Student Housing near University of Alabama – Tuscaloosa

Students looking for University of Alabama student housing can choose from university halls, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), private flats, and shared flats. Room options typically include ensuite rooms, studios, and shared rooms, depending on the property and budget. With rents ranging from $499 to $1,450 per month, students can find options suited to different lifestyles. On-campus housing can offer convenience and proximity to university facilities, while University of Alabama off-campus housing accommodation often provides more choice in location, amenities, room types, and living arrangements.

University Living makes comparison of student housing near University of Alabama a lot easier based on individual preferences. With 10+ years of experience, we've helped 12+ million students, served 640+ cities and gave access to 65,000+ verified properties. The more budget-conscious students will be able to search for shared housing options or less expensive rooms, while those who give preference to privacy will go for studios and ensuite rooms. Additional features may include Wi-Fi, gym, study room, socializing areas, laundry and other facilities, while good location is bound to keep students close to transport routes, university, cafes, restaurants and hangouts popular among students.

University Living offers reliable booking advantages in the form of Verified Properties, No Visa No Pay policy and booking assistance. ULInfinity also provides international students with additional services, such as travel insurance, health insurance, international SIM card and money transfer services upon arrival in the USA. This makes it easier to find and arrange student housing in United States of America regardless of whether one prefers shared housing or a private studio close to campus.

Founded in 1820 and admitting its first class of students in 1831, the University of Alabama (UA) or also referred to as the Capstone or Bama, is one of the leading research universities in America located in Tuscaloosa. The university is recognized as an R1 university with very high research activity. It is ranked at #1001-1200 position in the QS World University Rankings: USA and boasts of an enrolled student strength of over 40,000, with students from 95+ different countries.

UA is also known for its excellent academics and career-oriented programs. Some of its specializations include the School of Law, Capstone College of Nursing, and many other programs in the humanities and social sciences. With the help of strong industry connections and its vibrant alumni network, the university allows its students to establish career connections and build their professional networks. The research and innovation strengths of the university are reflected in the Alabama Research Institutes as well as the many utility patents that the university has generated. Its campuses are:

• The University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa)

• The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)

• The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH)

Rent for student housing in Tuscaloosa around University of Alabama can be anywhere between $499 and $1,450 per month, based on the specific property, room, and the lease term. Students have different choices, from studios, to rooms in shared apartments, and multi-bedroom apartments/townhouses. Some common features are that these student accommodations provide furnishings, private bathrooms, internet access, gym, swimming pools, study rooms, lounges, laundry, parking, and socializing areas outdoors. Some of the most popular choices for student housing near the University of Alabama are:

Lark Tuscaloosa

• Address: 1175 13th St E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404, United States

• Proximity: Around 7–10 minutes by car from the University of Alabama.

• Highlights: Lark offers studio to four-bedroom apartments, private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, garage parking, a 24-hour fitness centre, study lounge, computer café, pool, sundeck, and outdoor lounge spaces.

• Best for: Students looking for modern amenities and roommate-friendly housing.

HERE Tuscaloosa Student Apartments

• Address: 513 Frank Thomas Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

• Proximity: Around 4 minutes by car from the University of Alabama.

• Highlights: Students can choose from private studios and shared multi-bedroom apartments, with furnished units, high-speed Wi-Fi, fitness centre, pool, study rooms, rooftop deck with stadium views, club room, sauna, and bike storage.

• Best for: Students wanting premium amenities and close access to campus.

My House on 13th Tuscaloosa

• Address: 1113 13th St, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

• Proximity: Around 5 minutes by car from the University of Alabama.

• Highlights: The property offers four- and five-bedroom furnished townhomes with private bathrooms, in-unit laundry, Wi-Fi, stainless-steel appliances, a resort-style pool, fitness centre, study areas, free printing, grilling station, and secured bike storage.

• Best for: Students who prefer furnished townhome-style living with roommates.

Redpoint Tuscaloosa

• Address: 1100 Hargrove Rd E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405, USA

• Proximity: Around 6 minutes by car from the University of Alabama.

• Highlights: Redpoint offers two- and three-bedroom student apartments with furnished options, in-unit washer/dryer, high-speed internet, balconies or patios, a fitness room, swimming pool, outdoor lounges, and green spaces.

• Best for: Students seeking spacious accommodation with outdoor amenities.

Note: What if your ideal student home is closer than you think? Discover verified student housing near the University of Alabama with University Living.

The cost of living in Tuscaloosa is around $1,440–$2,330 per month for students, depending on their accommodation and lifestyle. The typical monthly rent amounts to $750-$1,200, whereas food expenses average at $350-$500. Students usually spend $60-$160 on utility bills and $80-$120 on internet and cellular phone service. Transportation costs amount to $50-$100, whereas miscellaneous expenditures reach about $150-$250. Living together in one apartment, using the free transportation offered by the university and proper meal planning could help students control their budget while attending student housing in Alabama.

Note: Students must remember that these figures are just an estimation and for a more accurate calculation, you can use the Cost of Living Calculator by University Living.

The tuition fees at University of Alabama are approximately $36,724 per year for the courses offered by University of Alabama are around $36,724 per year. Students have to make separate budget arrangements for accommodation, meals, travel, books, medical insurance, and other miscellaneous expenses. The total cost may differ based on the course and level of education and other additional fees charged by the university.

There are various student-friendly areas in Tuscaloosa that offer different atmospheres and lifestyles. Regardless of whether you prefer being closer to campus, a livelier area with nightlife, being right next to the river, or living more in a residential area, there are several options available. Four best areas that are located near the University of Alabama include The Strip, Downtown Tuscaloosa, Jack Warner Parkway & Riverfront, and Forest Lake.

1. The Strip

The Strip is the most popular choice for students attending the University of Alabama and is located adjacent to University Boulevard and is one of the closest areas to campus. Students only need about 5 minutes to walk to the University of Alabama. The Strip is popular because of the presence of the Bryant-Denny Stadium and features cafés such as UPerk Coffee and Starbucks, along with nightlife venues such as The Houndstooth and The Red Shed. For students who like to live in an active social environment, The Strip offers lots of activities for after the classes end. There are pubs such as Twelve25 Sports Bar and Egan’s Bar, and the Paul W. Bryant Museum is the primary attraction of this area for football lovers. The Strip Shopping District adds Bama apparel stores, student boutiques, and casual restaurants to the mix. Average rent generally ranges from $850–$1,400+ per bedroom, particularly in high-density student communities.

2. Downtown Tuscaloosa

Downtown Tuscaloosa is another great choice for those students who prefer to live in a more urban environment and have access to various restaurants, entertainment, coffee cafes, and attractions nearby. The location is about 15-20 min walking distance or 3-5 min driving distance from the University of Alabama. Here students will be able to have a taste of Monarch Espresso Bar and Just Love Coffee Cafe and have fun in popular nightlife spots such as Session Cocktails and Alcove International Tavern. Here students can choose among several pubs including Avenue Pub and The Wheelhouse Pub. There are also such famous spots in the area as Tuscaloosa Amphitheater and Capitol Park which gives some insight into Alabama's history. Another attraction is a place like Tuscaloosa River Market where there is a famous farmers market on Saturdays. Average rent is starting at about $1,600+/one bedroom apartment.

3. Jack Warner Parkway & Riverfront

Jack Warner Parkway & Riverfront is a perfect option for students looking for a relatively peaceful setting but not willing to give up entertainment and facilities. It is located about 1.5 miles from the university and the distance will take 5-8 minutes on foot or bicycle, 10 minutes by car. The scenery includes the Black Warrior River, with some opportunities to explore Heritage House Coffee & Tea Riverfront and Another Broken Egg Cafe. For night outings, students can choose The Lookout Rooftop Bar and Crimson Tap House, whereas Decades Pub and Grub and The 205 Bar & Restaurant are great options for more casual visits. The main attractions include Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, where students can walk, run and just relax by the river. Riverfront Village Retail Boardwalk is the additional place for shopping and dining. Average rent costs about $675-$850 per bedroom.

4. Forest Lake

Forest Lake would be perfect for students seeking an environment away from the hustle and bustle of campus that is less active compared to other living locations. This location is 15 to 20 minutes walking distance from the University of Alabama, or about 5 minutes driving distance. The location is surrounded by Forest Lake and consists of bungalows and student apartments. Students can get their breakfast from Babe’s Doughnuts or Dunkin’. There are also locations where students can unwind like Loosa Brews and The Rabbit Hole. On the other hand, students can spend the evening at Urban Bar & Kitchen and Gallettes. For students looking for green spaces for leisure activities and shopping centres, Snow Hinton Park and University Mall respectively serve this purpose. Forest Lake is particularly suitable for students' sharing accommodation with roommates, with average rent around $750–$900 per bedroom.

Transportation within Tuscaloosa is quite easy for students studying at the University of Alabama because there are free campus transports that run both day and night to help students get around the city. The students can access the Crimson Ride Bus System, Tuscaloosa Trolley and 348-RIDE depending on the location to which they want to travel and the time. All these transports help to reduce transport expenses of the students.

1. Crimson Ride Bus System

Crimson Ride Bus System runs free transport within the campus of the University of Alabama without any special requirement to be able to use it. It usually runs from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on days from Monday to Friday with some additional night services. Some of its important stops include Presidential Village Station and Tutwiler Parking Deck.

2. Tuscaloosa Trolley

One of such transit systems is the Tuscaloosa Trolley that runs between the University of Alabama and certain areas of the city and is available to all University of Alabama students for free provided they have a valid student ID (ACT Card). The fixed routes work Monday through Friday between 5:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Some of the interesting places to go via this system include the Tuscaloosa Downtown Intermodal Facility which helps students access downtown areas.

3. 348-RIDE

Another important transportation system is 348-RIDE that represents the special night-time shuttle service of the University of Alabama and is aimed at helping students travel safely after dark for free. It is available 9:00 PM to 3:00 AM on weekday nights and from 11:00 AM to 3:00 AM on weekends.