Let the numbers do the talking.
Birmingham, AL 35203 vs Birmingham, AL 35205
Birmingham, AL 35203 vs Birmingham, AL 35205: What the data shows
Birmingham, AL 35203 and Birmingham, AL 35205 are two ZIP codes within Birmingham. On home prices, Birmingham, AL 35203 is the more affordable option at $220,000 median — $48,900 less than Birmingham, AL 35205's $268,900. WYLT rates Birmingham, AL 35203 as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Birmingham, AL 35205 as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Birmingham, AL 35205 has the stronger safety profile of the two. Birmingham, AL 35203 has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. Birmingham, AL 35205 has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Birmingham, AL 35203 has Low flood risk and Birmingham, AL 35205 has Low flood risk.
Birmingham, AL 35203 is the more walkable neighborhood. Birmingham, AL 35203 scores 39/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Birmingham, AL 35205's 15/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Birmingham, AL 35203 rates 6.4/10 and Birmingham, AL 35205 rates 6.4/10.
| Category | Birmingham, AL 35203 | Birmingham, AL 35205 |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $220K ✓ Lower price | $269K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $978 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $45K | $49K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 39/100 ✓ More walkable | 15/100 |
| Transit Score | 66/100 ✓ Better transit | 40/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 54/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 5 min ✓ Shorter commute | 30 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.4/10 | 6.4/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsNightlife seekersStudents | first-time buyersbudget-conscious familiesyoung professionals |
Bottom line
The downtown Birmingham neighborhood is better suited for young professionals and students who value a vibrant city life and are willing to tolerate higher crime rates and noise. In contrast, the suburban area is more suitable for budget-conscious families and first-time buyers who prioritize affordability and a quieter environment, but are willing to drive and sacrifice walkability. Overall, the choice between these two neighborhoods depends on your individual priorities and lifestyle.
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