3 things Birmingham renters want most + where to live right now

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I’ll be honest—when I hear “luxury apartment,” my first thought isn’t rooftop pools or dog spas, it’s “how much extra does it cost?”

Across Birmingham, people are prioritizing affordable rent, walkable neighborhoods and locations that make everyday life easier—without giving up good taste or local charm. So, we dug into the latest rental cost stats and found some local properties that give renters exactly what they’re looking for.

Now’s the time to start planning your next move—here’s some inspo and tips for finding your new spot.

What rent looks like in Birmingham right now

We dug into the latest RentCafe numbers, and Birmingham’s average rent comes to $1,348 per month. Add in luxury amenities, and it jumps several hundred dollars.

Here’s how rent breaks down as a whole across the city:

• Studio: $987
• 1-bedroom: $1,243
• 2-bedroom: $1,372
• 3-bedroom: $1,667

For many renters, this price jump makes the decision easy to skip the extras and focus on the value. Who wouldn’t want to have a little extra cash for brunch at Juniper or a night out in Lakeview?

Top 3 things Birmingham renters want most

We asked H2 Real Estate what their renters are asking for, and the answer was clear: it’s not pools and fancy gyms. These are the top three things locals want most: 

1. Affordable rent: This is hands-down the top priority with locals wanting space in their budget for groceries, gas, nights out and the occasional weekend trip. 

2. Walkability: Why hop in a car if you don’t have to? Being able to walk to restaurants, coffee shops, parks and live music venues makes daily life easier + more fun. 

3. Great location: Neighborhoods like Avondale, Highland Park and Five Points South continue to attract renters thanks to their charm, convenience and community feel. 

H2 Real Estate helps renters find apartments that hit all three. Visit their website to see some of their current options.

3 affordable apartments to see right now

1. Spring Street Flats | Avondale

Spring Street Flats in Avondale is within walking distance of local brews and more. (H2 Real Estate)

• Rent: 2 bedroom starting from $1,072
• Address: 4128 5th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222

Why you’ll love it:

• Steps from Munchies + Avondale Brewery
• Across from Avondale Park—perfect for pets or a stroll
• In-unit laundry + modern kitchen appliances
• Off-street parking
• Pet-friendly

2. The Fairways | Highland Park

The Fairways in Birmingham’s Highland Park neighborhood is just steps from city favorites. (H2 Real Estate)

• Rent: 1 bedroom starting from $1,012/month
• Address: 1237 38th St S, Birmingham, AL 35222

Why you’ll love it:

• Recently renovated with granite countertops + stainless steel appliances
• In-unit laundry
• Walkable to Highland Park Golf Course, Rushton Park + Forest Park Village
• Easy access to grocery stores + local favorites like Rojo
• Off-street parking

3. Terrace Court | Five Points South

Terrace Court apartments are in Birmingham’s beloved Five Points South neighborhood. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

• Rent: 2 bedroom starting from $1,203/month
• Address: 1124 20th St S, Birmingham, AL 35205

Why you’ll love it:

• Historic charm with modern updates in the heart of Five Points South
• Situated above Dave’s Pub + steps from popular restaurants like Bay Leaf, Chez Fonfon + Filter Coffee
• Hardwood floors, renovated kitchens + spacious layouts
• Short walk to UAB + quick drive to Homewood + downtown Birmingham
• Pet-friendly

Who says affordable can’t be awesome? Birmingham renters are proving it’s possible. 

If affordability, walkability and location matter to you, schedule a tour with H2 Real Estate now.

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