The chart above shows Birmingham's ongoing population decline, from being Alabama's largest city to either the 3rd or the 4th largest, depending on whose numbers you are viewing. Our prediction is that before another year passes, we will be the 4th largest city in the state. That not only effects businesses in Birmingham, but it affects our schools and our libraries because the fewer children we have, the fewer schools we will need, and there will be more announcements of school closings.  Short Term Rentals are removing housing from the availability pool and making prices rise for people searching for a home - purchasers and renters alike.