Loading listings
Stillman College is a small private HBCU liberal arts college enrolling roughly 800 to 1,000 students in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Founded in 1876, it maintains a close-knit campus community with a strong tradition of academic and spiritual development. Located near the University of Alabama, Stillman shares the broader Tuscaloosa rental market, which is heavily influenced by UA demand. Students seeking off-campus housing should plan early as competition in the area is high.
Stillman College requires all first-year students to live in campus residence halls for their freshman year. This policy helps new students build community, adjust to college life, and take advantage of on-campus support services. Exceptions are typically limited to students who are married, have dependents, or live with a parent or guardian within a defined distance from campus.
Sophomores and upper-division students who have fulfilled the freshman residency requirement may apply to live off campus. Students must remain in good academic and conduct standing to be eligible. The off-campus rental market in Tuscaloosa is primarily driven by the University of Alabama, so Stillman students compete within that broader market.
Because Tuscaloosa is dominated by a large university rental cycle, the best apartments are leased well in advance of the fall semester. Stillman students planning to move off campus should begin searching in October or November for August move-in. Waiting until spring significantly limits available options and may result in higher rents.
Housing policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Stillman College before signing a lease.
Students who want the most options should begin their off-campus housing search in October or November of the year prior to their intended move-in date. The Tuscaloosa rental market is heavily influenced by University of Alabama students, who lease early and secure the best units quickly. Starting early gives Stillman students access to a broader range of apartments, pricing, and locations before inventory shrinks.
The peak leasing period in Tuscaloosa runs from December through February, when the majority of apartments for the following August are claimed. During this window, competition is intense and many popular complexes reach capacity. Students who have not started their search by January may find fewer options and higher prices.
Students searching in spring or summer will still find some availability, but choices will be limited. Sublease opportunities sometimes appear from May through July as students finalize plans. Off-campus housing Facebook groups, student bulletin boards, and local property management companies are good resources for last-minute openings. Expect less negotiating power on price if searching late.
Apartments popular with college students across Tuscaloosa, with affordable rental corridors near Stillman's west-side campus.
Closer to the University of Alabama, with a dense concentration of student-friendly complexes and houses for rent.
Students without cars should prioritize locations on Tuscaloosa's limited bus routes; the market is walkable near campus but a car helps for broader mobility.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Yes, Stillman College requires first-year students to live in campus residence halls. Exceptions may be granted for students who are married, have children, or live with a parent or guardian within a specified distance. Students should contact the Office of Residential Life for details on the exemption process.
Other universities in Tuscaloosa share a similar off-campus housing market.
The University of Alabama drops about 37,840 students into Tuscaloosa, a Druid City that runs on football, the Black Warrior River, and a deep Crimson Tide tradition. Fall Saturdays revolve around Bryant-Denny Stadium, where the Walk of Champions and a packed Quad turn game days into the main event of the week. The…
View housing near University of Alabama