8 Things to Know BEFORE Moving to Birmingham, AL
Did you know that I moved to Birmingham from Oslo, Norway? That’s right! Back in November of 2017, after living my whole life in Norway, my husband and I decided to move back to Birmingham. My husband’s originally from Alabama, so we moved back to Birmingham to spend time with family and friends.
It was a big move; for me, it was the beginning of a new chapter in life and a new career in real estate! And as a REALTOR®, I’ve helped many people relocate to Birmingham and fall in love with the city I call home.
And if you’re thinking about relocating to Birmingham, Alabama, I know you’ll fall in love too! Here’s ten things to know before moving to the Magic City:
Birmingham’s craft beer scene is growing!
Birmingham kicked off its craft beer scene back in 2007 and has been full steam ahead ever since! With 15 breweries (and counting) located throughout the city, it’s easy to spend the day “hopping” around to different taprooms.
Birmingham is one of America’s best food cities.
If you don’t believe me, just ask celebrity chef Andrew Zimmern. He’s been quoted several times, singing the praises of the restaurants here in Birmingham. And several restaurants have the James Beard Foundation awards to prove it. A few of my favorite spots include Automatic Seafood, El Barrio, and Ampersandwich!
This city is absolute MAGIC!
That’s why they call it the Magic City! Over the last decade, the city has made some major improvements. From replenishing and improving green spaces to a thriving city center - there’s a lot to love about Birmingham. Check out Downtown Birmingham and Bham Now to see what’s happening in the city.
Stay away from US Highway 280 at all costs.
Pro-tip for anyone moving to Birmingham - avoid Highway 280 at all costs. It may pale in comparison to the rush hour traffic of other cities, but you’ll still thank me later.
It’s hot AND humid here.
Being hot is one thing, but being hot and humid is another. The best way I can describe the summer in Alabama is thick, sticky, and HOT. It’s bearable, but be prepared!
Birmingham is a city rich in history.
Birmingham is rich in history, especially regarding the Civil Rights movement. During the 1950s and '60s, Birmingham was home to several integral movements relative to civil rights, including the Birmingham campaign organized by the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). Several institutions within Birmingham commemorate and preserve this history, like the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument, which includes the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, A.G. Gaston Motel, 16th Street Baptist Church, and more.
Brush up on your football - or don’t. It’s up to you!
The South takes pride in football, especially when it comes to Alabama and Auburn. So come fall, make sure to choose a side. Or just stay away from sports bars for a while.
If you love the outdoors, Birmingham is for you.
They don’t call Birmingham, Alabama, the “Tree City” for nothing. The city was given the designation because of its sprawling urban forest. With several parks, hiking trails, and golf courses, Birmingham provides ample opportunity to enjoy nature and stay active.
