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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/3
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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
Are you familiar with the Ensley neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
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 64 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 $74,000, up 14% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Great opportunity for investors, builders, or anyone looking to build in a convenient location. This lot at 2326 18th Street offers plenty of potential for a new construction home or future investment property. Located near local schools, shopping, dining, and major roadways, the property provides easy access to everyday conveniences. Whether you are looking to build now, add to your investment
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.
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! ??
Charming bungalow with tons of character and investment potential! This home features spacious rooms, original hardwood floors, large windows providing great natural light, and a functional layout ready for your personal touch. The property offers a covered front porch, mature trees, and a sizable yard with additional storage space. Conveniently located near schools, shopping, dining, and
Turn-Key and Tenant ready! Nothing needed and completely updated 4 Bedroom and 1.5 Bath. Over 54.5K in recent updates such as; Brand New Entire HVAC System, New Flooring entire house, repainted entire interior, new siding, New Metal Roof, New Hot Water Heater, Updated electrical.
What a great investment property this is the rental comps are anywhere from 1300 to 1500 a month. Also the seller has put new roof on the property new siding new windows new kitchen and bathroom. Only thing it needs is a new HVAC new luxury vinyl and new appliances in this home is ready to go. The seller doesn't have the funds to do the repairs and is willing to do a short sale with the mortgage
What a rare find! This thriving, body shop has been in the family for 62 Years!Well maintained building that appraised for $650,000. It is almost 9000 square feet under one roof! The sellers are leaving $100,000 worth of equipment, computers, and tools! When the business was in full force it could not take in all the work! The building has 12 bays, 2 frame machines, a paint shop with a
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
Great investment opportunity in Ensley! This 2-bedroom, 2-bath home offers approximately 880 square feet and is currently tenant-occupied with Section 8 income already in place. The home features a functional layout, spacious bedrooms, and immediate rental income from day one. Conveniently located near shopping, schools, and major highways, this property is perfect for investors looking to add to
Apply today with confidence, your application fee will be credited back upon approval! Available now! Text our property manager Amy at (205) 966-8543 to schedule a showing. Section 8 not accepted. Welcome to 1304 Avenue G in Birmingham, AL 35218 – a cozy and inviting 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home that offers comfort, functionality, and great outdoor space. Step inside to find beautiful laminate
Limited Time Offer: FREE RENT! Move into your home by July 31st and enjoy your choice of a rent-free December or January. Don't wait - contact us today to learn more. Restrictions apply. Classic charm meets everyday comfort in this 4-bedroom, 1-bathroom rental home in Birmingham. Featuring three decorative fireplaces and an abundance of windows, the home is filled with character and natural
Discover your dream home! This beautifully remodeled property offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and cozy charm. With spacious rooms flooded with natural light, you'll have all the space you need for relaxation and entertainment. The open floor plan seamlessly connects the living and dining areas, making it ideal for gatherings. Step outside to enjoy your generously sized covered front
April QuickseyHart Seil Management Service
$1,150 per month
4BR 2BA New On The Market! Cute! Cute! Cute! Better Hurry To See This One!!
Section 8 accepted. Great curb appeal on this wonderful home on a quiet neighborhood street. This lovely home features 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bath. You are sure to love the beautiful hardwood flooring that runs throughout most of the home. The large living room features lots of natural light. The dining room is perfect for hosting family and friends. The kitchen offers great cabinet and counter space.
Discover comfort and convenience at 2608 Avenue G in Birmingham! This inviting home offers spacious living areas, generously sized bedrooms, and a functional floor plan designed to fit a variety of lifestyles. Natural light fills the home, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout. The kitchen provides ample cabinet and counter space, making meal prep and entertaining easy, while the
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.
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.
