What Kind of House Can You Get for $350,000 in Shelby County, AL?

If you’re considering a move to Shelby County, Alabama, and have a budget of $350,000, you’re in the perfect spot. That number lines up almost exactly with the median home price in the county, which means you’re shopping in the widest and most competitive part of the market. Whether you’re dreaming of a family-friendly neighborhood in Alabaster, a new construction home in Chelsea, or a spacious property in Calera, $350K puts you in reach of plenty of move-in ready options.

Let’s dive into what that budget really gets you in Shelby County right now.

📊 Shelby County Real Estate Market Snapshot

• Median listing price: $350K–$367K (your budget is right on target).

• Average days on market: Around 30–40 days, with hot homes selling faster.

• Buyer activity: Competitive—many homes in this price range receive multiple offers.

• Types of homes available: Primarily single-family homes with 3–5 bedrooms, 2–3 bathrooms, and between 1,900–2,700 sq. ft.

👉 Translation: $350K is not bargain-basement—it’s prime territory for buyers who want the most variety in Shelby County real estate.

🏡 What $350K Buys You in Shelby County, AL

🔹 Home Size & Layout

For $350K, expect plenty of space. Most homes fall into this range:

• 3–5 bedrooms and 2–3+ bathrooms.

• 1,900–2,700 square feet, often spread over two levels.

• Open floorplans with living/dining/kitchen flow—perfect for entertaining or family living.

• Options for bonus rooms, lofts, or finished basements.

🔹 Common Features & Upgrades

At this budget, many homes are move-in ready with desirable finishes:

• Kitchens with granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances.

• Hardwood or luxury vinyl plank flooring.

• Spacious master suites with walk-in closets and dual vanities.

• Outdoor perks like covered patios, fenced yards, or decks.

• 2-car garages and good-sized lots.

🔹 Lot Sizes & Outdoor Living

Shelby County is known for its room to breathe. For $350K, you’ll often get a backyard big enough for:

• A playset or trampoline.

• Outdoor entertaining space.

• A pet-friendly fenced yard.

• In some cases, larger lots near Chelsea or Montevallo for more privacy.

📍 Neighborhood Spotlights: Where $350K Buys You the Most

Alabaster, AL

• Median listing price: Around $350K (right in line with your budget).

• Known for: Strong school systems, established neighborhoods, and family-friendly amenities.

• What $350K gets you: A 3–4 bedroom home, often 2,000+ sq. ft., with updated interiors and fenced yards. Great choice for families who want community + convenience.

Calera, AL

• Median listing price: Slightly lower than $350K, giving you more home for your money.

• Known for: Newer subdivisions, larger square footage, and a growing suburban feel.

• What $350K gets you: A 4–5 bedroom home with over 2,400 sq. ft., often newer construction or recently updated. Great for buyers who want space without breaking the bank.

Chelsea, AL

• Median listing price: Just above $350K, but still possible within budget.

• Known for: Rapid growth, new construction neighborhoods, and a more suburban-rural lifestyle.

• What $350K gets you: A new construction home with modern finishes, typically around 2,000 sq. ft. May be slightly smaller than Calera but offers newer style and resale value.

Helena, AL

• Median listing price: Around $360K–$370K, so your $350K budget is close.

• Known for: Charming small-town vibe, great schools, and community events.

• What $350K gets you: A well-maintained 3–4 bedroom home around 2,000–2,300 sq. ft. in a desirable neighborhood. Expect to act fast—Helena homes sell quickly.

🎯 Who Is the $350K Shelby County Market Perfect For?

• First-time homebuyers who want a long-term family home with space to grow.

• Move-up buyers ready for an upgrade in square footage or features.

• Families prioritizing schools and kid-friendly neighborhoods.

• Remote workers who want home offices or flex spaces.

• Investors looking for a strong resale market with consistent demand.

📍 Real Listings Around $350K

Here are some real-life examples of what you might find:

• Calera: 4-bed, 3.5-bath, 2,500 sq. ft. home in a newer subdivision with fenced backyard and open-concept living.

• Alabaster: 3-bed, 2.5-bath home with an updated kitchen, hardwoods, and walk-out patio—walking distance to schools.

• Chelsea: New construction, 3-bed, 2-bath, modern finishes, 2-car garage, and energy-efficient features.

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Is $350K enough to buy a new construction home in Shelby County?
Yes—especially in communities like Chelsea and Calera, where builders are still offering brand-new homes at or just under $350K. In Alabaster and Helena, you may find newer resales but fewer brand-new builds at that price.

Q: What school districts can I get into with a $350K budget?
Great news—$350K gets you into some of the best schools in Alabaster, Helena, and Chelsea, which are among the top-rated districts in Shelby County.

Q: Do homes in this range sell quickly?
Yes. Homes priced at $350K often receive multiple offers and typically sell in 30–40 days or less. Being pre-approved and ready to move fast is key.

Q: What upgrades should I expect in a $350K Shelby County home?
Granite counters, stainless appliances, hardwood or LVP floors, open floorplans, and modern bathrooms are common. Outdoor features like fenced yards and patios are also typical.

Q: Is $350K enough to get a home with a big backyard?
Absolutely—in Calera and Chelsea, you’ll often see larger lots for this price. In Alabaster and Helena, yard sizes may be smaller but still great for pets or kids.

🔑 Final Takeaway

With a budget of $350,000 in Shelby County, AL, you’re shopping right at the county’s median price point. That means you’ll see the widest selection of homes available—whether you want an established neighborhood in Alabaster, a newer home in Chelsea, a family-sized property in Calera, or the charm of Helena.

Expect 3–5 bedrooms, 2–3 bathrooms, around 2,000+ sq. ft., and plenty of features that make a house feel like home—granite countertops, updated flooring, fenced yards, and community amenities.

👉 Ready to start your search? Browse homes for sale in Shelby County, AL or connect with 3 of a Kind Realty Group. As local experts in Alabaster real estate and beyond, we’ll help you find the perfect $350K home that checks all your boxes.