Have many choices but St. Louis is a possibility (transplants, live in)

[lmfp2006]

Currently I live in the phoenix area and I've lived here for a little over a year. I hated it at first but I've grown to like several things about it. I still would like to move but am trying to stay with my company which has a division in St. Louis. I have never been there and when I move I won't have a chance to visit. I am very open-minded and not certain what I am looking for but I am posting to get an idea of what the locals and the transplants think. I grew up in NH so I understand that any city is a huge change. Just trying to gain perspective here as I am hoping that my next move will be permanent. Questions I have are is there plenty that a single person can do there? Plenty of places to make friends? How are the suburbs? The overall attitude of the city?

[BoomBoxing]

St. Louis is a pretty good place for singles. Outside of the city and inner suburbs is pretty much the standard family-oriented. My recommendation to meet new people here is to check out meetup.com and check out local groups that you have an interest in (like biking, rowing, etc...). There are several kickball leagues, which is an absolute blast and a great way to meet some new fun people.

The suburbs are pretty much the standard bland suburban fare. I don't think any suburbs are that exciting though. As for overall attitude of the area, I would say down to earth, middle of the road, with a touch of self-deprication. The city is more liberal, optimistic, younger, and less self-depricating. I think you'll like it, but come here and visit for a few days and see what your impression is.

Transplants seem to think it's hard breaking into people's social networks and are indifferent or hostile to making new friends. I don't feel younger people (20's and 30's) in the St. Louis area have that trait, or at least not to the extent some say. My girlfriend and I always try and meet new people and make new friends. Most people I know are the same way.