A historic Civil Rights neighborhood within 2 miles of Downtown Birmingham
At first glance, College Hills seems a lot like the other suburbs surrounding Downtown Birmingham, with its aging bungalows and local churches packed on city blocks. But the modest neighborhood has a rich history woven throughout its rolling hills. It sits just 2 miles west of downtown in the heart of the greater Smithfield community. Along with the northern East Thomas neighborhood, College Hills earned the notorious nickname ‘Dynamite Hill’ after a string of Ku Klux Klan bombings plagued the area during the Civil Rights Movement. Today, the entire community is considered a historic district, and its single-family homes serve as a constant reminder of the brave residents who pioneered equal housing rights across Birmingham.
Feel welcomed when you visity the College Hills neighborhood.
Explore the beautiful campus of Birmingham Southern University in College Hills.
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Architecurally diverse, historic homes on city blocks
Homes in College Hills were established around the early to mid-twentieth century on modified grid pattern streets. While its densely packed city blocks feel quite urban, hilly two-lane residential roads and tree-shaded yards bring a sense of rurality to the neighborhood. The community has three-bedroom bungalows and similar-sized shotgun homes, along with some thoughtfully crafted Tudors and ranch-style homes west of 5th Street. Most houses here feature private parking, with back alleys leading to hidden driveways and detached garages. Listings typically range between $100,000 and $175,000 in College Hills, but some three-bedroom fixer-uppers can go for as low as $50,000. Still, some of the well-preserved historic homes can cost close to $300,000.
Enjoy well manicured lawns in College Hills.
Large single-family homes are available in the College Hills neighborhood.
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Explore four floors of exhibits at the Mcwane Science Center
College Hills is only 2 miles from Downtown Birmingham’s historic museums and vibrant cultural centers. Residents can bike over and take a thought-provoking journey through the confrontations gallery at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute or head to the McWane Science Center to explore four floors of interactive exhibits. After a day exploring downtown, locals can pick up a new book from the local Smithfield Library and return home to College Hills.
Explore the exciting atmosphere of downtown Birmingham near College Hills.
Explore the College Hills neighborhood landscape.
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Some local hot spots around Legion Field Stadium
Residents can walk to a few local hot spots or drive a few miles east to access the trendy downtown shops and restaurants. Across from Legion Field Stadium, Creole Connection is a walkable neighborhood restaurant where locals can order traditional New Orleans-style cuisine seasoned with smokey Cajun spices. On Fridays after work, residents can head to The Onyx of Birmingham and dance underneath the neon lights or head out back to party around the on-site swimming pool. For groceries and essential household items, Millennium Mini Mart is a one-stop shop conveniently located next to the stadium.
Admire Legion Field in College Hills.
Grab some yummy Cajun food at Creole Connection in College Hills.
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A.H. Parker offers The Academy of Urban Educators
Students can attend Birmingham City Schools, all within two miles of College Hills. Kindergarteners begin at Tuggle Elementary, which scores a C-minus on Niche. Also receiving a C-minus, Wilkerson Middle participates in the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools Program, which ensures digital equity by providing all students a free iPad or Chromebook. Ninth graders move on to the C-plus-rated A.H. Parker High School. The Academy of Urban Educators offers Parker students the chance to explore future teaching careers.
A.H. Parker High School teaches kids in College Hills to do their best.
Malachi Wilkerson Middle School seeks to inspire students in College Hills.
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Only a 2 mile walk to Downtown Bham
Residents can take a 2 mile walk or ride one of the fixed route busses to arrive in Downtown Bham. Drivers can quickly get downtown or access Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport via Interstate 20. Interstate 65 runs just east of College Hills, bringing locals to Gardendale heading north and Homewood further south.
Find some good friends at the Monday Night Brewery and Kitchen near College Hills.
Take a sunset job at Railroad Park near College Hills.
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Fully Renovated 3BR/2BA in College Hills – Move-In Ready! This updated home features a bright open layout with wood floors, a cozy fireplace, and a modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Both bathrooms have been beautifully remodeled, and the new deck overlooks a fully fenced yard — perfect for relaxing or entertaining. With new HVAC, water heater, and a great location just minutes from
Prime opportunity on a spacious corner lot in one of the city’s fastest-growing areas! Whether you're looking to build your dream home, develop, or invest, this lot is full of potential. Surrounded by revitalization and new construction, it’s perfectly positioned in an up-and-coming neighborhood with easy access to downtown, highways, and local hotspots. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of
Stunning Full Remodel in Historic College Hills! Welcome to this expansive, full 4-sided brick home situated on a peaceful cul-de-sac in the sought-after Historic College Hills neighborhood. This beautifully renovated home is just minutes away from downtown, Uptown, Protective Stadium, and the CrossPlex, making it perfectly located for both convenience and tranquility. With 5 spacious bedrooms
Discover this charming 1-bed, 1-bath apartment, designed for comfort and convenience. Enjoy the refreshing breeze from the ceiling fan and the added luxury of a deck, perfect for relaxing outdoors. Stay cool year-round with the efficient mini-split HVAC system, ensuring a comfortable climate no matter the season.This apartment comes equipped with essential amenities to make your move-in
Discover this inviting 4-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom residence, designed for practical and comfortable living. The interior is enhanced by modern conveniences such as air conditioning for climate control, and ceiling fans in key areas to ensure airflow. Vaulted ceilings add to the spacious feel of the home. The kitchen is equipped for daily needs, featuring a vent hood, a refrigerator, and a
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Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
1,569
Median Age
48
Population Density
6 ppl/acre
Population under 18
19.4%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
27.2%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$48,076
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$49,535
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
92%
College Graduates
29.5%
On par with the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
13.9%
% Population in Labor Force
39.4%
Significantly below the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
57''
Average Winter Low Temperature
35°F
Average Summer High Temperature
91°F
Annual Snowfall
1''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
16/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
39/ 100
Some Transit
Transit Score®
29/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
