Affordable & Income-Based Housing in Tuscaloosa

Affordability

According to Census ACS 5-Year data (as of 2024), the median monthly rent in Tuscaloosa is $1,055 and the median household income is $51,464 annually. With 57% of residents renting, assisted housing options in the city can play an important role in keeping costs manageable.

Safety

According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the Tuscaloosa Police Department reported a violent crime rate of 563 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Crime rates are not directly comparable across cities due to differences in reporting methods and local definitions.

Getting Around Tuscaloosa

According to Walk Score, the area around assisted properties in Tuscaloosa has a Walk Score of 13 (Car-Dependent) and a Bike Score of 35. No Transit Score is available. Most errands will require a car.

Schools

According to NCES Common Core of Data, 27 public schools across 3 districts serve Tuscaloosa, including 15 elementary, 4 middle, 7 high schools, and 1 other. Ratings vary by school and district, so renters should check the assigned schools for a specific address before applying.

Cost of Renting in Tuscaloosa, AL

The median household income in Tuscaloosa is $51,464 per year, according to Census ACS 5-Year estimates. The citywide median rent is $1,055 per month, also per Census ACS 5-Year data.

Affordable and income-based housing in Tuscaloosa spans 12 properties and 1,006 units across HUD-assisted, Section 8, and LIHTC programs. Rents at these properties are restricted based on income limits set by HUD, which can make them significantly lower than market-rate options.

• Median household income: $51,464/year (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Median market rent: $1,055/month (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Share of residents who rent: 57% (Census ACS 5-Year)

Flood and Environmental Exposure

Of the 12 affordable housing properties mapped for flood risk in Tuscaloosa, 1 falls within a high-risk flood zone. The remaining 11 properties are outside high-risk areas.