Houston, TX vs Tuscaloosa, AL: 88 vs 73

$1,313/mo ↑ 31%

Median Rent

$1,005/mo ↓ 23%

$62,894/yr ↑ 30%

Median Income

$48,536/yr ↓ 23%

$253,400 ↑ 7%

Home Value

$236,600 ↓ 7%

$1,316/mo ↑ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,038/mo ↓ 21%

2,300,419

Population

107,699

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $308/month cheaper in Tuscaloosa, saving renters about $3,696/year.

Median household income is $14,358/year higher in Houston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over Alabama's 5.0% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Houston or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tuscaloosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 73 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Tuscaloosa?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $308/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Tuscaloosa?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $14,358/year higher in Houston.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Alabama?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Tuscaloosa?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/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.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Houston

Tuscaloosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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