When it comes to finding the perfect college town in Alabama, there are more than a few great places to land. Each of the top-tier towns featured below town has its own appeal and offers something special for students, professors and lifetime locals.
Whether you’re an aspiring engineer, all about your business goals, or an artist finding your voice, there’s a place for you in Alabama.
Let’s dive into the top college towns in the state and see what makes them special. Who knows, you just might find the perfect apartment in Auburn or your forever home in Huntsville.
1. Tuscaloosa – University of Alabama
Population: 99,600 | Student population: 38,644 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $925
The University of Alabama is the pride and joy of Tuscaloosa. Known for its strong engineering and business programs, it attracts students nationwide. The Culverhouse College of Business is particularly well known, with specialized programs in finance, accounting, and marketing. The engineering faculty is top-notch, with strong mechanical, aerospace, and civil engineering programs.
Tuscaloosa and the university have a close relationship. The town benefits from the Crimson Tide’s athletic success, boosting local businesses with increased tourism. The university partners with DCH Health System, providing internships and job opportunities for nursing and medical students. Additionally, the UA’s EDGE Labs work with local tech startups, enhancing the town’s innovation landscape.
Apartments near University of Alabama | Houses for rent near University of Alabama
2. Auburn – Auburn University
Population: 76,624 | Student population: 31,764 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,150
Auburn University is famous for its agriculture and engineering programs. The Samuel Ginn College of Engineering is especially notable, offering cutting-edge research opportunities and degrees in fields like computer science and chemical engineering. The College of Agriculture is a standout, with programs in crop and soil sciences, animal sciences, and fisheries.
Auburn and the university are deeply connected. The town hosts events like the Auburn CityFest, which students love for its music, food, and arts. The university’s extension programs support local farmers with research and innovative practices. Auburn’s College of Agriculture partners with Alabama Farmers Federation to provide research and hands-on learning experiences that benefit local agricultural businesses.
Apartments near Auburn University | Houses for rent near Auburn University
3. Birmingham – University of Alabama at Birmingham
Population: 196,910 | Student population: 22,289 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,527
Home to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham is great for health sciences. UAB’s medical school is nationally ranked, and its nursing program is exceptional, providing hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities.
Birmingham benefits greatly from the presence of UAB. The medical center is a major employer, providing numerous internships and job opportunities for students. UAB collaborates with Southern Research Institute, driving advancements in medical research and providing students with unique research opportunities.
Apartments near UAB | Houses for rent near UAB
4. Mobile – University of South Alabama
Population: 187,041 | Student population: 13,438 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $895
The University of South Alabama is known for its nursing and business programs. The College of Nursing is highly rated, offering excellent clinical practice opportunities and advanced simulation labs. The Mitchell College of Business is also solid, focusing on real-world business skills and entrepreneurship.
Mobile and the university work hand in hand. Local businesses frequently collaborate with the business school, offering internships and job placements. The university has a strong partnership with Infirmary Health, providing clinical placements and job opportunities for nursing students.
Apartments near University of South Alabama | Houses for rent near University of South Alabama
5. Florence – University of North Alabama
Population: 40,184 | Student population: 9,830 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $675
The University of North Alabama (UNA) excels in education and music. The College of Education is top-notch, preparing future teachers with hands-on experience and strong academic foundations. The music program is notable, offering elite vocal and instrumental training, with opportunities to perform in ensembles and solo recitals.
Florence and UNA are tightly knit. The town hosts many music festivals and events where students perform and hone their craft. UNA’s College of Education partners with Florence City Schools, providing student teaching opportunities and professional development for aspiring teachers.
Apartments near University of North Alabama | Houses for rent near University of North Alabama
6. Troy – Troy University
Population: 17,727 | Student population: 14,901 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $475
Troy University is known for its international business and journalism programs. The Sorrell College of Business offers global business education with programs in accounting, economics, and finance. The Hall School of Journalism is highly respected, with strong courses in multimedia journalism, public relations, and advertising.
Troy and the university have a close bond. The town benefits from a healthy population of international students who bring diverse perspectives and cultural events. Local media outlets often collaborate with the journalism school, providing real-world reporting experience for students. The university’s Center for International Business and Economic Development partners with locals to aid business growth and offer internships for students.
Apartments near Troy University | Houses for rent near Troy University
7. Huntsville – University of Alabama in Huntsville
Population: 215,006 | Student population: 6,636 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,084
The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) is a standout for engineering and computer science. UAH’s College of Engineering is highly rated, especially in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. The computer science program is also strong, preparing students for careers in software development, cybersecurity, and data science.
Huntsville’s tech industry thrives thanks to UAH. The university collaborates with NASA and other aerospace companies, offering internships, research opportunities, and co-op programs. Local tech firms frequently hire UAH graduates, keeping talent in the area and driving innovation. UAH partners with the Redstone Arsenal, providing students with rare defense-related research and internship opportunities.
Apartments near University of Alabama in Huntsville | Houses for rent near University of Alabama in Huntsville
8. Montgomery – Alabama State University
Population: 200,603 | Student population: 3,964 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $800
Alabama State University is renowned for its criminal justice and social work programs. The College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences offers excellent training for future social workers, with courses in human behavior, social policy, and clinical practice. The criminal justice program is known for its practical approach, including forensic science, law enforcement, and corrections.
Montgomery and Alabama State have a strong connection. The university’s social work students often intern with local agencies, providing essential services to the community. The criminal justice program partners with local law enforcement, giving students hands-on experience through ride-alongs, internships, and community policing projects. Alabama State collaborates with the Montgomery Police Department, providing criminal justice students with practical training and career pathways.
Apartments near Alabama State University | Houses for rent near Alabama State University
Methodology
College towns are qualified as towns or cities with at least one college or university and fewer than 300,000 people according to U.S. Census data. Average rental data from Rent.com in May 2024.
This is not a comprehensive list of all of the towns and cities in the state meeting those requirements.