Cost of Living in Tuscaloosa, AL

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Tuscaloosa? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $10,551 per year — combining federal taxes with Alabama's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,169/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Tuscaloosa metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $45,421, or roughly $3,785 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Tuscaloosa metro has a cost of living index of 63.2 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 37% below the national average, Tuscaloosa is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Tuscaloosa represents approximately 20% of gross income. That falls comfortably below the 30% rent-burden guideline, a healthy position for building savings.