Ladue vs. Clayton: Where Should You Buy in St. Louis County?
- Lizzy Dooley
- Jun 23
- 13 min read
Updated: Jun 23
Looking to buy a home in St. Louis County? Here's the quick answer: Ladue offers spacious, private suburban living with a median home price of $1.2 million, while Clayton provides a vibrant, walkable urban lifestyle with a median home price of $720,000. Your choice depends on whether you prefer exclusivity and space or city-like convenience.
Key Differences:
- Ladue: Quiet, affluent, large lots, car-dependent, top-ranked schools.
- Clayton: Energetic, walkable downtown, smaller lots, public transit access, business hub.
Quick Comparison:
Both areas are highly desirable, so think about your priorities - space and privacy (Ladue) or convenience and energy (Clayton). Read on for a deeper dive into real estate trends, amenities, and schools to help you decide.
Top 6 Best Suburbs to Live in St. Louis, Missouri
Ladue and Clayton Overview
Nestled in the heart of St. Louis County's most sought-after corridor, Ladue and Clayton offer two distinct lifestyles. Each neighborhood has its own unique vibe, making your choice largely dependent on what you’re looking for. Let’s dive into what makes these communities stand out.
Ladue: Suburban Living
Ladue captures the charm of peaceful suburban living. This refined community provides a serene escape from the city while still keeping metropolitan conveniences within reach. With a population density of just 1,050.1 people per square mile - far less crowded than St. Louis’s 4,885.0 - Ladue offers spaciousness and privacy that many buyers find irresistible. Tree-lined streets wind through neighborhoods filled with sprawling estates on large lots, creating a sense of exclusivity. The area’s "old money" feel reflects its deep-rooted generational wealth and long-standing traditions.
The median age in Ladue is 49.3 years, making it especially appealing to established families and professionals who value a slower, more relaxed pace of life. And with a median household income exceeding $250,000 annually, Ladue’s affluence is unmistakable.
Clayton: City-Style Living
Clayton, often referred to as the "Manhattan of the Suburbs," offers a vibrant mix of urban energy and residential charm. As the county seat and financial hub of St. Louis County, Clayton combines a bustling business district with quiet, tree-lined neighborhoods and plenty of parks. Its walkable downtown is packed with shops, restaurants, offices, and cultural spots, making it a favorite for both young professionals and families.
Clayton also boasts a busy event calendar, including the Saint Louis Art Fair, which attracts over 150,000 visitors each September, and the upcoming Taste of St. Louis starting in summer 2025, featuring 40 restaurant booths and drawing tens of thousands of food lovers. While homes in Clayton typically sit on smaller lots compared to Ladue, the convenience of its urban amenities and walkability more than makes up for it.
With a median household income of $125,829, Clayton offers a broader economic range while still staying well above national averages. Its proximity to Forest Park and other major attractions makes it a perfect fit for those who want city-style perks without giving up suburban comforts.
Real Estate Market Analysis
Ladue and Clayton, two premium neighborhoods, showcase distinct trends in their real estate markets. While both command high prices, their market behaviors and characteristics differ significantly.
Home Prices and Market Activity
In Ladue, the average home value stands at $1,283,051, with a median listing price of $1.3 million as of May 2025. Over the past year, the median sale price has climbed 23.8%, reaching $364 per square foot - a 10% increase year-over-year.
Clayton, on the other hand, presents a different picture. The average home value is $847,553, with a median listing price of approximately $720,000. Sales typically close at $564,000. The median sale price per square foot in Clayton is $255, making it about 30% less expensive than Ladue.
Market dynamics also diverge sharply. Ladue is a strong seller's market, with homes often selling above the asking price and a sale-to-list ratio of 103.0%. In contrast, Clayton reflects a more balanced market, where homes typically sell close to their listing price, with a sale-to-list ratio of 99.1%. Additionally, Clayton homes spend an average of 23 days on the market, far shorter than Ladue's average of 111 days.
Beyond pricing, the two neighborhoods also stand apart in terms of property types and lot sizes.
Home Types and Lot Sizes
Ladue is known for its expansive lots, ranging from a quarter to a full acre. Homes here include stately Georgian Colonial mansions and Mediterranean-style estates, often surrounded by lush gardens and manicured landscaping.
Clayton, by comparison, features a blend of architectural styles, from classic Tudors to sleek modern homes, situated on smaller lots. This setup emphasizes walkability and urban convenience. For those interested in custom builds, Ladue offers several available lots, while Clayton's established neighborhoods provide immediate access to mature landscaping and community amenities.
These differences in property types and lot configurations influence the investment potential in each area.
Investment Outlook
Ladue's real estate market has shown strong growth, with home values appreciating between 16.1% and 23.8% year-over-year. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking long-term wealth preservation and generational investments.
In contrast, Clayton has experienced a decline in home prices. The median sold price has dropped by 31.3%, and listing prices are down 16.2% compared to last year. However, this price correction could present a buying opportunity, especially given Clayton's role as a financial hub, its walkable downtown, and its proximity to major employers and cultural attractions.
Here's a quick comparison of key investment factors:
Investment Factor | Ladue | Clayton |
Market Type | Seller's Market | Balanced Market |
Price Trend | +23.8% YoY | –31.3% YoY |
Price per Sq Ft | $364 | $255 |
Days on Market | 111 days | 23 days |
Sale-to-List Ratio | 103.0% | 99.1% |
Ladue's consistent appreciation, limited inventory, and timeless charm create a sense of scarcity that supports long-term value. Meanwhile, Clayton's urban appeal, vibrant downtown, and proximity to major employers make it a compelling option for younger buyers looking to capitalize on a potential market rebound.
Local Amenities and Daily Life
Beyond just market trends, the day-to-day amenities in Ladue and Clayton play a big role in defining the character of each community. While both neighborhoods cater to affluent residents, their approaches to shopping, dining, and lifestyle are quite different. Let’s dive into how these amenities shape everyday living.
Shopping, Restaurants, and Activities
Ladue’s shopping scene revolves around Clayton Road, where upscale boutiques offer a cozy, intimate experience. As Amanda Dahl describes it:
"The fashion-forward elite flock to Ladue's Clayton Road District to explore upscale boutiques and local eateries, as well as its many popular local eateries. With so many tempting choices in such a central location, it is easy to make plans to meet up with friends and family to explore this bustling shopping area." - Amanda Dahl
When it comes to dining, Ladue locals enjoy favorites like Red-L Pizza, Gourmet to Go, Companion, Deer Creek Coffee, and Sweetology. Plus, the nearby Plaza Frontenac mall provides high-end shopping options just a short drive away.
Clayton, on the other hand, has earned the nickname "Manhattan of the Suburbs". Its mix of a thriving business district and charming residential areas creates a vibrant shopping and dining scene. Restaurants like Casa Don Alfonso at the Ritz-Carlton highlight its culinary appeal. Explore St. Louis captures its essence:
"Blending a bustling business district with charming residential streets, the city attracts sophisticated guests, avid shoppers, food-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The best part? Most of the places that you'll want to go are concentrated in a walkable area." - Explore St. Louis
Clayton also boasts a packed event calendar. For instance, the Saint Louis Art Fair in September 2024 drew over 150,000 visitors, featuring art from more than 100 local and national artists. The event generated an estimated $15 million for local businesses, with food and beverage sales making up 30% of that total.
Parks and Community Facilities
Outdoor spaces are a priority in both communities, though they approach them differently. Clayton’s Center of Clayton spans 136,000 square feet and includes athletic facilities, pools, and amenities for all age groups. Shaw Park offers family-friendly features like a splash pad, sensory garden, and covered pavilion, making it a hub for gatherings and play.
In Ladue, Oak Knoll Park provides a more tranquil setting. It features a fountain, pond, walking paths, a sunken garden, and a woodland-themed playground. The park reflects Ladue’s serene and natural vibe. Meanwhile, Clayton residents enjoy block parties and events like Clayton Restaurant Week, which foster a lively sense of community.
These outdoor spaces underscore the distinct lifestyles offered by each neighborhood.
Living Style Differences
Ladue is known for its quiet, private atmosphere, with mostly residential areas and smaller commercial hubs. It’s ideal for those who value luxury living with a sense of exclusivity.
Clayton, by contrast, is buzzing with urban energy. With a median household income of $207,158, the city blends residential neighborhoods and parks with a thriving business district. This creates a lively, connected environment where everything feels within reach.
Lifestyle Feature | Ladue | Clayton |
Atmosphere | Quiet, suburban, private | Urban, energetic, walkable |
Commercial Areas | Smaller, high-end boutiques | Thriving business district |
Community Events | Limited, exclusive | Frequent, diverse |
Daily Convenience | More car-dependent | Walkable downtown |
Social Energy | Reserved, traditional | Active, cosmopolitan |
Choosing between these two communities ultimately comes down to personal preference. Ladue offers a more traditional, suburban lifestyle, while Clayton appeals to those who want a dynamic, walkable environment with plenty of energy. Whether you prefer quiet exclusivity or vibrant city vibes, each neighborhood has something special to offer.
Schools and Education Options
When it comes to choosing between Ladue and Clayton, the quality of education often becomes a deciding factor for families. Both neighborhoods are home to highly rated public schools and prestigious private institutions, making them appealing for families prioritizing education. Strong schools not only enhance resident satisfaction but also contribute to higher property values, making this a key consideration for homebuyers.
Public School Performance
The Ladue School District and the School District of Clayton are both highly regarded, with each earning an A+ overall grade from Niche.com. Ladue is ranked as the top school district in Missouri, while Clayton comes in at a close second. Both districts also shine nationally, with Ladue Horton Watkins High School ranked #2 in the St. Louis Metro Area and #340 in the country, and Clayton High School ranked #3 locally and #403 nationally.
In Ladue, about 67% of students are proficient in math and 70% in reading, with an average SAT score of 1,430. The district also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including over 100 clubs, competitive athletic programs, and strong offerings in the arts and academic competitions.
Both neighborhoods complement their excellent public schools with access to some of Missouri's finest private institutions.
Private School Access
Families in Ladue and Clayton benefit from proximity to some of the best private schools in the state. Ladue alone is surrounded by 209 private schools, according to Niche.com. Among the top-ranked are John Burroughs School (#1), MICDS (Mary Institute & St. Louis Country Day School) (#2), and Thomas Jefferson School (#3). These schools are known for their small class sizes, with student–teacher ratios of 6:1 at John Burroughs, 8:1 at MICDS, and 5:1 at Thomas Jefferson.
Other notable private options include Saint Louis Priory School, serving grades 6–12 with a 6:1 student–teacher ratio, and Kirk Day School, a Christian institution offering education from preschool through 6th grade.
For families seeking a more progressive approach, Community School in Ladue emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning:
"At Community School, children flourish in an environment of active, experiential learning."
Similarly, MICDS Head of School Jay Rainey highlights the school’s mission to prepare students for the challenges of today and tomorrow:
"MICDS is both deeply rooted in St. Louis and manifestly committed to preparing young people to meet the world as it is today and as it will be tomorrow."
The combination of top-tier public schools and access to elite private institutions makes Ladue and Clayton stand out for education-focused buyers. Studies show that 20% of families with school-age children base their homebuying decisions on school access. This focus on education helps sustain property values in these neighborhoods. For example, Ladue's 72.4% proficiency in English stands in stark contrast to just 34.2% in a neighboring district, underscoring why homes in these areas command higher prices.
Location and Commute Options
Commute times play a major role in shaping daily life, and both Ladue and Clayton bring their own perks when it comes to getting around St. Louis County. Where you decide to live will directly impact how long it takes to get to work, the airport, and other key spots across the metro area.
Commute Times and Transit
Airport AccessLadue sits about 8.4 miles from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, with a typical drive time of around 16 minutes. Clayton, on the other hand, is roughly 9.1 miles away, which usually takes about 15 minutes by car. The difference is minimal, so either location offers easy airport access.
Highway ConnectivityEach area has its own strengths when it comes to highway access. Ladue residents rely on Route 141 and Ladue Road to connect to major highways, while Clayton’s proximity to I-170 makes for a quick 10-minute drive downtown.
Public TransportationClayton stands out for its public transit options. It has a MetroLink station and a major transit hub at Shaw Park, equipped with over 1,200 parking spaces, supporting both MetroLink and multiple MetroBus routes. Ladue, in contrast, depends solely on MetroBus routes 49 and 58, which offer less flexibility. This makes Clayton a better choice for those who value public transit convenience over a car-dependent lifestyle.
Transportation Feature | Ladue | Clayton |
MetroLink Access | None | Clayton Station |
MetroBus Routes | 49, 58 | 33, 58, 79, 97 |
Transit Hub | None | Shaw Park Garage & Transit Center |
Parking Spaces | N/A | 1,284 |
These factors highlight the different commuting experiences each neighborhood provides.
Daily Travel Convenience
Urban vs. Suburban AccessClayton’s urban vibe gives residents easy access to bustling areas like the Central West End and The Loop. Cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment are often just a short drive - or even a walk - away. By contrast, Ladue’s suburban nature means more driving is typically required to reach St. Louis’s urban core. However, Ladue offers convenient access to suburban amenities and shopping centers along Route 141.
Transit Reliability and Professional ConnectivityPublic transportation reliability is essential for daily routines. In June 2025, Metro Transit made adjustments to 16 MetroBus routes, though MetroLink services were unaffected. Clayton residents benefit from the consistency of the MetroLink system, while those in both neighborhoods relying on buses need to stay informed through Metro Transit's rider alerts. Clayton’s position as a regional hub, home to the Transportation & Public Works department, further enhances its appeal for professionals working locally. Together, these transit options add a layer of practicality to Clayton’s urban lifestyle.
When deciding between Ladue and Clayton, it comes down to what you value most: the ease of suburban highway travel or the convenience of reliable public transit. Clayton shines with its superior transit options and quicker downtown access, while Ladue is ideal for those prioritizing highway connectivity and a suburban pace of life.
Conclusion
When weighing your options between Ladue and Clayton, it all comes down to what matters most to you. Each community offers a unique lifestyle tailored to different priorities.
Ladue is perfect for those craving suburban calm, with spacious homes, privacy, and room to grow. With a median home price of $1,262,500 and properties ranging from $500,000 to over $15 million, it’s ideal for families looking to settle down long-term. The area also boasts the highly rated Ladue School District, holding an A+ grade on Niche, which adds to its appeal for those prioritizing education and stability.
Clayton, on the other hand, is a hub for urban convenience and sophistication. Its vibrant atmosphere is filled with business districts, fine dining, and cultural hotspots. This makes it a magnet for professionals and anyone drawn to a walkable, city-like lifestyle.
Factor | Best Choice |
Large families needing space | Ladue |
Urban professionals | Clayton |
Multi-generational stability | Ladue |
Urban lifestyle preferences | Clayton |
Privacy and quiet | Ladue |
Walkable amenities | Clayton |
Both Ladue and Clayton have their advantages, from home prices to lifestyle perks. Ladue’s competitive seller’s market often requires decisive offers, while Clayton offers a dynamic, city-centered experience. Choosing between the two means carefully considering what aligns best with your needs.
For expert guidance in navigating St. Louis County’s luxury and off-market properties, Lizzy Dooley Real Estate is here to help. Whether it’s finding the right school district or pinpointing the perfect neighborhood, their expertise ensures you’ll make a confident and informed decision.
FAQs
What should you consider when deciding between living in Ladue or Clayton in St. Louis County?
When deciding between Ladue and Clayton, it’s important to weigh factors like the neighborhood vibe, housing options, and available amenities. Ladue leans toward a suburban lifestyle, offering larger homes, expansive lots, and an upscale atmosphere. On the other hand, Clayton delivers a more urban experience with smaller homes, a walkable layout, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Schools often play a big role in the decision-making process. Ladue is well-regarded for its top-tier schools, making it a popular choice for families. Clayton, too, has excellent educational options, adding to its appeal. Beyond schools, think about your commute, proximity to work, and what kind of environment suits your lifestyle. Do you prefer the quiet and space of a suburban setting, or does the energy and convenience of city-like living sound more appealing?
Your ultimate choice will depend on what matters most to you - whether it's family-focused amenities, the potential for a solid investment, or finding a neighborhood that fits your way of life.
What should homebuyers know about the real estate trends in Ladue and Clayton?
The real estate markets in Ladue and Clayton significantly influence homebuyers' choices, with each area offering distinct advantages and challenges. In Ladue, the housing market is fiercely competitive, with average home prices hovering around $1.28 million. Over the past year, property values have steadily increased, signaling strong demand. However, this upward trend can pose affordability challenges for some buyers.
Clayton presents a different picture, with a recent drop in median home prices. This shift offers more budget-conscious options while still granting access to top-tier amenities and a prime central location. These contrasting trends highlight the importance of weighing your budget, lifestyle preferences, and long-term investment plans when deciding between these two sought-after areas.
How do the schools in Ladue and Clayton compare for families considering a move?
Both Ladue and Clayton are celebrated for their outstanding school districts, making them popular choices for families. The Ladue School District consistently ranks as one of the best in Missouri. It boasts a strong academic program, advanced coursework options, and a student-teacher ratio of about 14:1. The district is particularly noted for its specialized programs and commitment to academic achievement.
The Clayton School District, serving around 2,500 students, offers a well-rounded education. It includes gifted programs and a wide variety of extracurricular activities. Clayton’s location near higher education institutions also provides families with convenient access to advanced learning opportunities, which can be a meaningful advantage.
Ladue shines with its exceptional public school rankings, while Clayton offers a broader selection of educational and enrichment programs. Deciding between the two often comes down to what aligns best with your family’s needs and priorities.
