The best 9 family-friendly neighbourhoods in and around Birmingham: schools, safety and house prices

Here's our comprehensive list of the best areas in Birmingham for raising a family.

We’ve included average house prices for each area to give a sense of affordability, crime rates and the good schools nearby. According to Rightmove, the average house price in the UK now is £357,255.

These figures are based on recent estimates and can vary based on property type, location, and market conditions.

But for families who prioritise schools and safety and are flexible with budgets, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield are ideal.

For affordability, Bearwood or Kings Heath can be great starting points for exploring Birmingham family life.

Obviously, opinions and needs vary according to individual preferences - and the most important element to family life is, of course, a loving home - no matter where it is.

1. Solihull

• Average house price: £480,000
• Crime Rate: Low, considered one of the safest areas near Birmingham.
• Schools: Top-rated schools, such as Tudor Grange Academy and Solihull School.
• Although pricier, Solihull offers excellent schools, low crime, and a strong suburban community, making it highly desirable for families.

2. Sutton Coldfield

• Average house price: £450,000
• Crime Rate: Low, with a strong reputation for safety.
• Schools: High-quality options like Bishop Vesey’s Grammar and Sutton Coldfield Grammar School for Girls.
• Why it’s ranked #2: Known for its great schools, safety, and green spaces, Sutton Coldfield offers a family-friendly environment that justifies its higher prices.

3. Edgbaston

• Average house price: £450,000
• Crime Rate: Moderate but generally safer than the city centre.
• Schools: Good options, including Edgbaston High School for Girls and West House School.
• Why it’s ranked #3: Edgbaston combines proximity to city amenities with quality schools and a relatively safe, upscale atmosphere.

4. Bournville

• Average house price: £400,000
• Crime Rate: Low, managed by Bournville Village Trust, which maintains safety and community standards.
• Schools: Good school options like Bournville Junior and nearby King Edward VI schools.
• Why it’s ranked #4: Bournville’s charming, village-like atmosphere and safety make it attractive for families, even with slightly higher housing costs.

5. Harborne

• Average house price: £375,000
• Crime Rate: Moderate, though generally safe for families.
• Schools: Strong school options, including Harborne Primary School and King Edward VI Five Ways School.
• Why it’s ranked #5: Harborne offers quality schools, a community atmosphere, and good amenities at a moderate price point.

6. Stirchley

• Average house price: £300,000
• Crime Rate: Moderate to high, though improving as the area develops.
• Schools: Decent school options, with proximity to well-regarded schools in neighbouring areas like Bournville.
• Why it’s ranked #6: Stirchley is emerging as a popular, affordable option for young families, thanks to its community vibe, affordability, and easy access to amenities and green spaces. However, crime rates are slightly higher compared to areas like Bournville.

7. Moseley

• Average house price: £350,000
• Crime Rate: Moderate to higher, though still a popular choice.
• Schools: Good schools, such as Moseley C of E Primary and King Edward VI Camp Hill Schools.
• Why it’s ranked #7: Moseley’s artistic, vibrant community and quality schools make it attractive, though the crime rate is higher than more suburban areas like Solihull or Sutton Coldfield.

8. Kings Heath

• Average house price: £300,000
• Crime Rate: Moderate, with some recent improvements.
• Schools: Quality options like Kings Heath Primary School and nearby King Edward VI schools.
• Why it’s ranked #8: Kings Heath’s affordable housing and good schools are appealing, but crime rates are higher compared to quieter areas.

9. Bearwood (Smethwick)

• Average house price: £250,000
• Crime Rate: Higher than other areas on this list.
• Schools: Reasonable school options, such as Lightwoods Primary and Abbey Junior.
• Why it’s ranked #9: Bearwood is the most affordable option but has higher crime rates and fewer top-rated schools. It's a developing area ideal for families on a tighter budget.

Summary

1. Solihull – High on safety and school quality, but also on the higher end for house prices.
2. Sutton Coldfield – Great schools and community, but similar price range as Solihull.
3. Edgbaston – Closer to city life, with quality schools and moderate crime rates.
4. Bournville – Safe, community-oriented, and family-friendly, but with higher house prices.
5. Harborne – Offers a blend of schools, safety, and affordability.
6. Stirchley – An affordable and up-and-coming family area, though with higher crime rates.
7. Moseley – Creative vibe and good schools but higher crime rates.
8. Kings Heath – Affordable with decent schools, but moderate crime.
9. Bearwood – Most affordable, though with fewer school options and higher crime.