[2] The neighborhood is so named because it partially borders (across Grand Boulevard) the east entrance of Tower Grove Park.

The owners and builders in the early days of Tower Grove East were, for the most part, siblings, cousins, and extended family members of the prominent German Americans living in Compton Heights.

Buyers would often choose the architectural elements from pattern books that illustrated multiple styles of windows, doors, stairways, and fireplace mantels.

The often austere exterior facades typically hide a wealth of richly designed entries with carved fretwork; built-in hall benches, mirrors, and bookcases; wood paneling; stained-glass windows; and elaborate staircases.

In 2020, Tower Grove East's racial makeup was 55.6% White, 28.9% Black, 5.0% Asian, 5.3% Latino or Hispanic, 8.2% Mixed Race, and 0.1% Native American.