ARTICLE: Birmingham In-Depth

The "Greater Birmingham" area includes eight counties in Central Alabama. Birmingham and Hoover are the two most populated cities in the region, with populations of approximately 230,000 and 70,000, respectively. Visitors to the area should definitely check out Vulcan Park, which is home to the world's largest cast iron statue and offers panoramic views of the city. In 2004, this area of Alabama posted an average personal income of $33,067. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis, the average Greater Birmingham resident earns just about the same as the average American. Average income has grown 7.8% over the past 35 years, just above the national average. The largest employer in Greater Birmingham include: The University of Alabama Bellsouth Telecommunications Baptist Health AmSouth Bank Those looking for work in Birmingham would increase their chances of employment with degrees in education, healthcare, or business. Significant changes in the Birmingham employment picture: Over the last few years, Greater Birmingham has experienced a wave of bank consolidation. The largest consolidation occured when Wachovia, a national consumer bank, bought out the regional South Trust Bank. Greater Birmingham has seen unprecedented growth in the automotive manufacturing category over the last decade. Mercedes, Honda, and Hundai all have growing manufacturing plants in the area. The healthcare industry, anchored by the Baptist Health System, also continues to show strong growth in the region. Sources: Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Quickfacts U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Back to top↑

Accreditation Answers
What is it and why is it important?

- Importance of Accreditation
- US Accreditation
- WWL Quality Assurance

Career Planning

Looking for more career information? Follow these links to career pathways, career planning and education:

- Career Planning
- Career Assessment
- Guide to Majors
- Career Planning Tools

Need More Help?
Explore the links below for more information:

- Learning Library
- Career Pathways
- Education Resources
- Site Help
- Site Map