Is Ensley Safe, Pros and cons of living in Ensley

Ensley, a neighborhood within Birmingham, Alabama, presents a mixed but evolving picture for potential residents. Historically an industrial hub, Ensley has undergone significant changes, shaping its current character. The area offers a distinct atmosphere, blending a sense of community with the conveniences of proximity to a larger city.

Understanding the nuances of Ensley requires looking at various aspects of daily life, from safety and cost of living to employment opportunities and climate. This comprehensive overview aims to provide a clear and practical guide for those considering making Ensley their home.

Is it Safe to Live in Ensley?

Ensley is characterized by a high crime rate, with a crime score of C- (as reported by DoorProfit). This indicates that the area experiences more crime than many other neighborhoods within Birmingham. Specific crime statistics show assault rates at 143% above average, and larceny/theft at 42% above average (as reported by DoorProfit).

Property crime also presents a significant concern, with a severe risk score and an average of 484 predicted property crimes annually (as reported by Augurisk). Vehicle theft is also a concern, with a severe risk score and 120 predicted incidents per year (as reported by Augurisk). Residents are advised to maintain a high level of situational awareness at all times (according to Reddit users). Some residents suggest that while Ensley has rough parts, maintaining a low profile and knowing your neighbors can contribute to a sense of security (according to Reddit users).

Cost of Living and Housing

Ensley offers a notably lower cost of living compared to both state and national averages. The median home value in Ensley is approximately $76,209, showing a 9.6% increase over the past year (as reported by Zillow). This figure is significantly lower than the national median home value, which stands at $332,700 (as reported by Niche).

Rental costs in Ensley are also affordable. The median rent for all bedroom counts and property types is around $1,075 per month, which is 45% lower than the national average (as reported by Zumper). Specifically, a one-bedroom apartment averages about $775 per month, while a two-bedroom averages around $800 (as reported by Zumper). The median listing price for homes in Ensley is $72,500, with a price per square foot of $64, indicating a buyer-friendly market (as reported by realtor.com®).

Job Market and Economy

Ensley’s local economy is influenced by the broader Birmingham metropolitan area’s diverse industrial landscape. Major industries in Birmingham include finance and insurance, manufacturing, and healthcare (as reported by The Kirkland Company). While specific major employers within Ensley are not detailed, larger employers in the Birmingham area include the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Encompass Health, and Regions Financial Corporation (as reported by Indeed.com and The Kirkland Company).

The unemployment rate in Alabama was 2.7% in February 2026, which is lower than the U.S. overall rate for the same period (as reported by USAFacts). Jefferson County, which includes Ensley, had an unemployment rate of 3.0% as of January 2026 (as reported by USAFacts). Some sources indicate a local unemployment rate of around 7% or 8% for Ensley specifically (as reported by Proximitii and Places.US.Com), which is higher than the state and national averages.

Climate and Weather

Ensley experiences a humid subtropical climate, typical of Alabama, characterized by mild winters and hot, muggy summers (as reported by Weather Spark and AccuWeather). Average temperatures in the region see highs in the low to mid-80s Fahrenheit during the summer months and lows in the 30s Fahrenheit during winter (as reported by AccuWeather). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with a higher likelihood of precipitation during spring and summer months, often in the form of thunderstorms (as reported by Weather Spark).

The area can experience significant rainfall, with Birmingham receiving around 51-55 inches annually (as reported by Weather Spark). While Ensley itself does not have specific average temperature data readily available, Birmingham’s climate data can serve as a close approximation. The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional cold spells in winter and the possibility of severe weather events common to the southeastern United States.

Education and Schools

Educational options in Ensley are primarily served by the Birmingham City School system. Niche.com provides ratings for schools serving the Ensley area, though specific school performance data for Ensley itself is not detailed. Phillips Academy, a PK-8 school, has a rating of 4.53 out of 5 based on 15 reviews (as reported by Niche).

Other public schools in the vicinity include Huffman High School Magnet and Ramsay High School, both serving grades 9-12. Alabama School of Fine Arts, a 7-12 school, also serves the broader Birmingham area and receives high ratings (as reported by Niche). Parents and prospective residents are encouraged to research specific school performance metrics and district offerings to determine the best fit for their educational needs.

Demographics and Community

Ensley has a population of approximately 2,394 residents, with a median age of around 39 years (as reported by Niche and Proximitii). The racial makeup of Ensley is predominantly African American, with approximately 86% of the population identifying as such, followed by Hispanic (9%) and individuals of two or more races (4%) (as reported by Niche). The population is fairly evenly split between genders, with about 57% female and 43% male (as reported by Niche).

A significant portion of Ensley’s residents rent their homes, with approximately 70% of housing units being rentals, while 30% are owner-occupied (as reported by Niche). The median household income in Ensley is reported to be around $33,243 (as reported by Niche), which is considerably lower than the national median household income of $80,734 (as reported by Niche). This lower income level contributes to Ensley being recognized as a neighborhood with a low cost of living within Birmingham.

Pros and Cons of Living in Ensley

Ensley offers a distinct set of advantages and disadvantages for residents. The primary draw is its affordability, with significantly lower housing costs and a lower overall cost of living compared to national averages. The median home value is around $76,209, making it an accessible market for buyers (as reported by Zillow). Rental prices are also competitive, with a median rent of $1,075 per month (as reported by Zumper).

However, Ensley faces significant challenges, most notably its high crime rates. With a crime score of C-, the neighborhood experiences elevated levels of both violent and property crimes (as reported by DoorProfit and Augurisk). This safety concern is a major factor for individuals and families considering a move to the area. Additionally, some sources suggest a higher unemployment rate within Ensley compared to broader state and national figures (as reported by Proximitii and Places.US.Com).