Cost of Living in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Tuscaloosa County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama
Tuscaloosa balances college-town growth
Tuscaloosa County households earn $63,947—14% below the national median of $74,755—and spend 18.7% of income on rent, slightly above the national comfort zone. This university-anchored county experiences price pressures from the University of Alabama presence and regional growth.
Slightly above state affordability average
Tuscaloosa County's 18.7% rent-to-income ratio edges above Alabama's 18.0% state average, reflecting higher housing costs tied to educational and economic development. Median rents of $997 exceed the state median by $198, the second-highest in this comparison group.
Premium pricing for educational draw
Tuscaloosa's $997 rent ranks higher than rural Tallapoosa ($734) and Talladega ($772) but below affluent Shelby County ($1,348) and St. Clair ($1,077). Owner costs of $1,109 monthly stand highest in this group, reflecting the county's role as a regional economic hub.
Growth brings housing cost pressures
Tuscaloosa renters commit $997 monthly—18.7% of the $63,947 median income—leaving moderate breathing room for other expenses. Homeowners invest $1,109 monthly at a median home value of $233,700, the university's economic influence evident in both rental and purchase markets.
Tuscaloosa works for service workers
Tuscaloosa County suits households earning $60,000–$80,000 who value educational access and urban amenities alongside affordability. If relocating for university employment or service-sector jobs tied to the institution, verify your salary meets the $63,947 median; below $55,000, budget tightly or explore nearby rural alternatives.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Tuscaloosa County
Rent Burden
18.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,492
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.8%
of gross income
The median home in Tuscaloosa County may be a stretch
Median home value is $233,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,866 vs. your max of $1,492.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.