650

Homes for Sale in Clayton Link

(View 96 homes)

Des Peres, MO

How do you rate Des Peres?

Des Peres has gradually been transformed into one of the most sought-after suburbs in St. Louis County. West County Center offers residents access to high-end shopping centers, dining spots, and entertainment venues. Families are ...

79/100

Safety Score

Why is Des Peres safe?

Personal Safety : 89

Personal Safety: 89/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

100%

Robbery

100%

Aggravated Assault

20%

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 58

Property Safety: 58/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

12.5%

Larceny

418

13.59%

Motor Vehicle Theft

50%

Arson

Theft From Building

38.46%

Community Safety : 58

Community Safety: 58/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

54.55%

Stolen Property Offenses

16%

Vandalism

Weapon Law Violations

60%

Drug / Narcotic Violations

85.71%

Home Prices in Des Peres

$690,000

Median Home Rent

$2,900

Homes for Sale in Des Peres Link

(View 40 homes)

Weatherby Lake, MO

How do you rate Weatherby Lake?

Weatherby Lake offers a private lake lifestyle just outside Kansas City. Residents enjoy boating, paddleboarding, fishing, and waterfront dining during the warmer months. Many homes around the shoreline feature private docks, mode...

90/100

Safety Score

Why is Weatherby Lake safe?

Personal Safety : 85

Personal Safety: 85/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

100%

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

100%

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 87

Property Safety: 87/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

Larceny

50%

Motor Vehicle Theft

33.33%

Arson

Theft From Building

Community Safety : 82

Community Safety: 82/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

Stolen Property Offenses

Vandalism

Weapon Law Violations

Drug / Narcotic Violations

Home Prices in Weatherby Lake

$659,999

Median Home Rent

$2,295

Homes for Sale in Weatherby Lake Link

(View 10 homes)

#10

Parkville, MO

How do you rate Parkville?

Parkville sits along the Missouri River and blends historic charm with upscale suburban living. The downtown area features locally owned coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants near English Landing Park, making it easy to explore...

82/100

Safety Score

Why is Parkville safe?

Personal Safety : 91

Personal Safety: 91/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

50%

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

88.89%

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 55

Property Safety: 55/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

47.37%

Larceny

8.7%

Motor Vehicle Theft

20%

Arson

100%

Theft From Building

11.11%

Community Safety : 74

Community Safety: 74/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

16.67%

Stolen Property Offenses

Vandalism

12.12%

Weapon Law Violations

100%

Drug / Narcotic Violations

Home Prices in Parkville

$506,000

Median Home Rent

$1,175

Homes for Sale in Parkville Link

(View 129 homes)

Your New Home is Waiting for You in Missouri

Top 3 Most Expensive Missouri Cities for Retirees

Top 3 Most Expensive Missouri Cities Worth It for Families

Families in Missouri are willing to pay more when the schools, safety, and quality of life back it up. Upscale suburbs across the state offer strong neighborhoods, parks, and easy access to major employers. These things make the higher price feel worthwhile. Here are some of the most expensive places to live in Missouri for families.

Ladue - Ladue lures many families due to its excellent schools, generous property size, and serene suburban environment. Neighborhoods around Conway Road and Ladue Estates feature quiet streets, luxury homes, and well-maintained parks that families genuinely value. The Ladue School District remains one of the strongest academic draws in the St. Louis region. Easy access to the business district and healthcare employers helps working parents balance career opportunities with family life. These advantages have steadily placed Ladue among the richest cities in Missouri for families.
Des Peres - Des Peres has emerged as one of the best suburbs for families around St. Louis. It is quite popular for its education system, shopping availability, and overall community planning. Areas near Des Peres Park and West County Center offer family-friendly surroundings with trails, recreation facilities, and larger homes. Many families exploring homes for sale in Des Peres are usually drawn by the balance between quieter neighborhoods and everyday convenience here. Parkway School District remains popular with parents seeking better education facilities. With its strong schools and suburban planning, Des Peres continues to see steady growth in home values across the area.
Frontenac - Frontenac draws families in with a quieter residential atmosphere and some of the strongest school access near St. Louis. Neighborhoods along Lindbergh Boulevard and Conway Road feature spacious homes that families genuinely appreciate. Many buyers exploring homes for sale in Frontenac also keep a close eye on the Frontenac housing market because inventory here usually stays limited. Plaza Frontenac at 1701 S Lindbergh Blvd is just around the corner for upscale shopping and dining that makes weekends feel effortless. Homes here carry premium prices, which makes Frontenac among Missouri's wealthiest cities for family living.

Top 3 Most Expensive Cities Worth It for Young Adults

Young adults in Missouri often prioritize cities that offer strong career growth, entertainment districts, and convenient access to major employers. Many professionals are willing to pay higher housing costs for neighborhoods that balance nightlife, networking, and everyday convenience. Here are the most expensive places to live in Missouri that continue attracting young adults:

Clayton - It is among the best places to be for the young professionals involved in finance, law, healthcare, and corporations within the St. Louis metropolitan area. The downtown area offers restaurants, rooftop bars, fitness studios, and coworking spaces that keep social life active after work hours. Additionally, Shaw Park and the nearby surroundings provide a healthy balance of activities. MetroLink access keeps commuting manageable for professionals traveling across Greater St. Louis. Career growth and urban living continue to make Clayton one of the cities with the most expensive homes in Missouri.
Parkville - Parkville attracts younger residents with its small-town atmosphere, growing job opportunities, and active local scene. The city features coffee shops, breweries, local restaurants, and riverfront spaces that stay busy throughout the week. Park University also brings student activity and a younger crowd to the area year-round. Easy access to downtown Kansas City helps professionals stay connected to larger employment hubs while still enjoying a quieter lifestyle. With modern infrastructure, outdoor spaces, and a growing local economy, Parkville offers young professionals a strong balance between career opportunities and social life.
Kansas City - Young professionals continue to move to Kansas City for its growing job market and active downtown lifestyle. Areas like the Crossroads Arts District, River Market, and Westport keep the city socially vibrant with cafes, breweries, coworking spaces, and live entertainment venues. Major employers, startup growth, and remote work opportunities have also made the city increasingly popular among younger residents.

Safest Places to Live in Missouri

Choosing a safe place to live is important for families, retirees, and young professionals across Missouri. Many cities in the state report lower crime rates and offer peaceful neighborhoods with a strong sense of community. From quiet suburbs to well-maintained small towns, Missouri has more safe places to live than many people expect. Explore our safest places to live in Missouri rankings to see which cities made the list.

Perry

100/100

Score

Safest Safest

Camden

100/100

Score

Safest Safest

Wildwood

99/100

Score

Safest Safest

Moscow Mills

94/100

Score

Safest Safest

Benton

94/100

Score

Safest Safest

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Ranking Methodology

To determine the most expensive places to live, we applied a structured, data-driven methodology using verified economic and housing datasets. Our analysis incorporates employment levels and job stability (Bureau of Labor Statistics), cost-of-living benchmarks (C2ER), median home prices and average rents (Houzeo housing data), and income statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau. Each factor was normalized against its respective state average to control for regional cost differences and market size. The combined metrics were then weighted and aggregated to produce a final comparative score, highlighting cities where housing costs, cost of living, and overall expenses are strongest relative to the state and national baseline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do wealthy people live in Missouri?

Many wealthy residents in Missouri live in places like Ladue, Frontenac, Town and Country, and Clayton near St. Louis. These areas are known for luxury estates, private country clubs, top-rated schools, and some of the most expensive homes in the state.

Is Missouri a poor or rich state?

Missouri is generally considered a middle-income state rather than extremely rich or poor. Major cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, and affluent suburbs such as Ladue and Clayton have strong economies and high household incomes. Meanwhile, some rural areas remain more affordable and economically challenged.

What should I know before moving to Missouri?

Before moving to Missouri, it's important to compare housing costs, property taxes, and job opportunities across different regions. Cities like Clayton and suburbs around Kansas City and St. Louis tend to have higher home prices, while many smaller towns remain relatively affordable. Missouri offers a lower overall cost of living than many coastal states, along with strong healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics job markets. Buyers relocating to the state should also factor in commute times, weather risks like tornadoes, and local property tax differences before choosing a neighborhood.

What's the downside of living in Missouri?

One downside of living in Missouri is the unpredictable weather, especially during tornado season and humid summers. Public transportation is limited outside larger cities like St. Louis and Kansas City, so most residents depend heavily on cars.

How do I buy a house in an expensive area in Missouri?

Buying a home in expensive Missouri areas like Ladue, Clayton, or Town and Country usually requires strong financing, a competitive offer, and quick decision-making because inventory stays limited. Many buyers researching how to buy a house in Missouri start by getting pre-approved and tracking local market trends before making an offer.

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Important Legal Disclosures

MLS Disclaimers
The market analysis provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Data is sourced from public records, industry reports, and third-party providers, and while Houzeo strives for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

All estimates, projections, and historical data are based on statistical models and should not be relied upon as predictions of future market conditions. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and real estate market conditions may change due to various economic and regulatory factors. Users are responsible for conducting their own due diligence before making any real estate or financial decisions. Houzeo is not liable for any decisions or actions taken based on the information provided. Any unauthorized use, duplication, or distribution of the data may violate copyright laws and result in legal consequences. Certain information, tools and services on this page may be powered by third-party vendors. Houzeo does not control or guarantee the accuracy, reliability, or functionality of such third-party services.