Population Government data
The Tuscaloosa area's population grew 2.9% from 2020 to 2025 (274,029 → 281,850), ranking #178 of 387 metros for growth (typical metro +2.5%). People moving in (net +7,005) account for most of the change.
Census Bureau population estimates, July 1 of each year, 2020–2025.
New homes permitted Government data
New-home permits in Tuscaloosa are down 59% from 2021 to 2025 (1,496 → 616). Permits are a sign of construction activity, not a count of open jobs.
Census Building Permits Survey, annual 2021–2025.
Local housing Government data
The Tuscaloosa area has about 127,077 homes. 38% were built before 1980 (typical metro 45%), so its housing is newer than most; 21% were built in 2010 or later. 63% of households own their home, and the median home value is $239,500.
Census American Community Survey, 2024 1-year estimates (table DP04).
Highest-paying trades
All 25 trades
Click a column to sort. Jobs are employment estimates, not open positions.
| Trade | Median pay | Jobs | U.S. rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Lineworker | $95,290 | 90 | #139 |
| Construction Supervisor | $75,380 | 860 | #243 |
| Telecom Line Installer | $66,410 | 30 | #117 |
| Building Inspector | $64,700 | 60 | #198 |
| Industrial Machinery Mechanic | $62,990 | 1,590 | #224 |
| Telecom Equipment Installer | $60,510 | 110 | #210 |
| Electrician | $60,110 | 560 | #244 |
| Plumber | $59,530 | 370 | #237 |
| Ironworker | $59,230 | 100 | #101 |
| Auto Body Repairer | $58,240 | 90 | #77 |
| Welder | $52,180 | 290 | #194 |
| Diesel Mechanic | $51,730 | 230 | #348 |
| Machinist | $50,850 | 110 | #272 |
| Carpenter | $48,870 | 260 | #291 |
| HVAC Technician | $48,430 | 450 | #355 |
| Sheet Metal Worker | $48,120 | 30 | #226 |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $47,710 | 650 | #336 |
| Painter | $46,210 | 90 | #234 |
| Drywall Installer | $45,110 | 40 | #155 |
| Auto Mechanic | $45,070 | 530 | #343 |
| Concrete Finisher | $44,300 | 140 | #310 |
| Maintenance Technician | $38,930 | 770 | #372 |
| Paving Equipment Operator | $37,340 | 100 | #146 |
| Construction Laborer | $36,460 | 1,110 | #366 |
| Landscaper | $35,540 | 590 | #323 |
Pay: BLS OEWS, May 2025 (metro-level). Real pay: BEA price parities, 2024. How we calculate
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