Let the numbers do the talking.
Birmingham, AL vs Madison, AL
Birmingham, AL vs Madison, AL: What the data shows
Birmingham, AL is in Birmingham, AL while Madison, AL is in Madison, AL — both in the same state. On home prices, Madison, AL is the more affordable option at $140,000 median — $80,000 less than Birmingham, AL's $220,000. WYLT rates Birmingham, AL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Madison, AL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Madison, AL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Birmingham, AL has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. Madison, AL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Birmingham, AL has Low flood risk and Madison, AL has Low flood risk.
Birmingham, AL is the more walkable neighborhood. Birmingham, AL scores 39/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Madison, AL's 26/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Madison, AL has the higher school rating — Birmingham, AL rates 6.4/10 and Madison, AL rates 7.6/10.
| Category | Birmingham, AL | Madison, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $220K | $140K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $650 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $45K | $45K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 39/100 ✓ More walkable | 26/100 |
| Transit Score | 66/100 ✓ Better transit | 5/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 60/100 ✓ 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 | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.4/10 | 7.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Young professionalsNightlife seekersStudents | Families seeking good schoolsBudget‑conscious buyersRemote workers who can drive to nearby hubs |
Bottom line
If you prioritize nightlife and city living, Birmingham's downtown area might work for you, particularly as a young professional or student. However, if you're a family seeking good schools or a quiet, affordable space, Madison's suburban setting is more suitable. Overall, Birmingham is geared towards those who want urban amenities, while Madison is better for those who value low-cost living and a more relaxed pace.
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