What’s it like living in one of the most beautiful, walkable suburbs of St. Louis?
Welcome to Kirkwood. It’s a place where historic homes and locally owned shops sit around every corner.
This neighborhood guide will walk you through everything you should know before choosing to live here.
Living in Kirkwood: Community Overview
Kirkwood’s vibrant downtown is a major draw, with more than 100 shops and restaurants drawing visitors from across the region.
It’s one of the best places around St. Louis for small-town charm in a central location.
Beyond the main streets, you’ll find tree-lined neighborhoods filled with historic homes that have character-rich architecture dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s.
There are also newer residential options and ongoing developments, and the mix of historic and modern is a thoughtful blend.
The city is also home to The Magic House and the St. Louis Children’s Museum. Both are popular destinations for families and school field trips.
Every fall, the long-running Greentree Festival brings thousands of visitors together for three days of food, music, and community fun.
Historic Charm Near the City
Kirkwood is an inner-ring suburb of St. Louis, located just west of Webster Groves in central-eastern St. Louis County.
Most of the city falls within the 63122 ZIP code, with a small portion on the eastern edge sitting in 63119.
Kirkwood is easily accessible via Interstate 44 to the south and Interstate 270 to the west, with Highway 61 (aka North Kirkwood Road, aka Lindbergh Boulevard) serving as the main artery through town.
Along this corridor, you’ll find the Magic House and downtown Kirkwood, which acts as an anchor for the whole area.
Kirkwood puts you close to everything St. Louis has to offer without feeling like you’re in the middle of it.
For example, Forest Park’s major attractions are just a 15-minute drive away.
Forest Park is home to:
- The Muny (Municipal Theatre)
- St. Louis Zoo
- History Museum
- St. Louis Art Museum
Drive a little farther, and you can reach downtown St. Louis, where you’ll find the St. Louis Blues, the Cardinals, the iconic Mississippi River, and a host of other attractions.
You’re also close to other St. Louis suburbs, including Creve Coeur, Des Peres, Town and Country, Richmond Heights, and University City.
What to Know About Living in Kirkwood
Kirkwood is an inner-ring suburb. It has a semi-urban feel, with architecture and overall character that reflect the town’s history.
It also includes a wide range of home styles and ages. It’s not uncommon to find historic Victorian, renovated cottage-style homes, and ultra-modern farmhouses on the same block.
Kirkwood residents love the walkability, the small-town feel, and the strong sense of community. They also cite public transportation as a plus!
Kirkwood by the Numbers
With almost 30,000 residents, Kirkwood is one of the larger suburbs in St. Louis County.
Some people point to housing prices as a downside, noting that homes in Kirkwood tend to be more expensive. The median sale price for a single-family home is $583,500, according to Redfin, compared to $250,000 in the City of St. Louis.
- Total population: 29,350 people
- Population density: 3,190 people per square mile
- Median household income: $117,439
- Unemployment rate: 4% (according to the U.S. Census Bureau)
- Median age: 42.5
Even with higher price points, Kirkwood has an approachable, comfortable feel that appeals to a wide range of residents, and the historic architecture gives it a slightly quirky vibe without feeling too stuffy.
Related: Most Expensive Suburbs in St. Louis
Historic Downtown Kirkwood
What really sets Kirkwood apart from some of the nearby suburbs is its downtown area. Imagine living walking distance from your favorite coffee shop, bakery, and bar!
Downtown Kirkwood is charming, historic, and the walkability is hard to beat.
Here’s a quick snapshot of Downtown Kirkwood:
- 16 walkable blocks
- Over 100 specialty shops and restaurants
- The Saturday Kirkwood Farmers Market has over 300 businesses
- Annual events like a Wine Walk, Holiday Walk, and Witches Walk
- Developed over the last 150+ years around historic Kirkwood Station
Kirkwood is the oldest planned commuter suburb west of the Mississippi River. The historic train station is right in the middle of town.
For many Kirkwood residents, protecting the city’s historic, small-town feel is important.
This shared value has led to ongoing discussions among neighbors, city leaders, and developers on how downtown should grow while retaining its character.
What Is It Like Living Near Downtown Kirkwood?
Living near the downtown area offers a highly walkable, small-town lifestyle.
Homes tend to be close together, and it’s common to see rear-entry or detached garages.
But what does it actually mean to live near Downtown Kirkwood?
Downtown Kirkwood has over 100 businesses, so there’s always a steady buzz that comes and goes throughout the week.
Noise and traffic tend to peak during:
- Business hours
- Weekday commuter times around the train station
- On weekends during farmers’ markets and festivals
Midweek afternoons are generally quieter and feel more residential, while Saturday mornings bring increased foot traffic and parking demand that typically eases by early afternoon.
The closer your home is to the main roads, the more noticeable the activity tends to be.
Friday and Saturday nights are livelier as restaurants, patios, and local events draw people downtown.
Seasonal festivals, parades, and concert series add short bursts of activity and may affect traffic patterns or street access, but these events are intermittent and well-publicized.
How’s Parking In Downtown Kirkwood?
Parking is a key consideration when living near Downtown Kirkwood.
The area relies on on-street parking, municipal lots, and garages, many with posted time limits.
Parking is typically manageable day-to-day, but the closest spaces fill quickly during farmers’ markets, festivals, and peak commuter hours near the train station.
| Tip From The Experts: Homes with driveways, attached or detached garages, or assigned parking offer added convenience. Always ask about the parking situation when touring homes for sale. |
If you’re thinking about buying near Downtown Kirkwood, it’s smart to walk the area during peak times, like a Friday or Saturday evening, or during a major event, to see if the noise and activity level feels right for you.
If you’d like help with the home-buying process and want to discuss options, please contact us. We’d love to offer guidance and support.
Some people enjoy the buzz of downtown life, while others prefer more peace and quiet.
There’s no wrong answer, just personal preference.
Kirkwood Real Estate
The real estate market in Kirkwood is very competitive despite higher housing costs than in nearby areas.
Kirkwood is seeing a low-inventory seller’s market.
Homes that are well updated and move-in ready are especially sought after.
Types of Homes in Kirkwood
Kirkwood is known for its historic architecture, mature tree‑lined streets, and timeless style.
Kirkwood has nine historic districts with architectural styles ranging from the 1850s to the 1950s.
Here’s a rundown of some of the common home styles, both new and old, you’ll see in Kirkwood:
Newly-Built Custom Homes
Kirkwood is known for its historic homes, but it’s also home to beautiful custom infill homes.
You’ll see a range of home styles, like:
- Modern farmhouse
- French country
- Colonial
- Craftsman
Buyers especially like newer homes for some of the following features:
- Updated kitchens & bathrooms
- Taller ceilings and open-concept floor plans
- Lower maintenance costs
- Amenities like wetbars, movie rooms, home gyms, and pools
Victorian Homes
Victorian homes were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s and are typically located in the older, central parts of town.
Victorian homes tend to feature:
- Steep roofs
- Asymmetrical layouts
- Amazing front porches
- Decorative trim
- High ceilings
- Large windows
Greek Revival
Another type of historic home you might find near downtown is the Greek Revival style.
These homes typically have:
- Tall columns
- A symmetrical facade
- More formal layouts
- High ceilings
Italianate Style
Italianate homes are highly decorative and eye-catching. Italianate homes that have been well-maintained over the years are some of my all-time favorites!
You can catch a few of these while taking a walk through the tree-lined streets of Kirkwood near downtown.
Italianate homes have:
- Low-pitched or flat roofs with decorative cornices (molding at the top of a building)
- Tall narrow windows (some with arches)
- Two to three stories
| Tip From The Experts: Thinking of buying a historic home? Make sure to get all the right inspections! Check the roof age, sewer lateral, masonry, HVAC, foundation, and electrical. Some older homes in Kirkwood have older electrical systems, like knob-and-tube, so it’s always good to get everything inspected. |
Mid-Century Homes
If you venture outside the downtown area, you’ll see that Kirkwood offers plenty of single-level mid-century homes.
These homes are farther from downtown in quieter residential areas.
Mid-century homes offer:
- Ranch and split-level floor plans
- Open floor plans with minimal walls
- Attached garages or carports
These homes are generally more affordable than the larger historic houses closer to downtown, and many offer a convenient single‑floor layout.
If you’re in the market for one of these mid-century gems, please reach out to our team. We’d love to help you buy your dream home in Kirkwood!
Mid-century homes tend to have:
- Minimal ornamentation
- Large windows and/or glass walls
- Emphasis on function and simplicity
Condos in Kirkwood
Many of the condos in Kirkwood are in the downtown area, with most being located right on Kirkwood Road.
They tend to have more traditional layouts and range from smaller 1-bedroom units to 3-bedroom condos.
You’ll find a mix of new luxury condos from $800,000 to over $2 million, and you’ll see older condos at more approachable prices in the $200,000s and $300,000s.
The condos in Kirkwood often feature:
- Open floor plans
- Community amenities
- Low-maintenance living
- Higher HOA fees (sometimes)
There are some older condo buildings in Kirkwood that date back to the 70’s and 80’s.
Popular Kirkwood Neighborhoods
Now that we’ve talked about some of the styles of homes, let’s check out some neighborhood examples.
Osage Hills & Greenbriar
This quiet neighborhood features well-kept mid-century and traditional homes. The layouts are classic and functional, and the area is generally more affordable than some nearby neighborhoods.
Residents also enjoy close proximity to the Greenbriar Hills Country Club, which offers swimming, golf, and other amenities.
Woodlawn Terrace
This is a well‑established neighborhood with a mix of classic and updated homes.
Many houses here offer generous yards and traditional layouts, appealing to buyers who want space and comfort without sacrificing proximity to Kirkwood’s amenities.
South Kirkwood and Big Bend Blvd
This neighborhood features traditional single-family homes with generous yards and classic layouts.
Homes are generally more affordable than historic districts like Jefferson‑Argonne. Here, you’ll find quiet streets, mature trees, and proximity to parks and schools.
Historic Neighborhoods
Historic districts help preserve the unique charm and character of Kirkwood.
While rules can vary by area, the general idea is to maintain the exterior appearance of buildings, ensuring that any changes are in keeping with the historic look.
Home maintenance costs for the century-plus-old homes can add up, but to old-house enthusiasts, it’s totally worth it.
It’s hard to find the same charm and character in new homes.
Here are a few examples of historic neighborhoods in Kirkwood.
Jefferson-Argonne near Downtown Kirkwood
The oldest district surrounding Downtown Kirkwood is home to some of the city’s priciest residences.
The Jefferson-Argonne neighborhood features colonial revival, Tudor revival, bungalows, and traditional-style homes, many with charming details like:
- Wraparound porches
- High ceilings
- Original millwork
- Detailed façades
Plus, the convenient location makes Jefferson-Argonne a popular spot!
Sugar Creek
These mid-century modern ranch-style homes sit on larger lots than those in nearby neighborhoods.
Sugar Creek is just West of Kirkwood Park and features single-story homes with open floor plans and large windows.
Savoy
This neighborhood is a stone’s throw from Kirkwood High School and features mid-century single-level homes, beautifully kept lawns, and mature trees.
Other Historic Neighborhoods
These are some other historic neighborhoods you may hear about:
- Meramec-Highlands
- Barrett Brae
- Central Place
- Craig Woods
- North Taylor
- West Argonne
How Are the Schools in Kirkwood?
Kirkwood is served primarily by the Kirkwood School District, which covers most of the city and feeds into Kirkwood Senior High School.
According to Niche.com, Kirkwood schools are top-rated, with an overall score of A+, and students report positive experiences and a strong sense of school pride.
Public Elementary Schools (K–5)
Kirkwood Public Schools are known for strong academics, student programs, and a focus on community and student engagement.
Elementary schools in Kirkwood:
- Kirkwood Early Childhood Center
- F.P. Tillman Elementary School
- George R. Robinson Elementary School
- North Glendale Elementary School
- W.W. Keysor Elementary School
- Westchester Elementary School
Public Middle Schools (6–8)
The middle schools that serve Kirkwood are praised for their extracurricular activities:
- Nipher Middle School
- North Kirkwood Middle School
Kirkwood High School (9–12)
The two middle schools feed into Kirkwood High School, which serves 1,730 students and is ranked as the #8 best public high school in Missouri by Niche.
Private Schools in Kirkwood
There are several faith-based private schools serving Kirkwood:
- St. John Vianney High School: All-boys Catholic preparatory school with STEM lab, Esports center, athletics, and extracurricular programs.
- Christ Community Lutheran School: Private Lutheran school, pre-K through 8th grade.
- Kirkwood Children’s House: Private preschool / early childhood program.
- St. Gerard Majella Catholic School: Private Catholic elementary (pre-K through 8th grade).
- Villa Di Maria Montessori School: Private Montessori school serving early and elementary grades.
Parks and Outdoor Space in Kirkwood
Kirkwood is home to several parks, each offering something different, from large open play areas to walking trails and parks with a wide range of built-in amenities.
Here are a few highlights; for a complete list, check out the Kirkwood Parks and Recreation website.
Kirkwood Park
Located in the heart of the city, Kirkwood Park spans 92 acres and serves as a central gathering place for recreation and community events.
Amenities include:
- Aquatic center
- Athletic fields
- Playgrounds
- Tennis courts
- Walking paths, including a newly redesigned fitness trail
- Host site for annual community events
Greentree Park
Greentree Park offers access to outdoor recreation along the Meramec River, with features that appeal to both active users and nature enthusiasts.
Here you’ll find:
- Lake with a Boat ramp
- Hiking trails
- Athletic fields
Emmenegger Nature Park & Possum Woods Conservation Area
These connected green spaces cover approximately 108 acres and focus on natural landscapes and passive recreation.
They’re great for an afternoon hike.
Here you’ll find:
- Hiking trails
- Pavilions with BBQ pits
- Wooded areas and open green space
Meacham Park
The most-used park in Kirkwood, Meacham Memorial Park, sits at the heart of the city and is one of the most popular spots!
Meacham Park has:
- Playgrounds
- Basketball court
- Walking Paths
Walking Trails
Grant’s Trail runs through Kirkwood along the former Carondelet branch of the Missouri Pacific Railroad and is popular for walking, running, and biking.
Meramec River Greenway Trail extends from Greentree Park to Valley Park, providing a longer multi-use trail with river views.
Shopping and Running Errands in Kirkwood
Kirkwood has plenty of shopping and conveniences. Here are the main ones.
Downtown Kirkwood
Definitely the most well-known shopping district in the area, with so many restaurants and locally owned shops to choose from, and it’s all walkable.
In addition to the famed Downtown area, there’s also:
Manchester Road
A main road and shopping corridor with a mix of national retail stores, local stores, fitness studios, and casual dining.
Manchester is good for day-to-day needs.
| Tip From The Experts: Traffic on Manchester Rd can be bad during rush hour. If you hit one red light, you’ll hit them all. Aside from that, Manchester will offer plenty of shopping and conveniences you’ll need for daily life. |
Kirkwood Commons
Near I-44 and Kirkwood Rd, Kirkwood Commons is a large retail shopping plaza with big box stores like Target, Lowe’s, Walmart, TJ Maxx, and HomeGoods.
Restaurants In Kirkwood
Kirkwood has some well-known restaurants and bars. Here are some of our favorites.
- Billy G’s Kirkwood: Long‑running local pub and restaurant with fantastic food and drinks in downtown Kirkwood.
- PJ’s Tavern: Local tavern serving food and drinks downtown.
- Kirkwood Ice & Fuel Co: Bar and casual spot with bar food and drinks downtown.
- Mike Duffy’s Pub & Grill Kirkwood: Casual pub with drinks and bar food.
- One 19 North Tapas Wine Bar: Wine bar and small plates popular for evening outings.
- Amigos Cantina: Mexican restaurant with a casual social environment popular in downtown Kirkwood.
- Sunset 44 Bistro: A great place to have some wine and dinner.
- Station No.3: Highly rated gastropub and comfort food spot on Manchester Rd.
- Napoli Kirkwood: An Italian dinner spot, perfect for a downtown date night.
- Other downtown eateries on the Downtown Kirkwood dine list (like Racanelli’s, Crushed Red, PokeDoke, Session Taco)
Entertainment and Activities
Looking for something fun to do with friends and family? Kirkwood has some great choices.
Kirkwood Performing Arts Center (KPAC)
Situated in Downtown Kirkwood, KPAC is a venue for shows, theater, concerts, and community events.
It features two performance spaces and hosts a variety of different performance experiences.
The Magic House
The Magic House is a well-known Children’s museum and regional attraction, and one of the best places to bring the kids.
They have many interactive exhibits to delight and inspire curiosity and whimsy.
It’s a great place to just let kids be kids!
Annual and Seasonal Events
Route 66 Cars & Guitars Festival
A longtime summer kickoff event downtown featuring live music, a vintage car show, food, drinks, and vendor booths along North Kirkwood Road and Jefferson Avenue.
Kirkwood Historical Society Strawberry Festival
The 53rd Annual Strawberry Festival is a free family event with strawberries, ice cream, lemonade, music, and a casual picnic atmosphere at Mudd’s Grove.
Kirkwood Greentree Festival
One of Kirkwood’s longest-running traditions (celebrating its 65th year in 2026), this three‑day festival in Kirkwood Park features:
- A parade
- Arts & crafts
- Live music
- Food
- Kids’ activities
- Vendor booths
Planning Ahead: Senior Living
Kirkwood is a strong fit for buyers planning ahead, with multiple living options designed to support changing needs over time.
Nearby independent living, assisted living, and retirement communities make it easier to stay close to home if you or a loved one needs additional care.
Kirkwood senior living facilities include:
- Bethesda Gardens
- St. Agnes Home
- Aberdeen Heights
Access to memory care, along with nearby hospitals and healthcare providers, adds long-term value and peace of mind, an important consideration for buyers thinking about aging in place or future resale appeal.
New and Upcoming Developments in Kirkwood
Kirkwood is seeing a rise in new development:
- Single-family homes
- Luxury condos
- Luxury apartment buildings
- Infrastructure upgrades
Aria Luxury Condos
Aria is a luxury development of 42 condos located directly across from the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center.
Units range from 2-3 bedrooms and 1,788-2,452 sq ft.
Some key features in these condos:
- 10′ ceilings
- Private terraces
- Custom kitchens
- 42″ fireplaces
- Luxury baths
- Open concept plans
Pricing ranges from $1 million to $2 million.
The James
Completed in 2024, The James is a luxury multifamily development and one of the first sizable new residential projects in downtown Kirkwood in decades.
The five-story building offers 152 apartments ranging from studios to three-bedroom units, along with amenities such as a fitness center, pool, club room, workspaces, and outdoor terrace.
Ground-floor retail spaces are also part of the project, and residents began moving in February 2024.
Former Public Works Site Multifamily Development
The City of Kirkwood has partnered with Double Eagle Development to transform the 5.9-acre former Public Works site into a multifamily residential community.
The project will feature a mix of housing types, pedestrian-friendly design, and strong connections to the downtown area.
As of late 2025, planning and design are underway, with community engagement expected before construction begins.
300 N. Kirkwood Mixed-Use, Residential Project
Planned for 300 N. Kirkwood Rd, sometimes called Pitman Place or Central Kirkwood, this development would include roughly 60 apartments above ground-floor commercial space.
The project was approved in January 2026 and is moving forward.
Is Kirkwood Right For You?
Kirkwood is perfect for people who want to live near the city without being in the city.
It offers a charming small-town feel, historic homes, and just the right amount of liveliness, all while keeping you close to shops, restaurants, parks, and everyday conveniences.
If you’re considering home ownership and this sounds like you, Kirkwood might be a good fit.
Thinking about moving to the area? We’d love to help you buy your dream home. Reach out today to get started.
