AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Birmingham, AL — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Birmingham neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$1,100/mo
Median Rent
212,237
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Birmingham? What Renters Need to Know

Birmingham averages $1,100 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, making it one of the most affordable major cities in the Southeast. Mountain Brook commands the highest rents around $2,200, while some urban core neighborhoods offer apartments below $1,000.

Quick Facts

Population 212,237
Median Rent $1,100/mo
Top Employer University of Alabama at Birmingham
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$1,100 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Birmingham median rent is $400 below the national median of $1,500/mo — an affordable market.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Birmingham is University of Alabama at Birmingham, making the Mountain Brook area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Birmingham

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Mountain Brook

Score: 94/100
Safety A+
Walk Score 45
Avg Rent $2,200
Schools 10/10
#2

Homewood

Score: 90/100
Safety A
Walk Score 55
Avg Rent $1,700
Schools 9/10
#3

Avondale

Score: 78/100
Safety B
Walk Score 68
Avg Rent $1,300
Schools 5/10

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#4

Five Points South

Score: 80/100
Safety B
Walk Score 78
Avg Rent $1,400
Schools 5/10
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#5

Southside

Score: 76/100
Safety B-
Walk Score 72
Avg Rent $1,250
Schools 5/10
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#6

Crestwood

Score: 82/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 58
Avg Rent $1,450
Schools 6/10
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#7

North Birmingham

Score: 55/100
Safety D+
Walk Score 42
Avg Rent $750
Schools 2/10
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#8

Lakeview

Score: 83/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 66
Avg Rent $1,500
Schools 6/10
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See All 8 Birmingham Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Birmingham Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Birmingham renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Birmingham.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Birmingham properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Birmingham

What is the average rent in Birmingham?

Birmingham averages $1,100 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, making it one of the most affordable major cities in the Southeast. Mountain Brook commands the highest rents around $2,200, while some urban core neighborhoods offer apartments below $1,000.

Is Birmingham safe?

Birmingham's safety profile varies dramatically by neighborhood. Suburban areas like Mountain Brook and Homewood have among the lowest crime rates in Alabama. The urban core, including parts of North Birmingham, has significantly higher crime rates. Researching specific neighborhoods thoroughly is essential.

What are the best neighborhoods in Birmingham?

Mountain Brook is consistently rated one of Alabama's best communities, with nationally ranked public schools and very low crime. Homewood offers similar quality at lower price points. For urban living, Avondale and Lakeview offer the best food, arts, and walkability in the city.

What is Birmingham's food scene like?

Birmingham has developed a nationally recognized food scene, with local chefs and restaurants earning James Beard Award nominations. The Avondale, Lakeview, and Five Points South neighborhoods anchor a culinary scene that includes innovative Southern cuisine, craft cocktail bars, and a strong barbecue tradition.

What is the job market like in Birmingham?

Birmingham's economy is anchored by UAB (University of Alabama at Birmingham), one of the nation's top medical research institutions and the region's largest employer. Healthcare, finance through Protective Life and Regions Bank, and manufacturing are major sectors. The city's low cost of living amplifies effective salaries significantly.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.