Pros and Cons of Living in Ferguson

Ferguson's core trade-off pairs genuinely affordable housing and real, current (if incomplete) investment against real, substantially elevated crime and an active, not-yet-resolved federal consent decree.

Exploring the idea of moving?

We can connect you with a local real estate professional who knows the area -- no pressure, just a starting point.

Learn more

Pro: genuinely affordable housing

Zillow's $112,879 average home value runs well below Missouri's own statewide average, making Ferguson one of this project's more affordable St. Louis-metro Tier B markets.

Pro: real, current downtown investment

A real $1 million federal grant is funding Plaza 501/Ferguson Farmers Market renovation now, alongside a far more ambitious (if genuinely uncertain) $2 billion Tech Hub proposal.

Con: a real, substantially elevated crime rate

Ferguson's total crime rate runs 98.7% above the national average and 75.2% above Missouri's own average -- a real, disclosed, and serious fact.

Con: an active, not-yet-resolved federal consent decree

Ferguson's 2016 federal Consent Decree, stemming from the 2014 DOJ pattern-or-practice findings, remains active as of the most recent reporting reviewed this pass -- it has not been terminated.

Key takeaways

Want to know what your budget actually buys here?

Tell us a bit about what you're looking for and we'll connect you with someone local who can walk you through real numbers.

Get local guidance

Read the full Ferguson overview for the complete picture -- housing, taxes, climate, and who this place genuinely fits.

Planning a move?

Tell us what you're looking for and we'll connect you with a local expert who can help you make it happen.

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