When choosing from off-campus housing options near the University of Alabama, it's easy to get overwhelmed with all the choices. Each complex has something to offer, and the area near each one has its upsides and downsides. The area near the University can be broken down into four main neighborhoods: East of Campus, The Strip, South of The Strip, and the River District. Once you decide what you want most in a neighborhood, you can narrow your Tuscaloosa apartment search and get one step closer to finding a great home.
East of Campus
As the name implies, this neighborhood encompasses the apartment complexes east of 2nd Avenue, which you'll pass as you're leaving campus. It extends to the area surrounding University Mall, and includes apartments like East Edge, Lark, and Redpoint. While a number of these apartments are out of walking distance of the University, they come with the benefit of being close to shopping centers like Midtown and University Mall. If you prefer close proximity to shops and restaurants without too much hustle and bustle, this neighborhood is for you.
UA Apartment near The Strip
In Tuscaloosa, The Strip on University Boulevard is largely the center of the action. Brimming with the city's most popular bars, restaurants, and shops, this neighborhood has a lot to bring to the table. In addition, close proximity to campus means that classes are within walking distance and Bryant-Denny Stadium is practically next door. Many of the apartment complexes on The Strip are also newer, with more being added each year. While it can get quite noisy on the weekends and housing tends to be a bit pricier in the area, you'll never be far from the action. If you're all about night life or just enjoy being in the heart of Tuscaloosa, give this neighborhood a look.
South of The Strip
As you move away from The Strip, things start to calm down a bit. Apartments beyond Paul W Bryant Drive may not be as close to the action but are still a reasonable walk from campus or a night out. This distance also brings the price of housing down. There are many different complexes and rental houses in this neighborhood, so the area is almost entirely University students. The area south of The Strip provides a good middle ground for those that hope to strike a balance between proximity to the university, noise, and price.
The River District
This neighborhood is unique in that it is adjacent to the Black Warrior River, which defines the northern border of Tuscaloosa. The River District is a bit further from campus than the other neighborhoods but is quite close to downtown Tuscaloosa and its many restaurants and shops. On top of this, apartments in the area will have easy access to the river walk and River Market, which hosts a farmers market every Saturday morning. There are, however, fewer apartments in the area to choose from. Those who appreciate nature, and a quieter environment should consider apartments down by the river.
While not every apartment falls into these four categories, most apartments for UA college students belong to one of the neighborhoods mentioned. Some buildings are in-between, or in their own distinct neighborhoods, and have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Depending on how you prefer to spend your time at UA, there's no doubt you'll be able to find the right space for you!