The seven cheapest cities to live in America

The appeal of low-cost-of-living cities in America goes beyond budget concerns and includes a range of motivations. In addition to offering a lower cost of living than other major U.S. metropolitan areas, these cities are often very close to major metropolitan areas. For those looking for a combination of affordability and smaller population, the seven cheapest places to live in the United States may be of interest. Edition Study Finds I just put together such a list.

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In today's economy, owning or renting real estate is becoming increasingly more expensive. According to a new study, 70% of Americans are concerned about the rising cost of living. This forces people to reconsider their spending. Luckily, there are still a few places to live that won't drain your bank account.

Affordability and less financial stress are the main benefits of moving to a cheaper city, but there are many more reasons why the places on this list are attractive. Here are a few of the main ones that can help Americans and their families choose these places as a home.

Lifestyle factors:

• slower pace of life: Many cities with a low cost of living offer a more relaxed and community-oriented atmosphere compared to expensive metropolises with a faster pace of life;
• strong sense of community: small communities often foster closer connections with neighbors and a stronger sense of belonging;
• access to nature: many of the cities boast stunning natural landscapes, parks and outdoor recreation opportunities, promoting healthier and more active lifestyles;
• lower crime rate: Some areas with a low cost of living have lower crime rates than larger cities, creating a feeling of safety and security;
• business opportunity: lower operating costs can make starting a business much more affordable, which attracts budding entrepreneurs to these cities.

Particularly attractive to certain groups of the population:

• pensioners: affordable housing and a slower pace of life attract retirees seeking a comfortable and quiet life in their well-deserved retirement;
• artists and creative people: lower costs of living allow artists and creatives to focus on their passion projects without experiencing financial hardship;
• remote workers: The rise of remote work has made location independence possible, opening up these cities to those seeking an accessible environment.

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The most affordable places to live in the USA, according to experts

1. Hickory, North Carolina

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this charming town offers delicious Southern hospitality. Hickory is known for its scenic beauty and vibrant local culture, among other things.

“This city in North Carolina's Catawba Valley has a small-town atmosphere that draws residents from larger cities within a couple of hours' drive, including Charlotte and Asheville,” US News and World Report writes. “The cost of living in Hickory is lower than more populous parts of the state, and only 18,95% of median household income is spent on housing, making it the best affordable place to live in the U.S. in 2023-2024.”

With a population of nearly 365, Hickory ranks No. 000 on Business Insider's list of most affordable cities; The average salary for residents here is about $44 per year.

According to Travel + Leisure, living in Hickory will appeal to those seeking green space and rich nature. Nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hickory is a family-friendly town known for its many hiking trails and Southern charm. Hickory is currently considered the cheapest place to live in the United States.

2. Fort Wayne, Indiana

Founded in 1829, Fort Wayne boasts a rich history reflected in its architectural gems. Residents can enjoy the sights and immerse themselves in the city's historical past.

“Fort Wayne, Indiana is one of the cheapest places to live in America,” says Rocket Mortgage. — Affordable housing costs are the main attractive feature for residents moving to this city. In addition, there are several scenic rivers that provide opportunities for boating and other recreational activities.”

Smart Asset elaborates: “Located in northeastern Indiana near the state's borders with Michigan and Ohio, Fort Wayne was originally the site of a U.S. Army fort built by Anthony Wayne in the years following the Revolutionary War. While living in the city today is probably not as cheap as it was back then, it's hard to beat the average monthly rent in Fort Wayne."

Yahoo Finance highlights how the city has prospered over time: “Over time, Fort Wayne has grown into a city with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, health care, education, defense and service industries. The cost of living in Fort Wayne is 1% lower than the state average and 11% lower than the national average.”

3. Jackson, Mississippi

You can recognize the next city from the famous Johnny Cash song. Jackson, Mississippi, "a city with soul," is a vibrant Southern gem. It offers a captivating combination of history, culture and natural beauty.

“Jackson is a wonderfully eclectic city that attracts Civil War buffs, blues aficionados and even ballet aficionados,” says Kiplinger's review. “Every four years, dancers from around the world come to Jackson for the two-week USA International Ballet Competition to compete for medals, scholarships and spots in ballet companies.”

MarketWatch guides highlight: “Jackson Housing Costs significantly lower than the national average. The median home sale price in March 2023 was just $120 and the median monthly rent was $000.”

The city may be especially attractive to fans of history and ballet.

“An affordable cost of living is not the only thing Jackson offers residents. Plus, you'll find plenty of opportunities to learn about Civil War history and the roots of blues music, writes Rocket Mortgage. “In addition, every 4 years the city hosts the USA International Ballet Competition, which adds additional spice to this metropolis full of interesting events.”

4. Toledo Ohio

Toledo, Ohio has some very interesting places.

Insider Monkey writes: “Toledo is just a short drive from other major Great Lakes cities like Detroit and Cleveland. In addition to beaches, lakefront parks and ferry connections to popular islands, Toledo offers both the cultural amenities of a big city and the convenience of a small town.”

As with other cities on this list, savvy citizens can save money by living in Toledo.

“Located on the Ohio-Michigan border, on the shores of Lake Erie's Maumee Bay, Toledo offers a low cost of living for residents of this Midwestern area, many of whom work for large employers such as General Motors and Mercy Health Hospitals,” writes U.S. News and World Report. . “Only 21,71% of median household income is spent on housing costs.”

Rocket Mortgage adds: “The city has served as a center for glass manufacturing since the 1880s. Over time, the economy developed, attracting a wider range of industries to this accessible area. Additionally, its location on Lake Erie makes it an ideal destination for water enthusiasts.”

5. Akron, Ohio

There are many reasons why residents love living in Akron. Akron offers a unique combination of urban amenities, natural beauty and American charm.

It is known as the "city of inventions". There's plenty to do in Akron, whether it's exploring the estate and gardens at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, exploring the extensive art collection at the Akron Art Museum, or exploring the great outdoors at Lock 3 Park.

The economy hasn't always been kind to Akron, but Smart Asset says there's plenty to be optimistic about.

“Although many tire plants have closed, Akron has recently proven its ability to recover,” their report said. “Today it is home to many research and technology offices, and the unemployment rate is half a percentage point lower than the national average.”

Of course, Akron may be best known for producing an NBA star, but there's much more to the city.

“It is sometimes overshadowed by Cleveland to its north, but Akron is one of the most affordable places to live in Ohio. Hometown of LeBron James, Akron is recognized around the world as a center of polymer research, was previously known as the preeminent capital of the rubber industry around the world, and is famous for its connection to the breakfast cereal industry,” Yahoo Finance writes.

6. South Bend, Indiana

There's a lot to appreciate about South Bend. Housing, food, transportation and entertainment are much more affordable here than the national average, allowing residents to stretch their budgets even further.

South Bend is best known for the University of Notre Dame and its renowned football program. In addition to being a major employer, having a large number of undergraduate and graduate students helps keep costs under control.

With a population of about 104, the median household income is about $000. Renters pay an average of just $43, and the average home price is $000.

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“An important economic and cultural hub, South Bend is located in northern Indiana, just steps from the Michigan border,” notes Insider Monkey. “South Bend boasts an affordable lifestyle and a wide variety of parks and recreational activities to keep residents active and entertained.”

7. Brownsville texas

Brownsville has a subtropical climate with year-round warm temperatures. Its population is close to the beautiful beaches of the Gulf Coast, but at the same time fully immersed in American culture.

City residents spend less on essentials than other Texans.

Brownsville is a city and the county seat of Cameron County in the U.S. state of Texas. It is located on the western Gulf Coast of South Texas, near the border with Matamoros, Mexico. The cost of living in Brownsville is 8% lower than the state average and 15% lower than the national average.

But at the same time, in the Brownsville-Harlingen area, 24,7% of people live below the poverty line. This is one and a half times more than in Texas as a whole.

On the other hand, U.S. News and World Report writes: “Brownsville's home costs are still below the national benchmark of 24% of median household income.

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