Moving to Birmingham from Chicago: Safety, Cost of Living, and What Homebuyers Should Know

If you’re researching a move from Chicago to Birmingham, two questions usually rise to the top very quickly:

1. Is Birmingham safe?

2. How much will life and housing really cost compared to Chicago?

We work with Chicago Real Estate Agents and transplants regularly—many relocating for work, warmer weather, family, or simply a different pace of life. As locals who live and work in Birmingham every day, here’s what you should know before making the move.

1. Safety in Birmingham: what the numbers don’t always explain

When people Google “Is Birmingham safe?”, they often see broad citywide statistics that don’t tell the full story.

Here’s the reality locals understand:
Safety in Birmingham is highly neighborhood-specific, much like any “city”.

Just as Chicago has areas that feel very different block by block, Birmingham’s safety varies significantly depending on:

• Neighborhood

• School district

• Community involvement

• Housing stability and pride of ownership

Many of Birmingham’s most popular residential communities have strong safety records, active neighborhood associations, and high owner-occupancy rates.

Communities Chicago buyers often feel comfortable in

While we always tailor recommendations to each client, Chicago transplants often gravitate toward areas like:

• Mountain Brook – Known for its village feel, strong schools, and long-established neighborhoods

• Vestavia Hills – A large suburban area with many quiet, family-oriented pockets

• Homewood – Walkable, community-driven, and close to downtown without feeling urban

• Liberty Park – A master-planned community with sidewalks, amenities, and a close-knit feel

• Hoover – A community backed by good schools and vibrant resident involvement.

These areas tend to feel familiar to buyers coming from Chicago suburbs or established city neighborhoods.

Important note:
Like Chicago, Birmingham isn’t about “good vs bad areas” — it’s about finding the right fit. Working with a local Realtor who knows the neighborhood street by street makes all the difference.

2. Cost of living: where Chicago buyers feel the biggest relief

One of the most noticeable changes for Chicago transplants is how far their money goes in Birmingham.

Compared to Chicago, Birmingham typically offers:

• Lower home prices per square foot

• Larger lots and more space

• Lower property taxes in many areas

Many buyers tell us they’re able to:

• Move from a condo or townhome into a single-family home

• Buy in a more established neighborhood than they expected

• Feel less stretched month-to-month

Even in Birmingham’s most desirable communities, home prices often feel more attainable than comparable areas in and around Chicago.

Everyday expenses

Chicago transplants often notice savings in:

• Utilities

• Insurance costs

• Parking (often minimal or free)

• Dining and entertainment

These differences add up quickly and can significantly change how comfortable day-to-day life feels.

Lifestyle shift: what Chicagoans notice beyond the numbers

Moving from Chicago to Birmingham isn’t just a financial decision—it’s a lifestyle change.

Many Chicago buyers notice:

• Shorter, more predictable commutes

• Less congestion and daily stress

• Easier access to schools, activities, and errands

• A stronger sense of neighborhood connection

Birmingham offers a slower, more personal rhythm while still providing:

• Excellent dining and cultural offerings

• Healthcare and research hubs (especially around UAB)

• Access to green space, parks, and outdoor activities

Is Birmingham a good fit if you’re coming from Chicago?

Birmingham often works especially well for Chicago transplants who are looking for:

• A lower cost of living without sacrificing quality

• Safe, established neighborhoods with community pride

• More space and flexibility in housing options

• Less daily friction and more balance

If you thrive on dense urban living, extensive public transit, and nonstop big-city energy, Birmingham will feel different. For many Chicago buyers, that difference is exactly what they’re ready for.

Thinking about relocating from Chicago 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 regularly help clients relocating from Chicago navigate:

• Neighborhood safety questions

• Cost-of-living comparisons

• Home values and long-term investment potential

• Finding a community that truly feels like home

If you’re researching your move or just starting to explore options, we’re always happy to help.

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