Posted by Dawn Griffin
Neighborhood Spotlight: Crestwood
Crestwood is a suburb of St. Louis County that offers residents a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. With a population of approximately 12,315, Crestwood is celebrated for its family-friendly atmosphere, reputable schools, and abundant recreational opportunities. Crestwood was founded in 1947 by citizens who wished to avoid annexation by neighboring areas, leading to its establishment as an independent city. Route 66 originally passed through Crestwood along Watson Road. This alignment made Crestwood a notable stop for travelers journeying between Chicago and Los Angeles.
Number 1 Suburb in Missouri
In 2024, Niche.com ranked Crestwood as the #1 Best Suburb to Buy a House in Missouri, highlighting its appeal to prospective homeowners.
A significant portion of Crestwood is served by the Lindbergh School District, renowned for its commitment to student success through innovative instruction and a focus on collaboration, creativity, communication, and critical thinking. The district comprises six elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school. It ranks in the top 20 school districts in Missouri on niche.com
Recreational Facilities: Parks and Proposed Community Center
Crestwood takes pride in its well-maintained parks and recreational facilities. The city manages seven parks, including Crestwood Park, Ferndale Park, Rayburn Park, Sanders Park, Sappington House Park, Spellman Park, and the expansive 85-acre Whitecliff Park with an aquatic center. These parks offer amenities such as playgrounds, walking trails, and sports facilities, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
In April 2024, Crestwood residents approved Proposition A, a $33 million bond issuance aimed at significant park improvements, including the development of a new Community Center. The proposed center, to be built in a Modern Craftsman style, will offer visitors great views of the natural surroundings that define Whitecliff Park. Amenities are expected to include a fitness center, indoor courts, an indoor track, meeting spaces, and conference rooms, enhancing the community’s recreational offerings.
Redevelopment in Crestwood
Crestwood was home to 66 Park-In, a drive-in that operated for nearly 50 years, closing in 1993. Across the street was Crestwood Plaza. Once a bustling shopping destination, it opened in 1957 and became one of the first major malls in the St. Louis area. As consumer shopping habits shifted and newer retail developments emerged, the mall saw a decline, eventually closing in 2013. After years of debate and redevelopment proposals, the 47-acre mall site was transformed into Crestwood Crossing, a mixed-use development featuring a new Dierbergs grocery store, retail spaces, restaurants, and a residential subdivision. The project has revitalized the area with new homes, walkable shopping, and dining options, bringing fresh energy to the historic Watson Road corridor.
Housing Market: Diverse Options and Competitive Prices
The housing market in Crestwood offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. As of December 2024, the median home value is approximately $320,234, reflecting a 3.6% increase over the past year.
Homes range from charming mid-century houses to modern constructions, with prices varying accordingly. The median listing home price stands at $329,000, with properties available from $29,000 to $775,000, catering to a wide range of buyers.
The Villages of Crestwood Crossing
The Villages at Crestwood Crossing, part of the former mall site, is a subdivision that offers a diverse range of homes across three distinct neighborhoods:
- The Manors: Featuring 34 homes situated on mid-sized lots
- The Estates: Comprising 16 homes on the largest lots available
- The Townes: Consisting of 31 city-style homes with smaller lots
Open House Sunday, February 2nd, 1-3pm
Crestwood, Missouri, exemplifies the ideal suburban lifestyle, offering quality education, diverse housing options, and a commitment to community well-being. Its blend of small-town charm and modern amenities makes it a desirable place to call home.
