In 1962, Birmingham, Alabama became the first city in the Western Hemisphere to do what?

The latest data from the U.S.

Census Bureau shows that Jefferson County's population grew in 2024, largely due to international migration.

The Birmingham metro area also experienced an influx of residents, with over half of the new residents being international immigrants.

While the Birmingham metro area has seen growth, the Huntsville metro area has experienced more significant growth since 2020.

Negative natural change, where deaths outnumber births, has been a challenge for most counties in Alabama, with international migration offsetting population losses in various areas.

Overall, the report emphasizes the importance of focusing on improving quality of life and addressing underlying conditions to stimulate growth effectively.

UAB Hospital has secured its position as Alabama’s top healthcare provider, leading both the state and Birmingham metro in the 2025-2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings.

 

This recognition highlights UAB’s steadfast dedication to exceptional patient care and medical advancement.

 

CEO Dawn Bulgarella praised the hospital’s team for their expertise and commitment, with UAB earning national honors in specialties like Rheumatology, ENT, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Neurology, and Geriatrics.

 

Seven other specialties are rated high-performing, and UAB ranks highly in 19 key procedures, underscoring comprehensive excellence.

 

UAB St. Vincent’s Birmingham remains a regional leader, now No. 4 in Alabama.

 

Recent acquisitions in the state, including Orlando Health’s stake in Baptist Health System and UAB’s purchase of Ascension St. Vincent’s, signal ongoing transformation.

 

Despite hospital closures elsewhere, UAB’s growth — highlighted by new research centers opening in 2025 — keeps Alabama’s healthcare future bright.

No trip through Inverness is complete without a stop at the award-winning Metro Diner, where comfort food is taken to a whole new level.

Regularly ranked among the Top Ten Best Restaurants in the area and named to B-Metro Magazine’s Best of the City list, Metro Diner has become a local favorite.

Signature dishes like Fried Chicken & Waffles and the famous Iron City Meatloaf — featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives — keep guests coming back for more.

Conveniently located in Inverness Plaza near The Summit Shopping Center and Lee Branch theater, Metro Diner is the perfect spot to fuel up before shopping, a movie, or a trip to nearby Birmingham attractions.

With warm hospitality and a welcoming team that treats everyone like family, it’s no wonder Metro Diner has earned its place as a community staple.

Speedway has launched a new 24/7 travel center at 1617 Finley Boulevard, bringing affordable fueling options and expanded amenities to Birmingham.

 

As of September 25, regular unleaded gas at Speedway was just $2.49 per gallon, noticeably lower than nearby competitors and attracting both locals and visitors.

 

The store features fresh fruit, pizzas, breakfast sandwiches, a variety of coffees, and a popular beer cave.

 

Daily baked pastries and cookies are also available, adding to the center’s appeal.

 

A grand opening event is set for October 3, offering special promotions and inviting community participation.

 

Statewide, Alabama gas prices have dropped, with the average now at $2.82 per gallon—marking the lowest levels since 2020.

 

This trend makes holiday travel more affordable for Birmingham drivers and out-of-town travelers alike.

Q&A Questions

Q: What are some popular tourist attractions in the Birmingham metro area?

A: - The Birmingham Zoo, Vulcan Park and Museum, and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute are popular tourist attractions in the area.

Q: What is the cost of living like in Birmingham compared to other cities in the metro area?

A: - The cost of living in Birmingham is generally lower than in other cities in the metro area, making it an affordable place to live.

Q: What are some notable industries and employers in the Birmingham metro area?

A: - Birmingham is known for its healthcare, banking, and manufacturing industries, with notable employers including UAB Medicine, Regions Financial Corporation, and Mercedes-Benz U.S. International.

Birmingham, Alabama became the first city in the Western Hemisphere to use 911 as the emergency telephone number.