John Saunders knows what Penrose can be. The executive director of the nonprofit Wesley House Association grew up in the north St. Louis neighborhood on a block of well-kept, owner-occupied homes surrounded by shoe shops and grocery stores. More than 30 years later, that same block has nine vacant homes and few local businesses, according to Saunders. Many of Penrose’s houses remain in great shape, but others have become dilapidated and unkempt as an increasing number of homes have turned into rental properties or become vacant. “The major difference between those days and now is residents back then owned their homes,” says Saunders. “There was a lot of pride and commitment to keeping their homes nice and their lawns cut.” Despite challenges, the Penrose community is working steadily to return their 130-year-old neighborhood to its former glory.
Penrose offers suburban amenities and a mixture of home styles.
Penrose is about 7 miles away from downtown St. Louis.
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Brick cottages and Craftsman homes
All-brick Craftsman homes are common across St. Louis’ northside, but Saunders says the consistency of home styles varies. That’s why prices range widely in Penrose, from less than $20,000 for a gutted duplex to a four-bedroom turnkey house in the mid-$100,000s. Brick homes are popular with many homebuyers due to their durability, and Saunders says bricks are so valuable that when vacant homes are demolished in Penrose, the bricks are shipped to other cities for future use.
And it’s not just Penrose that’s changing. “Houses across the Northside are undergoing renovations,” says Walls Real Estate Co. agent Paula Brown. “Locals are putting a lot of work into improving their community.”
New Traditional brick homes are found in Penrose.
Tudor-inspired homes in Penrose have wrought-iron adornments.
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Biking in Penrose Park
Cyclists should race, not walk, to Penrose Park to visit the velodrome, a banked arena designed for track cycling. One of only 27 velodromes in the U.S., it’s been the place for St. Louis cyclists to train since the ‘60s. In addition to cycling, Penrose Park offers a handball court, jogging path and playground with a miniature rock wall.
A community garden is coming soon to Penrose. According to Saunders, Wesley House Association plans to join with locals to pick up trash, pull weeds and prepare space for the garden. Once productive, the fresh fruits and vegetables harvested in the garden will be given to the local food pantry.
Bring the kids to the playground and green space at Penrose Park.
Penrose is home to Missouri's only velodrome, which was opened in 1962 and reborn in 2019.
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Historic schools that excel in sports
One thing that has remained the same in Penrose is the presence of Ashland Elementary School, which has been standing since 1911. Students may attend Ashland Elementary School, Yeatman-Liddell Preparatory Middle School and Vashon High School. Niche graded these schools D plus.
Both Yeatman-Liddell and Ashland host Shop and Grow Markets, where students and families can pick up fresh, frozen and canned groceries for free. Vashon High received a Niche grade of A-minus specifically for its sports program, where both the boy's and girls' basketball teams reign as state champions.
Students in Penrose begin their education at Ashland Elementary School.
Penrose students continue their education at Yeatman-Liddell Middle School.
Vashon High School offers plenty of athletic programs for its students.
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Local businesses and big box grocers
There are still a few locally run businesses in Penrose, including Yummy Sweetcakes cheesecakery, a popular spot for a decadent snack. Although best known for its specialty peach cobbler cheesecake, Yummy’s is also the local bakery used for wedding and birthday cakes. For dinner, grab a bite at Newstead Chop Suey, a hole-in-the-wall grill serving fried catfish with sides of pickles and onions. Corner stores are scattered throughout the community, so houses are rarely outside of walking range from a spot to pick up snacks and drinks. For a full grocery haul, head to the neighborhood Save A Lot.
Penrose residents can head over to Save A Lot for their grocery needs.
Grab takeout from Newstead Chop Suey in Penrose.
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Public transit to downtown
Since the neighborhood is on the city’s bus routes, getting to the city center takes under a half hour. Just five miles north of downtown St. Louis, Penrose is building on its strong foundation to form a revitalized community.
Looking forward
Though Penrose has changed from the time Saunders grew up in the neighborhood, he says he stays because he’s inspired by the challenge of restoring the community, an ongoing effort Saunders says will require input from nonprofits, banks and local government. “I want people to know that this was a thriving, strong African American middle-class community,” he says. “It can be that again.”
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It is what you make of it. There's basic jobs for people who just trying to get by. Then there are also jobs with great potential but only for those willing to put forth the effort and strive for it.
1.0Current Resident
7/12/2023Niche Review
Its evident that crime, violence, and predatory behaviors are contained to certain areas. How can we ignore who keeps this area unsafe? These are not safe areas for women and children but without them, there would be no nesting for protected criminals.
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to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Penrose
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
7
4
Assault with Weapon
7
4
Robbery
8
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
6
4
Crime Score
10
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Penrose Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Penrose, Saint Louis sell after 45 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Penrose, Saint Louis over the last 12 months is $53,500, down 21% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Versatile, income-producing opportunity in the heart of the Penrose neighborhood! This unique property offers a rare zoning variance allowing a daycare for up to 18 children on the main level, making it ideal for an owner-operator, entrepreneur, or investor seeking flexible use and strong upside. The upper unit already has a tenant in place, providing immediate rental income—perfect for an
Calling all investors new and seasoned... Property needs some TLC. This property is being sold as-is with the seller providing no repairs, inspections, or warranties. So call your favorite real estate agent and submit your offer today!
This brick two-story home offers 2 bedrooms with the potential for a 3rd bedroom or flex space, 1.5 bathrooms, and over 1,200 square feet of living space. The property features a walk-out basement, off-street parking, and a fenced yard. Major updates include a newer roof, plumbing, and HVAC system. A great opportunity for an investor looking to add to their rental portfolio. Please do not disturb
This multi-unit property gives an opportunity with this classic, all-brick 4-family property in Saint Louis. Spanning approximately 3,264 square feet of total living space on a 4,680-square-foot lot, this multi-family building features four distinct rental units, offering incredible potential for consistent portfolio growth. The structure is complemented by a full basement ideal for shared
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Welcome to 4404 Floriss Place, a beautifully renovated brick townhouse located just steps from O’Fallon Park. This spacious home blends timeless character with modern updates, featuring refinished hardwood floors, a bright and inviting living area, and a stunning white kitchen with stainless steel appliances. The main level offers exceptional flexibility with a sunroom that can serve as a home
Welcome to a great opportunity in the heart of the Penrose neighborhood: this stately 2-story, 3-bedroom, 2-baths home at 4534 Margaretta Ave presents solid potential for both owner-occupants and investors alike. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by generous living space 1,918 sq ft with character details — from original woodwork and classic architectural touches to a layout that flows across two
Welcome to 4823 San Francisco Avenue — a beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home ready for its next owner! Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a savvy investor, this property offers incredible value and comfort in a convenient Saint Louis location. Step inside to find a bright, open living space with plenty of natural light, a functional layout, and updates throughout. The spacious
3 units building for sale. (1) 3 bedroom 1 bath(2) 2 bedroom 2 bath Welcome to 4016 -4018 Cora Ave, a solid multi-family opportunity with strong upside potential. This property features 3 units with 1 unit currently occupied, providing immediate rental income while you renovate the remaining 2 vacant units. Perfect opportunity for an investor looking to add value, increase cash flow, and
This charming 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath needs TLC but showcases beautiful hardwood floors and a functional layout filled with opportunity, making it an investor's dream or buyers that are eager to build equity with their own updates. Full of character and solid bones, this property is ready for your vision and finishing touches to bring it to life. You will enjoy convenient access to major highways,
Lori NealKey-West Property Partners brokered by EXP Realty, LLC
**4 Single Family Apartments with Commercial Space on Main Level**Almost 6000 Sq Ft*Property Needs Work/Rehab-Sold As Is*There are 2 Retail Storefront/Office/Mixed Use Spaces on the Main Level that could be converted to residential units, Plus 4 Single Family Apartments/ Units on the Upper Level*Retail Space is Divided with separate Entrances*4 Parking Spaces in rear*The Commercial Spaces each
Get ready for this showstopper! FOR SALE OR LEASE. A rare opportunity to live in a fully renovated historic brick home where all major systems have already been replaced. Move in immediately while benefiting from the long-term upside of a neighborhood poised for continued reinvestment. Following the devastating St. Louis City tornados that impacted the area, significant rebuilding and
Property Id: 2364742(NEGOTIABLE) Rent to Own/ Owner financing - handyman special - NO credit check. Homeownership OPPORTUNITY.Ideal for handymen, contractors, and cleaners.Needs tlc in the living room, kitchen, and bath.STOP renting. Be a homeowner. Act now; a down payment secures keys today!30-year agreement for deed. You choose a fair down payment and a
Welcome Home! This beautifully updated second floor unit apartment has everything you’ve been searching for. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be greeted by gleaming hardwood floors that bring warmth and charm to the entire space. The updated kitchen and bathroom are true standouts, featuring sleek finishes and updated appliances designed to make cooking, entertaining, and everyday living a
Available early March. This newly renovated rental is now avaible. Occupancy passed. This 3 bedroom 1 bath is a great house for a small family. There is no basement. There is a storage shed in the back yard which is fenced. AC, water heater and roof are new. The add on is a large master bedroom. All bedrooms share the bathroom. Parking is in the driveway and off street. There is no garage.
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