Relocation FAQs
Which St. Louis suburbs have the best public school districts?
School district quality is the single most cited factor for families relocating to the St. Louis area, and it is closely correlated with property values across the central corridor. The following districts are consistently rated among the highest in Missouri:
Clayton School District — Widely considered the top public school district in Missouri, Clayton School District serves the municipality of Clayton and is known for rigorous academics, exceptional college preparation, and very high test scores. Clayton High School consistently ranks among Missouri's best public high schools.
Ladue School District — Ladue School District serves the municipalities of Ladue, parts of Creve Coeur, and Olivette. It is an A+ rated district offering a wide range of AP courses. Homes in the Ladue district command a significant premium.
Kirkwood School District — Kirkwood School District is highly regarded for its community engagement, strong athletics, and well-rounded academic programs. Kirkwood High School has a strong reputation across Missouri.
Webster Groves School District — Webster Groves offers excellent schools with a community-focused character that reflects the broader neighborhood culture.
Parkway School District — Parkway serves parts of western St. Louis County including Creve Coeur, Town and Country, and Chesterfield, and is one of the largest and highest-performing districts in the state.
Gladys Manion agents are deeply familiar with every boundary and feeder pattern in the central corridor school districts and can advise buyers on exactly which properties fall within their target district.
I'm relocating to St. Louis for work, which neighborhood should Iive in?
The right neighborhood for a St. Louis relocating buyer depends on your employer's location, family situation, lifestyle preferences, and budget. Here is a framework for the most common relocation scenarios:
Relocating to work in Clayton/downtown St. Louis County: Clayton itself is the obvious choice — walkable to your office with excellent schools. Ladue, Frontenac, and Kirkwood also offer easy access to Clayton with slightly more suburban character and space.
Relocating to Washington University or the medical corridor: The Central West End offers the shortest commute and the most vibrant urban lifestyle. Clayton and Ladue are also popular with medical and academic professionals who prefer suburban family settings.
Relocating with a family and school-aged children: Clayton, Ladue, Kirkwood, and Webster Groves are the most recommended communities for families prioritizing school quality. Each has a distinct character — Clayton is more urban and walkable; Ladue and Frontenac are more spacious and private; Kirkwood and Webster Groves have a small-town charm.
Relocating as an executive seeking maximum privacy and space: Town and Country, Huntleigh, and parts of Ladue offer the most exclusive and private residential settings in the region.
Gladys Manion Real Estate has facilitated hundreds of corporate relocations to the St. Louis central corridor and can provide a personalized neighborhood consultation at no cost. Call (314) 721-4755.