Montgomery, AL vs Tuscaloosa, AL: 64 vs 73

$1,059/mo ↑ 5%

Median Rent

$1,005/mo ↓ 5%

$55,687/yr ↑ 15%

Median Income

$48,536/yr ↓ 13%

$148,500 ↓ 37%

Home Value

$236,600 ↑ 59%

$1,023/mo ↓ 1%

Owner Costs

$1,038/mo ↑ 1%

198,440

Population

107,699

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $54/month cheaper in Tuscaloosa, saving renters about $648/year.

Median household income is $7,151/year higher in Montgomery. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Montgomery or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 73 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Tuscaloosa?

Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $54/month.

Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Tuscaloosa?

Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $7,151/year higher in Montgomery.

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 Montgomery or Tuscaloosa?

It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/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: Montgomery, AL vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Montgomery

Tuscaloosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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