uscaloosa County is strategically located and accessible to key, major markets in the Southeast. The area is 50 miles (80 km) southwest of Birmingham and 95 miles (152 km) to the northwest of Montgomery. Atlanta, Memphis, and Nashville are within a 200-mile (321 km) radius. Mobile, New Orleans, and the Gulf Coast of Alabama are just a few hours to the south. Within a 400-mile (643 km) radius are the markets of Lexington, Ky.; Charlotte, N.C.; Jacksonville, Fla.; and Greenville-Spartanburg, S.C.

As part of a growing and enhanced region, we enjoy:

• National Rankings - Birmingham-Tuscaloosa metro area ranked No. 3 in Top Large Metro Area Entrepreneurial Hot Spots (1997 Study by Massachusetts-based Cognetics, Inc.)
• Two research universities
• Prime medical services and facilities including one of the top three medical facilities in the country (UAB) and the fourth largest hospital in the state (DCH)
• Diverse industrial base featuring automotive, primary metals, plastics and specialty fibers
• International elements integrated throughout our quality of life
  • Sister City Relationships (Narashino, Japan, and Schorndorf, Germany)
  • International Baccalaureate Program
  • Supplementary Schools for native children of Japan and Germany
  • Business investment from around the globe

In West Alabama where the Appalachian mountains meet the coastal plain of Alabama and the Black Warrior River flows through, you will find Tuscaloosa. Tuscaloosa's geography is a physically diverse area, with hills and mountains to the North, and flat, fertile land to the South. Ever present are shimmering lakes and rivers, and an abundance of rich natural resources. The area enjoys a moderate climate with an average temperature of 63.4-F (17.4-C) and an average growing season of 210 days.

Tuscaloosa County incorporated communities include:

• City of Tuscaloosa - population 83,376
• City of Northport - population 20,247
• Town of Brookwood - population 689
• Town of Vance - population 270
• Town of Coaling
• Town of Lakeview
• Town of Coker

Population based on 1998 estimates. (U.S. Dept. of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates Branch, June 30, 1999)