Starting a career in a new city can be a challenge, especially when you’re on a budget and have limited free time. However, finding the perfect place to live is crucial to kickstart your journey. If you’re a young professional looking for a place near Birmingham, AL, that offers a balance of affordability, job opportunities, and a lively atmosphere, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up the top 10 places near Birmingham, AL, that are ideal for young professionals.
1. Springville
Key Stats:
- Residents age 22-29: 13.1%
- Median earnings with a bachelor’s degree: $49,219
Springville may be small in population, but it has a big personality. This town, with a little over 3,000 residents, is home to a high percentage of young professionals. About 13% of the population here is aged 22 to 29, making it one of the best places for young people to live in the Birmingham area. Springville’s community is active, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get involved. With many people in professional roles, it’s a great starting point for your career while living in a supportive, close-knit community.
2. Pinson
Key Stats:
- Residents with professional occupations: 23%
- Total amenities: 440
Pinson is a smaller town close to Birmingham, offering the best of both worlds. The cost of living here is low, which makes it a great option for young professionals trying to save. The town also boasts a high percentage of people with professional occupations, and the local amenities, including parks and restaurants, ensure there’s always something to do. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place with access to Birmingham’s job market, Pinson is a solid choice.
3. Chelsea
Key Stats:
- Unemployment rate: 3.5%
- Residents with a bachelor’s degree: 31.5%
Once a small town with fewer than 1,000 people, Chelsea has grown to become one of the most popular suburbs of Birmingham. With a median household income of around $56,000, it’s clear that many residents have professional jobs. A third of the population holds a bachelor’s degree, which reflects the growing career opportunities available here. The town’s rapid growth has brought with it modern homes, making it a perfect place to live for young professionals starting their careers.
4. Pelham
Key Stats:
- Total amenities: 1,830
- Median earnings with a bachelor’s degree: $51,385
Pelham is one of the largest suburbs on our list, and it’s an excellent option if you want to be close to Birmingham. It offers a variety of local amenities, from gyms to shopping malls, and boasts a relatively high median income. While the cost of living here is a bit higher than in smaller towns, Pelham’s access to both a strong local job market and Birmingham itself makes it worth the investment. It’s a great place for young professionals who want to network and grow their careers.
5. Leeds
Key Stats:
- Residents with professional occupations: 17.6%
- Median earnings with a bachelor’s degree: $46,982
Leeds might be best known for Barber Motorsports Park, but it also has a strong job market. Many of its residents hold professional jobs, and the median earnings for individuals with bachelor’s degrees are above average. Though the unemployment rate is a bit high, Leeds remains one of the most affordable places to live near Birmingham. It’s a great place to look for career opportunities while enjoying a quieter, more affordable lifestyle.
6. Homewood
Key Stats:
- Percent of residents with a bachelor’s degree: 33.2%
- Unemployment rate: 5.5%
Located near Red Mountain and Samford University, Homewood is known for its vibrant culture and youthful population. With over 10% of the residents between the ages of 22 and 29, the town has a lively social scene, from bars to art events. It’s also one of the best places for professionals, with about a third of the population having a college degree. Homewood is perfect for those who want to live in a lively area with access to great jobs and opportunities for networking.
7. Graysville
Key Stats:
- Residents age 22-29: 8.2%
- Median earnings with a bachelor’s degree: $40,395
Graysville is a small town with just over 2,000 people, but it’s ideal for young professionals on a tight budget. The cost of living is low, making it an attractive option for those looking to save while living near Birmingham. While the income here is lower compared to other suburbs, the affordability might make it worth considering. The young adult population is small, so if you’re looking for a quiet place with easy access to bigger cities, Graysville could be a good option.
8. Fairfield
Key Stats:
- Residents with professional occupations: 18.1%
- Median earnings with a bachelor’s degree: $46,563
Fairfield is a more affordable option for young professionals who don’t mind commuting into Birmingham. The town has good access to I-20/I-59, making it easy to get to the city for work. Despite a relatively high unemployment rate, Fairfield offers a large number of professional opportunities and is an excellent place to save money while staying close to the action in Birmingham.
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