Moving to Tuscaloosa AL in 2023? Complete Moving Guide

This is a complete guide for Moving to Tuscaloosa, AL.
Get all the information you need to know about moving to Tuscaloosa, AL.

Moving to Tuscaloosa Alabama is always a great idea.

Tuscaloosa is a city of millennials with great weather and lots of amazing things to do outdoors. If you’d like to live in a city with a low cost of living, shorter commuting time, and a good job market, moving to Tuscaloosa can be a great idea.

If you’re considering moving to Tuscaloosa AL and wondering if the city is proper for you, this guide contains all you need to know to make the right moving decision.

Read on to discover if moving to Tuscaloosa Alabama is right for you.

facts of Tuscaloosa

Quick facts to know before moving to Tuscaloosa AL

  • The median age in Tuscaloosa is 29.5 years
  • Tuscaloosa’s cost of living is lower than the U.S. average
  • Tuscaloosa’s average one-way commute time takes 19.5 minutes
  • Tuscaloosa’s summer high in July is around 92 degrees
  • On average, Tuscaloosa gets 0 inches of snow per year
  • Tuscaloosa Alabama averages 214 sunny days per year
  • Tuscaloosa’s median home cost is $192,400

What’s the population of Tuscaloosa Alabama?

Tuscaloosa’s population is 102,339 people. The capital city stretches across 72 miles making it the 5th largest city in Tuscaloosa Alabama. Tuscaloosa is nestled in Tuscaloosa County Alabama and the city is the county seat of Tuscaloosa County.

  • Tuscaloosa AL has a population density of 1,655 people per square mile
  • The median age in Tuscaloosa is 29.5 years
  • 29.5 years is the median age for males and 27.9 years for females
  • Tuscaloosa is currently growing at a rate of 0.9% annually
  • Tuscaloosa population has grown by 2.75% since the last census

How fast can you commute in Tuscaloosa Alabama?

Tuscaloosa’s average one-way commute time takes 19.5 minutes. That’s shorter than the U.S. average of 26.4 minutes. You’ll spend less than 30 minutes commuting to work if you move to Tuscaloosa Alabama. Less time on the road means less stress and having more time for other things.

Here’s how people in Tuscaloosa Alabama get to work:

  • About 82.7% of Tuscaloosa residents drive their own car alone
  • Around 8.8% of Tuscaloosa residents carpool with others
  • Up to 3.8% of Tuscaloosa residents work from home
  • About 0.7% of Tuscaloosa residents take the mass transit

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How is the weather like in Tuscaloosa AL?

Tuscaloosa Alabama averages 214 sunny days per year. The United States average is 205 sunny days. If the weather is one of the key things you’d like to consider before moving to Tuscaloosa, the following is a quick snapshot of the city’s weather:

  • Tuscaloosa’s summer high in July is around 92 degrees
  • Tuscaloosa gets 53 inches of rain on average per year. The U.S. average is 38 inches
  • On average, Tuscaloosa gets 0 inches of snow per year. U.S. average is 28 inches
  • Tuscaloosa’s winter low in January is 34 degrees
  • Tuscaloosa gets 107 days of precipitation every year
moving to Tuscaloosa

Top 10 reasons to move to Tuscaloosa Alabama

People are moving to Tuscaloosa Alabama for many reasons. As one of the largest cities in Alabama, Tuscaloosa is constantly attracting people from all over the state and beyond.

Since you’re considering moving to Tuscaloosa AL, the following are the key reasons people are moving to the city:

  • Tuscaloosa has a great weather
  • Tuscaloosans are always there to lend a helping hand
  • Tuscaloosa has a strong and diverse economy
  • Southern hospitality is the real deal
  • You’ll enjoy lots of outdoor activities
  • Tuscaloosa’s cost of living is lower than the U.S. average
  • Tuscaloosa’s commuting time is shorter than the U.S. average
  • Rich Diversity of Population
  • Tuscaloosa Riverwalk
  • Tuscaloosa is home to the University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa pros and cons

Pros & cons of moving to Tuscaloosa Alabama

If you’d like to find out if moving to Tuscaloosa Alabama is right for you or not, we’ve made a list of the pros and cons of living in the city.

This can make it easier for you to figure out if moving to Tuscaloosa is the right choice:

Pros of living in Tuscaloosa, AL Cons of living in Tuscaloosa, AL
Tuscaloosa’s cost of living is lower than the US averageThe football culture can seem overwhelming and incessant
Tuscaloosa has a sturdy, diverse, and growing economySummers are often hot and humid. You’ll need an air-conditioning unit
Good public schools with above-average ratingsHigher than average sales tax rate
Tuscaloosa’s nightlife is truly amazingYou’ll have to put up with a higher number of windy days
You’ll enjoy warm Southern hospitalityTuscaloosa is at high risk of severe storms
Tuscaloosa is an amazing college townNeighborhoods around Tuscaloosa can seem rowdy from September through late May
Low property taxOutside of Downtown, you’ll need a car to get around
Home to museums, performing arts, and crimson tideTraffic congestion especially during Crimson Tide games
place to live Tuscaloosa

Best places to live in Tuscaloosa Alabama

Tuscaloosa Alabama is home to several beautiful livable neighborhoods. Moving to Tuscaloosa gives you the perfect chance to live in any of these neighborhoods.

If you’re moving to Tuscaloosa and wondering what neighborhood the best for you is, the following is a list of the ten best neighborhoods in Tuscaloosa Alabama:

  • 1. Community Park
  • 2. Rice Mine Rd NE / Crown Pointe Blvd
  • 3. Munny Sokol Park
  • 4. Buena Vista
  • 5. University
  • 6. 5th St / McFarland Blvd N
  • 7. The Strip / Druid City
  • 8. Stokes
  • 9. Englewood
  • 10. 27th St / Harrison St.

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cost of living in Tuscaloosa

Cost of living in Tuscaloosa Alabama

Affordable living in a big city is one of the key perks of moving to Tuscaloosa AL. The cost of living in Tuscaloosa AL is 87.5. The United States average is 100.

Tuscaloosa AL average cost of living is below the national average. The following are the key components that make up Tuscaloosa AL cost of living:

Living Expense Tuscaloosa Alabama National Average
Overall87.584.1100
Grocery95.694.4100
Health114.7118.9100
Housing63.156.6100
Median Home Cost$192,400$214,000$338,100
Utilities101.3101.2100
Transportation78.885.9100
Miscellaneous89.771100

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Tuscaloosa’s housing market

If you’re interested in buying a home after moving to Tuscaloosa, we have the key information you need to know about the city’s housing market. This will make it easier for you to make up your mind about buying a home or not if you’re moving to Tuscaloosa Alabama:

  • Tuscaloosa’s median home cost is $192,400
  • Over the last ten years, home values in Tuscaloosa have risen by 54.1%
  • Currently, Tuscaloosa’s home values have appreciated by 10.8%
  • Around 35.9% of Tuscaloosa’s residents are renters
  • Up to 2.4% of homes and apartments in Tuscaloosa are open to rent

What’s the average home rental price in Tuscaloosa Alabama?

Tuscaloosa’s rental market is known for its affordable homes. If you’re considering renting a home or an apartment after moving to Tuscaloosa Alabama, look at the average rental prices below:

  • Tuscaloosa’s average rent for a studio apartment is $830
  • Tuscaloosa’s average rent for a 1-bedroom home or apartment is $840
  • Tuscaloosa’s average rent for a 2-bedroom home or apartment is $1,030
  • Tuscaloosa average rent for a 3-bedroom home or apartment is $1,300
  • The average rent for a 4-bedroom home or apartment is 1,390
jobs in Warwick

What’s the job market like in Tuscaloosa Alabama?

How fast can you get a job if you need one in Tuscaloosa Alabama? The COVID-19 pandemic has affected several job markets across the United States and Tuscaloosa AL wasn’t left out.

Since you’re considering moving to Tuscaloosa AL, here’s a breakdown of the city’s job market:

  • Tuscaloosa’s unemployment rate is 4.4%. The U.S. average is 6.0%
  • Tuscaloosa’s job growth has been positive so far
  • Over the past year, Tuscaloosa’s jobs have grown by 1.9%
  • Tuscaloosa’s future job growth is predicted to hit 31.18%
  • Getting a job in Tuscaloosa is easier compared to other similar sized cities in the state

Here is a breakdown table to better understand the Tuscaloosa job market

Employment Information Tuscaloosa, Alabama United States
The income per Cap$24,280$31,177
Household Income$42,428$57,652
Unemployment Rate4.46.0%
Recent Job Growth-6.49%-6.18%
Future Job Growth31.18%33.51%

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What are the top career options in Tuscaloosa Alabama?

You’ll find lots of jobs to choose from if you’re moving to Tuscaloosa Alabama. Which ones should you opt for? You may be interested in some of the city’s highest-paying jobs. The following is the list of the highest-paying jobs in Tuscaloosa Alabama:

Rank Job Title Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Pay
1Oncologist$302,312$25,192$5,813$145.34
2Diagnostic Radiologist$299,548$24,962$5,760$144.01
3Gastroenterologist$291,332$24,277$5,602$140.06
4Emergency Medicine Physician$288,090$24,007$5,540$138.51
5General Surgeon$285,354$23,779$5,487$137.19
6Otolaryngologist$280,102$23,341$5,386$134.66
7Cardiac Anesthesiologist$278,074$23,172$5,347$133.69
8Intensivist$271,032$22,586$5,212$130.30
9Medical Oncologist$268,924$22,410$5,171$129.29
10Neurologist Physician$266,201$22,183$5,119$127.98

What is a good salary in Tuscaloosa Alabama?

Moving to Tuscaloosa Alabama could mean getting a new job. But how many bucks can you earn in the city? Will you be earning more money or less compared to where you are right now? Let’s find out:

  • Tuscaloosa Alabama’s average annual pay for average jobs is $45,374
  • Tuscaloosa Alabama’s average hourly pay is $21.81 per hour
  • Tuscaloosa Alabama’s average weekly pay is $872 per week
  • Tuscaloosa Alabama’s average monthly payment is $3,781 per month
  • Alabama’s minimum wage is $7.25 per hour

Major industries in Tuscaloosa Alabama

Like several other large cities, Tuscaloosa’s economy is powered by several industries. The best part is that whether you work in a small or large industry, you’ll most likely find a suitable spot for your job in Tuscaloosa Alabama. The following is a list of the city’s largest industries since you’re considering moving to Tuscaloosa Alabama:

  • Healthcare and Social Assistance
  • Retail Trade
  • Administration, Business Support and Waste Management Services
  • Accommodation and Food Services
  • Professional, Scientific and Technical Services
  • Information
  • Educational Services
  • Construction
  • Other Services (except Public Administration)
  • Transportation and Warehousing
taxes in rhode island

Alabama taxes

If you’re moving to Tuscaloosa from out of state, you may have to get familiar with Alabama’s taxes.

The following are the key components that make up the city’s taxes. This will give you an idea of what to expect if you’re moving to Tuscaloosa Alabama.

Depending on where you’re moving from, you may end up paying higher or lower taxes by moving to Alabama. To give you an idea of what to expect, here’s a breakdown of the key taxes in Alabama:

  • Alabama state income tax is 2% - 5%
  • Local income tax is 0% - 2%
  • Alabama sales tax is 5% - 11.50%
  • Property tax in Alabama is 0.40 average effective rate
  • Alabama gas tax is 24 cents per gallon of regular gasoline
  • Gas tax per gallon of diesel is also 25 cents
Tuscaloosa to do

Best things to do in Tuscaloosa Alabama

There are lots of exciting things you can do in Tuscaloosa Alabama. The city is home to several attractions, and you’ll find lots of amazing things to do in Tuscaloosa Alabama.

If you’re moving to Tuscaloosa Alabama, we’ve made a list of the various things you can do and places to visit and explore. Check out the list below:

  • Watch Some College Football At Bryant-Denny Stadium
  • Check Out The Legend At The Paul W. Bryant Museum
  • Listen To A Band At The Tuscaloosa Amphitheater
  • Relive History At Capitol Park
  • Take The Children To The Children’s Hands-On Museum
  • Take A Mercedes Benz Factory Tour
  • Marvel At The Jemison-Van de Graaf Mansion
  • Tuscaloosa Federal Building And U.S. Courthouse
  • Go For A Shop At The Farmers Market
  • Step Back In Time At The Old Tavern Museum
  • The Alabama Museum Of Natural History
  • Visit The Grand Battle-Friedman House
  • Time To Fish At Lake Tuscaloosa
  • Time For Smoked Ribs At Archibald’s Bar B.Q.

What is the crime rate in Tuscaloosa Alabama?

Is Tuscaloosa Alabama a safe city for you and your loved ones? Like several other large cities in the United States, Tuscaloosa Alabama has its fair share of crime problems. The following are key stats about the city’s crime rates since you’re considering moving to Tuscaloosa, AL:

  • The violent crime rate in Tuscaloosa is 29.9. The national average is 22.7
  • The property crime rate in Trenton is 59.7. The national average is 35.4
  • Residents have a 1 in 183 chance of being the victim o f a violent crime
  • Residents have a 1 in 26 chance of being the victim of a property crime

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schools in Tuscaloosa

Best Schools & Universities in Tuscaloosa Alabam

Tuscaloosa is home to several top-quality schools in Alabama. If you’re moving to Tuscaloosa, you’ll have easier access to several excellent schools from universities and colleges to elementary, middle, and high schools.

The following is a list of the best schools in the city if you’re moving to Tuscaloosa AL:

Top 5 Public Elementary Schools in Tuscaloosa, AL

  • Tuscaloosa Magnet School - Elementary
    Public, K-5 | 282 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Verner Elementary School
    Public, PK-5 | 528 students, Rating: 7/10

  • The Alberta School of Performing Arts
    Public, PK-8 | 680 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Woodland Forrest Elementary School
    Public, PK-5 | 517 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Englewood Elementary School
    Public, 3-5 | 560 students, Rating: 7/10

Top 5 Public Middle Schools in Tuscaloosa, AL

  • Tuscaloosa Magnet School - Middle
    Public, 6-8 | 173 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Northridge Middle School
    Public, 6-8 | 809 students, Rating: 7/10

  • The Alberta School of Performing Arts
    Public, PK-8 | 680 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Hillcrest Middle School
    Public, 6-8 | 519 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Westlawn Middle School
    Public, 6-8 | 496 students, Rating: 7/10

Top 4 Public High Schools in Tuscaloosa, AL

  • Northridge High School
    Public, 9-12 | 1,050 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Hillcrest High School
    Public, 9-12 | 1,362 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Holt High School
    Public, 9-12 | 399 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Central High School
    Public, 9-12 | 727 students, Rating: 7/10

Top colleges and universities in Tuscaloosa, AL

  • The University of Alabama

  • Stillman College

  • Shelton State Community College

  • University of Montevallo

  • University Medical Center Tuscaloosa

  • Lakeside Residence Hall

  • Marriott Dining Services Stillman College

  • University of Alabama

  • The University of Alabama at Birmingham – UAB

  • New Covenant Church and NV School of Ministry

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Tuscaloosa Alabama a good place to live?

Tuscaloosa provides residents with a dense suburban atmosphere, and most residents rent their homes. There are numerous bars and playgrounds in Tuscaloosa. Tuscaloosa has many young workers and a liberal population. Tuscaloosa's public institutions are above average.

Is Tuscaloosa expensive to live in?

Tuscaloosa's housing costs are 24% lower than the national rate, while utility costs are 7% higher. The cost of transportation, such as bus fares and gas costs, is 5% higher than the national average. Grocery prices in Tuscaloosa are 4% higher than the national norm.

Is Tuscaloosa a nice town?

Tuscaloosa was awarded "The Most Liveable City in America" by the United States Conference of Mayors in 2011. Tuscaloosa has approximately two residents for every one student, which makes for a pleasant ratio; it isn't a ghost town during the summer and other times when the university is closed, but it also isn't a madhouse when school is in session.

What is the crime rate in Tuscaloosa Alabama?

Tuscaloosa has one of the highest crime rates in America, with a crime rate of 44 per thousand people, when compared to all communities of all sizes, from the smallest towns to the very biggest cities. One in every 23 people here is a victim of either violent or property theft.

Does Tuscaloosa get cold?

From November 29 to February 23, the cool season lasts 2.8 months, with an average daily maximum temperature of less than 62°F. Tuscaloosa's coolest month is January, with an average low of 36°F and a high of 56°F

What is Tuscaloosa known for?

Tuscaloosa was once known as "The Oak City" and "The Druid City" (after an old Celtic people who worshiped oaks) because its downtown streets were lined with massive water oak trees. Tuscaloosa is now the center of West Alabama industry and trade, anchored by the sprawling Mercedes-Benz plant.

What is special about Tuscaloosa?

The institution of Alabama, the state's largest public institution and home of the Alabama Crimson Tide, is in Tuscaloosa. Visit Bryant-Denny Stadium for a football game, explore the beautiful campus, or meet some of our students!

What is the safest part of Tuscaloosa?

North Tuscaloosa neighborhoods are regarded to be more dangerous than other parts of the city. If you do not take the necessary precautions, you may be up to one in ten times more likely to become a victim of a crime in some of these places. The east side of Tuscaloosa is widely regarded as the friendliest.

Does Tuscaloosa have an airport?

Tuscaloosa National Airport (TCL) has played an important part in Tuscaloosa's history. The airport, which was purchased by the City of Tuscaloosa at the close of WWII, is still an important part of the city's growth. The 826-acre airfield is home to 110 aircraft housed in 62 hangars.

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