Ask any University of Alabama student, and they’ll tell you there’s nothing quite like living in Tuscaloosa. From its rich history to its collegiate energy fueled by Alabama’s very own Crimson Tide, it’s no wonder students come from far and wide to start a new chapter in Tuscaloosa.
If you are a part of Alabama’s student body of over 33,000, you might be considering moving off-campus at some point in your university experience. Whether it’s to escape the dorm life or to have more independence, there are plenty of reasons why you might want to make the off-campus move. However, we understand that securing an off-campus rental can seem daunting. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on how to find off-campus housing near the University of Alabama.
Read below for tips on how to navigate the Tuscaloosa rental market and find quality off-campus housing.
Where Do Most University of Alabama Students Live Off Campus?
If you’re looking to live off-campus in Tuscaloosa, rest assured that you’ll have many options. Whether it be a bustling neighborhood in the heart of the city or a remote area on the campus outskirts, you’re sure to find a spot that supports your student lifestyle.
Here are some of the most popular off-campus neighborhoods for University of Alabama students:
The Strip
Home to some of the city’s most popular bars, restaurants, and shops, The Strip is an entertainment hub for students and locals alike. Amongst its entertainment options, you’ll also find various properties for rent on The Strip, ranging from charming Craftsman homes to elevated lofts. Not to mention, living on The Strip means being just minutes away from Crimson Tide’s Stadium and the scenic Queen City Park.
East Tuscaloosa
East Tuscaloosa is a sprawling neighborhood with a large student presence. Here, you’ll find students tailgating on gameday outside on their lawns or throughout common areas in multi-story apartment buildings like the Lofts at City Center. You can also find students taking scenic strolls along the Black Warrior River or shopping trips to the nearby University Mall. There truly is something for everyone in East Tuscaloosa!
Downtown Tuscaloosa
Downtown Tuscaloosa is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the city. Offering the perfect blend of business and pleasure, this bustling area offers access to various dining and shopping options while also being close to campus. Here, you’ll find student renters in high-rise apartments like The Crescent, updated condo communities like the Metalworks Condos, or single-family homes like 917 35th Ave.
How Much Does Off-Campus Housing Cost in Tuscaloosa?
The average cost of rent in Tuscaloosa is $939 per month, which is 40% lower than the national average. That said, Tuscaloosa is recognized as an affordable city compared to many other U.S. markets.
When renting an apartment in Tuscaloosa, you can expect prices to range based on size and location. For renters looking to live alone, expect to pay around $880 a month for a 470-square-foot studio apartment or $939 a month for a 688-square-foot one-bedroom apartment. For those who want to live with roommates, plan to pay around $1,103 per month for a 1,032-square foot, two-bedroom apartment or $1,441 per month for a 1,248 square foot, three-bedroom apartment. Keep in mind that renting with roommates typically involves splitting monthly costs, which could save you some money in the long run.
Certain neighborhoods may be pricier than others in Tuscaloosa. As a student, you may lean toward more budget-friendly areas like The Strip or West Tuscaloosa. These areas have an average rent of $900 to $1,100 per month for about 550 to 660 square feet. On the other hand, if you’re looking to splurge on an off-campus rental, you might consider living in East Tuscaloosa or Skyland-McFarland. These areas range from about $1,400 to $1,500 a month for 650 to 750 square feet. However, remember that the Tuscaloosa market reaps relatively affordable prices compared to most other U.S. markets. With this in mind, you’ll likely find a reasonably priced off-campus apartment that meets your needs and budget.
It's also important to remember utilities when budgeting for an off-campus rental. On average, you can expect to pay $100 to $200 a month on utilities. Depending on your rental, your monthly utilities might be charged at a flat rate that is automatically included in your rent. However, this will vary from property to property, so make sure to check with your landlord about utility costs before signing a lease. There’s a possibility you could be responsible for setting them up and paying them on your own.
Can You Live Off Campus as a Freshman at the University of Alabama?
The University of Alabama requires that all freshmen live on campus during their first academic year. This is to provide students with a comprehensive educational experience and smooth their transition into university life.
Students can apply for an on-campus living exemption during their first year of enrollment if they meet at least one of the following criteria:
- The student lives with lineal relatives or a legal guardian within 60 miles of the University of Alabama campus.
- The student lives in property owned by a parent in the Tuscaloosa area.
- The student is married and/or has a dependent child in residence.
- The student is a military veteran.
If you meet one of the above criteria, you may apply for exemption through the University of Alabama’s housing department. However, if you don’t have a valid exemption, you can expect to live in a residence hall on campus.
What to Consider When Searching for University of Alabama Student Housing
Student renters in Tuscaloosa should account for their lifestyle when choosing a rental. If you’re an extrovert looking to live in the center of the action, consider living near the city’s various dining, shopping, and entertainment options. However, if you’re a reserved bookworm looking for peace and quiet, urban areas might not be the right place for you.
Whatever your personality or preferences may be, you should consider the following factors when filtering your rental search:
Proximity to Campus and Downtown
Location is critical when it comes to off-campus housing. And for most Alabama students, living near campus and downtown is ideal. Being just steps away from the conveniences of downtown shops, eateries, and more makes it easy to explore the city and plan social gatherings. Not to mention, you’ll also be close to campus, meaning shorter commutes to class and more time to sleep in.
The Strip is ideal for renters looking to live near campus and downtown. Here, you’ll find students living in all kinds of rental properties, from luxury apartments like Union on Frank to cozy, single-family homes like 1616 11th St. When not at home, students can be found hanging out in neighborhood hotspots like the Houndstooth, Rounders, and Buffalo Phil’s.
Walkability
Along with proximity to campus, walkability is another priority among student renters. Whether they’re walking to class or to a football game in Bryant-Denny Stadium, students love when they can reach their destination on foot.
Tuscaloosa has a walk score of 66, meaning some of its neighborhoods are walkable while others are more car-dependent. Areas like The Strip and Downtown Tuscaloosa are known to be the most walkable, while areas like Skyland-McFarland are considered to be more car-dependent since they’re farther from campus.
Public Transportation
Public transportation should be on your radar if you come to campus without a car. This way, you’ll have a reliable way to get around the city and to campus.
The Tuscaloosa Transit Authority, or TTA, is the city’s government-owned bus system. TTA operates the city’s buses, along with the Tuscaloosa Trolley, which takes students around downtown entertainment districts. The University of Alabama also has its own bus service, the Crimson Ride, which travels throughout campus during the academic year.
Lifestyle Fit
Finally, your rental should be a reflection of your lifestyle. This is especially important when it comes to location. As we mentioned earlier, introverted bookworms might prefer to live away from campus in areas like Skyland-McFarland or far East Tuscaloosa. Meanwhile, outgoing extroverts might want to live on The Strip so they never miss a Crimson Tide tailgate or a restaurant outing.
It’s also important to align your property type with your lifestyle. For social butterflies, a student-populated, high-rise apartment with residential common areas might suit you best. This could be a place like Riverfront Village in downtown Tuscaloosa. On the other hand, for those looking for a quieter space to study or relax, a cozy, single-family home might be more ideal, like 2692 22nd St in West Tuscaloosa.
Find Student Housing in Tuscaloosa with Apartments.com
Are you on the hunt for an off-campus rental in Tuscaloosa? Apartments.com has got you covered! Our comprehensive selection of renter resources includes verified listings, neighborhood guides, search filters, and more to customize and speed up your search.
Start by entering "Tuscaloosa, AL" on our website. Use the student filters to narrow your options by selecting "Specialty Housing" and then clicking "Student." Whether you’re looking for rentals with roommate matching, convenient access to campus transportation, study lounges, or a mix of these features, you'll find the perfect place on Apartments.com.
You can also browse quality off-campus housing options on the University of Alabama Off-Campus Housing website. Utilize advanced search filters or sort by distance from campus to discover your ideal off-campus rental. Take advantage of valuable renter resources, and if you're a student, sign up for the Roommate Finder to connect with potential roommates who align with your lifestyle and preferences.
Don't put off your search any longer. Start finding your off-campus rental today with Apartments.com and kick off your next adventure at the University of Alabama. Roll Tide!
FAQs
Where is the best off-campus housing at the University of Alabama?
The best off-campus housing at the University of Alabama will vary depending on individual preferences and needs. Some popular areas for student renters include The Strip, East Tuscaloosa, Downtown Tuscaloosa, and West Tuscaloosa.
Is it cheaper to live on or off campus at the University of Alabama?
Whether it's cheaper to live on or off-campus at the University of Alabama depends on individual circumstances, including lifestyle preferences and housing choices. Generally, off-campus housing can be more affordable, but costs can vary widely based on location and amenities.
What is the average cost of rent in Tuscaloosa, AL?
The average cost of rent in Tuscaloosa, AL is $939 per month. This is 40% lower than the national average, making Tuscaloosa an affordable city compared to other U.S. markets. Rent prices can vary based on size and location, so it's best to research specific neighborhoods for accurate pricing information.
Are there specific living requirements for first-year students at the University of Alabama?
First-year students at the University of Alabama are required to live on campus for their first year unless they meet certain criteria for exemption, such as living with family nearby. This policy helps students integrate into campus life and provides a supportive community.
Are utilities typically included in rent for off-campus housing at the University of Alabama?
Utilities are not always included in the rent for off-campus housing at the University of Alabama. It’s important for students to clarify with landlords what is covered in the rent, as some properties may include utilities while others may not.
