Though a long-established community, South Eastlake is developing a new identity. Soon to be considered a historic neighborhood of northeastern Birmingham, South Eastlake embodies the residential growth caused by the industrial boom in the city over a century ago. The neighborhood is one of the largest and most populated in the city limits, but with mountains to the east, South Eastlake maintains quiet with little through traffic. Crime scores exceed national averages, but the community is experiencing a shift as vacant properties undergo repair and draw in new home buyers. Several organizations also work with the South Eastlake community to improve accessibility to resources, and public transportation allows residents to explore the amenities of nearby areas like Trussville.
Ranch style houses are popular in South Eastlake.
This row of houses add vibrant colors to the neighborhood of South Eastlake.
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Revitalization along Ruffner Mountain
Because the neighborhood’s roots date back about 100 years, mature trees shade the slowly narrowing sidewalks that weave throughout the community. Gridded streets border Interstate 59, but city blocks lose shape closer to Ruffner Mountain. The neighborhood's oldest cottages, bungalows and ranch-style homes date to the 1920s, but houses continued to pop up through the 1970s. Turnkey houses with about 1,000 square feet start around $135,000, while those approaching 1,500 square feet can exceed $200,000. Those ready to build sweat equity can find properties starting around $30,000; however, investors are purchasing and remodeling many of the homes needing extensive repair. The resale of recently renovated houses have driven average values higher in South Eastlake over a few years, a trend that could continue.
Go for a hike at Ruffner Mountain near South Eastlake.
Admire the artwork in South Eastlake.
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Commuter-friendly access to Interstate 20
Less than 10 miles from downtown and the University of Alabama-Birmingham, South Eastlake allows residents to reach top employers with a quick ride down Interstate 20. The bus also links the neighborhood to the city's heart, including the 25 and 17 lines. Birmingham-Shuttleworth International Airport is 5 miles away for trips out of state.
Historical homes in South Eastlake add to the charm of this fascinating community.
A fresh coat of paint brings new life to this house in South Eastlake.
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Access to Birmingham City Schools
Students can attend Birmingham City Schools that received C-minus grades from Niche, starting with Robinson Elementary. From here, students can transition to Ossie Ware Mitchell Middle School and graduate from Woodlawn High School. At Woodlawn, students can participate in programs such as the Early College and the Academy of Business and Finance.
Robinson Elementary School takes pride in teaching the kids of South Eastlake.
Ossie Ware Mitchell Middle School takes pride in teaching kids in South Eastlake.
Woodlawn High School inspires kids to do their best in South Eastlake.
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Swinging by Joe & Deb’s or driving to national retailers
Although restaurants are limited in South Eastlake, takeout spots such as Lady Vee's Southern Cuisine and Wings Rings & Things by Joe & Deb are popular. With downtown less than 10 miles away, locals can also explore top-rated restaurants in the heart of the city. For grabbing the essentials, Piggly Wiggly is the closest option, but Walmart Supercenter in Irondale is also less than 3 miles away. National retailers and bulk shopping options in Trussville can be reached in about 10 miles by heading north on Interstate 59.
Find your groceries at the Piggly Wiggly in South Eastlake.
Grab your essentials at the Family Dollar in South Eastlake.
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Bordered by East Lake Park and hiking trails
Along the neighborhood’s eastern edge, East Lake Park is a gathering place — just as it’s been for generations. “The park has been around since the early 1900s,” says Justin Mundie of eXp Realty, a Realtor specializing in the South Eastlake area. Home to networking and community events such as the annual Melanin Mala Project, the park is a landing place for community activism. Of course, the vibrant green space also offers the appeal of natural beauty. “It has this large, stunning lake and is actually one of the largest municipal parks in Birmingham,” Mundie says. The western half of South Eastlake also benefits from proximity to outdoor recreation, as many houses border Ruffner Mountain. With trails throughout its 1,000-acre natural landscape, the preserve allows locals to escape urban life and see the city streets from above.
Teach the next generation how to fish at Eastlake Park near South Eastlake.
Ruffner Mountain is a favorite hiking destination for South Eastlake residents.
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Community events and aid from P.E.E.R., Inc. and ELI Strive
To help bring fresh produce to the neighborhood and support local artisans, the East Lake Farmers Market by P.E.E.R., Inc. sets up shop at the East Lake United Methodist Church every Saturday. ELI Strive is another organization that regularly hosts events in the area, including Lunch & Learns for parents and food markets for families in need.
Shop the Eastlake Market in South Eastlake.
Get to know farmers from across the state at the Eastlake Farmer's Market in South Eastlake.
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Violent crime rates above the national average
According to the CAP Index, the crime score in South Eastlake exceeds the national average, particularly in categories of violent crime. The police department recently tested a new safety initiative with the Housing Authority of Birmingham District that involved barricading historic neighborhoods to deter crime. While this has yet to make it to South Eastlake, the City of Birmingham is considering its designation as a historic neighborhood, so similar police initiatives may make their way to the community.
A beautiful row of houses in South Eastlake make for a fun walk in the neighborhood.
This colonial revival has the perfect shade tree for a hot summer day.
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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to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
South Eastlake
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
7
4
Robbery
7
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
7
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
South Eastlake Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in South Eastlake, Birmingham sell after 76 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in South Eastlake, Birmingham over the last 12 months is $113,250, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Nestled at the base of Ruffner Mountains, this Southeast Lake gem is a dream home or a lucrative short-term rental. Fully registered with the city and holding an STR certificate, the property generated $22,510 in gross revenue over the trailing twelve months ending Oct '24. With all furniture included, it’s move-in ready for personal enjoyment or continued rental success. The home beautifully
Charming 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath home with great potential and plenty of space to make your own! This home features a spacious living and dining combination complete with a cozy fireplace—perfect for gatherings. The kitchen has a spacious bar for casual meals, and there’s a separate den and study, both showcasing beautiful original knotty pine paneling that adds warmth and character. New carpet has
Freshly remodeled 2 bed / 1 bath units for rent at 7728 Rugby Ave, Birmingham, AL 35206. Upstairs and downstairs units available. Located in the Southeast Lake/Woodlawn area near Ruffner Mountain and East Lake Park—great for outdoor lovers. Convenient access to I-59, downtown Birmingham, and the airport. Close to grocery stores, local shops, and restaurants. Quiet residential street with a
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.
