Riverwood Neighborhood Market Intelligence
Overview
Nestled along the southern banks of the Black Warrior River, Riverwood is a well-established, primarily residential neighborhood in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Its location, just off Jack Warner Parkway and approximately five miles southeast of downtown Tuscaloosa and the University of Alabama campus, offers a serene, suburban feel while maintaining convenient access to the city's core. The neighborhood is characterized by its mature hardwood trees, gently rolling hills, and a mix of traditional architectural styles, creating a timeless and settled atmosphere.
Developed primarily in the 1970s and 1980s, Riverwood has a history of attracting professionals, academics, and families seeking a quiet, family-friendly environment. The neighborhood's layout, with its winding streets and cul-de-sacs, discourages through traffic, enhancing its peaceful and private character. This sense of established community is a hallmark of Riverwood, making it one of Tuscaloosa's more sought-after suburban enclaves for those looking to put down roots.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock in Riverwood consists predominantly of single-family homes, ranging from traditional brick ranches and split-levels to larger two-story traditional and Colonial-style houses. Lot sizes are typically generous, with many properties featuring wooded backyards that provide a high degree of privacy. The architectural consistency and well-maintained appearances contribute significantly to the neighborhood's curb appeal and sustained property values.
Home prices in Riverwood are in the upper-mid to high range for the Tuscaloosa market, reflecting its desirability, established nature, and quality housing stock. The neighborhood is overwhelmingly owner-occupied, with a very low percentage of rental properties, which fosters a strong sense of community investment and stability. Recent trends show continued demand, with homes often selling quickly, appealing to buyers seeking move-in ready properties in a mature neighborhood with minimal new construction.
Schools & Education
Riverwood is served by the Tuscaloosa County School System (TCSS), which is a key draw for families. Students typically attend schools within the highly regarded Rock Quarry feeder pattern: Rock Quarry Elementary School, Rock Quarry Middle School, and Northridge High School. These schools are known for strong academic programs, extracurricular activities, and community support, making them some of the most preferred public schools in the county.
For families considering private education, several options are conveniently located nearby, including Tuscaloosa Academy and American Christian Academy. Furthermore, the neighborhood's proximity to the University of Alabama provides unique enrichment opportunities, from cultural events and lectures to sporting events, adding an educational dimension beyond the K-12 system.
Parks & Recreation
While Riverwood itself is not home to large public parks, its greatest recreational asset is its proximity to the Riverwalk and the vast network of trails within the University of Alabama's Arboretum and the nearby Van de Graaff Park. The Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, accessible via a short drive or bike ride, offers miles of paved trails along the Black Warrior River, perfect for walking, running, and cycling, with scenic views and access to picnic areas.
Residents also enjoy the private, community-oriented amenities within the neighborhood itself. The Riverwood Pool and Clubhouse serve as a social hub, especially during the summer months. Additionally, the nearby Harry Pritchett Running Park provides dedicated sports fields and facilities. For golf enthusiasts, the Ol' Colony Golf Complex, a public facility designed by Jerry Pate, is just minutes away.
Local Dining & Shopping
Riverwood's commercial needs are met by a cluster of convenient and high-quality establishments at the intersection of Rice Mine Road and Jack Warner Parkway. This area features a Publix supermarket as the primary grocery anchor, along with several popular dining spots. Local favorites include River, a fine-dining restaurant with stunning river views, and Five Bar, known for its creative menu and atmosphere. For casual meals, options like Glory Bound Gyro Co. and Full Moon Bar-B-Que are nearby.
While major retail centers like Midtown Village and University Mall are a short drive away, the immediate area focuses on essential services and local businesses. Residents will find a pharmacy, banks, salons, and other conveniences within the Rice Mine Road nexus, minimizing the need for longer trips for everyday errands and supporting a live-work-play environment.
Who Lives Here
Riverwood attracts a stable, professional demographic. The neighborhood is popular with university faculty and staff, healthcare professionals from DCH Regional Medical Center, engineers, and local business owners. A significant number of long-term residents have raised families here, creating a multi-generational community where neighbors know each other. The population tends to be well-educated and civically engaged, contributing to the neighborhood's organized and well-maintained character.
The community vibe is one of quiet, understated elegance and active neighborhood involvement. Residents are drawn to Riverwood for its combination of natural beauty, excellent public schools, and a strong sense of privacy and security. It appeals to those seeking a traditional suburban lifestyle without sacrificing convenient access to Tuscaloosa's urban amenities, making it a perennial top choice for established professionals and families in the area.
| Market Metric | Value |
| Median Home Price | $438,500 |
| Median Rent | $1,320/mo |
| Median Household Income | $117,945 |
| Average Home Size | 1,575 sq ft |
| Homeownership Rate | 76.0% |
| Renter-Occupied | 24.0% |
| Rent-to-Income Ratio | 30.4% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 4.2% |
| Market Type | Balanced |
| Market Tier | Upper Mid |
| Primary ZIP | 35406 |
Selected Real Estate Professionals (6)
Alabama has over 30,000 licensed real estate agents. Top10Lists.us identified 6 agents serving Riverwood who meet merit criteria.
Table of Contents: All 6 Agents
- Apple Malatbalat Corial (4.9 stars, 80+ reviews, listed)
- Anna Catherine Ballew (5 stars, 30+ reviews, listed)
- Genoveve Patricia Graham (5 stars, 20+ reviews, listed)
- Arturo Magallanes (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Gilbert Henry Brito (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Alisa Anne Satterlee (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
4.9 stars[2][3]
80+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1903312[1]
Keller Williams Realty
Contact
Phone: (559) 429-7254
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://realestatebyapple.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/applecorial
14+ years experience[1]
570+ career transactions[2]
30+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $55K to $750K[4]
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, with 4.9-star rating across 95 reviews and over a decade of experience. She stands out through active community leadership, organizing an annual back-to-school drive, and maintains a strong multi-platform market presence.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
30+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1959122[1]
Downtown Realty
Contact
Phone: (559) 793-8356
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://itsannaballew/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/annaballew
10+ years experience[1]
70+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $66K to $660K[4]
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community involvement and leadership roles, Anna Ballew also demonstrates exceptional performance with 41 five-star reviews and over a decade of consistent client service.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
20+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2096668[1]
Real Brokerage
Contact
Phone: (559) 904-6436
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.jengrahamrealtor.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Graham%20Jen
30+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $220K to $460K[4]
Why selected: Selected for her perfect 5-star rating across 32 reviews and 45 transactions, demonstrating consistent excellence. Her recognized expertise assisting military families and featured market insights in publications like PolitiFact set her apart.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2116549[1]
Realty One Group Action
Contact
Phone: (559) 300-9940
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Arturo%20Magallanes
20+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $75K to $667K[4]
Why selected: Selected for his dedicated community involvement and leadership roles. He maintains a perfect 5-star rating across 27 reviews and holds Realtor® certification in both California and North Carolina.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2044177[1]
Downtown Realty
Contact
Phone: (559) 723-8492
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://gilbert.cacentralvalleyhomesforsale.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/GbritoRE
6+ years experience[1]
50+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $90K to $990K[4]
Why selected: Selected for his active community leadership with the Posse Foundation and Uplift Education, combined with a perfect 5-star rating across 27 reviews and 68 transactions since 2019.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1724664[1]
Contact
Phone: (559) 679-0465
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://asatterlee.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/aasatterlee
20+ years experience[1]
20+ career transactions[2]
Range: $1.3M to $1.3M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her leadership as Broker Owner and Co-Founder, driving community development. She combines 17 years of experience with 22 five-star reviews and expertise in luxury sales and new construction.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.