Located in north-central Alabama, Birmingham holds a special place in Southern history and culture. Early settlers named the city Birmingham for the city in England, on account of a shared specialization in cutting-edge industrialization. Birmingham was later dubbed “The Magic City” for having all the necessary components to make steel — iron ore, limestone and coal — present in the surrounding landscapes. After making its name in steel manufacturing and railroading, the city became the center for the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s.
But its history is just one of the reasons Birmingham is a great city to live in. The city is now a center for business, banking, higher education and healthcare. Birmingham has a vibrant cultural scene spanning art, music, cuisine and architecture. But, best of all is that Birmingham is one of the cheapest cities for renters in the U.S. With an average one-bedroom median rent of $1,203, Birmingham ranks 12th on the top 50 cities with the cheapest rent in America. If you’re looking for a sweet rental deal in one of the South’s top cities, these are the best neighborhoods in Birmingham for renters in 2022.
The best neighborhoods in Birmingham in 2022
While it’s not Alabama’s capital, Birmingham has Alabama’s largest metropolitan area with a population of 209,403. This spread-out urban and suburban environment offers a variety of neighborhoods for prospective renters to choose from. Considering factors like average rent and local attractions, these are the best neighborhoods in Birmingham.
1. Central City
- Median 1-BR rent: $2,237
- Median 2-BR rent: $1,940
- Walk Score: 87/100
Nowadays, every major city has central downtown neighborhoods that are undergoing urban renewal and revitalization projects to attract new residents. For Birmingham, one of those neighborhoods is Central City. Located in the downtown area, this former industrial area of red-brick buildings is being given new life. Developers are converting older buildings into lofts and modernized residences, with new, trendy restaurants and businesses opening within walking distance.
Central City draws a predominantly young, hip crowd looking to live, work and play in the city center. Most residents are either students at nearby universities like the University of Alabama at Birmingham, or young professionals. The dining, bar and nightlife scene, which is primarily concentrated in the southwestern corner of the neighborhood on 1st and 2nd avenues, is booming.
Diners can choose from diverse dining options like El Barrio for Mexican food or Yo’ Mama’s for comfort Southern eats like chicken and waffles. At night, Central City really heats up. Residents hit up cool bars like Queen’s Park, a glitzy cocktail bar that’s popular with the LGBTQ+ crowd. Theater fans will love the proximity to multiple performing arts venues like the Lyric Theatre and Carver Center. Housing a massive collection of art from all over the world, the Birmingham Museum of Art also calls Central City home.
2. Downtown
- Median 1-BR rent: $1,625
- Median 2-BR rent: $2,635
- Walk Score: 36/100
For renters who want to live within walking distance to everything from dining to sports, Downtown Birmingham delivers. The Downtown area encompasses several smaller neighborhoods, including Central City. Its other districts include Fountain Heights and Druid Hills. With proximity to the business district and plenty of attractions, Downtown easily ranks as one of the best neighborhoods in Birmingham. But it’s also one of the pricier options, as well.
You can’t throw a stone without hitting something fun to do in Downtown Birmingham. Immerse yourself in Birmingham’s history and culture at museums and landmarks like the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame and the Civil Rights Heritage Trail and District. Catch a basketball game at Legacy Arena or baseball at Regions Field. There’s no lack of dining and nightlife, with everything from live music at Workplay to craft beer at Birmingham District Brewing.
Downtown is also a center for shopping and retail. Visit famed bookstore Reed Books or find quirky odds-and-ends at What’s On Second. Finally, while Downtown is definitely an urban jungle, find fresh air and natural oases in local parks like Railroad Park.
3. East Pinson Valley
Source: Rent./Magnolia Court
- Median 1-BR rent: $654
- Median 2-BR rent: $750
- Walk Score: 8/100
Anchored along Highway 79, East Pinson Valley is an elongated collection of suburban neighborhoods in northeastern Birmingham. The overall neighborhood comprises the Bridlewood, Apple Valley, Sun Valley, Echo Highlands and Pine Knoll Vista districts. The area actually has a rich history that stretches back to before Alabama was a state, including being the home of Andrew Jackson Beard. A former slave, Beard’s inventions related to railroad car couplers were so revolutionary he was inducted into the Inventors Hall of Fame. Ancient burial sites and cave dwellings also attest to the historic presence of Native Americans here.
Blending suburban living with access to the great outdoors, East Pinson Valley is a popular choice for families and young professionals. It’s also extremely budget-friendly. While it’s not very walk-friendly, the connectivity offered by Highway 79 allows commuters to get downtown in 20 minutes. The Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport is toward the southern end of the neighborhood, as well.
While East Pinson Valley has plenty in the way of shopping and basic necessities, where it really shines is outdoor recreation. The nearby Turkey Creek Nature Reserve is a great escape from city life, with five miles of trails and swimming areas. It’s also the home of several species of endangered fish. The East Pinson Valley Recreation Center is another stand-out, bringing the community together with classes and events.
4. Eastwood
- Median 1-BR rent: $710
- Median 2-BR rent: $770
- Walk Score: 39/100
Hiking trails, forested subdivisions and abundant shopping are just some of the things that await you in Eastwood. This small neighborhood in eastern Birmingham first made a name for itself with retail. It was the home of Eastwood Village, a massive mall that was one of the largest and most popular in the area.
While the mall no longer exists, shopping and retail are still kings here. The intersection of Interstate 20 and Highway 76 marks the majority of shopping in the neighborhood, including a Walmart Supercenter, CVS, Ross and other popular big box stores. The surrounding neighborhoods offer renters affordable options close to parks, shopping and dining.
Despite being a fairly suburban environment, outdoor recreation is big here, too. The Flora Johnston Nature Park offers a leisurely place to stroll and enjoy nature. At the northern end of the neighborhood, trails connect to a network on Ruffner Mountain for hikes to scenic viewpoints.
5. Five Points South
- Median 1-BR rent: $1,643
- Median 2-BR rent: $2,261
- Walk Score: 81/100
Home to the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Five Points South frequently ranks as one of the best neighborhoods in Birmingham. It’s close to Downtown, which makes it popular for young professionals. The proximity to campus means many students live in the area, as well. Highly walkable, the district is full of historic architecture combined with one of Birmingham’s most exciting social scenes.
Shopping, dining and nightlife are some of the major draws of living here. Alongside classic barbecue joints like Dreamland Bar-B-Que, you’ll also find upscale pubs like 5 Point Public House and Oyster Bar. Daytime diversions vary from strolling through the green lawns of Vulcan Park, overlooked by a giant statue of the god of fire and iron, to watching games at Regions Field. Red Mountain Park also offers nature escapes. At night, 20th Street South is the favorite haunt for bars, restaurants and live music.
6. Forest Park
Source: Rent./The Windsor
- Median 1-BR rent: $800
- Median 2-BR rent: $975
- Walk Score: 65/100
Located east of downtown along Highway 78, Forest Park is a safe, prosperous district full of historic homes. Home to four different parks and tree-lined streets, the neighborhood truly lives up to its name. Forest Park is a bit of a surprise for renters. Once called “The Country Club District,” the area has stately houses and historic buildings. Home prices here are currently average $476,000. But the rent prices are very affordable, giving renters on a budget access to everything one of Birmingham’s best neighborhoods has to offer.
If you enjoy spending time outside, Forest Park is wonderful. Avondale Park, Clairmont Park and Altamont Park offer manicured fields and playgrounds for family fun throughout the year. At Highland Park, you’ll find a golf course, as well. The majority of dining and shopping is found on the northern and western edges of the neighborhood away from the residential areas. These include Avondale Brewing Company and The Rougaroux, renowned for its Cajun cuisines like gumbo and po’boys. There’s also artisan ice cream at Big Spoon Creamery and tasty sandwiches and sides at MELT. Forest Park also has a local library branch, chic boutiques and a quality school system.
7. Glen Iris
- Median 1-BR rent: $907
- Median 2-BR rent: $1,035
- Walk Score: 56/100
Bordering on the southwestern edge of Five Point South, Glen Iris offers a suburban lifestyle close to the heart of the city. Interstate 65 extends the length of the neighborhood, allowing residents to get to and from Downtown in roughly 10 minutes. Families and young professionals value the area’s accessibility, safety and affordability. The mix of suburban and urban living gives renters options between newly-constructed, swank apartment complexes and cozy, homey rentals. Glen Iris is also known for its historic brownstones and Victorian-style homes. Renters will especially enjoy that Glen Iris is one of the cheapest neighborhoods in America for renters.
Glen Iris is one of the best neighborhoods in Birmingham for shoppers and bargain hunters. Both the Riverchase Galleria Mall and the Red Mountain Shopping Center are here. Riverchase Galleria in particular is popular, as it’s Alabama’s biggest enclosed shopping center. There are over 150 stores and restaurants to visit, from Costco to Chick-Fil-A. As a very family-friendly neighborhood, plenty of parks dot the neighborhood, as well. Ward Park is home to facilities for tennis and disc golf. You can also hit the Vulcan Trail to head up Red Mountain.
8. Highland Park
- Median 1-BR rent: $805
- Median 2-BR rent: $1,095
- Walk Score: 64/100
Highland Park is between Five Points South and Forest Park at the foot of Red Mountain. As one of the oldest neighborhoods in Birmingham, it’s a treasure trove of historic Craftsman, Tudor and Colonial houses and landmarks. Its meandering streets and quiet parks offer a peaceful respite from the hustle of downtown and the university district. But if you need a good time, both districts are right next door. Even so, good restaurants like the Latin American-centric Rojo are found throughout the area.
While the proximity to downtown and other hip neighborhoods is a big plus for Highland Park, it’s also far cheaper. So, if you want to live in a walkable, affordable neighborhood close to the city center, Highland Park is a fantastic option. Top-notch healthcare is also right next door at Ascension St. Vincent’s hospital.
Are you a dog person? Then, Highland Park is the place for you. The neighborhood’s many parks are very dog-friendly. Rufus Rhodes Park is also the home of one of Birmingham’s most beloved local events. Once a year, the Do Dah Day festival is held here, featuring a pet parade, music and more.
9. Northside
- Median 1-BR rent: $2,237
- Median 2-BR rent: $1,940
- Walk Score: 71/100
Northside encroaches on Downtown territory and even includes some downtown districts like Central City. Northside’s other four neighborhoods are Norwood, Druid Hills, Evergreen and Fountain Heights. The area is home to many important historic landmarks like the 16th Street Baptist Church, the site of the 1963 bombing that killed 4 young girls, making it a key site during the Civil Rights Movement.
By spanning several neighborhoods, renters have a variety of lifestyle options to choose from. In central districts like Central City and Fountain Heights, you’ll find a more downtown-style of living. But Druid Hills and Norwood offer a more traditional style of neighborhood, suitable for families or renters looking for peace and quiet. With well-ranked schools and childcare options, it’s especially popular with families.
Rental prices closer to Downtown are higher. But as you get further out, you can find more affordable options. Neighborhood attractions include watching football at Protective Stadium and the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center, which is home to Legacy Arena, a children’s theater and the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.
10. Oak Ridge Park
- Median 1-BR rent: $893
- Median 2-BR rent: $973
- Walk Score: 18/100
This small neighborhood in eastern Birmingham is between Interstate 20 and Highway 78. It’s a quiet, laidback area that’s perfect for families or renters on an extreme budget. Here, you can find one- or two-bedroom apartments for less than $1,000. But if need be, you can hop on either thoroughfare and be downtown in 20 minutes. Here, you’ll find stylish apartment complexes with nice amenities like outdoor pools, fitness centers and spacious floor plans.
Primarily residential, Oak Ridge Park doesn’t have many commercial developments apart from an Aldi grocery store. But it’s right next door to Eastwood and all the shopping and dining it has to offer. The up-and-coming Crestwood North neighborhood with its parks, cafés and restaurants is just to the west. Ruffner Mountain and its scenic hiking trails are also close by.
11. Red Mountain
- Median 1-BR rent: $800
- Median 2-BR rent: $975
- Walk Score: 64/100
The Red Mountain neighborhood in southeastern Birmingham gets its name from the ridge that flanks central Birmingham. Red Mountain is actually part of the Appalachian mountains. For residents, it offers hiking trails, manicured parks and elevated views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
The neighborhood itself encompasses Red Mountain, Forest Park, Highland Park, Redmont Park and English Village. Each smaller district is walkable and known for its historic architecture. Red Mountain is a great choice for renters who want to live close to Downtown and nature at the same time. In addition to the parks and trails, Red Mountain is also home to the Birmingham Zoo and Botanical Gardens. The Country Club of Birmingham is here, as well, with an 18-hole golf course.
12. Southside
Source: Rent./Met on 7th
- Median 1-BR rent: $1,429
- Median 2-BR rent: $2,285
- Walk Score: 66/100
Southside is a small neighborhood squished between Forest Park, Downtown and Five Points South. It’s also sometimes called the Lakeview District or North Lakeview Industrial District. The district was originally a hub for the local streetcar system. Now, it’s a charming, family-friendly neighborhood. Similar to Central City, lots of older, industrial buildings are now trendy new lofts and condos. New developments have also been going up, as well. It’s close to all the fun of downtown, the business district and the Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham Hospital.
While surrounding neighborhoods primarily attract students or young professionals, Southside is very popular with families. Close to parks like Red Mountain and Vulcan Park, it’s easy to spend time outdoors. The Market at the Pepper Place shopping mall brings locally-grown farm-fresh produce and healthy food to the community. Southside is notable for its many independent businesses, like The Son of a Butcher shop and Yellowhammer Creative. You can also catch shows at the Alabama Ballet.
13. Spring Lake
- Median 1-BR rent: $495
- Median 2-BR rent: $579
- Walk Score: 19/100
Spring Lake is a quiet, suburban neighborhood in northeastern Birmingham. Named after a small lake in the area, this wooded district is full of creeks, tree-lined streets and verdant parks. Connected to the city center by Interstate 59, Spring Lake receives high marks from its residents for its childcare offerings, schools and low crime. Due to these attributes, families love the area. It’s also a great deal for renters on a budget. You can find two-bedroom apartments available for just under $600.
As a primarily residential district, you won’t find many commercial businesses within Spring Lake apart from hair salons, boutiques and daycare centers. But nearby Center Point Parkway has everything from grocery stores to restaurants. For nature lovers, the nearly 1,040-acre Ruffner Mountain Nature Center is the gateway to mountain biking and hiking right on your doorstep.
14. Titusville
- Median 1-BR rent: $675
- Median 2-BR rent: N/A
- Walk Score: 38/100
Located west of Glen Iris on the other side of I-65, Titusville is a laidback residential area. Extending from close to the University of Alabama to Green Springs Avenue, the neighborhood features low rents and quiet streets that are attractive for students and families. The area is steeped in history and tradition on account of the nearby Elmwood Cemetery. This tranquil cemetery offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Birmingham’s former residents, with historic graves, markers and sites.
While Titusville doesn’t have a lot of businesses within its boundaries, its location more than makes up for that. You can easily walk or drive over to Five Points South or downtown to take advantage of all the shopping, dining, nightlife and entertainment. Titusville also has a well-ranked school system and a strong focus on community.
15. West End
Source: Rent./1228 Tuscaloosa Ave.
- Median 1-BR rent: $675
- Walk Score: 42/100
Living in the West End neighborhood is like living in the early days of the city. Birmingham’s first neighborhood, Elyton, was here. Historic houses sit side-by-side with modern homes and apartment complexes. One of the most famous houses in the neighborhood is the Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens. This grand mansion was Birmingham’s last plantation home, and now houses a museum and landscaped gardens.
Top-notch medical care, low rents and a strong sense of community are just some of the reasons to consider West End. The Princeton Baptist Medical Center and Cahaba Medical Center help keep the community healthy with pediatric services, emergency care and more. Locals are very involved in uplifting and improving the community through initiatives like the West End Community Garden. Created through the Urban Ministry, this garden delivers fresh produce, as well as empowers kids and families to learn more about garden, health and nutrition.
Located west of Downtown, West End also gets to take advantage of the bustling social scene in the city center.
Find the best Birmingham neighborhood for you
Has Birmingham’s southern charm and low rents won you over? Find apartments for rent in Birmingham’s various neighborhoods to make the Magic City your new home.
