The cost of living is an important consideration for many people, whether they’re just starting out in their careers or looking to retire on a fixed income.
Fortunately, there are many cities throughout the United States where the cost of living is lower than in other areas.
The top 20 cheapest cities to live in the United States offer a variety of amenities and attractions, from small towns to larger urban areas, so there’s something for everyone.
These cities have relatively low housing costs, as well as affordable groceries, utilities, and other expenses.
Some of the cities on this list are located in the Midwest, while others are on the West Coast or in the South.
Each city has its own unique culture and charm, but they all offer affordable living options for those looking to save money.
Overall, these cities can be great options for anyone looking for an affordable place to call home in the United States.
List of Top 20 Cheapest Cities To Live In The United States
The United States is home to some of the most expensive cities in the world. However, there are also plenty of cities where the cost of living is more affordable.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 20 cheapest cities to live in the United States.
1. McAllen, Texas
Located in southern Texas, McAllen is a city with a low cost of living. The cost of housing is particularly affordable, with median home prices well below the national average.
There are several factors that contribute to McAllen, Texas, being among the top 20 cheapest cities to live in the United States.
Here are some of the main reasons:
- Cost of living: McAllen has a relatively low cost of living compared to many other cities in the United States. The cost of housing, utilities, and groceries is generally lower than the national average.
- Housing affordability: The cost of buying or renting a home in McAllen is relatively low compared to other parts of the country. This makes it an attractive option for those looking for affordable housing.
- Low taxes: Texas has no state income tax, which can be a significant financial benefit for residents. Additionally, McAllen has relatively low property taxes compared to many other cities.
- Lower healthcare costs: Healthcare costs in McAllen are generally lower than the national average, which can help residents save money on medical expenses.
In summary, the combination of a low cost of living, affordable housing, low taxes, and lower healthcare costs contributes to McAllen being among the top 20 cheapest cities to live in the United States.
2. Wichita Falls, Texas
Another Texan city, Wichita Falls, has a low cost of living and a strong job market. The city is home to Sheppard Air Force Base, which provides employment opportunities for many locals. Wichita Falls is a city in North Texas, United States.
It is the county seat of Wichita County and has a population of approximately 104,000 people as of the 2020 Census. The city is located on the Wichita River and is home to Sheppard Air Force Base.
Wichita Falls is known for its hot summers and mild winters, with temperatures ranging from an average high of around 95°F (35°C) in July to an average low of around 35°F (2°C) in January.
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The city has a diverse economy with major industries including healthcare, manufacturing, and education.
Some of the popular attractions in Wichita Falls include the Wichita Falls Museum of Art, the Backdoor Theatre, and the River Bend Nature Center.
The city also hosts several annual events and festivals, including the Hotter’n Hell Hundred bike ride, the Wichita Falls Ranch and Farm Expo, and the Texas and Oklahoma Fair.
3. Fort Smith, Arkansas
Fort Smith is a city located in northwest Arkansas. It has a low cost of living and a strong job market, particularly in healthcare and manufacturing.
Fort Smith is a city located in the western part of the U.S. state of Arkansas, near the border with Oklahoma.
It is the second-largest city in the state, with a population of approximately 87,000 people as of the 2020 Census.
Fort Smith was founded as a military post in 1817 and named after General Thomas Adams Smith. It played an important role in the expansion of the United States in the 19th century, serving as a major point of contact between American settlers and the native populations in the region.
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Today, Fort Smith is a regional center for healthcare, education, and commerce. Major employers in the area include Sparks Health System, the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith, and Whirlpool Corporation.
The city is also home to several cultural and recreational attractions, including the Fort Smith National Historic Site, the Fort Smith Museum of History, and the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center.
4. Joplin, Missouri
Joplin is a city in southwestern Missouri. The cost of living is low, and the city has a diverse economy with strong industries in healthcare, manufacturing, and education.
Joplin is a city located in the southwestern corner of the state of Missouri, United States. It is the largest city in Jasper County and is part of the Joplin Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes the surrounding areas in Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma.
Joplin has a population of around 50,000 people and covers an area of approximately 35 square miles. The city is known for its history in mining and transportation, as well as its vibrant arts and culture scene.
Some of the notable attractions in Joplin include the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts, the Joplin History and Mineral Museum, and the Wildcat Glades Conservation and Audubon Center.
The city is also home to Missouri Southern State University, which offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
A devastating EF-5 tornado struck Joplin in 2011, causing extensive damage and fatalities. However, the city has since rebuilt and continues to thrive as a hub for business, education, and culture in the region.
5. Harlingen, Texas
Located in southern Texas, Harlingen has a low cost of living and a strong job market in healthcare and retail.
Harlingen is a city located in Cameron County, Texas, in the southern part of the state. It is situated in the Rio Grande Valley, about 30 miles from the Gulf of Mexico.
Harlingen has a population of approximately 65,000 people and is the principal city of the Harlingen metropolitan area, which has a population of over 200,000.
Harlingen is known for its warm weather, with hot summers and mild winters. Health care, education, retail, and agriculture are all important parts of the city’s economy, among others.
It is also home to the Valley International Airport, which serves the Rio Grande Valley region.
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The city is known for its cultural events, such as the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show, and the Harlingen Art Night.
It also has several parks and recreational areas, including the Hugh Ramsey Nature Park, which is a popular spot for hiking and bird-watching.
The Iwo Jima Memorial and Museum is also located in Harlingen, and it honors the brave soldiers who fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II.
6. Conway, Arkansas
Conway is a city in central Arkansas that has a low cost of living and a strong job market in education and healthcare.
Conway, Arkansas, is considered to be one of the cheapest cities to live in the United States for several reasons, including:
- Low Cost of Housing: The cost of housing in Conway is relatively low compared to other cities in the United States. The median home price in Conway is around $170,000, which is significantly lower than the national median home price of around $350,000.
- Low Cost of Living: The cost of living in Conway is also relatively low. Basic expenses such as food, utilities, and healthcare are affordable in comparison to other cities.
- Low Taxes: Arkansas has one of the lowest state income tax rates in the United States. This means that residents of Conway have more disposable income to spend on other necessities.
- Job Opportunities: Conway has a growing economy, with several major employers such as Acxiom Corporation and the University of Central Arkansas. The job market is competitive, but salaries are competitive with the low cost of living.
Overall, Conway offers a high quality of life with low costs of living, making it an attractive option for individuals and families who want to stretch their dollars further.
7. Jonesboro, Arkansas
Jonesboro is a city in northeastern Arkansas that has a low cost of living and a strong job market in healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
Jonesboro is a city located in Craighead County, in the northeastern region of Arkansas. With a population of around 76,000 people, it is the fifth-largest city in the state. Jonesboro is known for its vibrant economy, diverse culture, and friendly community.
One of the main drivers of Jonesboro’s economy is its position as a regional hub for education, healthcare, and retail.
It is home to Arkansas State University, which has a student population of around 14,000, and several other colleges and universities in the surrounding area.
Healthcare is also a significant industry in Jonesboro, with several major hospitals and medical centers serving the region.
Additionally, the city has a thriving retail sector, with several shopping centers and restaurants.
Jonesboro has a rich cultural heritage, with a diverse population that includes African Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans.
The city hosts several annual events, including the Johnny Cash Music Festival, the Delta Symposium, and the NEA District Fair.
The downtown area is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Craighead County Courthouse and the ASU Museum.
The city also boasts several parks and recreational areas, including Craighead Forest Park and Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center.
These areas offer residents and visitors opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities.
Overall, Jonesboro is a vibrant and growing city that offers a high quality of life for its residents. It is known for its strong economy, rich cultural heritage, and friendly community, making it an attractive destination for people from all walks of life
8. Sherman, Texas
Sherman is a city in north Texas that has a low cost of living and a strong job market in healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
Sherman, Texas is considered to be a cheap city to live in for several reasons:
- Low Cost of Housing: The cost of housing in Sherman is relatively low compared to other cities in the United States. The median home price in Sherman is around $150,000, which is significantly lower than the national median home price of around $350,000. This makes it an attractive option for people looking to buy a home on a budget.
- Low Cost of Living: The cost of living in Sherman is also relatively low. Basic expenses such as food, utilities, and healthcare are affordable in comparison to other cities. This is due in part to the lower tax burden in Texas compared to many other states.
- Job Opportunities: Sherman has a diverse economy with industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing playing important roles. The job market is competitive, and salaries are generally competitive with the low cost of living.
- Good Quality of Life: Sherman has a small-town feel with a friendly community, a low crime rate, and several parks and recreational areas. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and boating in the nearby Lake Texoma, which is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Overall, Sherman offers a high quality of life with low costs of living, making it an attractive option for individuals and families who want to stretch their dollars further.
Its affordability, job opportunities, and quality of life make it an attractive destination for people looking for a low-cost city to live in.
9. Pueblo, Colorado
Located in southern Colorado, Pueblo has a low cost of living and a strong job market in healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
Pueblo is a city located in the southern part of the state of Colorado in the United States. It is the county seat of Pueblo County and has a population of approximately 110,000 people.
Pueblo has a rich history and was once a major hub for transportation and industry in the western United States.
Today, it is known for its steel mills, as well as its outdoor recreational opportunities and cultural attractions.
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Some of the top things to do in Pueblo include visiting the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk, which features restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues along the riverfront; exploring the Pueblo Zoo, which is home to over 400 animals from around the world; and checking out the Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center, which showcases art exhibitions and live performances.
Other popular attractions in Pueblo include the Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum, which displays a wide range of historic aircraft; the Pueblo Heritage Museum, which explores the region’s rich cultural history; and Lake Pueblo State Park, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.
Overall, Pueblo is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors and residents alike, from its diverse cultural attractions to its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities
10. Kokomo, Indiana
Kokomo is a city in central Indiana that has a low cost of living and a strong job market in manufacturing and healthcare.
Compared to some other parts of the United States, the cost of living in Kokomo, Indiana can be relatively affordable.
The cost of housing, in particular, tends to be lower in Kokomo than in many other cities.
According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living in different cities, the cost of living in Kokomo is about 24% lower than the national average.
However, the cost of living in Kokomo can still vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of housing, the neighborhood, and individual lifestyle choices.
For example, if you choose to live in a more expensive neighborhood, or if you have a high level of spending on entertainment, dining out, or other discretionary expenses, your overall cost of living may be higher.
Overall, Kokomo can be a relatively affordable place to live compared to many other parts of the United States, but it is important to carefully consider your individual circumstances and budget when making decisions about where to live.
11. Springfield, Ohio
Located in southwestern Ohio, Springfield has a low cost of living and a strong job market in healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
Springfield is a city located in the southwestern part of the state of Ohio in the United States. It is the county seat of Clark County and has a population of approximately 60,000 people.
The cost of living in Springfield, Ohio, is generally considered to be lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live.
According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living in different cities, the cost of living in Springfield is about 12% lower than the national average.
Housing costs in Springfield are particularly affordable, with the median home price being significantly lower than the national median.
Other expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are also relatively affordable compared to other parts of the country.
Springfield has a rich history, and there are many interesting attractions to explore in the area. These include the Springfield Museum of Art, the Hartman Rock Garden, and the Heritage Center of Clark County.
The city is also home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas, such as Buck Creek State Park, which offers opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and camping.
Overall, Springfield, Ohio, is an affordable place to live with a range of attractions and amenities to offer residents and visitors.
12. Lima, Ohio
Lima is a city in northwestern Ohio that has a low cost of living and a strong job market in manufacturing and healthcare.
Lima is a city located in the northwestern part of the state of Ohio in the United States. Compared to some other parts of the country, the cost of living in Lima can be relatively affordable.
However, the cost of living in Lima can vary depending on several factors, including the type of housing, the neighborhood, and individual lifestyle choices.
According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living in different cities, the cost of living in Lima, Ohio, is about 15% lower than the national average.
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Housing costs in Lima are particularly affordable, with the median home price being significantly lower than the national median.
Other expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are also generally lower in Lima than in many other parts of the country.
However, healthcare and education costs in Lima can be higher than the national average.
Overall, Lima can be an affordable place to live, but it is important to carefully consider your individual circumstances and budget when making decisions about where to live.
13. Danville, Illinois
Danville is a city in eastern Illinois that has a low cost of living and a strong job market in healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
Danville is a city located in the eastern part of the state of Illinois in the United States. It is the county seat of Vermilion County and has a population of approximately 31,000 people.
Compared to some other parts of the United States, the cost of living in Danville, Illinois can be relatively affordable.
According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living in different cities, the cost of living in Danville is about 16% lower than the national average.
Housing costs in Danville are particularly affordable, with the median home price being significantly lower than the national median.
Other expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are also generally lower in Danville than in many other parts of the country.
Danville has a rich history, and there are many interesting attractions to explore in the area. These include the Vermilion County War Museum, the Danville Science Center, and the Danville Art League.
The city is also home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas, such as the Kennekuk County Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping.
Overall, Danville, Illinois is an affordable place to live with a range of attractions and amenities to offer residents and visitors.
However, it is important to carefully consider your individual circumstances and budget when making decisions about where to live.
14. Muskogee, Oklahoma
Muskogee is a city in eastern Oklahoma that has a low cost of living and a strong job market in healthcare and manufacturing.
Muskogee, Oklahoma, is a city located in the northeastern part of the state of Oklahoma in the United States.
Compared to some other parts of the country, the cost of living in Muskogee can be relatively affordable. However, whether it is among the cheapest cities to live in the US would depend on various factors and comparisons with other cities.
According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living in different cities, the cost of living in Muskogee is about 23% lower than the national average.
Housing costs in Muskogee are particularly affordable, with the median home price being significantly lower than the national median.
Other expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are also generally lower in Muskogee than in many other parts of the country.
However, it is important to keep in mind that the cost of living can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of housing, the neighborhood, and individual lifestyle choices.
While Muskogee may be an affordable place to live, it may not necessarily be the cheapest city to live in the US. It is recommended to research and compare the cost of living in several cities before making any decisions about where to live
15. Hastings, Nebraska
Located in south-central Nebraska, Hastings has a low cost of living and a strong job market in healthcare and manufacturing.
Hastings is a city located in the south-central part of the state of Nebraska in the United States. It is the county seat of Adams County and has a population of approximately 25,000 people.
Compared to some other parts of the country, the cost of living in Hastings can be relatively affordable. According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living in different cities, the cost of living in Hastings is about 17% lower than the national average.
Housing costs in Hastings are particularly affordable, with the median home price being significantly lower than the national median.
Other expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are also generally lower in Hastings than in many other parts of the country.
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Hastings has a range of attractions and amenities to offer residents and visitors. These include the Hastings Museum, the Brickyard Park, and the Adams County Fairgrounds.
The city is also home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas, such as Heartwell Park and Lake Hastings, which offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping.
Overall, Hastings, Nebraska is an affordable place to live with a range of attractions and amenities.
However, it is important to carefully consider your individual circumstances and budget when making decisions about where to live.
16. Marion, Indiana
Marion is a city in central Indiana that has a low cost of living and a strong job market in manufacturing and healthcare.
Marion is a city located in the north-central part of the state of Indiana in the United States. It is the county seat of Grant County and has a population of approximately 28,000 people.
Compared to some other parts of the country, the cost of living in Marion can be relatively affordable.
According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living in different cities, the cost of living in Marion is about 17% lower than the national average.
Housing costs in Marion are particularly affordable, with the median home price being significantly lower than the national median.
Other expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are also generally lower in Marion than in many other parts of the country.
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Marion has a range of attractions and amenities to offer residents and visitors. These include the James Dean Gallery, the Quilters Hall of Fame, and the Marion Civic Theatre.
The city is also home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas, such as Matter Park and Splash House Water Park, which offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping.
Overall, Marion, Indiana, is an affordable place to live with a range of attractions and amenities. However, it is important to carefully consider your individual circumstances and budget when making decisions about where to live.
17. Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Located in southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg has a low cost of living and a strong job market in healthcare and education.
Hattiesburg is a city located in the southeastern part of the state of Mississippi in the United States. It is the county seat of Forrest County and has a population of approximately 46,000 people.
Compared to some other parts of the country, the cost of living in Hattiesburg can be relatively affordable.
According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living in different cities, the cost of living in Hattiesburg is about 13% lower than the national average.
Housing costs in Hattiesburg are particularly affordable, with the median home price being significantly lower than the national median.
Other expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are also generally lower in Hattiesburg than in many other parts of the country.
Hattiesburg has a range of attractions and amenities to offer residents and visitors. These include the Hattiesburg Zoo, the African American Military History Museum, and the University of Southern Mississippi.
The city is also home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas, such as the Longleaf Trace, a 41-mile-long biking and hiking trail.
18. Ottumwa, Iowa
Ottumwa is a city in southeastern Iowa that has a low cost of living and a strong job market in healthcare and manufacturing.
Ottumwa is a city located in the southeastern part of the state of Iowa in the United States. It is the county seat of Wapello County and has a population of approximately 24,000 people.
Compared to some other parts of the country, the cost of living in Ottumwa can be relatively affordable.
According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living in different cities, the cost of living in Ottumwa is about 15% lower than the national average.
Housing costs in Ottumwa are particularly affordable, with the median home price being significantly lower than the national median.
Other expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are also generally lower in Ottumwa than in many other parts of the country.
Ottumwa has a range of attractions and amenities to offer residents and visitors. These include the American Gothic House Center, the Wapello County Historical Museum, and the Beach Ottumwa, an indoor water park.
The city is also home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas, such as the Greater Ottumwa Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping.
19. Claremont, New Hampshire
Claremont is a city in western New Hampshire that has a low cost of living and a strong job market in healthcare and manufacturing.
Claremont is a city located in the western part of the state of New Hampshire in the United States. It is the largest city in Sullivan County and has a population of approximately 13,000 people.
Compared to some other parts of the country, the cost of living in Claremont can be relatively affordable. According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living in different cities, the cost of living in Claremont is about 4% lower than the national average.
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Housing costs in Claremont are also generally affordable, with the median home price being lower than the national median.
Other expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are generally lower in Claremont than in many other parts of the country. Claremont has a range of attractions and amenities to offer residents and visitors.
These include the Claremont Opera House, the Claremont Savings Bank Community Center, and the Arrowhead Recreation Area, which offers opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter and hiking, mountain biking, and disc golf in the summer.
20. Hutchinson, Kansas
Hutchinson is a city in south-central Kansas that has a low cost of living and a strong job market in healthcare and manufacturing.
Hutchinson is a city located in the central part of the state of Kansas in the United States. It is the largest city and county seat of Reno County and has a population of approximately 40,000 people.
Compared to some other parts of the country, the cost of living in Hutchinson can be relatively affordable.
According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living in different cities, the cost of living in Hutchinson is about 11% lower than the national average.
Housing costs in Hutchinson are particularly affordable, with the median home price being significantly lower than the national median.
Other expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are also generally lower in Hutchinson than in many other parts of the country.
Hutchinson has a range of attractions and amenities to offer residents and visitors. These include the Cosmosphere, a space museum and STEM education center, the Hutchinson Zoo, and the Kansas State Fairgrounds.
The city is also home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas, such as the Sand Hills State Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Conclusion
There are plenty of affordable cities to live in the United States. Whether you’re looking for a big city or a small town, there are options for everyone.
The cities on this list have a low cost of living and a strong job market in various industries, making them great places to consider if you’re looking to save money and build a life.
Of course, the cost of living isn’t the only factor to consider when choosing a place to live. It’s important to research the city’s amenities, culture, and quality of life to make sure it’s a good fit for you.
However, if affordability is a top priority, these 20 cities are a great place to start your search.
It’s also worth noting that the cost of living can vary widely within a city. For example, certain neighborhoods in a city may be significantly more expensive than others.
It’s important to research the specific area you’re interested in living in to get a better sense of the cost of living.
Overall, the United States has a diverse range of cities and towns to choose from, each with its own unique character and cost of living.
With some research and planning, you can find a place that fits your lifestyle and budget.
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