Cost of Living: Huntsville, AL vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Huntsville

Alabama
78
VS

Tuscaloosa

Alabama
73

Huntsville is 7% more expensive than Tuscaloosa.

$1,078/mo ↑ 7%
Median Rent
$1,005/mo ↓ 7%
$70,778/yr ↑ 46%
Median Income
$48,536/yr ↓ 31%
$263,100 ↑ 11%
Home Value
$236,600 ↓ 10%
$1,046/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,038/mo ≈ Same
218,814
Population
107,699

Tax Comparison

5.0%
Income Tax
5.0%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
0.41%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

18.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Huntsville, AL and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 78 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $73/month cheaper in Tuscaloosa, saving renters about $876/year.

Median household income is $22,242/year higher in Huntsville. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Huntsville is $263,100 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Alabama.

Frequently Asked Questions

Huntsville vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Huntsville or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tuscaloosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 73 compared to 78 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Huntsville and Tuscaloosa?
Median rent in Huntsville is $1,078/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $73/month.
Which city has higher income, Huntsville or Tuscaloosa?
Median household income is $70,778 in Huntsville and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $22,242/year higher in Huntsville.
How do taxes compare between Alabama and Alabama?
Both cities are in Alabama and share the same state tax rates: 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Huntsville or Tuscaloosa?
It depends on your priorities. Huntsville has a cost index of 78 with median rent of $1,078/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.
View Huntsville details → View Tuscaloosa details →

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