Tuscaloosa is a city located in west-central Alabama along the Black Warrior River. As of the 2020 census, Tuscaloosa has a population of 101,129, making it the fifth-largest city in Alabama.
Population
The population of Tuscaloosa has grown steadily over the past few decades. Here are some key population facts about the city:
- As of the 2020 census, the population was 101,129. This is up 15.5% from 2000 when the population was 87,598.
- Tuscaloosa is the 16th fastest growing city in Alabama and the 5th largest.
- The racial makeup of the city is 53.6% White, 41.7% Black, 0.4% Native American, 2.5% Asian, and 2.4% from other races.
- 5.8% of the population is Hispanic or Latino of any race.
- The median age is 25 years old, influenced by the large student population from the University of Alabama.
For more population details and demographics statistics, visit the City of Tuscaloosa’s website or the U.S. Census data page for Tuscaloosa.
Economy and Major Employers
Some key facts about Tuscaloosa’s economy and major employers:
- The largest employment sectors are education, healthcare, retail, accommodations/food service, and manufacturing.
- Major companies headquartered in Tuscaloosa include Gulf States Paper, Hunt Refining Company, and Phifer Incorporated.
- The largest employer is the University of Alabama with over 6,000 faculty and staff members.
- Other major employers include the Tuscaloosa City Schools, DCH Health System, Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, and VA Medical Center.
- Tuscaloosa serves as a regional center of industry, commerce, healthcare, and education for west-central Alabama.
In recent years, Tuscaloosa has diversified its economy by attracting technology companies and becoming an automotive manufacturing center. Mercedes-Benz opened its first automotive assembly plant in Tuscaloosa in 1997. Automotive parts suppliers and other advanced manufacturing, materials, and research companies have opened plants in Tuscaloosa as well.
Attractions and Landmarks
Some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in Tuscaloosa include:
- University of Alabama – The historic campus features iconic landmarks like the Gorgas Library, Denny Chimes, and Bryant-Denny Stadium.
- Riverwalk Park – This urban park stretches along the Black Warrior River downtown and includes an amphitheater, splash pad, boat docks and walking trails.
- Moundville Archaeological Park – Just south of Tuscaloosa, this site preserves a major settlement of the Mississippian culture dating back nearly 1,000 years.
- Holt Tower – One of the oldest buildings in Tuscaloosa (built in 1907), this iconic clock tower sits on the University of Alabama quad.
- Children’s Hands-On Museum – An interactive children’s museum with imaginative educational exhibits and activities.
Outdoor recreational attractions in the area include Lake Tuscaloosa, the Black Warrior River, and the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater which hosts major concerts.
Sports Teams
Tuscaloosa is best known for hosting the football team of the University of Alabama, the Alabama Crimson Tide. The team has won 18 national championships and plays home games at the 101,821 seat Bryant-Denny Stadium on campus.
Some other sports teams based in Tuscaloosa include:
- Alabama Crimson Tide – Football, basketball, baseball, softball, gymnastics, and more
- Tuscaloosa Drillers – Minor league baseball team
- Tuscaloosa County High School Football
Sports are a major part of culture, entertainment, and the economy in Tuscaloosa. In addition to the University’s teams, youth sports of all levels are popular with strong followings.
Additional Information
To learn more about Tuscaloosa, Alabama, visit these additional resources:
- City of Tuscaloosa – Official city government site
- City of Tuscaloosa Facebook
- Visit Tuscaloosa – Convention and Visitors Bureau site
- Alabama Tourism Department