Cheapest Neighborhoods in Birmingham, AL
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Birmingham are Smithfield Estates, Echo Highlands, and Sun Valley. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Birmingham, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of September 21, 2026, the average rent in Birmingham is $1,188, which is 0.8% higher than last year. However, it's important to remember that rental prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, amenities, and floor plans.
Smithfield Estates
Average Rent
$712/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.1%
Units Available
26 Rentals
Smithfield Estates offers a mix of single-family homes and apartments, with nearby parks and recreational facilities. The neighborhood is home to Smithfield Estates Park, which features amenities like a playground and basketball court. It's also conveniently located about 6 miles northwest of downtown Birmingham, offering easy access to city amenities.
Echo Highlands
Average Rent
$806/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
9.6%
Units Available
19 Rentals
Echo Highlands is a quiet, welcoming neighborhood offering spacious homes and access to green spaces like Echo Highlands Park. Renters will enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and convenient proximity to shopping and dining along Highway 79. The area also provides easy access to downtown Birmingham via nearby highways.
Sun Valley
Average Rent
$811/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.3%
Units Available
16 Rentals
Sun Valley is an affordable neighborhood in Birmingham with an average rent price of $811. Compare this to the city average of $1,188. In the past year, rent prices have decreased by 3.3%. Sun Valley provides easy access to Jefferson State Comm. Coll., Center Point Center, and College Shopper.
Apple Valley
Average Rent
$875/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
17.6%
Units Available
12 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Birmingham, Apple Valley might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $875, while the city’s average stands at $1,188. In the last year, prices have decreased by 17.6%. Apple Valley is near Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International, Univ. of Ala. at Birmingham, and Samford University.
Glen Iris
Average Rent
$1,103/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.6%
Units Available
49 Rentals
Glen Iris is a quiet, centrally located neighborhood offering easy access to UAB and downtown Birmingham. Renters will enjoy the nearby parks and the variety of housing options, from apartments to historic homes. The area's peaceful atmosphere, convenient location, and array of housing options make it ideal for renters of all lifestyles and preferences.
Five Points South
Average Rent
$1,291/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.5%
Units Available
227 Rentals
Five Points South is a bustling neighborhood known for its historic architecture, electric nightlife, and proximity to the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Here, renters will enjoy a variety of dining and entertainment options, as well as easy access to public transportation.
Edenton Condominiums
Average Rent
$1,299/Month
Units Available
18 Rentals
Edenton Condominiums is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Edenton Condominiums is $1,299 while the city average is $1,188. Residents enjoy convenient access to Bailey Brothers Shopps, Homewood Forest Preserve, and Birmingham Zoo.
Riverwood Estates
Average Rent
$1,318/Month
Units Available
12 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Birmingham neighborhood on a budget, check out Riverwood Estates. The average rent is $1,318, compared to the city average of $1,188. Riverwood Estates is convenient to Homewood Forest Preserve, Birmingham Zoo, and Birmingham Southern College.
Avondale
Average Rent
$1,344/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.5%
Units Available
13 Rentals
Avondale is a trendy neighborhood featuring a mix of historic homes, local breweries, and unique dining options. The area’s artistic vibe and easy access to downtown Birmingham make it an attractive spot for renters. Its lively atmosphere and proximity to Avondale Park are also big selling points.
Highland Park
Average Rent
$1,403/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.4%
Units Available
131 Rentals
Highland Park is one of Birmingham's oldest neighborhoods, featuring a mix of historic homes and modern developments. The neighborhood offers scenic views and is home to several parks, including Rhodes Park and the historic Highland Park Golf Course, the oldest golf course in Alabama.
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Methodology
Transit Score measures access to public transit. Scores range from 0 (minimal transit) to 100 (rider’s paradise). Learn more about the Transit Score methodology. Rental data is sourced from CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As a leading authority in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar performs in-depth research to build and sustain an extensive database of commercial real estate insights.
We've combined this data with public records to provide the most current rental information available.