I grew up in STL and love it there. It may not be for everyone. If you want to live cheap near the airport, try Florissant. If you want to have a little more fun, try U-City or Central West End near Forrest Park and Wash-U. There's some cool old neighborhoods near there. If you want something upscale but still affordable, try Soulard. Once you go over the bridge into St. Charles, traffic is an issue, but it's affordable and good neighborhoods.