WELCOME TO GREATER ST. LOUIS

Greater St. Louis is best known for its friendly residents, outstanding educational opportunities, growing economy, and close-knit communities. More than 2 million people live in the Greater St. Louis area, which spans 6,375 square miles. A diverse region, economically, socially, and geographically, this area is filled with communities that are thriving and residents who are proud to call St. Louis their home.

Newcomers to St. Louis will find a pleasing blend of both rural scenery and urban convenience. The city lies on a large bend of the legendary Mississippi River, boasting a panoramic riverfront dotted with low bluffs and spectacular vistas. Stretching for nearly 20 miles, the riverfront is not only reminiscent of the city’s riverport heritage but continues to contribute to the character and charm of this vibrant metropolis.

The residents of Greater St. Louis enjoy four distinct seasons that move through brisk winters, balmy summers, cool falls, and delightful springs. The beauty of each season is evident in the rich green river valleys during the warm summer months and the gold and auburn tree tops each autumn, as well as the moderate snowfall each winter and the colorful flowers that blossom each spring.

Economy
As one of the nation’s major centers of transportation, manufacturing, and commerce, Greater St. Louis benefits from a continuously flourishing economy. With an enviable central location, Metropolitan St. Louis is within 500 miles of one-third of the Unites States population. This area claims one of the country’s busiest riverports as well as the nation’s second largest rail center. St. Louis is also one of the largest Fortune 500 headquarters cities in the nation. With numerous natural resources, a healthy job market, burgeoning industries, and strong commercial developments, the depth of Greater St. Louis’ economy offers tremendous opportunities for its residents.

With the economy’s strength stemming from diversity, a variety of industries are booming. Major industries include aviation, biotechnology, electrical utilities, research, telecommunications, and transportation. Hospitality is St. Louis’ second largest industry, serving more than six million visitors each year and bringing billions of dollars into the local economy annually.