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8 min read May 17, 2023

The Affordable Life: Cheapest Places to Live in the US

Are you looking for the cheapest places to live in the US? Whether you’re a student, a retiree, or just trying to save money, finding a place where life is affordable. This blog post provides an overview of the cheapest places to live in the US.

We’ll cover a range of cities and towns across the country, from the cheapest place to live in Florida to the most affordable cities in the US. We’ll also discuss factors to consider when choosing a place to live beyond just the cost of living, such as job opportunities, quality of life, climate, and culture.

So if you’re looking for the cheapest place to live in the US, keep reading! We’ve compiled a list of the cheapest places to live in the US.

Cheapest Places To Live in the US

No matter where you choose to live, it’s vital to consider factors such as housing costs, taxes, and healthcare when determining the affordability of a particular area. 

By researching and comparing different options, you can find a place to live that fits your budget and lifestyle. These places have a low cost of living, with factors such as affordable housing, lower taxes, and lower healthcare costs.

Sure, here are some examples of the cheapest places to live in the US:

1. Brownsville, Texas

Located on the southern tip of Texas, Brownsville is one of the cheapest places to live in the state. In Brownsville, the cost of living is significantly lower than the national average, with affordable housing, utilities, and transportation.

The city is also known for its warm climate and proximity to the Gulf of Mexico.

2. Fort Smith, Arkansas

Fort Smith, located in the northwest corner of Arkansas, is another affordable option for those wishing to live in the south.

Compared to the national average, Fort Smith’s cost of living is lower, with lower taxes and housing costs. The city also boasts several universities and a thriving arts and culture scene.

3. McAllen, Texas 

McAllen is another affordable option in Texas, located in the Rio Grande Valley in the southern part of the state.

The city has a low cost of living, with affordable housing and healthcare. McAllen is also known for its vibrant Hispanic culture and proximity to the Mexican border.

4. Pueblo, Colorado

Despite not being in the south, Pueblo is a viable option for those looking for affordable living in the west.

The city has a low cost of living, with affordable housing and a thriving arts and culture scene. Pueblo lies near several national parks and outdoor recreation areas.

5. Rockford, Illinois 

Northern Illinois is home to Rockford, one of the state’s cheapest cities. The cost of living in Rockford is lower than the national average, with affordable housing and healthcare. The city also offers several museums, parks, and recreational activities.

6. Memphis, Tennessee

Located in the southern US, Memphis is known for its low cost of living and thriving arts and music scene. Memphis is an affordable southern city with a diverse population and several job opportunities.

The city is also home to famous attractions like Graceland and Beale Street, making it a fun and lively place to call home.

7. Wichita, Kansas

Wichita is one of the cheapest places to live in the Midwest, with a low cost of living and affordable housing options. The city is known for its aviation industry and is home to attractions like the Sedgwick County Zoo and the Wichita Art Museum.

Wichita also boasts a diverse culinary scene and plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a great place to live for those who enjoy the great outdoors.

8. Harlingen, Texas

Harlingen is another affordable option in Texas, with a low cost of living and a warm climate. It is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including fishing and birdwatching, in the Rio Grande Valley.

Harlingen also has a strong healthcare industry, making it a great place to retire for those looking for high-quality medical care.

9. Decatur, Alabama

With a low cost of living and a friendly community, Decatur is a small town in northern Alabama.

In addition to hiking and fishing opportunities, the city lies on the banks of the Tennessee River. Decatur is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with several museums and galleries.

10. Idaho Falls, Idaho

Idaho Falls is a small city in eastern Idaho with a low cost of living and plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities.

Hiking, skiing, fishing, and other outdoor activities are available near popular attractions like Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park.

Idaho Falls also has a strong healthcare industry, making it a great place to live for those looking for access to quality medical care.

11. Morgantown, West Virginia

Morgantown is a college town located in the Appalachian region of the US and is home to a low cost of living and a thriving arts and culture scene.

Cheat Lake and Cooper’s Rock State Forest are among the outdoor recreational opportunities available in the city. Morgantown is also home to West Virginia University, which adds to the town’s lively and youthful vibe.

Cost of Living Comparison

Living in the cheapest places in the US offers several advantages, including a lower cost of living than the national average. Furthermore, you can save money on groceries, healthcare, and entertainment. 

Here are some ways to compare the cost of living in the cheapest cities in the US: 

Housing Costs

  • Compare the median home prices of these cities to the national average
  • Provide examples of affordable housing options in each city

Taxes

  • Compare state and local tax rates to the national average
  • Provide examples of how much money residents can save on taxes by living in these cities

Healthcare Costs

  • Compare the costs of healthcare in these cities to the national average
  • Provide examples of affordable healthcare options in each city

Factors To Consider Before Deciding Where To Live

While the cost of living is a vital factor to consider when choosing where to live, it is not the only factor to consider. Additionally, factors such as job opportunities, quality of life, climate, and culture play a role in your decision. Some of these factors are:

Job Opportunities

  • Discuss how job opportunities can impact your decision when choosing a place to live
  • Provide examples of industries and companies in each city that offer job opportunities

Quality of Life

  • Discuss factors that can impact your quality of life, such as crime rates, education, and access to amenities
  • Provide examples of how these factors differ between the cities on the list

Climate

  • Discuss how climate can impact your decision when choosing a place to live
  • Provide examples of the climate in each city and how it may suit different preferences

Culture

  • Discuss the importance of considering cultural factors when choosing a place to live, such as diversity, arts and entertainment, and local traditions
  • Explain how different cultures contribute to each city’s community by providing examples.

Statistics and Insights on the Cheapest Places to Live in the US

Here are some statistics related to the cheapest places to live in the US:

  • According to the Cost of Living Index published by the Council for Community and Economic Research, the cheapest place to live in the US in 2021 is Harlingen, Texas, with a cost of living of 18% below the national average. The national average is 100.
  • In general, the southern region of the US tends to have a lower cost of living than other regions. Lower housing costs, lower taxes, and lower healthcare costs contribute to this.

Conclusion

The cheapest places to live in the US will help you save money. But, before making a move, remember to consider all the factors that affect your quality of life, including job opportunities, climate, and culture. Make a wise decision and enjoy the benefits of living in an affordable city that meets your needs.

FAQs

Which town has the lowest cost of living in the US?

According to recent data, the town with the lowest cost of living in the US is Harlingen, Texas.

Which city is the cheapest and safest to live in the US?

Some of the cheapest and safest cities in the US to live in are Boise, Idaho; Huntsville, Alabama; and Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Texas or Florida: Which state is cheaper to live in?

Overall, Texas tends to be cheaper to live in than Florida, but it ultimately depends on the specific city and cost of living factors.

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