If you’re moving to Birmingham or Solihull with your family, finding the right school is likely high on your list. Areas like Sheldon, Acocks Green and Yardley are popular with parents thanks to their great school options, good transport links and family-sized homes – all within easy reach of Solihull town centre.
But with school places in high demand, finding a rental in the right catchment area can take some planning.
In this guide, we’ll explain how school catchments work and highlight some of the best areas for families looking to rent.
Why school catchments matter
Living in the right catchment area doesn’t guarantee your child a place – but it can improve your chances, especially at high-performing schools where demand is high.
Most local schools prioritise admissions based on:
- Catchment boundaries
- Distance to the school gate
- Sibling links
- Faith-based criteria (for some schools)
That’s why many families choose to rent in the right area a year before applying.
You can check school catchment maps and admissions policies on both Solihull Council and Birmingham City Council websites.
Family-friendly areas to rent near top schools
Whether you’re looking for more space, better schools, or a stronger community feel, these areas around Birmingham and Solihull are all worth exploring:
Sheldon (Birmingham)
- Close to highly rated schools including Lyndon School, Cockshut Hill School and King Edward VI Sheldon Heath Academy
- Quiet residential streets, green spaces and a mix of semi-detached and terrace homes
- Ideal for families needing access to both Birmingham and Solihull
Acocks Green
- In catchment for schools like Ninestiles Academy, Holy Souls Catholic Primary and Archbishop Ilsley Catholic School
- Great train links to Birmingham city centre and Solihull
- A growing area with family homes, shops and community facilities
Yardley and South Yardley
- School options include Oasis Academy Hobmoor, Yardleys School and Waverley School
- Popular with families thanks to its variety of housing, including traditional terraces and newer builds
- Easy access to major roads, retail parks and Birmingham Airport
Shirley (Solihull)
- Affordable family homes and a wide range of schools including Light Hall School and Tudor Grange Academy
- Local parks, supermarkets, and regular buses make this a practical option for busy families
Hillfield and Monkspath
- In catchment for Tudor Grange Academy and St Peter’s Catholic School
- Green spaces, quiet roads and access to Solihull town centre
- Ideal if you’re looking for a more suburban setting
Each of these areas also has good access to primary schools, making them suitable for families with younger children too.
Rental market snapshot
Renting in a school catchment area means thinking ahead. Properties near popular schools often get snapped up quickly, especially in late summer or early autumn.
Here’s what to expect:
- Three-bedroom homes in key catchments typically rent for £1,100–£1,700 pcm
- Demand is highest for homes with off-street parking, gardens and good transport links
- Being near a school or along a direct bus route can add to competition
- Early viewings and quick decisions are often essential
Tips for finding the right rental
- Start early – ideally 12 months before the school application deadline
- Check catchment maps for your chosen schools
- Register with a local letting agent who knows the area and school trends
- Be flexible with location – neighbouring areas may offer better value and similar access
- Use virtual tours if you’re relocating from outside the area
Let Martin & Co Solihull help you move with confidence
At Martin & Co Solihull, we help families find the right rental home in and around Solihull – including popular nearby Birmingham suburbs like Sheldon, Acocks Green and Yardley.
Whether you’re moving locally or relocating from further afield, our team will guide you through your search and help you secure a home that meets your needs – and your school preferences.
Search family homes to rent in Birmingham and Solihull
or
Book a free rental valuation if you’re a landlord with a property near a school catchment area.
