Cost of Living: Akron, OH vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Akron

Ohio
55
VS

Tuscaloosa

Alabama
73

Akron is 18% cheaper than Tuscaloosa.

$930/mo ↓ 7%
Median Rent
$1,005/mo ↑ 8%
$48,544/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$48,536/yr ≈ Same
$111,200 ↓ 53%
Home Value
$236,600 ↑ 113%
$904/mo ↓ 13%
Owner Costs
$1,038/mo ↑ 15%
189,526
Population
107,699

Tax Comparison

3.5%
Income Tax
5.0%
5.75%
Sales Tax
4.0%
1.53%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

23.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Akron, OH and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 55 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $75/month cheaper in Akron, saving renters about $900/year.

Median household income is $8/year higher in Akron. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Akron is $111,200 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Akron slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Akron vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Akron or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 73 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Akron and Tuscaloosa?
Median rent in Akron is $930/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $75/month.
Which city has higher income, Akron or Tuscaloosa?
Median household income is $48,544 in Akron and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $8/year higher in Akron.
How do taxes compare between Ohio and Alabama?
Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Akron or Tuscaloosa?
It depends on your priorities. Akron has a cost index of 55 with median rent of $930/mo, while Tuscaloosa has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,005/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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