Is Mehlville Safe, Pros and cons of living in Mehlville
Mehlville, Missouri, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and accessibility to urban amenities. Situated in south St. Louis County, it provides a community-focused environment with a connection to the greater St. Louis metropolitan area. This CDP presents a balanced lifestyle for its residents.
The community is characterized by its residential neighborhoods, local parks, and a commitment to providing a comfortable living experience. Mehlville’s strategic location ensures that essential services, shopping, and recreational activities are readily available, contributing to its appeal for a diverse range of individuals and families.
Is it Safe to Live in Mehlville?
Mehlville’s crime rate is a subject of consideration for potential residents. The overall crime rate in Mehlville is reported to be higher than the average US city, with the area ranking in the 6th percentile for safety, meaning it is safer than only 6% of cities (as reported by Crime Grade). Property crime is estimated to be at a moderate risk level, with around 1080 predicted incidents annually. Violent crime is also present, with an estimated 132 violent crimes predicted per year (as reported by Augurisk).
However, crime perception and reality can vary by neighborhood within Mehlville. Residents often consider the southern parts of the community to be the safest, with a lower incidence of crime compared to western neighborhoods. The chance of being a victim of crime can range from 1 in 13 in the west to 1 in 24 in the south (as reported by Crime Grade). While official FBI data for Mehlville’s specific crime rates are not directly detailed in all reports, the available analyses suggest a need for awareness and caution (as reported by FBI crime data).
Housing Costs and Availability
The housing market in Mehlville presents a range of options for potential buyers and renters. The average home value in Mehlville is approximately $251,852, showing a slight increase over the past year (as reported by Zillow). The median list price for homes is around $202,333 (as of March 31, 2026) (as reported by Zillow).
For renters, the average rent in Mehlville is about $1,410 per month (as of March 31, 2026) (as reported by Zillow). This is notably lower than the national average rent, which stands at approximately $1,910 (as reported by Zillow). Rental prices can vary, with one-bedroom apartments typically found in the low $1,000 range and two-bedroom apartments averaging between $1,100 and $1,200 (as reported by Rentometer).
Job Market and Employment Opportunities
Mehlville’s employment landscape is influenced by the broader St. Louis metropolitan area’s economic activity. While specific local employer data for Mehlville is not extensively detailed in all sources, the South County Chamber of Commerce plays a role in promoting local businesses and economic development (as reported by South County Chamber of Commerce). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides broader employment data for the St. Louis region.
The unemployment rate in the broader St. Louis County area has seen fluctuations but has generally improved since the beginning of the pandemic. For instance, the St. Louis County unemployment rate was 4.7% in May, reflecting a significant improvement from the previous year (as reported by Patch). The average hourly wage in the St. Louis metropolitan area was $30.57 in May 2024 (as reported by Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Climate and Weather Patterns
Mehlville experiences a climate typical of the Midwest, with distinct seasons. The area generally sees a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. Average summer high temperatures can reach the mid-80s Fahrenheit, while winter lows can dip into the 20s Fahrenheit.
Precipitation is distributed throughout the year, with higher amounts typically occurring in the spring and summer months. The National Weather Service provides detailed forecasts and climate data for the region, indicating a chance of showers and partly sunny conditions for the upcoming week. The NOAA Climate Prediction Center has forecasted warmer-than-average summer temperatures for the region (as reported by NOAA).
Education and School System
Mehlville is served by the Mehlville School District, which is generally well-regarded. Mehlville High School, a public school within the district, receives a B+ overall rating from Niche, with a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1 (as reported by Niche). State test scores indicate that approximately 34% of students are proficient in math and 50% in reading (as reported by Niche).
The Mehlville School District itself is rated B+ overall and is recognized for its dedicated teachers and a positive learning environment. The district offers a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities, aiming to provide opportunities for student success. Other public schools serving Mehlville also receive strong ratings, contributing to the area’s educational offerings (as reported by Niche).
Demographics and Community Profile
As of the most recent census data, Mehlville has a population of approximately 28,955 residents (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). The median age in Mehlville is around 42.6 years, indicating a community with a significant proportion of older adults and a substantial working-age population (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). The demographic makeup is predominantly White, accounting for about 83.6% of the population in the latest available census data (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau).
The community is largely urban, with nearly all residents living in urban areas (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). Household sizes are relatively small, with an average of 2.27 people per household (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). The median household income is around $43,734, with a poverty rate of about 5.6% (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau).
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Mehlville is influenced by various factors, including housing, transportation, and daily expenses. While specific cost of living index data for Mehlville is not directly available from all sources, broader regional data can provide context. The Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) publishes a Cost of Living Index that compares urban areas nationwide.
Generally, the cost of living in suburban areas around major cities can be more moderate than in the urban core. The average rent in Mehlville is $1,410, which is below the national average (as reported by Zillow). Housing costs, a significant component of the cost of living, are also reflected in the average home value of $251,852 (as reported by Zillow).
Major Employers and Economic Drivers
Information on Mehlville’s major employers is not extensively detailed across all readily available sources. However, the Mehlville School District is a significant local entity, employing a substantial number of individuals within the community (as reported by Mehlville School District). The South County Chamber of Commerce supports and promotes businesses in the area, indicating a local focus on economic activity and development (as reported by South County Chamber of Commerce).
Given its suburban nature, Mehlville likely benefits from the diverse employment opportunities available in the greater St. Louis metropolitan area. Industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, education, and retail are prominent in the wider region, providing a broad economic base.