Thinking about a move to Ladue? You might be drawn to the quiet streets, larger lots, and quick access to St. Louis work hubs and culture. Relocating can still feel complicated when you are trying to line up schools, inspections, taxes, and timing. This guide gives you a clear picture of what to expect, what to check, and how to plan a smooth purchase in Ladue. Let’s dive in.
Ladue at a glance
Ladue is a suburban city in central St. Louis County with mostly single-family homes on generous lots. You will see mid-century ranches, traditional two-stories, and custom estates, along with some high-end rebuilds. The feel is residential and low density. Most shopping and dining are concentrated in nearby Clayton, Frontenac, and Brentwood.
For local services and municipal details, start with the City of Ladue. If you want to explore demographics and housing characteristics, consult the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts.
What to expect from the market
Ladue’s market is dominated by single-family and luxury listings. Inventory can be tight, especially for certain lot sizes or locations near preferred school boundaries. You may compete for well-located homes and you might also encounter older properties that need updates.
When you evaluate pricing, focus on true comparables inside Ladue city limits and by school assignment zones, not just regional medians. For fresh data on median price and days on market, track the Greater St. Louis REALTORS market trends and your agent’s MLS snapshots.
Older homes and inspections
Many Ladue homes were built mid-century or earlier. Common issues to review include roof age, HVAC, electrical upgrades, and signs of foundation or basement water intrusion. Sump pumps and drainage are important in this region. Radon testing is a standard step in St. Louis; learn more from the Missouri Department of Health radon resources. For pre-1978 homes, factor in lead-based paint disclosures and safety protocols.
Schools and enrollment basics
Many buyers choose Ladue for access to the Ladue School District. School assignments depend on your property’s address, so verify before you write an offer. Review boundary maps, enrollment steps, and any transfer options on the Ladue School District site.
Some families use private or independent schools in the wider St. Louis area. If that is your plan, confirm current campus locations, admissions timelines, and tuition directly with each school.
Taxes, assessments and carrying costs
Property taxes are administered by St. Louis County and include county, school district, and municipal levies. Assessments are not the same as market value. Check the parcel’s assessed value, recent tax bills, and any reassessment notices through the St. Louis County Assessor. Ask about the appeals process if you believe the assessed value is inaccurate. Your total carrying costs will also include utilities, homeowners insurance, and any HOA dues where applicable.
Utilities and service providers
Service providers can vary by address. Common providers include:
- Electric: Ameren Missouri
- Natural gas: Spire
- Sewer: Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD)
- Water: Confirm with the city or your seller’s disclosure for the current provider
- Internet/cable: Spectrum, AT&T and others serve much of the area; verify speeds and options for your address
Confirm pickup schedules for trash and recycling. Some services are city-managed, while others are handled by private haulers.
Permits, zoning and renovations
Ladue has local planning and zoning rules that regulate lot size, setbacks, accessory structures, and permitted uses. Tree preservation and neighborhood covenants can affect your plans. Before you remodel or add on, contact the City’s building department for permit requirements, review timelines, and inspection steps. Start with the City of Ladue for application forms and contact details. If the property is part of an HOA, request the CC&Rs and recent meeting minutes.
Insurance and risk checks
- Flood risk: Check FEMA maps to learn if a lot sits in a floodplain and whether you will need flood insurance. Use the FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer viewer and ask for an elevation certificate if applicable.
- Severe weather: The St. Louis region experiences wind and hail. Review your policy’s wind and hail deductibles.
- Basements: Many homes have basements. Consider sewer backup and sump pump failure endorsements to limit water-damage exposure.
Lifestyle, location and commute
You will be close to job hubs, medical centers, and culture. Clayton’s business district and Forest Park’s attractions are a short drive. Access to I-64 (US 40) and I-170 makes cross-county travel straightforward.
Public transit is more limited. There is no MetroLink station in Ladue; the nearest stations are in neighboring Clayton and other inner suburbs. Plan for a car as your primary option and review routes through Metro Transit for buses and park-and-ride connections.
Relocation checklist and timeline
Use this quick plan to stay organized:
60–90 days out
- Define budget and get preapproved with a local lender.
- Review recent comps by school assignment and lot size.
- Shortlist neighborhoods based on commute and property features.
30–45 days out
- Tour homes virtually or in person and align on inspection timelines.
- Confirm school assignment for each address with the district.
- Request utility estimates and review recent tax bills.
Offer to closing
- Include inspection and appraisal contingencies if financing.
- Order full home, sewer scope, termite, radon, and roof inspections.
- Check FEMA flood status, survey needs, and permit history with the City.
Final week
- Schedule final walk-through and confirm repairs.
- Set up utilities, trash service, and internet for move-in day.
- Arrange movers, temporary housing if needed, and school enrollment appointments.
Ready to make your move?
If you want a smooth Ladue relocation, you need clear data, local context, and steady coordination from search to closing. For neighborhood insights, on-point pricing, and organized transaction management, connect with Holly Crump.
FAQs
How competitive is the Ladue housing market right now?
- Track the latest median price, inventory, and days on market through the Greater St. Louis REALTORS market trends and ask your agent for neighborhood-level MLS data.
How do I confirm which Ladue school a home will attend?
- Use the Ladue School District site for boundary maps and enrollment steps, then verify assignment for the exact property address before you submit an offer.
What inspections are most important for older Ladue homes?
- A full home inspection plus sewer scope, termite, radon test, and roof evaluation are common. See the Missouri Department of Health radon resources for testing guidance.
How are property taxes calculated in Ladue and St. Louis County?
- Taxes are based on assessed value and combined county, school district, and municipal levies. Review parcel details and assessments through the St. Louis County Assessor.
Do I need flood insurance for a Ladue property?
- Check the FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer viewer for floodplain status. If the home is in a mapped flood zone or has local drainage concerns, discuss coverage with your insurer.
Which utility providers serve most Ladue homes?
- Common providers include Ameren Missouri for electric, Spire for natural gas, and MSD for sewer. Confirm specifics for your address and set up service before closing.
