Luxury in Greater St. Louis: Four Affluent Areas for Homebuyers

The allure of the Gateway City can be attributed to nationally recognized restaurants, world-class museums and zoos, top-ranked public and private schools, and numerous clubs and civic organizations. Luckily, the same vitality can be found in many fine suburbs of Greater St. Louis. According to the MLS, 256 luxury residential homes priced at $1 million and above were purchased within key St. Louis central corridor communities in 2018.

Four of these top affluent areas are Huntleigh, Ladue, Frontenac, and Clayton. Together they comprise 38 percent of the total St. Louis luxury market. Below you can explore each further to aid in your luxury home-buying search.

With 300 homes, Huntleigh is one of the most exclusive communities in the St. Louis area. Homes are rarely offered for sale. Prestigious subdivisions include Bridle Ridge and Huntleigh Woods. 

 

A purely residential suburb, most homes reside on at least three acres creating extreme privacy. It’s also not uncommon to find homes with delightful amenities such as pools, outdoor kitchens, and in-home movie theaters. Architectural facades often feature limestone or imposing brick. Even today, a few Huntleigh residents maintain stables on their expansive properties. 

 

Fine restaurants, high-end boutiques, and private clubs in surrounding communities allow residents the occasional soiree with friends and family. Students in this area attend either Kirkwood or Ladue public schools or nearby private and faith-based schools.

Comfort and grandeur are just two adjectives that describe the affluent community of Ladue. Many homes are Georgian Colonial or spacious Mediterranean compounds, featuring gorgeous curb appeal and extensive landscaping. Residents in this community have combined household incomes well above the national average. 

 

With its proximity to downtown Clayton together with exclusive clubs, local boutiques, and top-rated public schools, Ladue is home to many of St. Louis’s top executives and professionals. Three of St. Louis’ finest private schools have Ladue campuses.

By design, Frontenac is a spacious and picturesque community characterized by sweeping lawns and private wooded lots. Home styles include Georgian Colonial, French Provincial, Transitional, and even Contemporary.

 

The community is rich in history with agricultural roots pre-dating its incorporation as a city in 1947. Today, Frontenac residents have access to a wide array of upscale retail opportunities including the prestigious Plaza Frontenac and La Chateau shopping centers. Kirkwood and Ladue public schools together with other faith-based options serve Frontenac residents.

Clayton is a highly sought-after luxury community with significant buyer appeal. The St. Louis County government is headquartered within the community and the municipality also enjoys numerous private employment centers together with upscale retail conveniences. Clayton is the only community of the previous three listed offering luxury condominiums and villas. About 26 percent of Clayton’s luxury unit sales last year priced at $1 million and above were condos/villas. Low inventory levels and short property marketing times evidence strong buyer demand. 

 

The community is an epicenter for higher education—Washington University, Fontbonne University, and Concordia Seminary are all in the area. The Clayton School District is also one of the highest-achieving districts in the state of Missouri.

 

There’s certainly no shortage of things to do in the gorgeous community. Shaw Park includes a pool, skating rink, ball fields, playgrounds, gardens, sculptures, gorgeous pavilions, and ample open space. Fine dining is available throughout the downtown area. Numerous Fortune 500 companies have also chosen to call Clayton home.

At Janet McAfee, our agents are well-connected and have extensive knowledge of the finest St. Louis communities, school districts, and luxury homes for the lifestyle you have earned. We pride ourselves on honesty, integrity, and providing the utmost customer service. Let us help you find your dream home. For more information, give us a call at (314) 997-4800 or visit our website.