[Alatex]

Oops, I just noticed a typo in my first message ( "has" for "have" in the last paragraph.

Also, I would argue that the distance between Auburn and Columbus, and Tuscaloosa and Birmingham is roughly the same.

Yes, there's not a huge difference between 55 from Tuscaloosa to Birmingham and 40 from Auburn to Columbus, but having other towns like Opelika and Phenix City in between makes that seem even closer , whereas with the exception of Mercedes, there's mostly a lot of rural area between Tuscaloosa and Birmingham.

I think if both of you factor out the students and faculty in both communities, both are pretty poor areas. I've spent time in both areas and often thought if it weren't for the schools these places would be dumps.

Respectfully, Tuscaloosa County also leads the state in automotive sector employment with roughly 8,000 workers, has the state's primary mental health facilities, a significant amount of coal mining and natural gas production (surprisingly high percentage of the state total), an oil refinery, and a city-owned lake with 177 miles of shore length. Even if you factor out the university, there's something to stand on.
I have family roots here before the university existed.

I realize that some people who visit or live in the city just to deal with the university consider the rest of our city just the "dump" that they have to pass through to get to the interstate, but there is an actual community here with amenities that might not be visible at first glance.

[coloradocutter]

The program at Auburn is a better fit for me. We visited and the shock of going from Colorado to Auburn will be huge, but my graduate education at Auburn for this program will be funded (i.e., tuition is free and I receive a generous stipend). I did have an option in Colorado, but it was an unfunded program and the tuition was $43k a year - no matter how much I love Colorado, i just don't think that makes sense. I will suffer through Alabama, I guess. Given this economic climate though, I think it makes sense to avoid student loans at all costs, no matter what you give up on scenery. Hardest decision that I have ever made.

[drfranklin]

Your decision is the best one. Nothing is better than a free, high quality education.

Again, immerse yourself (and family) in the culture, hike/bike areas of the South (there are some great areas), go the wonderful beaches of the Gulf Coast, eat some good food, have a positive attitude, and (most important) relax. Alabama is a great area to raise a family.

[Southlander]

Congratulations, and good luck to you! And listen to the doctor. If you and your family have the attitude that this is a wonderful opportunity to experience and enjoy a different area of our country, you and they will have a great time there!
Roll Tide! (Gotta get that in - remember, our rivalry has sharpened both schools).
And welcome to Alabama!