Pros and Cons of Living in Ballwin

Ballwin's core trade-off pairs exceptional safety, a highly-regarded school district, and genuine affluence against above-national-median property taxes and a real, disclosed population decline.

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Pro: exceptional safety and a top-rated school district

Ballwin's real 87.81%-below-statewide violent crime rate and its highly-regarded Rockwood School District together make this a genuine draw for families and retirees alike.

Pro: genuine affluence

A median household income of $124,626 alongside a low 4.78% poverty rate reflects genuine, real affluence consistent with west St. Louis County's broader profile.

Con: above-national-median property taxes and home prices

Ballwin's 1.25% effective property tax rate and $417,520 average home value both run above comparable Missouri statewide figures.

Con: a real, disclosed population decline

Unlike this manifest's fast-growing Springfield-metro suburbs, Ballwin's population is real and currently declining (-2.93% since the 2020 census) -- a genuine, disclosed distinguishing fact for an established, more mature suburb.

Key takeaways

Pro: a violent crime rate 87.81% below Missouri's statewide average, plus the highly-regarded Rockwood School District.
Pro: genuine affluence -- a $124,626 median household income and a low 4.78% poverty rate.
Con: an above-national-median 1.25% effective property tax rate and $417,520 average home value.
Con: a real, disclosed population decline (-2.93% since the 2020 census), distinct from growth-driven suburbs elsewhere in this manifest.

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Last reviewed: 2026-08-27. Independent research; not financial, tax, or legal advice -- confirm current figures with a local professional before making a decision.