New Haven blends rural calm with city convenience
Settled along an elbow on the southern shores of the Missouri River, New Haven is a quiet city of about 2,400. About 15 miles from Washington , many consider New Haven a bedroom community for the larger city. “You can be there in ten minutes, and the homes are far more affordable,” says Elisha Hoerstkamp, a broker with Re/Max Today. Hoerstkamp says the proximity to Washington lets locals take advantage of jobs and amenities, particularly if they’re more interested in a small-town lifestyle with lower crime rates. “You get the best of both worlds without even needing a stoplight,” she says. The city’s CAP Index Crime Score is a 2 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4. Despite its size, local shopping, public schools and community events also point toward New Haven being a self-contained community. “I could move anywhere, but I still live here,” says Hoerstkamp, who has lived in New Haven her whole life. “I can do everything right in this town.”
Housing ranges from historic bungalows to New Traditional
Homes closer to the city center range from renovated turn-of-the-20th-century Cape Cods and bungalows to midcentury ranch-style houses. Lots are frequently a quarter-acre or larger with hilly lawns and attached garages. Homes are generally priced between $90,000 and $250,000, depending on size and condition. Subdivisions like Heritage Valley Estates are on the city’s outskirts and frequently have 21st-century developments, including contemporary split-levels and New Traditional styles. These homes typically sell between $240,000 and $370,000. The median price for a single-family home in New Haven is in the $230,000s, compared to Franklin County’s median price in the $260,000s.
Daily shopping needs are met locally, with big-box stores nearby
Shopping in the area is largely centered around Highway 100, lined with locally owned retail, eateries and grocery stores like Save A Lot. Most daily necessities can be found without leaving the city, says Hoerstkamp. “What we don’t have is the next level up: Kohl’s, Walmart – that sort of thing,” she says. “For that, people usually go to Washington.” T&T Hilltop Lounge is a local watering hole with a laid-back atmosphere and a no-frills menu of burgers, fries and sandwiches. In addition to hosting group excursions on the Missouri River, Paddle Stop invites locals and visitors alike to its brewery, serving locally brewed lagers and IPAs at its outdoor beer garden.
Hot air balloons and heritage days bring locals together
Perhaps the area’s most colorful event is the New Haven Hot Air Balloon Glow, Race and Festival. Started in 1989, the weekend event invites people every September to watch the sky fill with dozens of hot air balloons. Named for the city’s original founding, Miller’s Landing Day celebrates New Haven’s heritage, dating back to 1836. The day includes 19th-century reenactors, live music, food vendors and a fireworks display. “These are the kinds of events that bring the community together,” says Hoerstkamp.
New Haven schools offer students plenty of extracurricular activities
Students are served by the New Haven School District, which has a B grade from Niche. New Haven High School had some extracurricular success in 2023, with state playoff showings from their girls basketball and scholar bowl teams. “It’s a really great, small school,” says Hoerstkamp. “It has lots of opportunities for kids to be involved — everyone plays on the sports teams and has fun.”
Outdoor activities include fishing, swimming and scenic hiking
In addition to regularly hosting baseball games and other citywide events, Lions Field Park has playground equipment and a wooded nature trail. The New Haven Municipal Pool has water slides, a lazy river and a rock climbing wall. Anglers regularly visit the Missouri River, which has boat access and areas for fishing from the shore.
State Route 100 connects New Haven to Washington and St. Louis
State Route 100 passes through the city, and commuters frequently use it to reach Washington, about 13 miles away. The same highway leads to Saint Louis , about 65 miles east. Mercy Hospital Washington has emergency services and is designated as a Level 2 Stroke Center.
