Salem vs Tuscaloosa
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Tuscaloosa is 47% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $772/mo vs $1,137/mo in Salem — saving $4,380/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Salem | Tuscaloosa | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $741 | $503 | $238 |
| 1 Bedroom | $913 | $612 | $301 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,137 | $772 | $365 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,411 | $937 | $474 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,615 | $1,049 | $566 |
| Median Income | $53,953 | $39,330 | $14,623 |
Salem
- Studio
- $741/mo
- 1 BR
- $913/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,137/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,411/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,615/mo
- Median Income
- $53,953/yr
Tuscaloosa
- Studio
- $503/mo
- 1 BR
- $612/mo
- 2 BR
- $772/mo
- 3 BR
- $937/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,049/mo
- Median Income
- $39,330/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Salem or Tuscaloosa cheaper to rent in?
Tuscaloosa is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $772/mo vs $1,137/mo in Salem. That's $365/mo or $4,380/year more expensive in Salem (47% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Salem vs Tuscaloosa?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Salem is $1,137/month. In Tuscaloosa, a 2-bedroom FMR is $772/month.
How do incomes compare between Salem and Tuscaloosa?
The median household income in Salem is $53,953/year. In Tuscaloosa it is $39,330/year. Salem has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Salem vs Tuscaloosa?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Salem is $741/mo. In Tuscaloosa it is $503/mo.