Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ralph, AL
Considering a move to Ralph, AL? This rural community of around 1,500 residents offers affordable living with median home prices at $145,000 and rents averaging $820. Enjoy mild winters, hot summers, and over 62% sunny days each year. The area features a low cost of living, reasonable commute times of 27.5 minutes, and access to reputable schools and healthcare in nearby Tuscaloosa. Crime rates remain moderate, making Ralph a peaceful choice for those seeking quiet country living with city amenities nearby.
Demographics - Ralph, AL
Ralph, AL is a small rural community with about 1,500 residents, a median age of 41, and a population that is predominantly White and Black. The area has a balanced gender ratio and a small percentage of non-English speakers, reflecting a close-knit and diverse environment. The population density is low, offering residents a spacious and relaxed lifestyle.
Population:
1,500
Density:
35 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
67.0%
Black:
31.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
1.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ralph, AL?
Living in Ralph is highly affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values at $145,000. Everyday expenses such as rent, utilities, and groceries are modest, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without high financial pressure. State income taxes remain low, making Ralph an attractive option for budget-conscious families.
Median House Value:
$145,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,240
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.6
Grocery:
94.1
Housing:
65.4
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
87.8
Health Care:
92.3
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Ralph, AL a safe place to live?
Ralph experiences moderate crime rates, with violent crime chances at 1 in 455 and property crime at 1 in 70. The overall crime index suggests that while crime exists, the community remains relatively safe compared to larger urban areas. Residents typically enjoy a peaceful and secure living environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
220
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,430
Crime Index:
1,650
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 455
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Ralph, AL year-round?
The area enjoys mild winters with lows in the mid-30s and warm summers reaching up to 92°F. Residents benefit from around 62% sunny days each year and over 55 inches of annual rainfall, supporting lush greenery and outdoor activities. Seasonal changes are gentle, making the climate comfortable for year-round living.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
52°F
Max:
77°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
55.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Ralph’s households typically earn around $54,100, with a median income of $34,500 and a per capita income of $24,200. Most neighbors are well-educated, with over 87% holding a high school diploma or higher, and the unemployment rate is a low 3.1%. The community features a friendly, working-class atmosphere, with reasonable commute times and a strong sense of local connection.
Median Income:
$34,500
Household Income:
$54,100
Family Income:
$60,800
Per Capita Income:
$24,200
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$31,200
Poverty Rate:
15.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.8%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
27.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.0%
Bachelors or More:
18.4%
Education
How are the schools in Ralph, AL?
Ralph offers access to quality public schools like Sipsey Valley High and Middle Schools, both known for favorable student-teacher ratios and supportive learning environments. Nearby Tuscaloosa hosts private options and higher education at the University of Alabama, just 14 miles away. Families benefit from a range of educational opportunities for children and young adults.
Public Schools
Name:
Sipsey Valley High School
Street:
15815 Romulus Rd
Phone:
205-342-2850
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Name:
Sipsey Valley Middle School
Street:
15815 Romulus Rd
Phone:
205-342-2862
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.0
Private Schools
Name:
Tuscaloosa Academy
Street:
420 Rice Valley Rd N, Tuscaloosa, AL
Phone:
205-758-4462
Students:
620
Colleges
Name:
University of Alabama
City:
Tuscaloosa
State:
AL
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
38,000
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Ralph is supported by nearby facilities like DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, offering comprehensive services and emergency care. The area has a moderate physician availability, and nearly 90% of residents have health insurance coverage. Overall, medical needs are well served within a short drive.
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:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.1%
Health Care Index:
66.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ralph, AL?
Ralph's housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $145,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $820. Most homes are owner-occupied, and vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, reflecting a secure investment for buyers. Home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, making it an appealing market for families and first-time homeowners.
Median Home Price:
$145,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Driver services for Ralph residents are provided by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division, located in Decatur. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other DMV needs both in person and through the official Alabama DMV website. The process is straightforward and supported by state resources.
State:
Alabama
Department:
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division
Address:
1035 6th Ave SE, Decatur, AL 35601
Phone:
1-334-242-4400
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.