Low-Cost Living: 11 Cities You Can Afford to Call Home

The cost of living is a significant concern for many Americans, and finding affordable places to live is becoming increasingly challenging.

Fortunately, there are still some great options for those looking for more affordable living arrangements. From the Midwest to the South, these 11 affordable cities offer low costs of living without sacrificing quality of life.

1. Fort Wayne, Indiana

Located in northeastern Indiana, Fort Wayne is a great place to live if you’re looking for affordable living options. The cost of living in Fort Wayne is nearly 11% lower than the national average, and housing costs are particularly affordable, with the median home price hovering around $174,000.

Additionally, the city has a thriving arts and culture scene, as well as ample job opportunities, particularly in the healthcare and education sectors. The median rent is around $777.

2. Dayton, Ohio

Dayton, Ohio, is a city in southwestern Ohio known for its affordability. The housing prices are particularly affordable. The cost of living in Dayton is about 18% lower than the national average and 15% higher than the state average.

The median home value in Dayton is approximately $186,058. Dayton is also home to several major employers, including the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the Premier Health Network.

3. Erie City, Pennsylvania

Located in northwestern Pennsylvania, Erie City is a great option for those looking for affordable living arrangements. The cost of living in Erie is nearly 25% lower than the national average, and housing prices are particularly affordable.

The median home price in Erie is approximately $89,100. Additionally, Erie is located on the shores of Lake Erie, offering residents easy access to beaches and water activities.

4. Joplin, Missouri

Located in southwestern Missouri, Joplin is a great option for those looking for affordable living arrangements. The cost of living in Joplin is about 18% lower than the national average, and housing prices are particularly affordable.

The median home price in Joplin is approximately $282,722, which is well below the national median. The average cost of rent sits around $859. Additionally, Joplin is home to several major employers, including the Freeman Health System and Mercy Hospital Joplin.

5. Harlingen, Texas

Located in southern Texas, Harlingen is a great option for those looking for affordable living arrangements. The cost of living in Harlingen is nearly 39% lower than the national average, and housing prices are particularly affordable.

The median home price in Harlingen is approximately $273,253, which is significantly lower than the national median. Additionally, Harlingen is located in the Rio Grande Valley, offering residents easy access to beaches and outdoor activities.

6. Toledo, Ohio

Toledo is a city located in northwestern Ohio with a relatively low cost of living. The average household income in Toledo is $39,155, which is lower than the national average.

However, the cost of living in Toledo is also lower than the national average, making it a more affordable place to live.

The owner-occupied median home value in Toledo is $83,600, and the median rent is $737. These lower housing costs are a significant factor in the overall affordability of living in Toledo.

7. Memphis, Tennessee

Located in southwestern Tennessee, Memphis is known for its rich musical heritage and affordable cost of living. The average household income in Memphis is $41,864, which is lower than the national average.

However, the cost of living in Memphis is also lower than the national average, making it an attractive place to live for those seeking affordability. The median home value in Memphis is $107,100, and the median rent is $915.

8. McAllen, Texas

McAllen is a city located in southern Texas, known for its vibrant culture and affordable cost of living. The average household income in McAllen is $49,259, which is slightly lower than the national average.

However, the cost of living in McAllen is also lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability. The median home value in McAllen is $131,500, and the median rent is $829, which is significantly lower than the national median.

9. Anniston, Alabama

Anniston is a city located in northeastern Alabama, known for its rich history and affordability. The average household income in Anniston is $41,366, which is lower than the national average.

However, the cost of living in Anniston is also lower than the national average, making it an attractive place to live for those seeking affordability. The median home value in Anniston is $117,500, and the median rent is $734.

10. Amarillo, TX

Amarillo is a city located in the Texas Panhandle, known for its friendly atmosphere and affordable cost of living. The average household income in Amarillo is $52,941, which is higher than the national average.

However, the cost of living in Amarillo is still lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability. The median home value in Amarillo is $138,900, and the median rent is $876, which is significantly lower than the national median.

11. Meridian, Mississippi

Meridian is a city located in eastern Mississippi, known for its rich history and affordability. The average household income in Meridian is $30,088, which is lower than the national average.

However, the cost of living in Meridian is also lower than the national average, making it an attractive place to live for those seeking affordability. The median home value in Meridian is $84,300, and the median rent is $709.

Live Affordably

There are still many affordable places to live in America, despite rising costs of living. From Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Harlingen, Texas, these six cities offer affordable living arrangements without sacrificing quality of life.

Whether you’re looking for a bustling arts and culture scene or easy access to outdoor activities, these cities have something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for an affordable place to call home, consider one of these options.