Thousands of people choose to make Birmingham their home each year - moving from London and many other areas across the UK and overseas.
However, there are some locals who decide to move out of the city to towns nearby - often known as commuter towns.
We considered a number of factors for the list, including train travel time to Birmingham school ratings, crime ratings and family friendly areas. Below are our 12 recommendations for places to live in and around the city.
1. Stratford upon Avon
Famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is rich in culture and history. The town offers regular train services to Birmingham and is home to the Royal Shakespeare Company, Michelin-starred restaurants, and beautiful Tudor-style buildings. The train station is located within a 10-minute walk of the town center. Specifically, it's about a 10-minute walk east on Alcester Road to reach the town centre. | ProMicroStockRAW - stock.adobe.com
2. Leamington Spa
Known for its stunning Regency architecture and lush parks, Leamington Spa is a historic spa town that offers a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. It’s a hub for the gaming industry, earning the nickname “Silicon Spa,” and boasts excellent schools, making it ideal for families. Leamington Spa train station is situated on the southern edge of the town centre. It's a short walk, typically 5-10 minutes | gb27photo - stock.adobe.com
3. Solihull
Voted as one of the best places to live in the UK, by The Times. Solihull combines the best of suburban and urban living with its excellent schools, shopping centers, and parks. It’s well-connected to Birmingham, making it a convenient choice for commuters with the train sation close to the town centre | Flickr
4. Knowle and Dorridge
These suburbs offer spacious homes, excellent schools, and a semi-rural feel. Just a train ride away from Birmingham, they provide a countryside illusion while keeping you close to urban amenities. Dorridge was recently voted as the best place to live in the West Midlands | Flickr