Area Overview for B8 3XA
Area Information
B8 3XA is a small residential postcode in Birmingham’s Alum Rock area, a densely populated inner-city ward with a population of 2025. Situated approximately 2 miles east of Birmingham city centre, it lies within the broader Saltley district, a historically industrialised region. The area is defined by its compact footprint, centred around Alum Rock Road, which stretches from Saltley Gate to the Railway Bridge. While the ward as a whole has a population of 25,487, B8 3XA reflects the broader demographic trends of this urban locale. Daily life here is shaped by its proximity to transport links, retail hubs, and community amenities. The area’s character is influenced by its history as a site of alum extraction, a legacy that persists in its name. Residents benefit from a mix of local shops, public transport, and schools, though the area’s high deprivation levels and younger population profile suggest a community focused on affordability over luxury. For buyers, B8 3XA offers a compact, accessible slice of Birmingham’s evolving urban landscape.
- Area Type
- Postcode
- Area Size
- Not available
- Population
- 2025
- Population Density
- 9859 people/km²
The property market in B8 3XA is characterised by a 54% home ownership rate, with houses forming the majority of the housing stock. This suggests a mix of owner-occupied and rental properties, though the exact proportion of rentals is not specified. The presence of houses rather than flats indicates a focus on family-oriented living, which may appeal to buyers seeking space in a densely populated area. However, the area’s high deprivation levels and limited economic opportunities could impact property values and long-term investment potential. Given the small size of the postcode and its integration with the broader Alum Rock ward, buyers should consider the wider regional context, including proximity to transport links and amenities. While the housing stock is primarily owner-occupied, the rental market may be significant, particularly for younger residents or those seeking affordable options. Prospective buyers should weigh the area’s affordability against its economic challenges and limited employment prospects.
House Prices in B8 3XA
No properties found in this postcode.
Energy Efficiency in B8 3XA
Living in B8 3XA offers access to a range of local amenities within practical reach. Retail options include M&S Birmingham, Aldi Alum, and Iceland Washwood, providing everyday shopping convenience. The area’s 3 km shopping strip along Alum Rock Road, known locally as “The Rock,” hosts a variety of stores and services. Public transport is a cornerstone of daily life, with multiple railway stations and metro stops within walking distance. For families, schools such as Washwood Heath Academy and Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy are nearby, though the area’s educational infrastructure is not detailed further. Leisure activities include the local football club, Alum Rock FC, which competes in the South Birmingham Football League. The community’s character is shaped by its proximity to urban hubs and its historical roots, though the lack of green spaces or major parks is notable. Overall, B8 3XA supports a functional, if modest, lifestyle with a focus on accessibility and affordability.
Amenities
Schools
| Rank | A + A* % | School | Type | Entry gender | Ages |
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Go to Schools tabDemographics
The population of B8 3XA has a median age of 22, but the most common age range is adults aged 30–64, indicating a working-age demographic skewed towards older adults. Home ownership here stands at 54%, with houses being the predominant accommodation type. The area’s ethnic composition is heavily influenced by the Asian community, which constitutes the largest single group. This aligns with the ward’s overall 93.6% BAME population, reflecting a diverse but socially deprived area. Deprivation in B8 3XA is evident in the high proportion of working-age residents without qualifications and the area’s economic challenges, including above-average unemployment rates. Despite this, the community is described as relatively safe in earlier decades, though current data highlights a medium crime risk. The combination of high population density, limited employment opportunities, and a young median age suggests a dynamic but economically vulnerable area, where affordability may outweigh other quality-of-life factors for residents.
Household Size
Accommodation Type
Tenure
Ethnic Group
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Household Composition
Age
Household Deprivation
NS-SEC
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Go to Demographics tabPlanning
Planning Constraints
- Flood RiskLocked
- Ramsar Wetland SitesLocked
- Area of Outstanding Natural BeautyLocked
- Protected Nature ReserveLocked
- Protected WoodlandLocked
- Crime RiskLocked