Best places to live in Midlands: Birmingham neighbourhood beats Shropshire Hills & named best place to live

A highly anticipated annual guide - The Sunday Times Best Places to Live - celebrates the most desirable locations across Britain. It is a prestigious listing that highlights areas for their unique qualities, community spirit, and overall quality of life.

The guide takes into account a variety of factors, including schools, culture, and connectivity, to provide a comprehensive overview of what makes each place special.

This year, the guide has once again brought forward a collection of places that exemplify the finest qualities of British living in the Midlands.

And we are delighted to announce that Stirchley, in Birmingham, an often underrated suburban neighbourhood, has risen above the rest to be named the top of the best. The south Birmingham neighbourhood has outshone some the most renowned countryside destinations known for their natural beauty, such as Buxton in Derbyshire, and the tranquil Shropshire Hills.

This victory is a significant nod to Stirchley’s vibrant community, accessibility, and inclusive spirit, which have collectively earned it the title of the Best Place to Live in the Midlands.

Dorridge and Knowle in Solihull, another gem near Birmingham, has not gone unnoticed, securing the third spot on the list, for it's exceptional living standards, combining the tranquillity of the countryside with the convenience of urban amenities.

Stirchley’s community initiatives stood out to the judges, reflecting a strong sense of unity. With activities ranging from free art clubs at the library to vibrant events at Stirchley Baths community centre, the neighbourhood fosters a strong sense of community.

Stirchley residents enjoy proximity to some of the city’s best venues, like Couch, Eat Vietnam, and Caneat, and look forward to improved transportation with the upcoming Pineapple Road station.

Helen Davies, The Sunday Times guide’s editor, highlights that the selected locations provide a sense of stability and potential growth, saying: “We see what people really love about the places they live. That might be fast commutes and high-achieving schools but also clean water to swim in, lively town centres with useful shops, the possibility of earning a living and being part of a friendly community.” she said. 

Each location on the guide offers its own unique blend of qualities, making them all desirable places to call home — whether you’re drawn to the cultural vibrancy of Buxton or the natural serenity of the Shropshire Hills — the guide ensures there’s a perfect spot for everyone in the Midlands to prosper and enjoy an exceptional quality of life.

Here’s a look at the full The Sunday Times Best Places to Live listing for the Midlands: