A new lifestyle guide has officially named the six best places to live in Birmingham for the coming year. The annual report from Muddy Stilettos evaluates areas across the UK, focusing on key factors for residents including property prices, educational facilities, dining and shopping options, community spirit, and access to green spaces and attractions.
The Top Six Birmingham Neighbourhoods for 2026
Topping the list for Birmingham is the historic Jewellery Quarter. The guide praises its transformation, highlighting revamped industrial apartments and a wealth of hidden gems. No longer just a destination for jewellery shopping, the area is now cited as one of the country's most desirable postcodes.
The spokesperson noted its Michelin-starred restaurants, quirky museums, and cool cocktail bars, all within minutes of the city centre and served by the Midlands Metro. Major regeneration, including a £125 million, 400-home plan for St Paul’s Quarter, continues to fuel its evolution, blending Victorian heritage with modern urban living.
From Industrial Heartland to Creative Hub
In second place is Digbeth, recently crowned one of Britain's coolest neighbourhoods. Once the city's industrial core, it's now a bohemian creative quarter. The area is celebrated for its brutalist architecture, canal-side settings, and vibrant nightlife centred around converted warehouses like the former Birds Custard factory.
The guide emphasises its independent businesses, bold street art, and a buzzing clubbing culture that has emerged from extensive regeneration schemes.
Leafy Suburbs and Thriving High Streets
The leafy suburb of Edgbaston secures its spot as a perennial contender, offering a serene feel just miles from the city centre. It's recognised not only for world-class sporting venues like Edgbaston Cricket Ground but also for its botanical gardens, top-rated schools, Michelin-starred restaurants, and proximity to two universities.
Harborne follows, commended for its thriving foodie scene, excellent schools, and abundance of local activities. Described as the "cool sister" to neighbouring areas, it boasts some of Birmingham's best restaurants.
Meanwhile, Kings Heath claims fifth place for its vibrant café culture, independent shops, and popular markets. The guide highlights a strong community ethos that supports local businesses and a full calendar of events, from wine tastings to annual festivals.
Award-Winning Community Spirit
Rounding out the list is Stirchley, a tight-knit community celebrated for its award-winning bars, top eateries, and microbreweries. This "small but mighty" high street is a haven for independents, including a Michelin Young Chef Award winner for 2025 and a UK Top 50 cocktail bar. The community of around 10,000 people actively hosts events in unique spaces like the former Edwardian baths.
The Muddy Stilettos guide provides a comprehensive look at urban living in the West Midlands, identifying areas that successfully blend heritage, community, and modern amenities for an exceptional quality of life.
