Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Tuscaloosa, AL
Thinking about moving to Tuscaloosa, AL? Home to just over 100,000 people, this lively college city offers affordable living with a median home price of $210,000 and average rents around $1,090. Commutes are quick, averaging under 20 minutes, and residents enjoy a warm climate with 61% sunny days each year. With the University of Alabama at its heart, Tuscaloosa is known for its educational opportunities, spirited community, and Southern hospitality. While crime rates are above national averages, the city’s vibrant culture, accessible amenities, and reasonable costs make it a compelling choice for new residents.
Demographics - Tuscaloosa, AL
Demographics - Tuscaloosa, AL
Tuscaloosa is a diverse city with a population of about 101,000 and a median age of 29, reflecting its youthful, college-town atmosphere. The community is predominantly White and Black, with over 8% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. With a nearly even gender balance and moderate population density, newcomers will find a dynamic and welcoming environment.
Population:
101,129
Density:
1,650 per sq mi
Median Age:
29.1
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
51.2%
Black:
43.5%
Asian:
1.9%
Others:
3.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Tuscaloosa, AL?
Tuscaloosa offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $210,000 and average rent around $1,090. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, and the overall cost of living index is 86.5, making it more budget-friendly than many U.S. cities. State income taxes range from 2% to 5%, helping residents keep more of their earnings.
Median House Value:
$210,000
Gross Rent:
$1,090
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,390
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$490
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.5
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
71.2
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
88.0
Health Care:
98.2
Miscellaneous:
92.1
Crime
Is Tuscaloosa, AL a safe place to live?
The city has higher-than-average crime rates, with a chance of property crime at 1 in 29 and violent crime at 1 in 202. While these figures are above national norms, residents can take precautions and benefit from community safety initiatives. Many neighborhoods remain vibrant and active, contributing to the city’s lively atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
496
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,428
Crime Index:
3,924
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 202
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 29
Weather
What is the weather like in Tuscaloosa, AL year-round?
Tuscaloosa enjoys a mild climate, featuring warm summers with highs reaching 92°F and mild winters averaging 57°F. The city receives about 57.6 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 61% sunny days, making outdoor activities accessible year-round. Each season offers comfortable temperatures, appealing to those who prefer a temperate Southern climate.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
57°F
Spring
Min:
49°F
Max:
77°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
79°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
57.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Residents of Tuscaloosa experience a median household income of $49,700 and a poverty rate of 23.7%. Most adults have completed high school, and nearly 40% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times are short, averaging just under 20 minutes, and the area has a low unemployment rate of 3.2%.
Median Income:
$28,800
Household Income:
$49,700
Family Income:
$61,900
Per Capita Income:
$27,300
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$36,000
Poverty Rate:
23.7%
Non English Speakers:
8.1%
Rent:
$1,090
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
1.8%
Commute Time:
19.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.6%
Bachelors or More:
38.2%
Education
How are the schools in Tuscaloosa, AL?
Tuscaloosa boasts strong educational options, including the renowned University of Alabama and Shelton State Community College. Public and private schools serve local students with favorable student-teacher ratios and a variety of academic programs. The city’s educational resources cater to learners of all ages, contributing to its reputation as a vibrant college community.
Public Schools
Name:
Tuscaloosa Magnet School – Elementary
Street:
315 McFarland Blvd E
Phone:
205-759-3655
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.0
Name:
Paul W. Bryant High School
Street:
6315 Mary Harmon Bryant Dr
Phone:
205-759-3538
Students:
1,020
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Private Schools
Name:
Holy Spirit Catholic School
Street:
619 Airport Rd
Phone:
205-553-5606
Students:
420
Colleges
Name:
The University of Alabama
City:
Tuscaloosa
State:
AL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
38,600
Name:
Shelton State Community College
City:
Tuscaloosa
State:
AL
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
4,400
Healthcare
Healthcare in Tuscaloosa is supported by major facilities like DCH Regional Medical Center and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, both offering emergency services. There are about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents, and health insurance coverage stands at over 90%. The city’s healthcare index of 69.4 reflects accessible and reliable medical care for locals.
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
Name:
Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Address:
3701 Loop Rd E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Phone:
(205) 554-2000
Type:
General & Specialty
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.3%
Health Care Index:
69.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Tuscaloosa, AL?
The housing market in Tuscaloosa is attractive for buyers and renters, with a median home price of $210,000 and a 6.2% home appreciation rate over the past year. About 44% of homes are owner-occupied, and the rental vacancy rate is a manageable 7.5%. Overall, the market offers a range of affordable options for new residents.
Median Home Price:
$210,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,090
Owner Occupied Rate:
44.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Tuscaloosa residents access driver services through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division located on Skyland Blvd E. The DMV provides standard licensing, vehicle registration, and related services, with helpful information available on the state’s official website. This ensures residents can efficiently manage their transportation 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.