AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Tuscaloosa, AL — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Tuscaloosa neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$1,000/mo
Median Rent
101,113
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
University of Alabama
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Tuscaloosa? What Renters Need to Know

Tuscaloosa is very affordable with a cost of living about 15% below the national average. Median rent is around $1,000/month.

Quick Facts

Population 101,113
Median Rent $1,000/mo
Top Employer University of Alabama
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$1,000 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Tuscaloosa median rent is $500 below the national median of $1,500/mo — an affordable market.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Tuscaloosa is University of Alabama, making the Downtown Tuscaloosa area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Tuscaloosa

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Downtown Tuscaloosa

Score: 84/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 72
Avg Rent $1,100
Schools 6/10
#2

North River

Score: 82/100
Safety A+
Walk Score 22
Avg Rent $1,150
Schools 8/10
#3

Forest Lake

Score: 80/100
Safety A
Walk Score 28
Avg Rent $1,050
Schools 8/10

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#4

Holt

Score: 78/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 25
Avg Rent $950
Schools 7/10
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#5

Skyland

Score: 76/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 42
Avg Rent $1,000
Schools 7/10
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#6

Northport

Score: 75/100
Safety A
Walk Score 30
Avg Rent $1,050
Schools 7/10
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#7

Lake Tuscaloosa

Score: 73/100
Safety A+
Walk Score 12
Avg Rent $1,100
Schools 7/10
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#8

University Blvd

Score: 71/100
Safety B
Walk Score 65
Avg Rent $950
Schools 6/10
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See All 8 Tuscaloosa Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Tuscaloosa Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Tuscaloosa renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Tuscaloosa.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Tuscaloosa properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Tuscaloosa

What is the cost of living in Tuscaloosa?

Tuscaloosa is very affordable with a cost of living about 15% below the national average. Median rent is around $1,000/month.

Is Tuscaloosa just a college town?

While the University of Alabama is the anchor, Tuscaloosa has a growing tech sector, Mercedes-Benz plant, and a revitalized downtown beyond campus life.

What are the best neighborhoods?

North River and Forest Lake are top for families. Downtown is walkable and vibrant on game days. Northport offers small-town charm across the river.

What is there to do?

Alabama Crimson Tide football, Riverwalk, Capitol Park, Mercedes-Benz visitor center, and a lively downtown entertainment scene.

How is the job market?

University of Alabama, DCH Health, Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, and BFGoodrich. The automotive sector is significant.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.