With a history of industrial boom and decline, Ensley is an area defined by the shifting neighborhood amenities available to its established, close-knit community. While residents no longer work in steel production at The Ensley Works, the neighborhood’s proximity to I-20 means locals often drive to employers across the greater Birmingham area. Local dining, specialty shopping and convenience options provide residents with daily essentials, alongside a handful of chain options along 20th Street Ensley. When neighbors aren’t chatting across front porches, they can be found walking down Ensley’s residential sidewalks to local parks or to classes at East Ensley Public Library on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Residents who have lived in the area for their entire lives live alongside new neighbors seeking refuge from high property costs around downtown Birmingham, building upon Ensley’s existing suburban community.
The busy interior of Green Acres restaurant.
Take a walk down the historic downtown area of Ensley.
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Blocks of single-family homes
Ensley’s residential areas are laid out in grassy blocks of single-family homes built in the 1920s through 1950s. Homes sport unique designs and paint colors, with bungalows, shotguns and the occasional four square style houses making up many of the offerings. Fixer-uppers in need of serious work may sell for $30,000, while move-in ready options go for $80,000 to $130,000 depending on its interior updates and square footage. “Ensley has a bright future because more people want to live where rent and mortgages are lower than downtown Birmingham. People buy and renovate out here where things aren’t as congested,” says George A. McCall, president of the Ensley Neighborhood Association who has lived in the neighborhood for 80 years. Narrow residential sidewalks run past rows of porches lined by bushes and flowers, occasional vacant or damaged lots and under the boughs of mature trees, connecting the neighborhood.
A residential street in Ensley.
A historic home in Ensley.
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Proximity to I-20
“We’ve got proximity to the interstate, so you can get anywhere in Birmingham very quickly. It’s part of what attracts people to the area,” says McCall. I-20 runs along the southeast of Ensley, providing residents with a 7-mile commute to downtown Birmingham, home to many of the area’s employers. Locals also have access to public transportation via bus stops which run the length of the neighborhood.
Downtown Birmingham from the interstate.
You are always welcome in Ensley.
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Local businesses of downtown Ensley
Downtown Ensley provides a handful of options for locals’ daily necessities and dining, as well as a few specialty businesses which tend to be sandwiched between vacant storefronts. Groceries can be picked up at Marino’s Market on Avenue E, and the Family Dollar and Dollar General on 20th Street Ensley provide further household essentials. Stop & Shop Square has served locals takeout soul food for decades, while the newer Heritage Coffee provides residents with a cozy coffeeshop interior in which to get caffeinated. A couple of development projects in the downtown area are slated to provide increased commercial and medical spaces to Ensley, but these projects are still in the works.
The cafe counter in Heritage Coffee.
Signage at Stop and Shop Square.
The exterior of Green Acres restaurant.
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Attending Birmingham City Schools
Kids in Ensley can attend kindergarten through fifth grade at Wylam Elementary School and sixth through eighth grade at Bush Hills Academy, both of which are outside of Ensley and earn a C-minus and D-plus on Niche respectively. Students finish school within Ensley at P.D. Jackson-Olin High school which earns a C-minus and can choose to participate in Career and Technical Education programs which allow them to explore specialized career interests alongside traditional academics.
Bush Hills STEAM Academy teaches kids to do their best near Ensley.
Wylam K-8 School is a great place to learn for Ensley children.
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Swimming and sporting at McAlpine and Ensley parks
McAlpine Park and Ensley Park provide residents with large public green spaces and a recreation center at each which can be booked for community events. Residents looking to play a pick-up game of tennis or baseball might head to Ensley Park, while similar athletic fields as well as a playground and community pool draw locals to McAlpine Park.
Take a stroll at McAlpine Park in Ensley.
Take a stroll with someone you love at Ensley Park.
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Ensley and Western/Jackson-Olin High School alumni events
Ensley has produced robust high school alumni associations out of Jackson-Olin High School and the now demolished Ensley High School, both of which engage with Ensley’s wider community at events like annual alumni picnics. Beyond giving thousands of neighbors and old classmates space to get together, alumni also raise money for scholarships for current students in Birmingham.
Cheer on the Mustangs at Jackson-Olin High School near Ensley.
Jackson Olin High School takes pride in teaching future leaders of Ensley.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Ensley
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
5
4
Burglary
3
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
6
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Ensley Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Ensley, Birmingham sell after 55 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Ensley, Birmingham over the last 12 months is $77,500, up 29% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Completely renovated from top to bottom—nothing has been overlooked! This adorable 3-bedroom, 2-bath home features all-new electrical, plumbing, HVAC, metal roof, water heater, flooring, sheetrock, trim, doors, fresh interior & exterior paint, windows, blinds, siding & soffits and alarm system. Open-concept layout filled w/natural light, creating a bright & HUGE FAMILY ROOM living space perfect
This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home has been completely remodeled and is ready for its new owner! It offers a surprisingly spacious layout with fresh paint, new floors throughout, and updated light and plumbing fixtures that give it a clean, modern feel. Cozy, bright, and move-in ready—this one is easy to love and a must-see! ??
Completely renovated bungalow in Ensley. Updates include new flooring, fresh paint, modern fixtures, and updated systems throughout. Renovated kitchen with new solid surface countertops and vent fan. One new bath added and one bath renovated. alley access, Convenient location next to Ensley community center and park. Move-in ready—don’t miss this opportunity!
Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home perfectly situated on a spacious corner lot in a well-established community. This property features beautiful hardwood floors and a large open living space that offers endless possibilities for customization and design. The level, fully fenced yard provides plenty of room for outdoor entertaining, gardening, or play. With its generous layout and prime
Welcome to this charming 3-bedroom solid brick ranch, where modern living meets timeless appeal! This beautifully renovated home features three spacious bedrooms and two full bathrooms, providing ample comfort for your family.A bonus room with a half bath downstairs offers endless possibilities—ideal for a home office, playroom, or media space. Enjoy an inviting living area filled with
Completely renovated from top to bottom—nothing has been overlooked! This adorable 3-bedroom, 2-bath home features all-new electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roof, water heater, flooring, sheetrock, trim, doors, fresh interior & exterior paint, windows, blinds, siding & soffits and alarm system. The open-concept layout is filled w/natural light, creating a bright & inviting living space perfect for
Lot size approximately 25x132 ~ Please check anything that is of importance including schools and zoning. Sale will be subject to third party approval.Purchaser will be responsible for obtaining a Bill for Quiet Title.
Tucked away on a peaceful street in Ensley, this 3-bedroom, 1-bath home feels like the cozy retreat you’ve been searching for. With 1,320 sq ft of charm and comfort, the home features open living spaces and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for everyday life. Whether you’re looking to settle in or invest, this property offers the perfect blend of privacy and convenience, just a short drive from
2-bedroom, 1-bath fixer-upper in a highly sought-after neighborhood. Lots of potential for the right buyer. Sold as-is; owner will not make repairs. Currently being occupied by tenants.
Commercial Land! Flat land with bushes covering most of it. Conveniently situated near commercial and residential properties. Electric and water is nearby. Buyers are encouraged to run their own official title search. Buyers are asked to do their due diligence before purchasing property. Seller Financing is available.
Limited Time Special Offer - Split your security deposit payment. Pay only 50% of your security deposit upfront to reserve the home, with the remaining balance due at move-in.This welcoming home offers ample space with 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom.- Electric range provided for easy meal preparation- Central air conditioning and forced air heating for year-round comfort-
This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offers comfort and character in a convenient setting. A welcoming covered front porch sets the tone, providing the perfect spot to relax and unwind. Inside, you’ll find hardwood floors throughout the main living areas, along with tile flooring in the kitchen and bathroom for added durability and style. The home features a functional layout with cozy living
ONLY VOUCHERS ACCEPTED-MOVE IN SPECIAL-FREE RING DOORBELL WITH APPROVED APPLICATIONIntroducing a charming 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home located in the heart of Fairfield, Birmingham. This cozy residence features a convenient carport for parking, a classic exterior wood finish, and comfortable carpeting throughout. Enjoy the privacy and security of a fenced backyard, perfect for
Spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom brick home blending classic charm with everyday functionality. A charming front porch welcomes you in, perfect for relaxing or enjoying the neighborhood. Inside, you’ll find an open kitchen with ample cabinetry, offering plenty of storage and workspace for cooking and entertaining. The home features a comfortable layout with generous living spaces and well-sized
This functional l 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the ideal setup for family living. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere, spacious bedrooms, and a bright, open feel that makes every day comfortable and inviting. Nice Neighbors, Nice Neighborhood and the perfect school zone. Call to schedule your private tour!This functional l 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the ideal setup for family living. Enjoy a
Come make this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment your new home! This renovated unit features central heating and air for year-round comfort, fresh paint throughout, and updated fixtures that give the space a clean, modern feel. Enjoy the convenience of in-unit washer/dryer hookups and spacious bedrooms with plenty of natural light. Located just a quick 7-minute drive from downtown
Welcome to your new home! This beautiful 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment in Ensley offers comfort, convenience, and modern touches throughout. Enjoy hardwood floors, updated lighting, and fresh paint that brighten every room. The kitchen comes equipped with appliances, while the bathroom features a clean and stylish tub/shower combo. You’ll also appreciate the in-unit washer/dryer hookup for added
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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