Ensley Highlands, Birmingham,AL

If you’re considering a move to Birmingham, AL, the neighborhood of Ensley Highlands offers a charming blend of history and community spirit that makes it a unique place to call home. Nestled in the northwest part of the city, this area has a rich industrial past but has transformed into a welcoming residential community with plenty to offer new residents. One of the standouts of Ensley Highlands is its close-knit neighborhood feel, where neighbors often know each other and local events bring people together. It’s a perfect spot for those who appreciate a quieter pace while still being part of a vibrant city.

Ensley Highlands boasts some great local attractions that make life here enjoyable. The area is known for its access to parks and green spaces, including the nearby Ensley Park, which is ideal for afternoon strolls, picnics, or weekend family outings. Residents can also enjoy local eateries and small businesses that bring a touch of Southern charm to daily life. For history buffs, the neighborhood’s connection to Birmingham’s industrial roots provides a fascinating backdrop, with some historic buildings and landmarks still standing as a testament to the area’s past. Community centers and local churches often host events, providing opportunities to get involved and meet people.

One of the biggest perks of living in Ensley Highlands is its proximity to Downtown Birmingham, which is just a short 10 to 15-minute drive away. This means residents can easily commute to work, enjoy the nightlife, or explore the cultural attractions that downtown has to offer, such as theaters, museums, and a diverse food scene. Whether you need quick access to city amenities or prefer the calm of a neighborhood with character, Ensley Highlands strikes a great balance. For those relocating to Birmingham, this neighborhood offers a welcoming atmosphere, convenient location, and a genuine sense of community that makes it a wonderful place to settle down.

About 31% of the Ensley Highlands 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 22% 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.

Ensley Highlands 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 3,655 residents, Ensley Highlands 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.

Ensley Highlands has a population density of 3,734, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Birmingham neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 41, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Ensley Highlands crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Ensley Highlands, the median home price is $87,678, 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 Ensley Highlands 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 $979, 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.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Ensley Highlands. 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 Ensley Highlands 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.