Birmingham’s Job Market
One of the best things about moving to Birmingham is the city’s thriving job market. Birmingham has been recognized among the best cities for jobs in the U.S. and has career opportunities across a variety of sectors. Though it has famously been known for its role in the production of steel and iron, there are also job opportunities in healthcare, financial services, and education. Some of the biggest employers in the area include Baptist Health, Alabama Power, Drummond Company Inc., American Cast Iron Pipe Company, as well as houseware magazines like Southern Living and Country Living.
Affordable Cost of Living
Birmingham attracts many new residents thanks to its affordable cost of living. Birmingham’s cost of living is about 19% lower than the national average, with the cost of housing averaging about 43% lower. That means your dollar goes a lot further, and residents can enjoy a higher quality of life. Combine this affordability with ample job opportunities, and it’s easy to see why so many people are moving to the Magic City.
Beautiful Scenery and Outdoor Recreation
Birmingham provides the perfect combination of city life with the beauty of nature. The city’s background is filled with breathtaking scenery, and it is located near hiking trails, waterfalls, lakes, and more. There are plenty of locations to enjoy time outdoors, including the 19-acre Railroad Park located in downtown Birmingham. You can also browse the beautiful Birmingham Botanic Gardens at the foot of Red Mountain, take a sunrise hike at Ruffner Mountain or Red Mountain Park, or spend a day hiking and canoeing in Oak Mountain State Park.
Pursue Excellent Education
Birmingham is an excellent place for those looking to pursue higher education opportunities. It is home to the best academic college in Alabama, the University of Alabama Birmingham. Here, you can pursue a degree in public health, business, nursing, and more. There are also fantastic trade schools, medical programs, and a top-rated cosmetology and esthiology school in Birmingham. Not only does Birmingham have great colleges, but it also has one of the highest concentrations of top-ranked public schools in Alabama. The top-ranked schools include Mountain Brook High School, Crestline Elementary, and Vestavia High School.
Birmingham Weather
If you prefer living in a city that does not get much snow, Birmingham is an excellent choice. Its southern location near the Gulf of Mexico means the temperatures rarely dip below freezing. That said, the summer can get hot and humid, and the area does see its fair share of precipitation.
Birmingham Dining Scene
Birmingham has a fantastic food scene, with everything from classing Southern staples to global fusion, craft cocktails, local breweries, and so much more. You can’t beat the delicious southern barbecue but you can also indulge in French fine dining as well as delicious seafood. Some local favorites include:
- The Southern Kitchen and BarT: lively, chic bar featuring elegant southern dishes, cocktails, and plenty of TV’s to keep you entertained
- Bistro Two Eighteen: A French-inspired bistro with delicious cuisine and an intimate setting
- Eugene’s Hot Chicken: You can’t go to the South without checking out some delicious hot chicken
- OvenBird: James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Hastings started this restaurant, which features small plates that are all cooked in cast-iron pans.
Best Neighborhoods in Birmingham
Birmingham is a fantastic city with a great real estate market. Whether you are looking for your first apartment or a larger single-family home, there are plenty of excellent neighborhoods to choose from in Birmingham.
Homewood: Homewood is one of the area’s highest-rated communities and features excellent cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, as well as the best hiking and biking trails in the city.
Highland Park: This historic neighborhood has been named one of America's best neighborhoods and comprises hilly, wooded streets and charming homes, apartments, and condos. The area has bars, eateries, and coffee shops that attract many young professionals.
Forest Park: This neighborhood is the perfect balance of urban and suburban, with a mix of residential homes, parks, restaurants, and bars. With easy access to downtown, this is a popular neighborhood for both young professionals and families.
Vestavia Hills: This suburb is not only one of the top neighborhoods in Birmingham but it is considered one of the best in the state. With highly rated public schools, low crime, close proximity to Wald Park, and many other places to eat and drink, this community appeals to families, couples, young professionals, and retirees.
Ready to Move to Birmingham? Allied Van Lines Can Help
Birmingham is a beautiful growing city with a small-town feel. If you are ready to make the move to Birmingham, let the professionals at Allied Van Lines assist with your relocation. As a leader in the moving industry for more than 95 years, our knowledgeable and highly experienced specialists can guide you through the moving process. With the help of our team, you can save time, money, and a tremendous amount of stress. We know exactly what it takes to plan and execute a seamless move. Allied offers a comprehensive list of moving services to fit any budget, so call today or start by getting a free quote using their convenient Instaquote tool.