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East Thomas, Birmingham,AL

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East Thomas, a charming neighborhood in the northwest part of Birmingham, AL, offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere perfect for those looking to settle down in a friendly community. Known for its rich history and tight-knit residents, East Thomas has managed to maintain its unique character while experiencing thoughtful growth. Newcomers will appreciate the variety of housing options available, from cozy single-family homes to more modern townhouses, all nestled among tree-lined streets that invite leisurely strolls. This neighborhood’s community spirit shines through in its local events and neighborhood associations, making it a great place to connect with neighbors and get involved.

One of the standout attractions in East Thomas is the Avondale Park, which is just a short drive away and offers beautiful green spaces, walking trails, and a playground that’s perfect for families. Additionally, residents enjoy easy access to the Red Mountain Expressway, which makes commuting a breeze. For those who appreciate a vibrant local culture, the neighborhood is near some fantastic eateries and coffee shops that showcase Birmingham’s growing culinary scene. Whether you’re grabbing a cup of coffee or exploring local art galleries in nearby neighborhoods, there’s always something engaging to experience close to home.

When it comes to convenience, East Thomas is impressively close to Downtown Birmingham, making it an ideal spot for professionals and anyone who enjoys the buzz of city life without the constant hustle. Downtown is just a quick 10-15 minute drive away, so you can easily enjoy all the entertainment, dining, and cultural events the city has to offer. Whether you’re heading to a concert at the Boutwell Auditorium or exploring the Birmingham Museum of Art, living in East Thomas means you’re never far from the heart of the city. For those relocating, this neighborhood strikes the perfect balance between peaceful living and urban accessibility, making it a wonderful place to call home.

Community Snapshot

Population 1,072
Density (People/sqml.) 978
Median Age 45.8
Married Couples
24%
24% of the population of East Thomas aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
12%
12% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 24% of the East Thomas population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 12% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

East Thomas neighborhood age breakdown chart

East Thomas demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,072 residents, East Thomas is notably smaller than many other Birmingham neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 978 people per square mile, East Thomas offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Birmingham neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 46, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in East Thomas

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Types of Crime

East Thomas neighborhood age breakdown chart

East Thomas Crime Map

The East Thomas crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing

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Home Price $64,180
Median Rent $888
People/Household 2.2

Home Price Breakdown

East Thomas neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 49% Own 51%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 71% After 2010 29%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

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Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In East Thomas, the median home price is $64,180, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in East Thomas can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $888, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

The Red Cat
Coffee Shop
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June
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

Theatre Arts
Theatre Arts
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Bill Battle Coliseum
Stadium
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Food & Drink

McDonald's
Fast Food
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Rally's
Fast Food
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Groceries

Brito's Produce
Grocery Store
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Piggly Wiggly
Grocery Store
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Parks

Dorothy Spears Park
Park
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Duke Park
Park
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Shops

Pilot
Convenience Store
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Convenience Store
Convenience Store
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

SE Corner of 3rd St W & 15th Av W
Bus Stop
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NE Corner of 11th Ct N & 2nd St W
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Princeton Baptist Medical Center
Hospital
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Cahaba Medial Care West End
Clinic
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Safety

Fire Station 21
Fire Station
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Birmingham Fire Station Number 1
Fire Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Ephesus Academy
829 Mcmillon Ave Sw, Birmingham, AL
High School KG - 9 School Score
Wilkerson Middle School
116 11Th Ct W, Birmingham, AL
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Adolescent Day Treatment
2015 Park Place N, Birmingham, AL
High School KG - 12 School Score
Bush Hills Academy
900 16Th Street West, Birmingham, AL
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Dmh Adolescent Education Program Uab
Cpm C433 1717 6Th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL
High School 5 - 12 School Score
Family Court Elementary School
120 2Nd Court N, Birmingham, AL
Elementary School KG - 8 School Score
Family Court High School
120 2Nd Court N, Birmingham, AL
High School 8 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like East Thomas. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in East Thomas offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $23,086
Household Income $42,849
Unemployment 7.0%

Income Breakdown

East Thomas Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors play a key role in shaping the character and accessibility of a neighborhood, influencing everything from lifestyle to opportunity. Household incomes in East Thomas average around $42,849, which is lower than average. This affordability contributes to a more accessible lifestyle, making it an appealing choice for first-time homeowners, young families, and those looking to enjoy the benefits of the area without a high price tag.

The employment landscape can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In East Thomas, the unemployment rate is 7%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

East Thomas features a mix of residential styles, with a prevalence of mid-20th-century single-family homes. Many houses are modest bungalows and ranch-style homes, often sitting on spacious lots with mature trees. The neighborhood has seen some revitalization efforts, so you may also find a blend of renovated properties alongside classic older homes, making it a diverse housing market.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

East Thomas hosts several community-driven events that foster neighborhood connections. The East Thomas Community Association organizes seasonal events such as block parties, neighborhood cleanups, and holiday celebrations. Additionally, nearby parks like Thomas Park often serve as venues for local gatherings and outdoor activities, helping to strengthen community ties.

How far is Downtown?

Downtown Birmingham is conveniently located approximately 3 to 4 miles southeast of East Thomas. This proximity allows residents easy access to the city's core via a short drive or public transit options, typically taking around 10 to 15 minutes by car. This makes it convenient for residents to enjoy downtown attractions such as Railroad Park, the Birmingham Museum of Art, and the vibrant dining and entertainment districts.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

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