Intro
Discover the best areas to live, work, and play in Birmingham with our comprehensive zip code guide. Explore the top 5 neighborhoods, including Downtown Birmingham, Avondale, and Lakeview, and learn about their unique characteristics, amenities, and attractions. Get insider knowledge on Birminghams most desirable zip codes and make an informed decision about your next move.
Birmingham, the largest city in the state of Alabama, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history, diverse culture, and thriving economy. With a population of over 210,000 people, Birmingham is a city that offers something for everyone. From its vibrant downtown area to its many suburban neighborhoods, Birmingham is a city that is full of life and opportunity. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 5 areas to know in Birmingham, including their zip codes, demographics, and attractions.
Understanding Birmingham's Zip Code System

Before we dive into the top 5 areas to know in Birmingham, it's helpful to understand the city's zip code system. Birmingham's zip codes are divided into several different areas, each with its own unique character and charm. The city's zip codes range from 35201 to 35299, with each zip code corresponding to a specific area or neighborhood.
Area #1: Downtown Birmingham (35201, 35203, 35205)

Downtown Birmingham is the heart of the city, with a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The area is home to many of Birmingham's major attractions, including the Birmingham Museum of Art, the Alabama Theatre, and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.
- Demographics:
- Population: 5,000+
- Median household income: $40,000+
- Median home value: $150,000+
- Attractions:
- Birmingham Museum of Art
- Alabama Theatre
- Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
- Railroad Park
Area #2: Avondale (35222, 35224)

Avondale is a charming neighborhood located just east of downtown Birmingham. The area is known for its beautiful parks, trendy restaurants, and boutique shops. Avondale is a popular area for young professionals and families, with a mix of old and new homes.
- Demographics:
- Population: 10,000+
- Median household income: $50,000+
- Median home value: $200,000+
- Attractions:
- Avondale Park
- Avondale Brewing Company
- The Red Cat Coffee House
- Saw's BBQ
Area #3: Vestavia Hills (35216, 35226)

Vestavia Hills is an affluent suburb located just south of Birmingham. The area is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and upscale homes. Vestavia Hills is a popular area for families and professionals, with a mix of old and new homes.
- Demographics:
- Population: 30,000+
- Median household income: $80,000+
- Median home value: $300,000+
- Attractions:
- Vestavia Hills City Center
- Vestavia Hills Library
- Wald Park
- Vestavia Hills High School
Area #4: Homewood (35209, 35229)

Homewood is a charming suburb located just south of Birmingham. The area is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and small-town charm. Homewood is a popular area for families and professionals, with a mix of old and new homes.
- Demographics:
- Population: 25,000+
- Median household income: $60,000+
- Median home value: $250,000+
- Attractions:
- Homewood City Center
- Homewood Public Library
- Homewood Park
- Samford University
Area #5: Mountain Brook (35213, 35223)

Mountain Brook is an affluent suburb located just south of Birmingham. The area is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and upscale homes. Mountain Brook is a popular area for families and professionals, with a mix of old and new homes.
- Demographics:
- Population: 20,000+
- Median household income: $100,000+
- Median home value: $400,000+
- Attractions:
- Mountain Brook City Center
- Mountain Brook Public Library
- Jemison Park
- Mountain Brook High School
What is the best area to live in Birmingham?
+The best area to live in Birmingham depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Downtown Birmingham is great for those who want to be in the heart of the action, while Avondale and Vestavia Hills offer a more suburban feel. Homewood and Mountain Brook are popular areas for families and professionals.
What are the most popular attractions in Birmingham?
+Birmingham has a wide range of attractions, including the Birmingham Museum of Art, the Alabama Theatre, and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. The city also has many parks and outdoor spaces, such as Railroad Park and Avondale Park.
What is the cost of living in Birmingham?
+The cost of living in Birmingham is relatively low compared to other major cities in the United States. The median home value is around $150,000, and the median household income is around $50,000.
In conclusion, Birmingham is a city that offers something for everyone, from its vibrant downtown area to its many suburban neighborhoods. By understanding the different areas of the city, including their zip codes, demographics, and attractions, you can make an informed decision about where to live, work, and play in Birmingham. Whether you're a young professional, a family, or a retiree, Birmingham has a place for you.