Welcome to Mountain Brook, Alabama
Mountain Brook, Alabama is an affluent suburb located in Jefferson County, just south of Birmingham. Incorporated in 1942, this picturesque city spans 12.8 square miles and is renowned for its exceptional quality of life, top-rated schools, and charming village-style communities. Mountain Brook has consistently ranked as one of the wealthiest cities in the United States, offering residents a blend of suburban tranquility and urban amenities. The history of Mountain Brook dates back to 1929 when Robert Jemison Jr's Mountain Brook Land Co. developed it as an extensive residential subdivision. The city's design, crafted by Boston-based landscape architect Warren H. Manning, featured winding scenic roads, estate-sized lots, and three distinct "villages" - English Village, Mountain Brook Village, and Crestline Village. This thoughtful planning has contributed to Mountain Brook's enduring appeal and character. As of 2023, Mountain Brook's population is estimated at 21,737. The city has experienced overall growth since 2000, with a population increase of 1,143 over the past two decades. The demographic composition of Mountain Brook is predominantly White (96.46%), with small percentages of other racial groups, including Asian (0.8%) and African American (0.43%). It's worth noting that the cost of living in Mountain Brook is higher than the national average, reflecting the premium placed on its desirable location and amenities.
Communities in Mountain Brook, Alabama
Mountain Brook's popular neighborhoods include English Village, Mountain Brook Village, and Crestline Village. English Village offers a quaint, European-inspired atmosphere with boutique shops and restaurants, making it perfect for those who appreciate a charming, walkable community. Mountain Brook Village, the city's main commercial center, provides residents with a mix of upscale shopping and dining options, as well as professional services. Crestline Village is known for its family-friendly environment, with a central park and a variety of local businesses catering to everyday needs.
These neighborhoods host various community events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of belonging among residents. English Village often holds seasonal festivals, while Mountain Brook Village is home to the annual Village2Village run. Crestline Village hosts popular events like the Crestline Rocks music festival, bringing together locals and visitors alike.
Homes in Mountain Brook are generally upscale and well-maintained, reflecting the city's affluent status. Many residences feature traditional architectural styles, with some modern and contemporary designs interspersed throughout the neighborhoods. The housing market in Mountain Brook is competitive, with homes often commanding premium prices due to the city's desirable location and amenities.
Each neighborhood in Mountain Brook has its own shopping centers nearby, catering to residents' needs. English Village features boutique shops and art galleries, while Mountain Brook Village is home to larger retail establishments and professional services. Crestline Village offers a mix of local businesses and convenience stores, ensuring that residents have easy access to daily necessities.
Annual Events in Mountain Brook, Alabama
Mountain Brook hosts several annual events that bring the community together and showcase the city's vibrant culture. One of the most anticipated events is the Village2Village run, typically held in the spring. In 2025, this event is scheduled for Saturday, April 12, starting in Crestline Village and ending in Mountain Brook Village. The run not only promotes fitness but also raises funds for local charities, making it a beloved community tradition.
Another popular event is the Crestline Rocks music festival, which takes place in Crestline Village. In 2025, this event is planned for Saturday, September 20, featuring local and regional musicians performing on outdoor stages throughout the village. The festival attracts music lovers from across the Birmingham metro area and showcases Mountain Brook's commitment to supporting the arts.
The Mountain Brook Art Association's Spring Art Festival is a highlight for art enthusiasts, typically held in mid-April. In 2025, the festival is set for Saturday, April 19, in Crestline Village. This event showcases works from local and regional artists, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to purchase unique pieces and interact with creators.
People love these events because they foster a strong sense of community, celebrate local talent, and provide opportunities for residents to come together in a festive atmosphere. The events also showcase Mountain Brook's beautiful outdoor spaces and vibrant village centers, reinforcing the city's appeal as a desirable place to live and visit.
Shopping, Entertainment, and Food in Mountain Brook, Alabama
Mountain Brook's shopping centers are concentrated in its three villages: English Village, Mountain Brook Village, and Crestline Village. Each offers a unique mix of boutiques, specialty stores, and local businesses. Mountain Brook Village is home to the largest concentration of shops, including high-end clothing boutiques, home decor stores, and gourmet food markets.
Among the most liked shops in Mountain Brook Village are Bromberg's, a long-standing jewelry store known for its exquisite selection, and Leaf & Petal, a beloved garden and gift shop. In English Village, shoppers flock to Henhouse Antiques for unique home furnishings and decor. Crestline Village's popular stores include Snoozy's Kids, a charming toy and children's clothing boutique.
Entertainment options in Mountain Brook include outdoor recreation at the city's numerous parks and nature preserves. The Birmingham Zoo and Birmingham Botanical Gardens, located just outside Mountain Brook's borders, offer additional attractions for residents and visitors. For movie enthusiasts, the Brookwood Village cinema provides the latest blockbusters in a comfortable setting.
Arts and culture thrive in Mountain Brook, with the Mountain Brook Art Association playing a central role in promoting local artists. The association hosts regular exhibitions and workshops, fostering a vibrant creative community. The annual Spring Art Festival, held in Crestline Village, is a highlight of the city's cultural calendar, showcasing works from talented artists across the region.
Mountain Brook boasts a diverse array of popular local restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets. In Mountain Brook Village, Chez Fonfon offers exquisite French cuisine in an upscale setting, with entrees ranging from $25 to $40. One review states: "The atmosphere transports you to Paris, and their steak frites are simply divine!" For a more casual dining experience, Crestline Village's Taco Mama serves up delicious Tex-Mex fare at affordable prices ($10-$15 per person). A local resident reviews: "Taco Mama's street tacos and margaritas are unbeatable - it's our go-to spot for a fun night out!" In English Village, Davenport's Pizza Palace has been a community favorite for decades, offering classic pizzas and Italian dishes at moderate prices ($15-$25 per person). A long-time customer shares: "Davenport's has been our family's Friday night tradition for years - their thin-crust pizza is the best in town!"
Schools in Mountain Brook, Alabama
Mountain Brook City Schools is the public school district serving the city, comprising four elementary schools (Brookwood Forest, Cherokee Bend, Crestline, and Mountain Brook Elementary), Mountain Brook Junior High, and Mountain Brook High School. These schools are renowned for their academic excellence and comprehensive extracurricular programs.
The school district has achieved numerous accomplishments, including consistently high test scores and graduation rates. Mountain Brook High School regularly sends a high percentage of its graduates to top-tier universities across the country. The district's commitment to innovation is evident in its implementation of advanced technology in classrooms and its focus on developing 21st-century skills among students.
Mountain Brook City Schools consistently ranks among the top school systems in Alabama. In recent years, it has been recognized as the #1 school district in the state by various educational ranking organizations. This elite ranking reflects the district's commitment to academic excellence, well-rounded education, and student success, making it a significant draw for families considering a move to Mountain Brook.