Living in Homewood, Alabama
A Walkable Birmingham Community Known for Restaurants, Parks, and Historic Neighborhoods
Just a few minutes south of downtown Birmingham, Homewood offers one of the most vibrant and walkable lifestyles in the metro area.
Tree-lined neighborhoods, locally owned restaurants, and lively village districts give the community a welcoming small-town feel while remaining closely connected to the energy of downtown Birmingham. Sidewalks connect historic neighborhoods to parks, shops, and cafés, making it common for residents to walk to dinner or meet friends along the city’s main streets.
For those relocating to Birmingham, Homewood is often one of the first communities people discover — and quickly fall in love with. Its central location, charming neighborhoods, and strong sense of community have made it one of the most desirable places to live in the Birmingham area.
What to Love
• Walkable downtown districts with restaurants and shops
• Charming historic homes and tree-lined streets
• Excellent public schools
• Easy access to downtown Birmingham and UAB
• Vibrant restaurant scene and local businesses
• Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces
Key Facts About Homewood
Location: Jefferson County, Alabama
Distance to Downtown Birmingham: Approximately 5–10 minutes
School System: Homewood City Schools
Founded: 1926
Population: Approximately 27,000 residents
Median Household Income: Approximately $115,000+
Average Home Price: Approximately $550,000 – $700,000
Property Taxes: Roughly 0.4% – 0.5% annually in Jefferson County
Cost of Living: Approximately 15–20% lower than the U.S. national average
Signature Districts: Downtown Homewood, Edgewood, Soho Square, West Homewood
Nearby Attractions: Vulcan Park and Museum, Railroad Park, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Birmingham Zoo
Why Do People Love Living in Homewood?
Homewood is one of the most sought-after communities in the Birmingham metropolitan area because it offers a rare combination of walkability, historic charm, and convenient access to the city.
Many neighborhoods were developed in the early 20th century, creating streets filled with charming cottages, Craftsman homes, and traditional brick houses. Residents enjoy being able to walk or bike to parks, schools, restaurants, and neighborhood events.
The city’s restaurant scene and vibrant downtown district also make Homewood one of the most active and social communities in Birmingham.
What Is Homewood Known For?
Homewood is known for its walkable downtown area, locally owned restaurants, and charming historic neighborhoods.
Downtown Homewood, particularly the 18th Street South and Soho Square areas, is one of the most popular restaurant and shopping districts in Birmingham. Residents and visitors gather here throughout the week to enjoy dining, local boutiques, and community events.
The city is also known for its excellent public schools, vibrant parks, and convenient location just minutes from downtown Birmingham and the UAB medical district.
Where Is Homewood Located?
Homewood is located immediately south of downtown Birmingham in Jefferson County.
Approximate commute times include:
Downtown Birmingham — 5 minutes
UAB Medical District — 5 minutes
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport — 15 minutes
Nearby communities include Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills, Hoover, and the Highway 280 Corridor.
Distinct Neighborhoods of Homewood
Homewood is made up of several distinctive neighborhoods and districts, each offering its own character, architectural style, and sense of community. While the city is relatively compact, these areas each have their own personality and lifestyle, from historic neighborhoods with early 20th-century homes to quieter residential areas with larger lots and newer construction.
Many of Homewood’s neighborhoods were developed between the 1920s and 1950s, giving the city its signature charm of tree-lined streets, sidewalks, and historic architecture. Residents often choose Homewood not only for its location near downtown Birmingham but also for the character and walkability of its neighborhoods.
Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique character, from historic homes to quiet residential streets:
Edgewood
Hollywood
Rosedale
West Homewood
Mayfair
Downtown Homewood & Soho Square
Downtown Homewood is the heart of the community and one of the most vibrant districts in the Birmingham metropolitan area. Centered around 18th Street South and Soho Square, this walkable area brings together restaurants, cafés, boutiques, and local businesses that create a lively neighborhood atmosphere.
Throughout the week, sidewalks fill with residents meeting friends for lunch, enjoying dinner at local restaurants, or browsing shops along the tree-lined streets. The district’s mix of historic storefronts and modern gathering spaces gives downtown Homewood a unique character that blends small-town charm with the energy of a thriving restaurant scene.
Community events, holiday celebrations, and neighborhood traditions frequently take place in this area, reinforcing the strong sense of connection that defines life in Homewood.
For many residents, downtown Homewood is where daily life naturally unfolds — from morning coffee to evening dinners with friends.
Hollywood
Hollywood is one of the most distinctive and architecturally unique neighborhoods in the Birmingham area. Developed in the 1920s, the neighborhood was inspired by the design of European villages and features winding streets, stone bridges, and beautiful historic homes.
The area is known for its charming Tudor-style houses and scenic streets, making it one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Homewood.
Rosedale
Rosedale is one of Homewood’s oldest neighborhoods and offers a quieter residential atmosphere while still being close to downtown Birmingham and Homewood’s main districts.
The neighborhood features a mix of historic homes and newer renovations, with tree-lined streets and a relaxed neighborhood feel that appeals to many residents.
Mayfair
Located near the Shades Creek Greenway and Homewood Central Park, Mayfair offers a convenient residential setting close to parks and outdoor recreation. The neighborhood features traditional homes and quiet streets that appeal to families and professionals looking for easy access to both Homewood and downtown Birmingham.
Edgewood
Edgewood is one of the most beloved neighborhoods in Homewood and is often considered the heart of the community. Located near downtown Homewood and Edgewood Elementary School, the neighborhood is known for its historic homes, sidewalks, and strong sense of community.
Many of the homes here date back to the early 1900s and feature classic architectural styles such as Craftsman cottages, Tudor homes, and traditional brick houses. Residents enjoy easy access to parks, schools, and the restaurants and shops of downtown Homewood.
West Homewood
West Homewood has experienced significant growth in recent years and has become a lively and evolving part of the city. New restaurants, breweries, and small businesses have helped create a vibrant local scene while still maintaining the neighborhood’s residential character.
The area offers a mix of historic homes, renovated properties, and newer construction, making it an attractive option for buyers looking for a slightly more relaxed neighborhood environment.
Dining in Homewood
Restaurants in Downtown Homewood
Little Donkey
The Battery
Freddie's Bistro & Bar
Big Bad Breakfast
Shiki
Jinsei Sushi
O'Carr's
Luca LagottoDemetri's BBQ
Real & Rosemary
Urban Cookhouse
Social Taco
Soho Social
Soho Standard
Ashley Mac's
Salem's Diner
Dave's Pizza
Sam's Super Sandwiches
Johnny's Restaurant
Oak Hill Bar and Grill
Rodney Scott's BBQ
Restaurants in Edgewood
Ruby Sunshine
Otey's Tavern - Edgewood
Local No. 39
Slice Pizzza & Brew
Taco Mama - Edgewood
Gianmarco's Restaurant
Gianmarco's Wine Bar
Sorelle Cafe
Restaurants in West Homewood
El Barrio Homewood
Paramount Homewood
Seeds Coffee
Pizzeria G.M.
A Day in Homewood
Life in Homewood often centers around its walkable neighborhoods and lively restaurant districts.
Mornings might begin with coffee from a neighborhood café before a walk through one of the city’s parks. During the day, residents visit local shops or enjoy lunch along 18th Street South.
Evenings are often spent meeting friends for dinner, attending community events, or walking through tree-lined neighborhoods just minutes from downtown Birmingham.
Dining in Homewood
Homewood has one of the most vibrant dining scenes in the Birmingham area. The city’s restaurants range from casual cafés and neighborhood bakeries to upscale dining destinations.
Many of these restaurants are located within walking distance of one another, creating an energetic and social dining atmosphere.
Parks and Outdoor Recreation
Homewood offers several beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
Homewood Central Park
Patriot Park
These parks provide walking paths, playgrounds, athletic fields, pool and green spaces throughout the community.
Walkability and Sidewalks
One of the defining characteristics of Homewood is its walkability. Many neighborhoods feature sidewalks connecting residential streets to parks, schools, and downtown districts.
Residents frequently walk to restaurants, cafés, and community events, creating a lifestyle that feels both connected and vibrant.
Schools in Homewood
Homewood City Schools are highly regarded and consistently ranked among the top public school systems in Alabama.
Edgewood Elementary School
https://www.homewood.k12.al.us/edgewood
Hall Kent Elementary School
https://www.homewood.k12.al.us/hallkent
Shades Cahaba Elementary School
https://www.homewood.k12.al.us/shadescahaba
Homewood Middle School
https://www.homewood.k12.al.us/middle
Homewood High School
https://www.homewood.k12.al.us/high
Annual Festivals and Events
Homewood Witches Ride
Homewood Holiday Open House
Downtown Homewood Christmas Parade
Edgewood Neighborhood Events
Things to Do Near Homewood
Vulcan Park and Museum
Railroad Park
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Birmingham Zoo
Rotary Trail
Regions Field
Real Estate in Homewood
Homewood remains one of the most desirable real estate markets in the Birmingham area. Buyers are drawn to the community for its walkability, historic charm, and close proximity to downtown Birmingham and UAB.
Homes range from early 20th-century cottages and Craftsman homes to renovated historic houses and newer custom residences.
Architecture & Homes in Homewood
Many homes in Homewood were built between the 1920s and 1950s and feature architectural styles such as Craftsman, Tudor, and traditional brick homes.
These historic homes contribute to the community’s charm, while newer renovations and custom homes provide modern amenities within established neighborhoods.
About Homewood
The city of Homewood was incorporated in 1926 and quickly grew as a residential community just outside Birmingham. Its central location, strong schools, and charming neighborhoods helped establish the city as one of the most desirable suburbs in the region.
Today, Homewood continues to attract families and professionals who appreciate its vibrant community atmosphere and convenient location.
A Local Perspective on Living in Homewood
Homewood offers a lifestyle that blends historic neighborhoods with vibrant community energy.
Residents enjoy being able to walk to restaurants, parks, and local events while still living in quiet residential neighborhoods. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and strong community traditions continue to make it one of the most beloved places to live in the Birmingham area.
Find Your Dream Home in Homewood
If you're considering living in Homewood, exploring the homes and neighborhoods here is the best way to understand what makes the community so special.
Laura Silsbee offers local insight into the neighborhoods, architecture, and lifestyle that define Homewood and can help guide you through the process of finding the right home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Homewood
Is Homewood a good place to live?
Homewood is widely considered one of the best places to live in the Birmingham area due to its walkable neighborhoods, restaurants, schools, and close proximity to downtown Birmingham.
How far is Homewood from downtown Birmingham?
Homewood is located approximately five minutes from downtown Birmingham.
Are Homewood schools good?
Homewood City Schools are consistently ranked among the top public school systems in Alabama.
What types of homes are in Homewood?
Homes range from historic Craftsman cottages to renovated traditional homes and newer custom houses.
Explore Nearby Birmingham Neighborhoods
Mountain Brook
Vestavia Hills
Hoover
Highway 280 Corridor
Downtown Birmingham
