Definition
Festus is a city in Jefferson County, Missouri, United States, and a suburb of St. Louis. As of the 2020 United States census, it had a population of 12,706.
Overview
Located at 38°13′10″ N 90°24′35″ W, Festus lies just west of the Mississippi River and is served by Interstate 55 and U.S. Routes 61 and 67. The city covers a total area of 5.90 square miles (15.29 km²), all of which is land, and sits at an elevation of approximately 512 feet (156 m). Festus operates under a mayor–council form of government; the current mayor is Sam Richards.
Etymology / Origin
The settlement originated in 1878 as an outgrowth of nearby Crystal City. Early names included “Tanglefoot,” allegedly referring to intoxicated workers from a local glass factory, and “Limitville.” The name “Festus” was adopted in the 1880s, reportedly in honor of St. Louis banker Festus J. Wade. An alternative tradition claims the name was selected randomly by a preacher who pointed to the biblical name “Festus” in the Book of Acts.
Characteristics
- Demographics – The 2020 census reported a racial composition of roughly 88 % White, 3 % Black or African American, and small percentages of Native American, Asian, Pacific Islander, and individuals of two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents comprised about 3 % of the population. The median age was 36.6 years, and the median household income (2016‑2020 ACS) was $59,041.
- Economy – Festus functions as a residential community for the St. Louis metropolitan area, with local businesses and services supporting its population.
- Education – The city is served by the Festus R-VI School District, which includes elementary, middle, and high schools.
- Culture & Events – Annual community events include the Festus Balloon Festival. The city maintains a historic downtown area and several parks.
- Climate – Festus experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers (average July high ≈ 97 °F/36 °C) and cold winters (average January low ≈ 22 °F/–5 °C). Annual precipitation averages about 44 inches (1,100 mm), with modest snowfall in winter.
Related Topics
- Jefferson County, Missouri
- St. Louis metropolitan area
- List of cities in Missouri
- Festus Balloon Festival
- History of Missouri railroads (the city’s early development was linked to rail lines)