With more miles of canals than Venice, a cultural heritage to rival the capital and a diverse culinary scene, Birmingham is a brilliant place to call home. ‘Brum’ – as the locals call it – is the perfect base to start exploring the beautiful West Midlands countryside, like the Cotswolds and the Malvern Hills.
If you're considering relocating here but are unfamiliar with the area, these are six of the best places to live in Birmingham.
1. Digbeth
Regularly ranked as one of the best areas to live in Birmingham, Digbeth is the city’s creative heart. Named the 'coolest place to live in the UK' by the Sunday Times, it’s often compared to the likes of Camden and Shoreditch. It blends old architecture with modern amenities, from independent boutiques and cosy cafés to food trucks and beautiful street art.
2. Edgbaston
Looking for a quieter lifestyle? Edgbaston is ideal. Located on Birmingham’s southern outskirts, this affluent residential neighbourhood is perfect if you love being surrounded by greenery. It’s home to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens – the highlight of the area. This city suburb is also an excellent option if you enjoy sports, with the Cricket Ground and the Archery and Lawn Tennis Society on your doorstep.
3. Harborne
This affluent neighbourhood to the southwest of Birmingham offers a relaxing escape from the city’s frenzy. Its diverse high street boasts fine-dining restaurants, bars, independent boutiques and upmarket shops. Next door to Harborne Nature Reserve and Queen’s Park, it’s also ideal for nature lovers. And if you enjoy being active, you’ll have Harborne Pool and Fitness Centre on your doorstep.
4. Bournville
On Brum’s southern outskirts, Bournville is often described as the 'verdant suburb'. Despite property prices being above average, there are many opportunities for investment here. This suburb is especially popular among families thanks to its proximity to vast open spaces and excellent schools. Bakeries, quaint wool shops, florists and independent cafés give the neighbourhood a unique charm.
5. Solihull
Surrounded by green space while still close to the city centre, Solihull strikes the perfect balance between urban and rural. One of the best places to live in Birmingham, this lively suburb is popular among families thanks to its top-ranking schools and amenities. Two of Birmingham's most affluent streets are found here, as well as Resorts World – one of the city's largest entertainment complexes.
6. Sutton Coldfield
The Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield sits seven miles from Birmingham and is among the city’s best places to live. The area’s highlight is its beautiful park, covering 2,400 acres of open woodland, heathland and marshes. It also has seven lakes and rich fauna and flora. Facilities include picnic and play areas, children’s playgrounds and various water-based activities like canoeing and sailing.
7. Moseley
One of Birmingham’s most sought-after areas, Moseley is popular among families thanks to its quiet, residential feel. It’s famous for its beautiful Victorian architecture, the award-winning farmers’ market and the summer Moseley Festival. It’s home to independent boutiques, cafés and restaurants and is sandwiched between Moseley and Sparkhill parks.
Birmingham is a versatile and flourishing city with exciting tourist attractions, including museums and art galleries. It’s also popular among growing families thanks to its excellent schools, which are rated highly by Ofsted.
Browse brand-new, energy-efficient homes across the UK and fantastic homebuying offers to help you move. Visit or call our Sales Advisers today to get started.