Upside Birmingham

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  • Interior

    A modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a spacious open design.
  • Decor

    A cozy and well-decorated bedroom featuring a plush bed with a tufted headboard, complemented by two lamps on nightstands.
  • Living Room

    A stylish living room featuring a modern blue color scheme with artwork, a plush sofa, patterned rug, and white coffee tables.
  • Building

    Modern apartment complex with a landscaped exterior.
  • Architecture

    Aerial view of a modern rooftop swimming pool surrounded by lounging areas.
  • Bedroom

    A cozy bedroom with a navy blue and white color scheme, featuring a large bed, decorative pillows, and natural light coming through the window.
  • Windows

    A cozy and well-decorated bedroom with a neatly made bed, featuring striped bedding and colorful pillows. The room is brightened by natural light from a large window and complemented by framed artwork above the headboard.
  • Kitchen

    A modern kitchen with gray cabinets and an island counter equipped with bar stools and pendant lighting.
  • Artwork

    A modern living room featuring a stylish sofa, a patterned armchair, and bar stools at the kitchen counter.
  • Outdoor

    Outdoor pool area in a modern apartment complex.
  • Bathroom

    A modern bathroom with a double vanity and glass-enclosed shower.
  • Exterior

    A modern multi-story apartment building with balconies and a stone facade, set against a partly cloudy sky.
  • Outdoor Seating

    A modern rooftop pool with sun loungers and umbrellas overlooks an urban skyline under a cloudy sky.
  • Appliances

    A modern kitchen with a central island and stainless steel appliances.

Upside Birmingham

2173 Highland Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.3 from 100 reviews
5 stars
81
4 stars
2
3 stars
1
2 stars
1
1 stars
15

Active Adult Communities (55+)

Upside Birmingham Costs & Pricing

Upside Birmingham presents a competitive edge in pricing for its offerings compared to both Jefferson County and the broader state of Alabama. For a one-bedroom unit, Upside Birmingham's monthly rate is $2,500, significantly lower than Jefferson County's average of $3,094 and Alabama's state average of $3,417. Likewise, the two-bedroom units at Upside Birmingham are priced at $2,900, also showing considerable savings against Jefferson County's typical cost of $3,079 and Alabama's higher average of $3,788. This positioning not only highlights Upside Birmingham as an attractive option for potential renters but also underscores its commitment to providing affordable living solutions in a competitive market.

Floor plansUpside BirminghamJefferson CountyAlabama
1 Bedroom$2,500$3,094$3,417
2 Bedrooms$2,900$3,079$3,788

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    Overall Review of Upside Birmingham

    Pros

    • pro The office staff are amazing, with Teon consistently greeting residents with a smile.
    • pro The maintenance team, Justin and his colleague, delivers prompt and professional repairs and leaves the area clean and respectful.
    • pro Cortland Vesta is a wonderful place to live, with courteous, helpful staff and immaculate common areas.
    • pro Seth, the leasing agent, is excellent and ensures a seamless, responsive experience from tour to move-in.
    • pro Elena Sanders hosts welcoming tours, answers questions, and helps prospective residents envision their future home.
    • pro The maintenance crew, including Danny, is fast and reliable, keeping apartments in top condition.
    • pro The top-floor community center design makes the building accessible to all residents.
    • pro The views from Cortland Vesta are immaculate, with stunning sunsets and sunrises.

    Cons

    • pro They report being robbed twice in the midrise mail room, due to a complete lack of security cameras.
    • pro There are zero security cameras in the mail room, only a torn note about "suspicious activity."
    • pro The staff are described as rude and unprofessional, with poor responsiveness.
    • pro The property is portrayed as not secure, with a claim that a murder occurred on site in 2023.
    • pro Late-night parties with loud music run rampant and management takes no effective action.
    • pro The condo emergency line allegedly yields zero results, and police say only the condo can intervene.
    • pro Packages have been stolen from the mailroom, despite supposed security cameras.
    • pro Elevators stall consistently, including a non-working parking deck elevator at move-in.
    • pro There are months-long leaks throughout the building with only a five-gallon bucket used as a fix.
    • pro The rooftop fire pit has been out of service for several months.
    • pro Renters are warned not to rent there because money has been stolen and the management is described as horrible.
    • pro There are claims about a March 2024 garage deck collapse, indicating structural issues.

    Review

    The collection of reviews for Cortland Vesta in Birmingham presents a markedly mixed portrait. On one hand, several residents describe it as one of the best apartment experiences they've had, comparing it favorably to other properties they've lived in across the region. They praise the building's aesthetics, the views, and the overall vibe, noting that the property is visually stunning and thoughtfully designed for modern living. They also highlight positive day-to-day perks like on-site food trucks, yoga classes, and a strong sense of community. Tours during the leasing process were described as smooth and informative, with staff who were helpful and engaging, and with model spaces that helped prospective renters imagine themselves living there. The top-floor community center and the general feel of the building are frequently cited as major attractions, especially the sense of accessibility and contemporary design.

    Yet the same set of reviews contains a substantial counterpoint of serious concerns. A recurring thread centers on noise and a lack of security, with comments about late-night parties, loud music, and neighbors who seem not to respect others' need for quiet. Some reviewers even urge prospective tenants to avoid living near certain units (such as around 1706) for fear of wall disturbances. In extreme and alarming language, a few posts claim that violent incidents occurred on the property and that security is not strong enough to protect residents, including a claim that someone was killed in 2023. Separate comments describe experiences of robbery in the mailroom and a perceived lack of timely security communications, noting there are zero or insufficient cameras in key areas and a tendency for the property to "overreact" to smaller issues while not notifying residents about more serious events. These critiques contribute to a sense that safety and notification practices are inconsistent and unreliable, according to some residents.

    Staff interactions form another major axis of satisfaction versus frustration. Several posters sing the praises of specific team members - staff like Teonne (often spelled Tionne in some posts), Elena Sanders, Seth, Crystal, Trina, and Jonathan - describing them as friendly, responsive, professional, and engaged from tour through move-in and beyond. They credit these individuals with easing the moving process, facilitating smooth communications, and maintaining a welcoming atmosphere in the office and common areas. On the flip side, there are complaints about staff rudeness or unprofessionalism, mixed levels of responsiveness, and particular reputational issues tied to certain contacts (for example, an Att concierge named Becky). Inconsistent communication and accountability appear as recurring themes in the negative anecdotes, suggesting that the experience of living at Cortland Vesta can vary significantly depending on which staff members tenants interact with.

    Maintenance and ongoing upkeep are another area with polarized experiences. Some residents report prompt, courteous, and effective service - citing quick responses to requests, successful repairs (such as a dishwasher), and maintenance personnel who leave spaces clean and respect tenants' time and space. Others recount longer-running issues that feel neglected, including leaks for several months, frequent elevator stalls, malfunctioning call boxes, and a parking deck elevator that wasn't working when they moved in. The rooftop fire pit's prolonged outage and other structural or systems-related concerns contribute to a perception that some parts of the building are well-maintained while others lag behind. Overall, the maintenance narrative splits along lines of immediate responsiveness versus ongoing, unresolved problems.

    Amenities, tours, and the overall living experience contribute to the high end of the spectrum in some reviews. The presence of conveniences like on-site events, community-building features, and striking views are repeatedly praised. People speak highly of the design of the top-floor communal space, the modern interiors, and the sense of being part of a vibrant Birmingham community. Tours led by friendly staff members helped many future tenants envision themselves living there, and several residents emphasize how the building's amenities and location make it easy to access downtown, UAB, and surrounding suburbs. However, there are also notes of inconsistency in the internet service, with a specific complaint about an on-site internet setup issue tied to a concierge's miscommunication, which disrupted a student's access at a critical time. A few complaints also reference issues with the pool and water features - with one person noting a heater and salty water (or lack thereof) as a point of contention - illustrating how small service details can color overall satisfaction.

    Beyond routine maintenance and daily living, residents point to several concrete incidents that shape their views on Cortland Vesta. Package theft in the mailroom and a later incident of mailroom vandalism are mentioned, with complaints about the adequacy of security cameras and the effectiveness of the on-site security presence. The broader security conversation is intensified by references to external searches and headlines - urging readers to look up phrases related to FBI raids or structural incidents in Cortland properties - reflecting a fear among some tenants that non-publicized incidents may be affecting safety and trust. Reports of a garage deck collapse and other structural concerns are invoked by some reviewers, further fueling the sense that, for some residents, safety and building integrity may be at risk or not as transparent as they would like.

    Taken together, the reviews offer a portrait of Cortland Vesta as a modern, visually appealing building with a strong community atmosphere, attentive staff in some instances, and appealing amenities that attract residents who value design, views, and on-site events. At the same time, there are persistent and serious concerns about noise, security, communication, long-standing maintenance issues, and reliability of some services. The experience appears highly variable, hinging on individual interactions with specific staff members, the behavior of neighboring tenants, and the status of building systems at any given time. For someone considering Cortland Vesta, the takeaway is clear: the living experience can be excellent and vibrant, but it can also be stressful and frustrating if security, noise control, and timely maintenance are not consistently managed. Prospective renters are encouraged to visit, tour, and speak with current tenants to gauge which realities of life at Cortland Vesta align with their own expectations and tolerance for risk and disruption.

    Features

    Types of Care

    • Active Adult Communities (55+) Active Adult Communities (55+)Active Adult Communities provide seniors with opportunities for socialization, activities, and wellness programs tailored to their needs. These communities offer a sense of belonging and security while promoting an active and independent lifestyle for those aged 55 and older.

    Pets

    • Cats allowed Cats allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
    • Dogs allowed Dogs allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.

    Amenities

    • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
    • Bath tubs Bath tubsBath tubs are important for seniors because they provide a safe and relaxing way to bathe, helping to prevent slips and falls while promoting independence and overall well-being.
    • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
    • Fireplaces FireplacesFireplaces are important for seniors as they provide warmth, comfort, and a cozy atmosphere that can help alleviate the physical discomforts of aging, such as arthritis and poor circulation. Additionally, fireplaces offer a sense of nostalgia and security, making seniors feel more at home and relaxed in their living environment.
    • Full kitchen Full kitchenHaving a full kitchen in a senior living facility is important for seniors because it allows them to maintain their independence and prepare their own meals. This promotes healthy eating habits, saves money on dining out, and provides a sense of familiarity and comfort for residents.
    • Garden view Garden viewGarden views are important for seniors as they provide natural beauty and tranquility, promoting relaxation and overall well-being. Access to green spaces can also encourage outdoor activity and socialization, enhancing physical and mental health.
    • Ground floor units Ground floor unitsGround floor units are important for seniors because they provide easy accessibility, reduced risk of falls and injuries, and convenience for those with mobility issues. Seniors can avoid climbing stairs or using elevators, making daily tasks and activities more manageable and enjoyable.
    • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
    • Private patio, deck, or balcony Private patio, deck, or balconyHaving a private patio, deck, or balcony is crucial for seniors living in a retirement community as it provides them with access to fresh air, natural light, and the outdoors without having to leave their home. This outdoor space can promote physical activity, mental well-being, and socialization opportunities for seniors, contributing to an overall improved quality of life.
    • Wheelchair accessible showers Wheelchair accessible showersWheelchair accessible showers are crucial for seniors as they provide a safe and independent bathing option for those with mobility challenges. These showers help prevent falls and allow seniors to maintain their dignity and autonomy while ensuring they can bathe comfortably.
    • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

    Transportation

    • Birmingham International (5 miles away) Birmingham International (5 miles away)

    Activities

    • Art classes Art classesArt classes are important for seniors because they provide a creative outlet, improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, promote socialization, and enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
    • Cooking classes Cooking classesCooking classes are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, enhance cognitive skills, promote healthy eating habits, and boost confidence in the kitchen.
    • Day trips and outings Day trips and outingsDay trips and outings are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and a break from daily routines. These experiences can enhance overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
    • Educational speakers / life long learning Educational speakers / life long learningEducational speakers and lifelong learning opportunities are crucial for seniors as they provide mental stimulation, promote social engagement, and contribute to overall well-being. Continuous learning helps seniors stay mentally sharp, build new skills, and maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their lives. It also allows them to stay connected to the world around them and fosters a sense of community within senior living facilities.
    • Forever fit Forever fit"Forever fit" programs are crucial for seniors as they promote physical activity, social engagement, and overall well-being. These programs help seniors maintain their independence, improve their strength and flexibility, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. By participating in these activities, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life and live independently for longer.
    • Happy hour Happy hourHappy hour is important for seniors as it provides a social activity that promotes camaraderie and reduces feelings of loneliness or isolation. It also offers an opportunity for older adults to relax, unwind, and enjoy some drinks or snacks in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
    • Karaoke KaraokeKaraoke provides seniors with a fun and social activity that can boost mood, confidence, and cognitive function. It encourages social interaction, physical movement, and creative expression, making it an important form of entertainment for senior living communities.
    • Live dance or theater performances Live dance or theater performancesLive dance or theater performances are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and emotional engagement. These performances can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness, while also offering a sense of connection to the arts and culture. Additionally, watching live performances can bring joy and create lasting memories for seniors in their later years.
    • Live musical performances Live musical performancesLive musical performances can provide seniors with a sense of joy, nostalgia, and connection. Music has the power to evoke emotions and memories, improve mood and cognitive function, and foster social interaction among seniors. It can also serve as a form of therapy and stress relief for older adults, making it an important activity to include in senior living communities.
    • Live well programs Live well programs"Live well programs are essential for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social engagement, and mental stimulation, ultimately promoting overall health and well-being in later years."
    • Stretching classes Stretching classesStretching classes are important for seniors because they help improve flexibility, reduce the risk of injury, and promote overall health and well-being. Regular stretching can also help alleviate joint pain and stiffness, enhance balance and coordination, and increase range of motion.
    • Tai Chi Tai ChiTai Chi is important for seniors because it promotes balance, strength, flexibility, and mental relaxation. It can help prevent falls, improve mobility, and reduce stress and anxiety, making it an excellent form of exercise for older adults to maintain their overall health and well-being.
    • Wine tasting Wine tastingWine tasting can be a fun and social activity for seniors, allowing them to engage their senses, learn about different varieties of wine, and potentially meet new friends. It also offers health benefits such as improved cognitive function and reduced risk of heart disease when consumed in moderation.

    Description

    Upside Birmingham in Birmingham, AL is a vibrant assisted living community that offers residents a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle. With a range of amenities designed to enhance quality of life, residents can enjoy the utmost comfort and convenience.

    The spacious apartments at Upside Birmingham feature modern amenities such as bath tubs, cable or satellite TV, fireplaces, full kitchens, and private patios, decks or balconies. The apartments are thoughtfully designed with beautiful garden views and ground floor units for easy accessibility. Wheelchair accessible showers ensure that all residents can move around with ease. Additionally, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet is available throughout the community, allowing residents to stay connected with loved ones and explore the digital world.

    At Upside Birmingham, there is never a dull moment with an array of activities available to keep residents engaged and entertained. Our community offers cooking classes for those who enjoy exploring their culinary skills. Day trips and outings allow residents to explore the surrounding areas and enjoy new experiences. Educational speakers provide lifelong learning opportunities, while Forever fit programs promote physical wellness. Happy hours provide an opportunity for socializing and connection, while karaoke nights bring out the inner performer in our residents. Live dance or theater performances create a rich cultural experience within the community, accompanied by live musical performances that add joy to everyday life. Residents can also participate in stretch classes and Tai Chi for relaxation and mindfulness. Wine tastings add an element of sophistication to social gatherings.

    Upside Birmingham is conveniently located near various cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals. This enables easy access to everyday needs as well as opportunities for leisure activities or seeking medical care.

    With its wide range of amenities and engaging activities in close proximity to essential services and recreational options nearby, Upside Birmingham offers seniors a delightful assisted living experience in Birmingham, AL

    Nearby Places of Interest

    This part of Birmingham, Alabama offers a convenient and diverse range of amenities suitable for senior living. The area boasts multiple pharmacies, physicians' offices, and hospitals within close proximity, providing easy access to healthcare services. Additionally, there are several dining options including Chick-Fil-A and Ruth's Chris Steak House, as well as cafes like Starbucks and The Essential for leisurely meals and socializing. Nearby parks such as Railroad Park and Avondale Park offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Places of worship like Dawson Family of Faith and Covenant Presbyterian Church cater to spiritual needs, while the AMC DINE-IN Vestavia Hills 1 theater provides entertainment options. Overall, this part of Birmingham combines essential services with recreational offerings to create a well-rounded living environment for seniors.

    Pharmacies

    • CVS Pharmacy (0.1 miles)
    • Birmingham Apothecary (0.5 miles)
    • Walgreens (0.9 miles)
    • Birmingham Nuclear Pharmacy (1.3 miles)
    • Walgreens (1.6 miles)
    • CVS Pharmacy (1.6 miles)
    • Walgreens (2.1 miles)

    Physicians

    • Alabama Ophthalmology Associates PC (0.5 miles)
    • Children's of Alabama - Pediatric ENT Associates (0.5 miles)
    • UAB Center For Aging (0.5 miles)
    • Mark, Victor Dr-Spain Rehabilitation Center (0.6 miles)
    • Pediatric Nephrology Of Alabama, PC (0.7 miles)
    • Maria S. Prelipcean, MD (1.3 miles)
    • Birmingham Gastroenterology Associates (1.5 miles)

    Hospitals

    • Callahan Eye Foundation Hospital (0.5 miles)
    • Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children (0.6 miles)
    • Women & Infants Center (0.6 miles)
    • UAB Hospital (0.7 miles)
    • UAB Spain-Wallace Building (0.7 miles)
    • Ascension St Vincent’s Birmingham (1.2 miles)
    • Baptist Medical Center (2.7 miles)

    Restaurants

    • Chick-Fil-A (0.6 miles)
    • McDonald's (0.6 miles)
    • Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe (0.8 miles)
    • Fish Market Restaurant (0.9 miles)
    • Pies & Pints (1 miles)
    • Ruth's Chris Steak House (1.1 miles)
    • Cayo Coco (1.2 miles)

    Cafes

    • Starbucks (0.9 miles)
    • The Essential (1.2 miles)
    • Revelator Coffee Company (1.3 miles)
    • Continental Bakery (1.4 miles)
    • The Red Cat (1.6 miles)
    • Starbucks (3.8 miles)
    • Starbucks (4.9 miles)

    Parks

    • Railroad Park (0.9 miles)
    • Rotary Trail (1.1 miles)
    • Avondale Park (2.6 miles)
    • Lakeshore Running Trail (3.2 miles)

    Places of Worship

    • Dawson Family of Faith (1.5 miles)
    • All Saints Episcopal Church (1.6 miles)
    • Galilee Baptist Church (2.4 miles)
    • Covenant Presbyterian Church (2.6 miles)
    • Canterbury United Methodist Church (2.9 miles)
    • Levite Jewish Community Center (3.1 miles)
    • United Methodist Center (3.2 miles)

    Theaters

    • AMC DINE-IN Vestavia Hills 1 (3.5 miles)

    Frequently Asked Questions

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