Are you considering moving to Birmingham? Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Birmingham AL is often described as a hidden gem in the South. With its rich history, urban life, and warm Southern drawl, the Birmingham area offers charm, culture, and convenience. But is Birmingham Alabama a good place to live? Let’s dive into the details and talk about the pros and cons of living in Birmingham.
Nicknamed the Magic City for the speed of its growth during the iron and steel boom, Birmingham offers a fascinating mix of old and new. The city’s history is deeply rooted in the civil rights movement, and today you’ll find world-class museums, excellent food, and a tight-knit community. If you’re looking for the best places to live in Alabama, Birmingham deserves a top spot on your list.
One of the biggest benefits of living in Birmingham AL is its convenient location. It’s a quick drive to Atlanta, Nashville, or the Gulf Coast, making weekend getaways a breeze. Plus, the city is surrounded by natural beauty, so if you’re into outdoor activities, you’ll have no shortage of options.
Of course, every city has its ups and downs. That's why we’ll cover the full course of what it’s like living in Birmingham AL. So if you’re curious about what life could look like here, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll unpack everything you need to know about life in Birmingham and what makes it a great place to live.
Is Birmingham Alabama a Good Place to Live?
Birmingham Alabama is a good place to live. This growth-focused community is affordable to both live and visit, which is one of the key factors for residents moving to the area. Living in Birmingham AL also offers incredible nature, friendly residents, and plenty of fun things to do.
Where Is Birmingham?
What county is Birmingham Alabama in? Birmingham Alabama is in Jefferson County, the state’s most populous county. Living in Birmingham AL also means enjoying easy access to nature, as Birmingham occupies Jones Valley, which is flanked by the tailing ends of the Appalachian foothills. Red Mountain lies immediately south of the downtown area, offering residents convenient options for hiking, mountain biking, and more.
After moving to Birmingham, your options for day and weekend trips are endless. It is just 147 miles from Birmingham to Atlanta, 191 miles from Birmingham to Nashville, and 259 miles from Birmingham to Panama City Beach.
Is living in Birmingham AL in your future? The Birmingham movers at This Side Up Moving are ready to help make your move a great one. Get in touch with our Birmingham moving company today!
Birmingham Information
- Birmingham county: Jefferson County
- Birmingham zip code: 35201-35298
- Birmingham area: 205, 659
- Birmingham area code: 149.54 square miles
- Birmingham elevation: 597 feet
- Birmingham time zone: Central Time Zone (UTC -6 and -5)
- Closest airport to Birmingham: Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), 5.2 miles away
Birmingham Population & Demographics
What is the population of Birmingham Alabama? There are 200,733 residents living in Birmingham AL. Birmingham is the second-most populous city in Alabama, just behind Huntsville. The community is also a part of the Birmingham metropolitan area, which has a population of 1.19 million, making it the largest metropolitan area in Alabama.
When living in Birmingham AL, you’ll be a part of a fairly diverse community, and the racial and ethnic composition is 67.1% Black or African American, 25.6% White (24.2% non-Hispanic), 3.4% two or more races, 1.4% Asian, and 0.2% American Indian.
Residents living in Birmingham AL can enjoy a youthful and hip energy, as the median age is 35.7. Of the 91,740 households in Birmingham, 32% are occupied by married couples.
Additional Birmingham Demographics:
- Sex ratio: 52.8% female, 47.2% male
- Median household income: $44,376 (compared to the Alabama average of $62,212)
- Birmingham nickname: The Magic City, Pittsburgh of the South
- Notable people from Birmingham: Actress Courteney Cox, singer Tammy Wynette, NFL player Andre Tippett
- Educational attainment: 88.7% high school degree (or higher), 30.7% bachelor’s degree (or higher)
- Foreign-born population: 4.4%
Transportation
When living in Birmingham AL, having a car is pretty much essential, especially if you’re commuting from the suburbs or heading out to enjoy one of Alabama’s beautiful weekend road trips. The city is centered around several major highways, including I-65, I-20, and I-459, which make getting in and out of town relatively smooth.
Public transportation exists, but it’s limited. The MAX Transit bus system services the Birmingham area, but routes can be infrequent depending on where you live. If you’re moving to Birmingham without a car, you’ll want to choose a neighborhood with walkable amenities or reliable transit access.
Air travel is a breeze thanks to Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), which is just a short drive away from the city center. It offers nonstop flights to several major hubs, including through United Airlines.
So, is Birmingham Alabama a good place to live when it comes to getting around? If you’re okay relying on a car, absolutely. While public transportation isn’t a strong point, the manageable traffic, solid highway network, and easy access make mobility one less thing to stress about when living in Birmingham AL.
What Is the Cost of Living in Birmingham Alabama?
One of the biggest draws of living in Birmingham AL is the low cost of living. One of the best ways to analyze the Birmingham cost of living is to take a look at the Cost of Living Index. This number compares the cost of goods and services in a city to the national average.
The Cost of Living Index in Birmingham is 91.8, making the city 8.2% more affordable than the national average of 100. Birmingham has a slightly higher cost of living than the Huntsville cost of living (90.8) and the Montgomery cost of living (88.8).
According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four living in Birmingham AL would need to earn $101,855 per year to live comfortably in the area. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a family with two working adults and two children would need to earn at least $24.67 per hour to support their family without falling below the poverty line.
Typical Birmingham Living Expenses:
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $18.00
- Cappuccino: $5.48
- Gallon of milk: $4.23
- Carton of eggs: $4.20
- Pound of apples: $2.89
- Gallon of gas: $3.12
- Average Birmingham utilities per month: $211.40
- Fitness club (monthly): $47.50
Source: Numbeo
When living in Birmingham AL, you’ll also have to consider the cost of taxes. Alabama has a graduated state income tax, with rates ranging from 2% to 5%. When it comes to sales tax in Birmingham AL, you can expect a 10% rate. As far as the Alabama property tax rate, you can expect your bill to be 10% of the appraised or market value of your residential property. You’ll pay property taxes to the Jefferson County Tax Collector on October 1 of each year.
Birmingham Real Estate | Average Rent & Home Prices
If you’re moving to Birmingham, you’re likely looking for housing in the area. Luckily, housing is very affordable for those living in Birmingham AL. According to Redfin, the median home price in Birmingham is $220,000, which is below the Alabama average of $289,900 and the national average of $438,357. Although the average home price in Birmingham AL is on the lower end, the real estate market is picking up. Home prices are up 24.3% compared to last year, and homes sell after an average of 45 days on the market.
Are you more interested in renting property when living in Birmingham AL? According to RentCafe, the average rent in Birmingham is $1,327, well below the national average of $1,727. When it comes to the most affordable neighborhoods in Birmingham, you’ll find Huffman and Spring Lake to be great options, where rent is $784 and $795 per month, respectively. The most expensive neighborhoods in Birmingham AL are Southside Birmingham ($1,704), Crestwood South ($1,713), and Overton ($1,775).
Still stuck on whether to buy or rent when living in Birmingham AL? According to the ATTOM Rental Affordability Report, it is more affordable to rent than to buy real estate in Birmingham.
Best Neighborhoods in Birmingham AL | Where to Live in Birmingham
Wondering where to live in Birmingham or looking for the best places to live in Birmingham AL? Whether you’re drawn to the charm of historic homes, the convenience of downtown living, or the quiet comfort of the suburbs, living in Birmingham AL means you’ve got a wide range of great neighborhoods to choose from.
These are some of the best Birmingham neighborhoods that offer something for everyone, from family-friendly communities to trendy spots with easy access to public transportation and local businesses.Crestwood | One of the Best Areas to Live in Birmingham Near Downtown
Crestwood is a centrally located neighborhood east of Downtown Birmingham, split into two parts: Crestwood North and Crestwood South. It’s ideal for residents living in Birmingham AL who want both city access and residential charm.
Homes here are mostly charming mid-century ranches, many of which have been updated. The median home price is $377,500, according to Redfin. The area is known for its local shops, restaurants, and parks, and has become one of the best areas to live in Birmingham for young professionals and families.
Highland Park | Historic Urban Neighborhood With Green Spaces
Located just south of Downtown, Highland Park is one of the oldest and most desirable Birmingham neighborhoods. The area offers plenty of amenities, such as golf courses like Highland Park Golf Course and The Country Club of Birmingham. Highland Park delivers the best of Alabama for those looking for a small-town feel.
Vestavia Hills | One of the Safest Neighborhoods in Birmingham AL
Vestavia Hills is a suburb just south of the city and is consistently ranked as one of the safest neighborhoods in Birmingham AL. It’s a top pick for families living in Birmingham AL, thanks to its excellent school system and abundance of parks. The area features mostly spacious single-family homes, and the median home price is $518,750, according to Redfin.
Birmingham Weather & Climate
Is Birmingham Alabama a good place to live for fantastic weather? If you’re curious about the Birmingham climate, you’ll be glad to know it features a humid subtropical climate, according to the Köppen Classification. This means living in Birmingham AL comes with humid summers, mild winters, and a decent amount of rainfall throughout the year.
Birmingham offers four distinct seasons. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant, making them the best time to visit Birmingham. Summers, on the other hand, can get hot and sticky, with the average Birmingham temperature ranging from the upper 80s to the low 90sºF. Winters are generally mild, with average lows in January dipping into the 30sºF.
Wondering, “Does it snow in Birmingham Alabama?” The answer is yes, but not much. The country-style setting gets just around 1-2 inches of snow per year. Residents living in Birmingham AL will see an average annual rainfall of 56 inches, which keeps everything green. Thunderstorms are common in spring and summer, and the area can occasionally experience severe weather, including the rare tornado.
Birmingham Restaurants
When living in Birmingham AL, you’ll find no shortage of amazing food to try out. Whether you’re health-conscious, love the traditional food of the south, or want to enjoy international cuisine, there’s something for you in Birmingham. These are just a few of the best places to eat in Birmingham.
- Niki’s West: Niki’s West is a favorite among those living in Birmingham AL. This local joint features an elevated Southern buffet as well as steak, seafood, and breakfast menus. No matter what you’re craving, Niki’s West has you covered. 233 Finley Ave W, Birmingham, AL 35204, (205) 252-5751
- Chez Fonfon: After moving to Birmingham, make sure you check out Chez Fonfon. Chez Fonfon transports you to France, and offers classic French dishes like Croque Monsieur and Soupe du jour. 2007 11th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205, (205) 939-3221
Trattoria Zaza: Trattoria Zaza is one of the best restaurants in Birmingham, and offers pizza and other Italian fare in a small, laid-back space. 207A 20th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, (205) 202-6207
Things to Do in Birmingham AL
When living in Birmingham AL, you’ll enjoy tons of fun things to do. From fun yearly events to dozens of outdoor attractions to help you live an active lifestyle, there’s always something to do in the area. If you’re wondering what to do in Birmingham Alabama, then check out these top spots.
Top Birmingham Attractions
- Birmingham Zoo: This is one of the best things to do in Birmingham with kids, and features elephants, lions, and hundreds of other animals.
- Railroad Park Foundation: Make sure to check out the Railroad Park Foundation when living in Birmingham AL. This downtown green space features fun events throughout the year as well as a skate park and cafe.
- Breakout Games: One of the best Birmingham family activities, Breakout Games challenges participants to work together to solve clues.
- Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens: This old 1840s home showcases gorgeous architecture and a collection of decorative art.
- Birmingham Rage Room: If you need to let go of some anger when living in Birmingham AL, check out the Birmingham Rage Room, where you can smash cars, electronics, and more in a safe, controlled environment.
- K1 Speed: Grab the whole family and head to K1 Speed for some indoor go-karting.
Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure: One of the best Birmingham activities for kids, this amusement park includes slides, a lazy river, laser tag, and more.
Birmingham Entertainment & Arts
- Birmingham Museum of Art: The Birmingham Museum of Art is a must-see after moving to Birmingham. This spot features artwork from all over the world as well as a beautiful sculpture garden.
- Kelly Ingram Park: Make sure you check out Kelly Ingram Park when living in Birmingham AL. This 4-acre park features sculptures and monuments commemorating the Civil Rights movement.
- Alabama Theatre: Catch a show at this historical movie theater from the 1920s.
Birmingham Race Course Casino: Want to try your luck when living in Birmingham AL? Head over to this venue for live greyhound racing and wagering opportunities.
Birmingham Museums
- Birmingham Civil Rights Institute: When living in Birmingham AL, check out this museum to learn more about how your city played a part in the Civil Rights movement.
- McWane Science Center: This fun museum features interactive exhibits and a giant IMAX theater.
- Vulcan Park and Museum: This is one of the best attractions to explore when living in Birmingham AL, and features a statue symbolizing the city’s industries.
- Southern Museum of Flight: Head over to this fantastic museum featuring military aircraft as well as activities for kids.
Birmingham Parks & Outdoors
- Birmingham Botanical Gardens: The Birmingham Botanical Gardens are a must-see when living in Birmingham AL, offering outdoor sculptures and thousands of flowers.
- Red Mountain Park: Red Mountain Park is one of the most popular Birmingham attractions and features over 1,500 acres of trails, historic mines, zip lines, and dog parks.
- Ruffner Mountain: Check out this 1,038-acre preserve with hiking trails, a nature center, and old mining sites.
- Lover’s Leap: This historic site is one of the best lookout spots in all of Birmingham.
Shopping in Birmingham
- The Summit Birmingham: This high-end outdoor retail mall has over 90 stores.
- Shops of the Colonnade: Looking for a good deal when living in Birmingham AL? Head over to this huge shopping mall.
- The Shops of Grand River: You’re sure to find a good deal at this outlet mall featuring both a food court and a drive-in movie theater.
Map of Fun Things to Do in Birmingham AL
Check out this map of fun things to do when living in Birmingham AL.
Sports
If you’re a sports fan living in Birmingham AL, you’ll have plenty of action to keep up with. While the city doesn’t have a major professional team, it makes up for it with its lineup of college athletics and minor league games. The University of Alabama at Birmingham brings Division I action to the city, especially in football and basketball, drawing strong local support. You’ll also find passionate fans of Alabama and Auburn football across the Birmingham area, making Saturdays in the fall a major event all on their own.
Baseball lovers living in Birmingham AL can catch a game at Regions Field, home to the Birmingham Barons, a Double-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. The stadium sits right in downtown Birmingham, offering great skyline views and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. The city also hosts the Regions Tradition, a PGA Tour Champions event.
Birmingham Crime Rate
Is living in Birmingham AL safe? This is likely one of the most common questions you’ll have when considering moving to Birmingham. Let’s take a look at the Birmingham AL crime rate:
- Overall crime rate: 5,854 crimes per 100,000 people (172.5% higher than the state average and 151.9% higher than the national average)
- Violent crime rate: 1,682 crimes per 100,000 people (311.1% higher than the state average and 354.9% higher than the national average)
- Property crime rate: 4,173 crimes per 100,000 people (140.0% higher than the state average and 113.5% higher than the national average)
Although the crime rates are on the higher end, living in Birmingham AL is safe. Many areas see little to no crime at all, and the City of Birmingham recently released a 66-page blueprint for reducing violence in the area.
When living in Birmingham AL, you’ll be protected by the Birmingham Police Department.
Economy & Jobs in Birmingham Alabama
When it comes to career opportunities, living in Birmingham AL puts you in the heart of one of the South’s most dynamic job markets. Once a powerhouse in the steel industry, Birmingham has diversified over the years and now boasts a strong economy built on finance, healthcare, education, and technology.
Some of the best places to work in Birmingham AL include Alabama Power, Regions Financial Corporation, UAB (University of Alabama at Birmingham), and Encompass Health.
Birmingham jobs cover a wide range of industries, making living in Birmingham AL great for both entry-level workers and experienced professionals. According to Payscale, the average salary in Birmingham Alabama is $70,000. If you’re looking for jobs in Birmingham Alabama, then check out the city job board or do a quick search on Indeed.
Healthcare
Living in Birmingham AL means having access to some of the best healthcare in Alabama. The city is home to world-renowned medical facilities, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital, which is nationally ranked and a leader in research, trauma care, and specialized treatments.
In addition to UAB, Birmingham offers a range of hospitals, clinics, and specialty care centers that serve residents throughout the region. For families, retirees, and professionals alike, living in Birmingham AL comes with the peace of mind that quality care is always close to home.
Birmingham Schools
Living in Birmingham AL gives families and students access to a wide range of education options. The primary Birmingham school district is Birmingham City Schools, which serves over 25,000 students across 42 schools. Additionally, surrounding areas like Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills, and Homewood are known for having some of the best high schools in Birmingham AL. There are also excellent private schools in Birmingham AL, including The Altamont School and Indian Springs.
For higher education, moving to Birmingham means being close to top institutions like the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Samford University, and Birmingham-Southern College. Whatever you are pursuing in this new chapter of life, living in Birmingham AL promises strong education options at every level.
When living in Birmingham AL, you can enjoy access to the Birmingham Public Library.
Birmingham Utilities & DMV Change of Address
When living in Birmingham AL, you’ll need to make sure your utilities are set up and ready to go. Here are a few providers you’ll need to know about:
- Gas: Spire
- Electric: Alabama Power
- Water: Birmingham Water Works
If you’re heading to the state of Alabama for the first time, then you may also need to get a new driver's license and change your address. To change your address, head to an Alabama DMV location.
Is Living in Birmingham AL in Your Future?
So, is Birmingham Alabama a good place to live? Now that we’ve explored all of the living in Birmingham Alabama pros and cons, are you ready to start your new life in the city? Birmingham is a great place for families, retirees, and young professionals alike.
If living in Birmingham AL is in your future, then get in touch with the Birmingham movers at This Side Up Moving! Before moving to Birmingham, give our team a call at (205) 484-9360 for a free quote.
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