Saint Louis may feel somewhat unfamiliar to immigrants settling in the U.S., but once you live here, you'll find that various advantages and disadvantages coexist.

In this article, we will outline the realistic aspects of Saint Louis from the perspective of immigrants, especially Korean immigrants, discussing both the pros and cons. We aim to address not just the glamorous side of the city but also the realities faced in everyday life.

One of the first advantages to mention is the low cost of living. Housing rental prices and sales are significantly below the national average, and the costs of groceries, dining out, and services are also cheaper compared to major cities on the East and West Coasts. With the same salary, many people can enjoy a more prosperous life in Saint Louis.

The second advantage is the relatively low traffic congestion. Unlike LA or New York, there is no extreme traffic jam, which reduces commuting stress between work and home. Thirdly, Saint Louis has a rich cultural infrastructure. World-class art museums, natural history museums, and zoos are all free to visit, providing plenty of cultural content to enjoy with family.

There are also disadvantages. The most significant drawback mentioned is safety concerns. The City of St. Louis is often cited as one of the cities with high crime rates in the U.S. Particularly, some urban and northern areas have high rates of violent crime, so caution is needed when choosing a place to live.

However, this issue is limited to the City of St. Louis, while suburban areas in St. Louis County (such as Chesterfield, Clayton, and Ladue) tend to have better safety. Immigrants often prefer these suburban areas. The second disadvantage is the lack of public transportation. Although the MetroLink train operates, its routes are limited, making a car essential for most daily activities.

In terms of language and cultural diversity, Saint Louis has a smaller scale of Korean services and networks compared to LA or New York. In the early stages of immigration, it may be somewhat challenging to find support if communication in English is difficult, and there are limited spaces to experience Korean culture.

However, thanks to educational institutions like Washington University, there is a community where international students and immigrants gather, and obtaining initial settlement information through the Korean Association of Saint Louis can be helpful. Weather is also one of the aspects that immigrants may find difficult to adapt to. The summer heat and high humidity, along with winter cold snaps and snow, require preparation for the seasonal weather changes.

Overall, Saint Louis is a city that suits immigrants looking for a stable economic life while avoiding the complexities of large cities. With solid healthcare, education, and cultural infrastructure, and a lower cost of living, it can be a realistic option, especially for families.

On the other hand, those expecting a vibrant immigrant community, diverse Korean businesses, and convenient public transportation may find it somewhat lacking. It is important to distinguish between the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County when choosing a place to live, and it is recommended to focus on safe suburban areas with good school districts.