Area Information

Living in B42 2WB means inhabiting a compact residential cluster in north Birmingham, where history and modernity intersect. The area’s population of 1,474 residents occupies a space with a density of 568 people per square kilometre, reflecting its suburban character. Perry Barr, as it is known locally, has roots in the Domesday Book, with its name derived from Old English and Celtic origins. Today, it is a part of Birmingham’s metropolitan borough, offering a mix of historical sites and contemporary amenities. The area is served by nearby rail and metro links, including Perry Barr Railway Station, making it accessible for commuters. Its proximity to Birmingham’s core provides easy access to the city’s cultural and economic hubs, while its own landmarks—such as the 1903 Birmingham Crematorium and the former Odeon cinema—add a unique local flavour. Daily life here balances quiet suburban living with the vibrancy of a major city nearby, though the small area means residents often look beyond B42 2WB for broader opportunities.

Area Type
Postcode
Area Size
Not available
Population
1474
Population Density
568 people/km²

The property market in B42 2WB is characterised by a 39% home ownership rate, indicating that the majority of properties are rented rather than owned. This suggests a rental market that may cater to both long-term tenants and those seeking temporary housing. The accommodation type is primarily houses, which are more prevalent than flats or other forms of housing in this small postcode area. Given the limited size of B42 2WB, the housing stock is likely constrained, which could mean competition for available properties. For buyers, this small area may offer fewer choices, necessitating consideration of nearby suburbs or broader Birmingham districts. The predominance of houses may appeal to those seeking larger living spaces, but the low home ownership rate highlights the area’s reliance on rental options. Prospective buyers should be aware that the market here is not as dynamic as in larger urban centres, requiring patience and flexibility in property searches.

House Prices in B42 2WB

No properties found in this postcode.

Energy Efficiency in B42 2WB

The lifestyle in B42 2WB is shaped by its proximity to retail, rail, and metro amenities. Within practical reach are five retail outlets, including Asda Perry, Iceland Perry, and M&S Perry, offering everyday shopping needs. The area’s rail and metro connections, such as Perry Barr Railway Station and Hamstead Railway Station, provide easy access to Birmingham’s broader network, facilitating both commuting and leisure travel. While the data does not specify parks or leisure facilities, the presence of multiple transport links suggests a focus on connectivity over green spaces. The nearby Birmingham Crematorium and historical sites like the former Odeon cinema add a layer of local interest. For residents, the convenience of retail and transport options balances with the area’s suburban tranquillity, though the small postcode means broader recreational opportunities may require venturing beyond B42 2WB.

Amenities

Schools

Residents of B42 2WB have access to two notable schools within practical reach. Eden Boys’ School in Birmingham is an academy with an Ofsted rating of outstanding, indicating high standards of education and performance. Prince Albert High School, also an academy, holds a good Ofsted rating, suggesting reliable teaching and facilities. The presence of two academy schools offers families a range of educational options, though both are secondary institutions. The absence of primary schools in the immediate area may require parents to consider nearby districts for younger children. The outstanding rating at Eden Boys’ School could be a significant draw for families prioritising academic excellence, while Prince Albert High School provides a more general but still reputable alternative. The mix of academy schools reflects a focus on structured, often state-funded education with performance-driven benchmarks.

RankA + A* %SchoolTypeEntry genderAges
1N/AEden Boys' School, BirminghamacademyN/AN/A
2N/APrince Albert High SchoolacademyN/AN/A

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Demographics

The community in B42 2WB is predominantly composed of adults aged 30–64, with a median age of 47. This suggests a mature population, likely including families and long-term residents. Home ownership stands at 39%, indicating that nearly two-thirds of households are renters, which may reflect the area’s smaller size and limited housing stock. The accommodation type is primarily houses, which are more common than flats or apartments in this postcode. The predominant ethnic group is White, though the data does not specify proportions of other groups. With no deprivation data provided, the quality of life remains unquantified, but the age profile and housing stock suggest a stable, established community. The low population density of 568 people per square kilometre implies a more spread-out residential layout, potentially offering quieter living conditions compared to denser urban areas.

Household Size

One person
most common

Accommodation Type

Houses
most common

Tenure

39
majority

Ethnic Group

White
most common

Religion

N/A
most common

Household Composition

N/A
most common

Age

47
median
Adults (30-64 years)
most common

Household Deprivation

N/A
with no deprivation

NS-SEC

19
in Lower managerial occupations

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Planning

Planning Constraints

  • Flood Risk
    Locked
  • Ramsar Wetland Sites
    Locked
  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
    Locked
  • Protected Nature Reserve
    Locked
  • Protected Woodland
    Locked
  • Crime Risk
    Locked

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the community feel in B42 2WB?
The area has a population of 1,474, with a median age of 47 and a predominance of adults aged 30–64. Home ownership is 39%, suggesting a mix of renters and long-term residents. The community is stable but small, with limited local amenities requiring trips beyond the postcode.
Are there good schools nearby?
Yes, Eden Boys’ School (outstanding Ofsted rating) and Prince Albert High School (good rating) are both within practical reach. Both are academies, offering structured education but no primary schools in the immediate area.
How connected is the area digitally?
Broadband is excellent (score 93) and mobile coverage is good (score 85). This supports remote work and daily internet use, though the small postcode means limited local tech infrastructure.
What about safety concerns?
The area has a critical crime risk (score 0/100), with above-average crime rates. Residents are advised to take enhanced security measures, though there are no environmental hazards like flood risks or protected sites.
What amenities are nearby?
Five retail outlets, including Asda and M&S, and five rail/metro stations, such as Perry Barr Railway Station. The area lacks parks or leisure facilities, requiring travel to nearby districts for recreational activities.

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