In terms of diversity, central Alabama is one of the most unique and intriguing regions in the country. Known for its beautiful gulf coast region, Alabama also has numerous rural and urban areas that offer much in the way of tourism and Alabama real estate. As for central Alabama's real estate market, for the most part it is determined by not only the type of property that is purchased, but also heavily on the city that you choose to call home.

For instance in the area near Birmingham, Alabama's largest city, real estate prices are by and large higher than elsewhere in the state. In Birmingham proper, of course, many of the neighborhoods are very urban-esque and real estate prices are far above what they probably should be. Downtown condos and penthouses overlooking the city can rent for $2,000 a month or more while the apartment complexes on the outskirts of town - which often provide very poor living conditions, can go for $900 and more, which considering their condition is an unfortunate price.

The suburban areas around Birmingham such as Vestavia Hills, Hoover, and Mountain Brook are very affluent and real estate prices are much, much higher here due to the landscape of the area - both socio-economically, and aesthetically. Those who can afford to live in the suburbs enjoy a location that offers privacy and space, but is still only minutes (in many cases) from the city.

Moving to Tuscaloosa, another larger city in Alabama, can offer a very different set of pros and cons. As a college town, Tuscaloosa is always active - day and night. For some this may be burdensome, while for others, it offers a lot of opportunities for fun and excitement at a moment's notice. Real estate in Tuscaloosa also varies greatly. As a college town, there are many affordable homes, apartments, and condos available near campus, but for many non-students these would not be worth the trouble.

The outskirts of town are the way to go in Tuscaloosa. Many nice, affordable homes are available in the area that offer space, privacy, affordability and convenience. If you are looking for a home in Tuscaloosa, avoid the campus area (unless you're a student) and get a place on the edge of town.

If you are looking to move to central Alabama, real estate prices in Tuscaloosa and Birmingham can vary greatly depending on the area that you chose to move to. As with any real estate (in Alabama or elsewhere) purchase, you should think very carefully about what you are looking for in a home and make a very careful, calculated decision.