Smithfield, Birmingham,AL

Smithfield, nestled in the southeast part of Birmingham, AL, is a charming neighborhood that perfectly balances a friendly community atmosphere with convenient urban access. Those moving to the area will appreciate the lush green spaces and the inviting streets lined with a mix of historic homes and modern developments. The neighborhood offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it an ideal spot for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. With its welcoming vibe and strong sense of community, Smithfield quickly feels like home to newcomers.

One of the standout attractions in Smithfield is the scenic Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve, which provides residents with miles of hiking trails, beautiful vistas, and opportunities to enjoy local wildlife. It’s a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for weekend adventures right in their backyard. Additionally, the neighborhood boasts several cozy cafes, boutique shops, and local eateries that give it a distinctive, small-town charm without sacrificing the conveniences of city living. For those who enjoy arts and culture, Smithfield's proximity to local galleries and theaters in nearby neighborhoods adds to the vibrant lifestyle on offer.

Smithfield is conveniently located just about 10 minutes southeast of Downtown Birmingham, making it easy for residents to commute to work, attend sporting events, or enjoy the nightlife and dining options downtown. This close proximity means you get the best of both worlds: a tranquil neighborhood feel with quick access to the city's core. Whether you’re looking to explore the historic Civil Rights District or catch a game at the Protective Stadium, living in Smithfield puts these popular destinations within easy reach, making it a perfect choice for anyone relocating to Birmingham.

About 21% of the Smithfield 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 7% 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.

Smithfield 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 1,741 residents, Smithfield 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 1,869 people per square mile, Smithfield 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.

The Smithfield 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 trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Smithfield, the median home price is $74,860, 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 Smithfield 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 average rent price is about $625, which is lower than many surrounding areas. This makes it an appealing option for renters seeking budget-friendly living without sacrificing convenience, location, or quality of life.

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