St. Louis Neighborhood Guide
Clayton is one of the most sought-after communities in the St. Louis area, known for luxury homes, top-rated schools, a polished downtown, and quick access to major medical centers. It is especially appealing to physicians and medical families who want an upscale neighborhood with a shorter commute, strong long-term value, and a blend of walkability, privacy, and convenience.
6,664 people live in Shaw, where the median age is 35 and the average individual income is $57,841. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
Overview
Shaw is one of the most historically intact neighborhoods in the City of St. Louis, offering classic architecture, strong visual character, and a highly recognizable residential feel. Buyers are often drawn to Shaw for its historic housing, neighborhood charm, and location near some of the city’s best-known green spaces and destination areas.dawngriffin+1
Housing
Housing in Shaw includes historic brick homes, restored single-family residences, multi-family buildings, and other classic city housing stock. The City of St. Louis reports 3,633 total housing units and 3,252 occupied housing units, while neighborhood market summaries place the median home value around $356,586, supporting Shaw’s position as a high-character city neighborhood with meaningful buyer interest.
Best For
Shaw is especially attractive for physicians, professionals, and buyers who want historic architecture, walkable neighborhood character, and a more urban lifestyle than most suburban alternatives can offer. It tends to appeal to people comparing Central West End, Lafayette Square, and Tower Grove South who want a distinctive city setting with strong everyday appeal.
Hospital Access
Shaw is a practical option for buyers who want city living with access to the major medical corridor in the Central West End. Barnes-Jewish Hospital is located on the Washington University Medical Campus in the Central West End, with major campus addresses including 1 Barnes-Jewish Hospital Plaza and nearby outpatient and specialty facilities along Forest Park Avenue and Kingshighway.
Commute Notes
Because Shaw is located on the near South Side and north of Interstate 44, it offers relatively direct access to the Central West End, SLU-area institutions, and other city destinations. That makes it a strong fit for buyers who want a city neighborhood feel without giving up practical day-to-day commuting convenience.
Schools
As a City of St. Louis neighborhood, Shaw buyers often evaluate both public and private school options depending on assignment, educational priorities, and commute needs. Your linked school pages will be especially valuable here because many families considering city neighborhoods want more clarity around public-school pathways and nearby private options.
Nearby Private Schools
Shaw buyers often also consider private school options in the city and central corridor depending on grade level, educational fit, and commute pattern. This section can later link directly to your school-district and private-school guide pages.
Lifestyle
Shaw offers a rich neighborhood identity with historic blocks, strong curb appeal, and access to major local amenities including the Missouri Botanical Garden and Tower Grove Park. For buyers who want a beautiful city neighborhood with character, community feel, and strong location value, Shaw consistently stands out.