Is Ste. Genevieve Safe, Pros and cons of living in Ste. Genevieve
Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern living, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a quieter pace of life. Steeped in history as one of the oldest European settlements west of the Mississippi River, the city boasts a rich cultural heritage evident in its architecture and community spirit. It provides a distinct small-town atmosphere while being accessible to larger metropolitan areas.
The city is known for its picturesque setting and a close-knit community that values its historical roots. Residents enjoy a lifestyle that balances historical appreciation with contemporary amenities. Ste. Genevieve’s appeal lies in its ability to offer a tranquil environment without sacrificing access to essential services and recreational opportunities.
Is it Safe to Live in Ste. Genevieve?
Ste. Genevieve generally presents a safe environment for its residents. The city’s overall crime rate is significantly lower than the national average, contributing to a feeling of security (as reported by DoorProfit). This low crime rate is a key factor for individuals and families considering a move to the area.
While overall crime is low, specific crime statistics for Ste. Genevieve show a violent crime rate of 118.8 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average (as reported by OpenCrime). Property crime rates are also considerably lower than the national average, with 455 property crimes per 100,000 residents (as reported by OpenCrime). Ste. Genevieve County, however, shows a higher violent crime rate than the national average, standing at 421.8 per 100,000, but a property crime rate well below the national average (as reported by CrimeByCounty).
Cost of Living and Housing
The cost of living in Ste. Genevieve is notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families (as reported by Salary.com). This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, including housing, food, transportation, and healthcare.
Housing costs in Ste. Genevieve are particularly favorable, with median home values significantly below the national median (as reported by Redfin and BestNeighborhood.org). For instance, median home prices in Ste. Genevieve, MO, are $194,541, which is considerably less than the U.S. median of $393,134 (as reported by BestNeighborhood.org). Redfin indicates a median sale price of $365K in Ste. Genevieve, MO, with prices up 62.3% year-over-year (as reported by Redfin). Rental prices are also quite affordable, with an average rent of $599 in Sainte Genevieve, MO (as reported by Zillow).
Job Market and Economy
Ste. Genevieve’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers, contributing to a stable job market. Major employers in the area include entities like Holcim, a significant player in the construction materials industry, and various retail and service-based businesses (as reported by Indeed.com). Ste. Genevieve Industries, a non-profit organization, also plays a role by employing individuals with disabilities and offering services like secure document shredding and pallet manufacturing.
The unemployment rate in Ste. Genevieve County has shown fluctuations but remains a key economic indicator. Recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates the unemployment rate for Ste. Genevieve County (as reported by FRED). The median household income in Ste. Genevieve County was $66,339 in 2024 (as reported by Data USA).
Climate and Environment
Ste. Genevieve experiences a climate characterized by distinct seasons, offering warm summers and cold winters. The average daily high temperature in July, the hottest month, reaches around 89°F, while January, the coldest month, sees average low temperatures around 27°F (as reported by WeatherSpark). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with May typically being the wettest month, averaging about 4.4 inches of rain (as reported by WeatherSpark).
The region’s climate is generally described as hot and muggy in the summer, and very cold and snowy in the winter, with partly cloudy conditions year-round (as reported by WeatherSpark). The National Weather Service provides detailed forecasts and climate information for Ste. Genevieve County, indicating temperature ranges and precipitation chances throughout the week and season (as reported by National Weather Service).
Education and Schools
The Ste. Genevieve County R-II School District serves the educational needs of the community, offering a range of public schooling options. The district includes Ste. Genevieve Elementary School, Ste. Genevieve Middle School, and Ste. Genevieve Senior High School, all of which receive varying grades and ratings (as reported by Niche). Ste. Genevieve Elementary School has a student-teacher ratio of 11 to 1, with 57% of students proficient in math and 51% in reading (as reported by Niche). Ste. Genevieve Senior High School holds a ‘B’ grade overall, with 533 students and a student-teacher ratio of 12 to 1 (as reported by Niche).
State test scores indicate that students in the Ste. Genevieve County R-II School District show proficiency levels that are competitive within the state. The district as a whole is rated ‘A-‘ overall, with strong marks in areas such as teachers and administration (as reported by Niche).
Demographics and Community
Ste. Genevieve has a population of approximately 5,000 residents, with a median age around 44.6 years (as reported by World Population Review and Census Reporter). The demographic makeup is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of Black or African American, Hispanic, and Multiracial populations (as reported by Census Dots and Census Reporter).
The community is characterized by a high homeownership rate, exceeding the national average (as reported by Data USA). The population density is relatively low, contributing to the town’s tranquil and less crowded feel. The median household income in Ste. Genevieve County is $66,339 (as reported by Data USA).