Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Helena, AL
Considering a move to Helena, AL? This welcoming city of about 21,560 offers an affordable cost of living, with median home prices at $307,000 and average rents around $1,440. Helena boasts a very low crime rate, excellent schools, and an educated, family-oriented community. With a 30-minute average commute to Birmingham, plenty of sunny days, and strong local amenities, Helena is a great choice for those seeking small-town charm with access to big-city conveniences.
Demographics - Helena, AL
Demographics - Helena, AL
Helena is home to approximately 21,560 residents, offering a family-friendly atmosphere with a median age of 37.2. The community is predominantly White, with a notable presence of Black and Asian residents, and about 7.5% of locals speak a language other than English. Its moderate population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to a welcoming small-city feel.
Population:
21,560
Density:
1,030 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
83.2%
Black:
10.7%
Asian:
1.8%
Others:
4.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Helena, AL?
Helena features a cost of living slightly below the national average, with median home values around $307,000 and average rents near $1,440. Everyday expenses such as groceries and healthcare are generally affordable, making it a practical option for families and professionals alike. State income taxes remain moderate, helping residents stretch their budgets further.
Median House Value:
$307,000
Gross Rent:
$1,440
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,300
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$495
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
95.1
Grocery:
96.3
Housing:
91.7
Utilities:
101.5
Transportation:
98.0
Health Care:
93.6
Miscellaneous:
94.5
Crime
Is Helena, AL a safe place to live?
Helena enjoys a reputation for safety, with a violent crime rate of just 68 incidents per 100,000 people and a low chance of property crime. Residents benefit from a secure environment, significantly below national crime averages, making it an attractive place for families and those seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
68
Property Crimes Per 100k:
470
Crime Index:
538
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,470
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 213
Weather
What is the weather like in Helena, AL year-round?
Helena experiences mild winters and warm summers, with temperatures ranging from lows in the mid-30s in winter to highs near 91°F in summer. The city receives about 57 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine on more than half of the days each year. Its pleasant climate supports year-round outdoor activities and a comfortable lifestyle.

Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
54°F

Spring
Min:
53°F
Max:
76°F

Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
91°F

Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
57 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Residents in Helena enjoy strong household incomes, with a median of $104,560 and a low poverty rate of just 2.2%. The area boasts high educational attainment, with nearly 45% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, and low unemployment. Most locals commute around 30 minutes, reflecting Helena's easy access to greater Birmingham.
Median Income:
$49,000
Household Income:
$104,560
Family Income:
$116,200
Per Capita Income:
$40,800
Income Male:
$58,400
Income Female:
$46,100
Poverty Rate:
2.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$1,440
Unemployment Rate:
2.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
30.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
97.5%
Bachelors or More:
44.8%
Education
How are the schools in Helena, AL?
Helena offers strong educational opportunities, featuring well-regarded public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios. Private schooling options and proximity to major colleges, including Jefferson State Community College and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, provide families and students with diverse learning choices. The city’s commitment to education is reflected in high graduation rates and community support.

Public Schools
Name:
Helena Elementary School
Street:
187 3rd St
Phone:
205-682-5540
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.8
Name:
Helena High School
Street:
1310 Hillsboro Pkwy
Phone:
205-682-3650
Students:
1,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5

Private Schools
Name:
Evangel Classical Christian School
Street:
423 Thompson Rd
Phone:
205-216-0149
Students:
285

Colleges
Name:
Jefferson State Community College
City:
Hoover
State:
AL
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
8,500
Name:
University of Alabama at Birmingham
City:
Birmingham
State:
AL
Distance:
17 miles
Students:
22,000
Healthcare
Helena residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals nearby and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 92.5%. Approximately 2.1 physicians are available per 1,000 residents, supporting timely medical care. The area’s healthcare system is well-regarded for both general and emergency services.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Shelby Baptist Medical Center
Address:
1000 First St N, Alabaster, AL 35007
Phone:
(205) 620-8100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Brookwood Baptist Medical Center
Address:
2010 Brookwood Medical Center Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209
Phone:
(205) 877-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.5%
Health Care Index:
79.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Helena, AL?
The housing market in Helena is stable, with a median home price of $307,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 90%. Home values have seen steady appreciation over the past year, while rental vacancy rates remain low. The local market offers a range of options for buyers and renters seeking long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$307,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,440
Owner Occupied Rate:
89.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver services through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division, located in nearby Hoover. The local DMV provides standard licensing and registration services, and support is available by phone or online. Convenient access streamlines moving and vehicle-related needs for new arrivals.
State:
Alabama
Department:
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division
Address:
301 Data Dr, Suite 101, Hoover, AL 35244
Phone:
1-334-242-4400
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.