Several parts of the West Midlands have been identified as among the most affluent places in the country, where poverty is nearly non-existent. These upmarket towns and villages offer residents a comfortable lifestyle, free from many of the challenges faced by millions elsewhere.
A recent study examining deprivation rates across England highlighted four areas in the West Midlands where not a single neighbourhood is classified as highly deprived. These include the Staffordshire districts of Lichfield and South Staffordshire, along with Bromsgrove and Stratford upon Avon.
Known for their scenic, leafy environments, these areas often feature property prices exceeding half a million pounds, making them inaccessible to many average families. For those who can afford to live there, these districts provide a peaceful setting with low crime rates while remaining conveniently close to Birmingham.
READ MORE: From DWP Benefits to a £100k Business: How Emily Pomroy-Smith Became a Successful Entrepreneur in One Year
READ MORE: Birmingham Crypto Investor and Girlfriend Convicted Amid Violent Shooting Investigation
Statistically, these towns exhibit the lowest deprivation levels in the region, reflecting high standards of living. Streets lined with large, gated homes and multiple vehicles on driveways are common sights.
This starkly contrasts with Birmingham, where 43% of areas are considered highly deprived, ranking the city as the second most deprived in England. Other Midlands cities such as Nottingham, Stoke-on-Trent, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Leicester, and Coventry also feature among the 50 poorest local authorities nationwide.