Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cottondale, AL
Considering a move to Cottondale, AL? This friendly community of about 3,800 residents features a low cost of living, with median home prices at $152,000 and average rents around $970. Enjoy a short 23-minute commute, warm Southern climate with 61% sunny days, and access to local schools and healthcare in nearby Tuscaloosa. While property crime is higher than national average, the area is known for its affordable housing and welcoming atmosphere, making it a budget-friendly choice in the Tuscaloosa metro.
Demographics - Cottondale, AL
Demographics - Cottondale, AL
Cottondale is home to approximately 3,800 residents, with a median age of 36 and a diverse population that is majority White and nearly 39% Black. The community has a balanced gender ratio, moderate population density, and a small percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a welcoming environment for families and newcomers.
Population:
3,800
Density:
750 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.2
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
54.0%
Black:
38.5%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
6.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cottondale, AL?
Living in Cottondale is notably affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average and median home values around $152,000. Residents benefit from reasonable rent prices and low state taxes, making it an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly living in Alabama.
Median House Value:
$152,000
Gross Rent:
$970
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,370
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.5
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
66.0
Utilities:
95.0
Transportation:
91.0
Health Care:
89.0
Miscellaneous:
87.0
Crime
Is Cottondale, AL a safe place to live?
Cottondale experiences higher property crime rates than the national average, with a 1 in 42 chance of property crime and a 1 in 238 chance of violent crime. While crime rates may be a consideration, many residents appreciate the area's community feel and local resources.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
420
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,400
Crime Index:
2,820
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 238
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 42
Weather
What is the weather like in Cottondale, AL year-round?
Cottondale enjoys a warm Southern climate, featuring mild winters with lows around 34°F and hot summers reaching up to 91°F. The area receives about 55 inches of rainfall annually and boasts over 60% sunny days, making it appealing for those who value outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
56°F
Spring
Min:
49°F
Max:
76°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
91°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
55 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Residents of Cottondale have a median household income of $48,200, with a poverty rate near 20% and an unemployment rate at 4%. The majority of adults have at least a high school diploma, and commute times average just under 23 minutes, reflecting a working-class, close-knit community.
Median Income:
$30,600
Household Income:
$48,200
Family Income:
$55,900
Per Capita Income:
$22,700
Income Male:
$31,200
Income Female:
$26,800
Poverty Rate:
19.5%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$970
Unemployment Rate:
4.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
22.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.9%
Bachelors or More:
18.7%
Education
How are the schools in Cottondale, AL?
Cottondale offers access to quality public and private schools, including Cottondale Elementary and nearby Tuscaloosa Academy, as well as proximity to higher education at The University of Alabama just five miles away. Families benefit from manageable student-teacher ratios and diverse educational opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Cottondale Elementary School
Street:
2001 Old Cottondale Rd
Phone:
205-342-2642
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.9
Private Schools
Name:
Tuscaloosa Academy
Street:
420 Rice Valley Rd N, Tuscaloosa, AL
Phone:
205-758-4462
Students:
670
Colleges
Name:
The University of Alabama
City:
Tuscaloosa
State:
AL
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
38,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Cottondale is robust, with major hospitals such as DCH Regional Medical Center nearby and a high rate of health insurance coverage at over 89%. The area offers a good physician-to-population ratio, ensuring residents have reliable medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
DCH Regional Medical Center
Address:
809 University Blvd E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone:
(205) 759-7111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.2%
Health Care Index:
70.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cottondale, AL?
The Cottondale housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $152,000 and average two-bedroom rent at $970. Over half of residents own their homes, and the market has seen steady appreciation, making it a favorable environment for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$152,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$970
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Driver services for Cottondale are conveniently provided by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division in nearby Tuscaloosa, offering easy access to licensing and vehicle registration. Residents can visit the local office or utilize online resources for their DMV needs.
State:
Alabama
Department:
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division
Address:
2645 Skyland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
Phone:
(205) 553-0729
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.