Let the numbers do the talking.
Birmingham, AL vs Decatur, AL
Birmingham, AL vs Decatur, AL: What the data shows
Birmingham, AL is in Birmingham, AL while Decatur, AL is in Decatur, AL — both in the same state. On home prices, Decatur, AL is the more affordable option at $200,000 median — $68,900 less than Birmingham, AL's $268,900. WYLT rates Birmingham, AL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Decatur, AL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Birmingham, AL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Decatur, AL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Birmingham, AL has Low flood risk and Decatur, AL has Low flood risk.
Birmingham, AL is the more walkable neighborhood. Birmingham, AL scores 15/100 (car-dependent) versus Decatur, AL's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Decatur, AL has the higher school rating — Birmingham, AL rates 6.4/10 and Decatur, AL rates 8/10.
| Category | Birmingham, AL | Decatur, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $269K | $200K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $978 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $49K ✓ Higher income | $45K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 15/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 40/100 ✓ Better transit | 3/100 |
| Bike Score | 54/100 ✓ More bikeable | 1/100 |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.4/10 | 8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | first-time buyersbudget-conscious familiesyoung professionals | familiescommuters to Birminghamaffordable home buyers |
Bottom line
Between these two neighborhoods, Decatur is a more practical choice for families and commuters to Birmingham due to its relatively stronger schools and slightly more manageable housing costs. However, it's essential to prioritize being able-bodied, since it's extremely car-dependent. If you're a younger adult or student, with a preference for a quieter, more suburban atmosphere, Birmingham might be preferable, despite its shortcomings.
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