Living in Shirley, B90 offers the perfect balance between suburban family life and excellent connectivity to Birmingham, Solihull and the wider West Midlands. Covering Shirley, Monkspath and Dickens Heath, B90 has become one of Solihull’s most sought-after postcodes thanks to its highly regarded schools, diverse housing stock and strong transport links.
For buyers, B90 provides everything from affordable starter homes to executive detached properties in established residential neighbourhoods. Renters benefit from excellent commuter connections and a growing choice of modern apartments and family homes. Sellers continue to enjoy healthy demand driven by limited housing supply and the area’s excellent reputation. Landlords are attracted by consistent tenant demand from professionals, families and Birmingham commuters.
At Martin & Co Solihull, B90 remains one of the busiest markets we operate in. Whether you’re buying your first home, upsizing, investing or relocating, Shirley continues to offer one of the strongest all-round property markets in Solihull.
What is Shirley really like?
Shirley has evolved significantly over the past two decades. Once considered a quiet suburban town, it has become one of the most desirable residential areas within the Solihull borough.
Despite its growth, Shirley retains a genuine community atmosphere. Tree-lined residential streets sit alongside modern developments, independent cafés, parks and excellent shopping facilities.
The neighbouring villages of Dickens Heath and Monkspath have added further appeal, offering attractive modern housing developments popular with young professionals and families.
One of the biggest advantages of living in B90 is location. Residents enjoy easy access to Solihull town centre, Birmingham City Centre, the M42, Birmingham Airport and the NEC, making it ideal for commuters.
Rents, yields and investment potential
Shirley’s rental market remains strong, driven by demand from professionals, families and commuters working in Birmingham, Solihull, Birmingham Airport, the NEC and Jaguar Land Rover. In 2026, one-bedroom apartments typically rent for £900–£1,050 PCM, while family homes achieve between £1,350 and £2,700 PCM, depending on size and location. Average gross rental yields range from 4.5% to 5.5%, making B90 an attractive choice for buy-to-let investors. Modern apartments in Dickens Heath remain especially popular thanks to steady tenant demand and strong long-term rental prospects.
Transport and getting around
B90 is well connected for commuters, with Shirley, Whitlocks End, Wythall and Solihull railway stations providing services to Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon and London Marylebone via Solihull. The area also benefits from easy access to the M42, M40, A34 and A41, with Birmingham city centre, Birmingham Airport and the NEC all within around 20–25 minutes by car. Regular bus services also connect Shirley with Solihull and Birmingham.
Schools and education
Shirley is particularly popular with families thanks to its excellent choice of schools. Well-regarded local options include Shirley Heath Junior School, Mill Lodge Primary School, Alderbrook School, Tudor Grange Academy Solihull, St Peter’s Catholic School and Light Hall School, while independent schools such as Solihull School are also nearby.
Shopping, cafés and everyday amenities
Parkgate Shopping Centre is the main retail hub, home to major stores including Asda, Aldi, M&S Food, Next, TK Maxx and Boots, alongside cafés and restaurants such as Costa, Starbucks, Nando’s and Wagamama. Residents are also within a short drive of Touchwood Shopping Centre in Solihull.
Green space, leisure and outdoor life
Residents enjoy easy access to Shirley Park, Bills Wood Nature Reserve, Hillfield Park, Monkspath Open Space and Earlswood Lakes. Leisure facilities include David Lloyd Solihull, Tudor Grange Leisure Centre, Shirley Golf Club and Robin Hood Golf Club, providing plenty of opportunities for sport and recreation.
Healthcare
Healthcare is well served by Shirley Medical Centre, Haslucks Green Medical Centre and Solihull Hospital, with additional dental practices and pharmacies located throughout the area.
Who is Shirley ideal for?
Shirley appeals to first-time buyers, growing families, professionals, downsizers and landlords. Its excellent schools, strong transport links, wide range of amenities and reliable rental demand make it one of Solihull’s most desirable places to live and invest.
Future developments
Shirley is set to benefit from major investment across Solihull, including UK Central, Arden Cross, the HS2 Interchange, improvements around Birmingham Airport and the NEC, and the Solihull Town Centre Masterplan, all of which are expected to support future property demand and economic growth.
Frequently asked questions about living in Shirley B90
Is Shirley a good place to live?
Yes. Shirley consistently ranks among the most desirable areas within Solihull thanks to excellent schools, transport links, shopping facilities and family-friendly neighbourhoods.
How much does property cost in B90?
Average property prices during 2026 are around £362,000, although values vary by property type and location.
What are rents like in Shirley?
Typical rents range from £900 PCM for one-bedroom apartments to over £2,500 PCM for larger executive family homes.
Is Shirley good for landlords?
Yes. Strong tenant demand from professionals, families and commuters supports consistent occupancy and rental growth.
Is Shirley suitable for commuters?
Absolutely. Excellent rail connections, easy access to the M42 and proximity to Birmingham Airport make B90 one of the West Midlands’ best-connected suburban locations.
Final thoughts on living in Shirley B90
Shirley offers a combination of quality housing, excellent schools, strong transport links and an established community that continues to attract buyers, renters and investors alike. Its mix of traditional family homes, modern developments and thriving local amenities makes it one of Solihull’s most desirable postcodes.
For buyers, B90 provides long-term lifestyle appeal and resilient property values. Sellers benefit from sustained demand, while landlords enjoy a dependable rental market supported by professional tenants and families. Whether you’re moving within Solihull, investing or relocating to the area, Shirley remains one of the borough’s strongest residential locations.
If you’re looking to buy, sell, let or rent in Shirley B90, the team at Martin & Co Solihull can provide expert local advice backed by extensive knowledge of the area’s property market. With extensive local knowledge and expert advice tailored to the B90 property market, we can guide you through every stage of your property journey. Browse our latest properties, contact our friendly team to discuss your requirements, or book a free, no-obligation valuation to discover what your home could be worth.
