Des Peres

Des Peres, Missouri

Des Peres may be just four square miles, but it makes the most out of its compact footprint. Located west of St. Louis, this suburb doesn’t collect city property tax but boasts affluent neighborhoods with generous lots, mature trees, and high-performing schools.

For buyers, the draw is clear: timeless ranches alongside custom luxury builds, all crafted to last and cared for by long-term homeowners. Add in green space at Des Peres Park, a full-service community hub at The Lodge, and the retail pull of West County Center, and you’ve got everyday life dialed in within minutes from home.

If you’re looking for a place that stands out for all the right reasons, consider exploring homes for sale in Des Peres.

DES PERES, MO AT A GLANCE

• Location: Des Peres is located in west St. Louis County, just off I‑270 and Manchester Road, about 15–20 minutes from downtown St. Louis. It’s a city within the Greater St. Louis metro area that’s close to suburbs like Kirkwood, Town and Country, and Frontenac.
• Geography: Spanning 4.3 square miles, Des Peres is primarily residential, with established neighborhoods, mature trees, and larger lots. Open green space is woven into local parks, though undeveloped parcels are limited.
• History: Named by early French missionaries after the nearby River des Peres (“of the Fathers”), the city began as farmland and woodland before developing into a suburban community in the mid-20th century.
• Population size: Home to just over 9,100 residents, Des Peres is a small city with a stable, owner-occupied base. It attracts families, professionals, and retirees alike.
• City layout: Most shops, restaurants, and everyday errands cluster around Manchester and Ballas Roads. The rest of the city is almost entirely residential, with clean streets, mature landscaping, and a pace that makes rush hour feel optional.
• No property tax: While real estate prices in Des Peres are higher than many neighboring suburbs, buyers here also benefit from a rare financial edge — the city levies no property tax. Residents still pay taxes to St. Louis County and school districts, but the absence of a city property tax reflects well on the city’s fiscal stability and long-term appeal.
• Public services: Des Peres is one of the few cities in the entire country with a fully cross-trained public safety department—every officer doubles as police, firefighter, and EMT.

DES PERES, MO REAL ESTATE MARKET OVERVIEW

Des Peres real estate rarely slows down. Homes here sell fast and inventory stays low year-round. It’s a market mainly composed of single-family homes—a mix of timeless ranches, custom estates, and modern renovations, all built for buyers who value long-term stability over trendy flash.

With median listing prices around $900,000 and limited inventory, buyers are often drawn in by more than just the homes. People here are buying into a community that has long-term value.

Most homes fall between $600,000 and $1.2 million, though luxury properties can easily exceed well over that range. This is not a speculative market either. It’s a place where homes are built to last and values tend to hold.

Homes for sale in Des Peres, MO

Homes in Des Peres are designed to endure—not just physically, but stylistically as well. This isn’t a neighborhood of passing trends or builder-grade copy-paste. Here’s what you can expect:

• Layout – Classic ranches and two-story homes dominate the landscape, many with finished basements, oversized garages, and layouts designed for practical, everyday life. Open-concept living is common, especially in renovated or newer homes.
• Exterior – Brick and stone exteriors lend a sense of permanence, while composite roofing and clean landscaping keep maintenance low. Most lots are wide and well-treed—giving the streets a quiet, established feel.
• Interior – Expect spacious floor plans (2,500+ square feet), with three to five bedrooms and two to four bathrooms. Upgrades often include chef-worthy kitchens, custom cabinetry, walk-in pantries, and well-finished basements built for entertaining or multigenerational living.
• Condition – Older homes are rarely left behind by the times. Thoughtful renovations are the norm, with mid-century ranches often updated inside without compromising their curb appeal. Full tear-downs are rare, but luxury rebuilds do exist in select pockets.

Neighborhood snapshot

Des Peres doesn’t have sharply defined districts—but it does have a collection of well-established subdivisions, each with its own personality, lot sizes, and architectural flavor. Here are a few that stand out:

Harwood Hills

A quiet, established enclave known for its mature trees, mid-century architecture, and broad lots. Homes here often feature thoughtful updates while preserving their original charm, making the neighborhood a consistent favorite for families and longtime residents.

Berkley Manor

Just east of Harwood Hills, Berkley Manor stands out for its traditional home designs and peaceful setting. With slightly smaller lots and a more compact layout, it offers all the appeal of Des Peres living.

Greenbriar Estates

A balanced mix of traditional homes and modern upgrades, Greenbriar Estates is known for its walkable streets and generous yards. It’s popular with families who want suburban quiet without sacrificing accessibility.

The Arbors at Sugar Creek

A small subdivision developed in the mid-2000s, The Arbors consists of just 18 custom-built homes. Open layouts, upscale finishes, and a manicured streetscape give this pocket a polished, intentional feel.

Des Peres Corners Area

Centered near Manchester and Ballas Roads, this mixed-use area blends residential streets with walkable access to grocery stores, restaurants, and shopping. It’s less secluded, but highly convenient. Just a few steps from West County Center, the area is ideal for homebuyers who want retail right next door.

Phantom Forest and Bittersweet Woods

On the western edge of the city, near the conservation areas of Phantom Forest and Bittersweet Woods, you’ll find some of the city’s most exclusive homes. While these preserves

don’t define a formal neighborhood, their wooded surroundings attract buyers seeking larger living space, custom architecture, and a sense of retreat.

LIVING IN DES PERES, MO

Convenient suburban living defines Des Peres. The city is built around well-kept parks, excellent schools, and a rhythm that makes daily life pleasant without feeling overdone.

Getting around

Location is one of Des Peres’ biggest strengths. I-270 runs right through the city, linking residents quickly to Clayton, Chesterfield, or downtown in under 25 minutes. Manchester Road anchors the local commute and shopping scene, putting daily errands and retail within easy reach.St. Louis Lambert International Airport is just a short drive north, and even at rush hour, traffic here stays manageable thanks to the city’s compact size.

Schools and education

Des Peres is zoned into two of the region’s strongest school districts: Kirkwood and Parkway. It’s no surprise then that education is a top draw for families moving to the area. Here are some of the best schools to consider:

Public schools

• Kirkwood High School– A large, well-established high school serving grades 9-12, known for strong academics, a broad range of extracurriculars, and a reputation that draws families to the area.
• Nipher Middle School – One of the key middle schools feeding into Kirkwood High, recognized for supporting student transitions, academic enrichment, and preparation for the high school experience.
• Parkway West High School – For those in the Parkway-served portion of Des Peres, this high school offers advanced placement courses, strong arts and athletics programs, and a reputation for academic rigor also highly rated.

Private schools

• St. Clement of Rome – A Catholic elementary school offering faith-based education with a strong emphasis on academics and community service.
• St. Paul’s Lutheran – Known for small class sizes and individualized attention, it provides a Christian-based education for preschool through eighth grade.
• St. Gerard Majella – Another Catholic option, with a reputation for academic excellence and a strong sense of parish community.

Higher education

Several top-rated universities are nearby as well, including Washington University, Fontbonne University, and Maryville University.

Outdoor recreation

Green space is built into daily life in Des Peres, with more than 100 acres spread across city parks and nearby preserves. Each one offers a different way to slow down, get outside, or connect with neighbors.

• Des Peres Park – The city’s signature park. It has tennis courts, ball fields, and paved trails, but also summer concerts, community festivals, and kids’ play areas. It’s where the city comes together.
• Sugar Creek Park – A wooded escape with a ballfield and picnic areas, ideal for quiet time with nature.
• Phantom Forest & Bittersweet Woods – Twin conservation areas with shaded trails that feel worlds away, even though they’re just minutes from home.
• Harwood Park – A small neighborhood park with a playground, shaded benches, and open lawn space.
• Pioneer Park – Multi-use park with a play structure, basketball courts, and a walking loop.
• The Lodge Des Peres – A full-service community center with indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness complex, gymnasium, and year-round programming.

Dining and shopping

While Des Peres has no shortage of national chains, many locals love the area’s unique and locally owned options:

• Rosalita’s Cantina – Known for festive Tex-Mex dishes and table-side guacamole.
• The Village Bar – A laid-back favorite serving burgers and comfort food since 1948.
• Casa de Tres Reyes – A relaxed Mexican kitchen with tacos, combo plates, and margaritas.
• Sawmill BBQ Pub & Grill – Round things out with smoked meats and craft sandwiches, keeping the dining scene approachable but never boring.
• J. Gilbert’s Wood-Fired Steaks & Seafood – The city’s go-to for celebratory dinners, pairing polished service with Midwestern steakhouse classics.

Meanwhile, retail therapy in Des Peres is a serious draw. Between destination malls and neighborhood conveniences, Des Peres offers one of the most comprehensive shopping experiences in the county—without losing its small-city feel.

Here’s what to expect:

• West County Center is the city’s retail anchor, with more than 150 stores — from Nordstrom and Macy’s to Apple, Sephora, and Dick’s Sporting Goods — making it a true one-stop destination.
• Schnucks Des Peres is the flagship location of the regional grocery chain, offering everything from everyday essentials to local favorites. For many residents, it’s as much a community hub as it is a supermarket.
• Plaza Frontenac raises the bar with luxury brands like Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, drawing Des Peres residents looking for designer fashion and boutique finds.
• Along Manchester Road, smaller plazas and specialty shops handle everyday errands and services, keeping essentials close to home.

Local events and nearby attractions

Des Peres offers a packed calendar of family-friendly events, many of which are held at The Lodge or Des Peres Park:

• Bonfire and Hayrides – Spend a fall evening under the stars with a hayride and bonfire package, complete with s’mores and marshmallow roasting. Offered on select weekends in October and early November.
• Fall Fest and Pumpkin Glow – Held each October at Des Peres Park, this afternoon event includes hayrides, food trucks, live music, a straw maze, and the magical floating jack-o-lantern display at sunset.
• Holiday Lights Contest – Residents compete in categories like “Classic Christmas” and “Total Griswold”—winners get yard signs and bragging rights. Judging is community-based.
• Fall Dive-In Movie – Watch a family movie like Moana 2 while floating in The Lodge’s indoor pool. Concessions available.
• Dog Days of Summer – Dogs get the pool to themselves at the end of summer at The Lodge Outdoor Pool. Proof of vaccinations required.
• Puzzle Palooza – Compete with friends to finish a 500-piece puzzle in under two hours. Prizes awarded. Bring your own snacks.
• Yoga & Wine – A 21+ event offering a relaxing yoga session followed by wine, cheese, and conversation with fellow participants.

Beyond local parks and events, Des Peres residents enjoy quick access to some of St. Louis’s most celebrated attractions.

In under 20 minutes, you can spend the afternoon wandering the Missouri Botanical Garden, catch a free day at the world-class Saint Louis Zoo, or explore the museums, trails, and golf courses of Forest Park. And with nearby country clubs and wellness centers, it’s easy to see why Des Peres appeals to a wide variety of homebuyers.

FIND HOMES FOR SALE IN DES PERES, MO

Des Peres offers a sought-after mix of small-city calm, big-city convenience , and long-term value. If you’re looking for a St. Louis suburb that checks your boxes, this is the one to keep an eye on.

The Wehnes Group, led by seasoned agent Laura Wehnes, is ready to assist you in your real estate journey in Des Peres. Our team understands which homes move quickly, which neighborhoods offer the most long-term value, and how to position you to succeed in a competitive market.

Find the right property hassle-free by calling us at 314.608.2299 or send an email.