Welcome to St. Charles County
Boasting Missouri's third-largest economy and median household incomes that are among the highest in the state, St. Charles County offers a high quality of life on the other side of the scenic Missouri River. The county has recently benefited from significant growth. St. Charles County has grown in population by more than 15% since 2010, one of the fastest-growing counties in Missouri. The county's 21 municipalities are tied together by their commitment to a quality lifestyle. Award-winning public schools, expansive parklands, and productive industry all stem from this commitment.
Because of its location along the Missouri River, St. Charles served as a major hub of trade after its settlement in 1673 by French settlers exploring the tributaries of the Mississippi River. The area grew rapidly after Daniel Boone moved to the area in 1799 and settled in what is now Defiance, an unincorporated community within the county. The city of St. Charles became a hub of activity and served as the starting point of Lewis and Clark's Corps of Discovery Expedition. After Missouri gained statehood, St. Charles served as the state capitol from 1821 to 1826. The Missouri, Kansas, and Texas railroad was completed in 1894 and ran through the county. This newfound transportation opportunity brought further growth and settlers to the region. Today, this method of transportation has been replaced by an efficient interstate network. However, the railroad's footprint lives on through the 240-mile Katy Trail State Park. This park consists of a trail system built along the former railroad tracks. The park's jogging, biking, and hiking trails create an east-west path through the entire state.
Housing in St. Charles County is of extremely high quality. This county of over 400,000 people is home to a wide array of housing and neighborhood options, providing enough choice to satisfy any prospective resident. Traveling through St. Charles County, an entire spectrum of housing is on display. Whether buyers are looking for traditional country homes or modern townhouse living, they can find it along the northern bank of the Missouri River. With the county's median sale price of $335,000, homes are available at a variety of affordable price ranges. There is a booming housing market to go along with this wealth of options. This serves as a testament to the strength of the St. Charles market and to the outstanding quality of life that makes this location so desirable.
St. Charles County boasts more than 23,000 acres of public parklands. The August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area is the largest park, encompassing more than 7,000 acres. The city of Augusta is home to a 15-square-mile region of vineyards designated as the first American Viticultural Area in the country. In addition to these natural amenities, St. Charles County hosts artistic and cultural displays. The Foundry Art Centre showcases local artists and provides opportunities for patrons to engage with art through studio exhibitions and educational events. St. Charles' Family Arena attracts popular musical acts for stops on national tours. St. Charles' Historic Main Street spans ten blocks and is over 200 years old. It is Missouri's largest historic district, as well as the first district to gain historic status. The Streets of St. Charles is a vibrant shopping and dining district all within one destination.
Looking for recreational programs in St. Charles? The Activity Guide publishes information on aquatic and park facilities, youth and adult sports leagues, swimming and fitness classes, and cultural and special events throughout the community.
Students in St. Charles are served by five exemplary, well-funded public school districts. With over 20 private and faith-based schools in the county, parents have a wealth of schooling options. Lindenwood University, located in the city of St. Charles, is the second-oldest institution of higher learning west of the Mississippi River. St. Charles Community College offers associate degrees and certificate programs on its Cottleville campus.
