Oakville, Missouri, has the honor of being what the U.S. Census Bureau refers to as a census-designated place. This means Oakville is not a city or a town or even a village. Instead, it's an unincorporated area that that has qualities similar to a town yet lacks a municipal government.
Located just south of St. Louis, Oakville borders the Mississippi River and the smaller Meramec River. The area's quiet suburban charm contrasts sharply with the hustle and bustle of nearby St, Louis. If you want all of the advantages if living in a major metropolitan area, without all of problems that often go along with doing so, Oakville is your kind of non-town. The community offers a variety of fun activities, such as boating, fishing, golf and exploring nature.
Becoming a New Resident
Okay, so you've considered all of your options and realized that moving to Oakville is absolutely essential for your future health and happiness. What now? Well, start by sitting down and doing some serious planning. Moving from one place to another requires a lot of preparation, so don't wait until the last minute the way you do with unimportant stuff, such as filing your tax return. Take least six weeks to prepare for your move. If you wait any longer, expect things to get hectic as moving day approaches.
The first step is to look at your finances. Can you afford to move to a city that has a higher median income than the country as a whole? Do you have several months’ worth of savings to use as a back up in case anything goes wrong after your move? Make a spreadsheet that lists your total income and your expected living expenses in Oakville. Make sure you'll still have money for the important things, like good food, movies and hanging out with friends.
Notify your current landlord of your plans as soon as possible. Then, unless you have an all bills paid unit, inform your utility companies about your move. You want them to set a shut-off date, so you don't end up giving some stranger the gift of free electricity.
Take an objective look at your furniture and decide what's worth taking to your new home. That raggedy old sofa with all those holes in the cushions? Leave it. The antique dining table that's been in the family for generations? It's a keeper.
Now, as for getting ready to do an apartment search in Oakville, always carry proof of income with you. This will impress landlords, which is definitely a good thing. Make sure your credit is in good shape too, as this is a sore point with many of today's landlords and property managers.
Neighborhoods
Oakville has several attractive neighborhoods, one of which is certain to meet your needs. All of them have access to good services, such as fire and police protection.
Northwest:** **A lovely section of Oakville bordering the neighboring community of Mehlville, the northwest area is home to many single-family residences, but also has several attractive apartment complexes. This part of the community also boasts several shopping centers and the Lake of the Woods Reservoir.
East Oakville: Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Mississippi River, East Oakville offers breathtaking views and excellent options for dining and shopping. Home to Oakville's Cliif Cave County Park, this area offers you great opportunities for hiking and exploring nature, if that sort of thing peaks your interest.
South Oakvile: The location for Hillcrest Country Club, one of the premier golf courses in the region, South Oakville also features Sugar Creek, a captivating stream that empties into the Mississippi.
The Bottom Line
Life in Oakville happens at a leisurely pace for the most part, although downtown St. Louis is just a few miles away anytime you feel the urge to let loose and kick up your heels. Things are rather spread out in Oakviile, so driving is the best way to get around. If you find an apartment rental in the right location, however, you might be able to walk to the grocery store and to clothes shopping.
Many Oakville residents work in other parts of the region and pursue outdoor activities during the weekends. They also take full advantage of the many fine restaurants in the community and the various cultural events. If all of this sounds like your cup tea, consider making the moving to the pleasant and appealing city, oops, census-designated place, of Oakville, Missouri.