By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

A national real estate blog recently touted several Shelby County cities for their safety, community offerings and local eateries while naming the municipalities among the “Best places for young couples.”

The Movoto real estate blog praised Chelsea, Helena, Hoover, Alabaster and Pelham for having “room to spread out, close-knit communities and great local amenities, all just a quick drive away from the action in downtown Birmingham.”

While compiling the list, the website used data from the U.S. Census Bureau, AreaVibes and PlayScore websites, and also looked at percentage of residents aged 22-34, percentage of residents married, median household income, median home value, total crimes per 100,000 residents and high school graduation rates.

Chelsea came in at No. 1 on the list, and praised the city for its playground and other child-centered offerings.

“Home buyers will find everything from modest starter homes to large single-family homes with room for young couples to grow,” read Chelsea’s entry on the list. “Active young couples will love Oak Mountain State Park, which is just a quick drive away, for hiking, horseback riding, fishing and camping getaways on a scenic 9,940 acres.”

Following closely at No. 2 on the list, Helena for its close-knit community, wide variety of home offerings and strong schools.

“Enjoy live local events like summer movie nights at the Helena Amphitheater, or meet your neighbors and enjoy crafts, food and live music at the annual Buck Creek Festival,” read Helena’s entry.

Hoover, which is in Shelby and Jefferson counties, tied for No. 5 on the list, and was touted for its 94 percent high school graduation rate, local eateries and shopping offerings.

“Home buyers will find a large selection of condos and townhouses perfect for newlyweds looking for their first home and large single-family homes with spacious lawns great for expanding families,” read Hoover’s entry. “Local restaurants like Tortugas Pizza and Ragtime Cafe will keep foodies satisfied, while the Riverchase Galleria provides convenient big name shopping and dining to Hoover residents.”

Alabaster, which came in at No. 9 on the list, was highlighted for its annual CityFest celebration, recreation opportunities and children’s offerings.

“Housing options range from modest townhomes to stately single-family homes with covered porches,” read Alabaster’s entry. “Enjoy live music, food and arts and crafts while meeting new neighbors at the annual Alabaster CityFest.”

Pelham came in at No. 10 on the list, and earned praise for its wide range of housing options and its inclusion of Oak Mountain State Park.

“Oak Mountain State Park is the perfect spot for a young couple to plan a weekend camping getaway, or just enjoy hiking, horseback riding, swimming, or golfing during the weekends,” read Pelham’s entry.