Moving to Birmingham from Atlanta: What Surprises People Most

If you’re thinking about moving to Birmingham from Atlanta, you’re not alone. We regularly work with clients making this exact move—often for work, lifestyle, or simply a change of pace.

As locals who live and work in Birmingham every day, here’s what people from Atlanta tell us surprises them most once they arrive.

Commute times feel… almost shocking (in a good way)

Atlanta traffic sets the bar high for patience.

One of the first comments we hear from Atlanta transplants is:

“I didn’t realize how much time traffic was stealing from my day.”

In Birmingham:

• A 20–25 minute commute is considered normal—even from many suburbs

• You’re far less likely to plan your entire day around traffic windows

• Errands feel manageable instead of strategic

For many people, this single change improves quality of life more than they expected.

You get more house without giving up lifestyle

Birmingham doesn’t feel like a downgrade—it often feels like an upgrade in space.

Atlanta buyers are often surprised by:

• Larger homes at comparable (or lower) prices

• Bigger lots and more outdoor space

• Established neighborhoods with mature trees and sidewalks

While Birmingham has its own competitive pockets, overall housing costs tend to feel more approachable—especially for buyers used to Atlanta pricing.

Neighborhoods feel more personal and community-driven

Atlanta has incredible diversity and energy, but it can also feel spread out and anonymous.

Birmingham neighborhoods tend to feel:

• More tight-knit and community-oriented

• Easier to get involved in—schools, churches, events, and local businesses

• Less segmented by long drives across the metro

Places like Homewood, Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills, Crestline, and Red Mountain often remind Atlanta transplants of the best parts of in-town neighborhoods—without the sprawl.

The food scene is smaller—but punches above its weight

Atlanta’s food scene is massive. Birmingham’s is more curated—but deeply respected.

Many people are surprised to find:

• James Beard–recognized chefs

• A strong farm-to-table culture

• Local favorites that feel personal, not corporate

You may not have endless options on every corner, but the quality and loyalty to local spots stand out quickly.

Birmingham feels easier to “plug into”

Atlanta is exciting—but it can take time to find your people.

Birmingham often feels:

• Easier to navigate socially

• More welcoming for newcomers

• Less overwhelming to build a routine and community

For families, professionals, and remote workers, this sense of belonging often becomes the reason they stay long-term.

Is Birmingham right for you if you’re coming from Atlanta?

Birmingham tends to be a great fit if you’re looking for:

• Shorter commutes and more balance

• Strong neighborhoods with a community feel

• More value in housing without losing quality

• A city that’s growing, but still feels personal

If you thrive on nonstop nightlife, constant motion, and a massive metro experience, Birmingham will feel different. But for many Atlanta transplants, that difference is exactly the appeal.

Thinking about relocating from Atlanta to Birmingham?

We’re Chad and Macey Franklin—Franklins of Bham, a husband-and-wife real estate team with LAH | Sotheby’s International Realty.

We help clients relocating from Atlanta every year and can walk you through:

• Which Birmingham neighborhoods match your Atlanta lifestyle

• Commute comparisons

• Home options that align with how you actually live

Thinking about relocating from Birmingham to Atlanta?

We’ve got you covered there too! Please reach out and we can seamlessly work with our Atlanta Colleagues to smoothly transition you.

Every chapter. Every season. We’re with you.