Living Comfortably
Just Imagine living in a city where you can have money left over each month. Sounds impossible, right? While big cities drain your wallet with expensive living costs, many American cities still offer affordability and good quality of life.
Columbus, Georgia
Columbus is an ideal choice for those seeking affordability with a mix of Southern charm and outdoor adventure. It’s one of the cheapest cities in Georgia, with an average home price of around $160,000 as of 2025. Retirees specifically find it affordable because it has no social security tax.
Brightbillmedia, Wikimedia Commons
Columbus, Georgia (Cont.)
Many young adults also consider moving to Columbus because it offers many job opportunities, especially in manufacturing and healthcare. Overall, the utility prices are almost 9% cheaper than the rest of the US, plus there are different outdoor activities to practice in your free time.
St Louis, Missouri
Living in St Louis means enjoying housing expenses that are almost 27% lower than the US average. This makes it a hot spot for young people, especially those interested in the arts and music scene. Moreover, it offers good jobs in the fields of healthcare and tech.
Daniel Schwen, Wikimedia Commons
St Louis, Missouri (Cont.)
With a median home price of around $171,000 and low property taxes, St Louis is a great place to stretch your dollar. Plus, it offers tax breaks for retirees. Sports fans can also enjoy the Cardinals and Blues, while food lovers appreciate the city’s barbecue and toasted ravioli.
Tyson Blanquart, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Fort Wayne is one of the most affordable mid-sized cities in the Midwest. The median home price is around $227,000, and the cost of living is 9% below the national average. The city’s economy is fueled by healthcare and defense industries and offers many good job opportunities.
FTSKfan (talk), Wikimedia Commons
Fort Wayne, Indiana (Cont.)
Many retirees choose Fort Wayne because it offers a strong sense of community. It’s also a great place to start a family and become a homeowner, with low property taxes and utility prices that are about 5% lower than in other American cities.
Diego Delso
, Wikimedia Commons
Jacksonville, Florida
If you love Florida but want to avoid the high costs of Miami or Orlando, Jacksonville is a fantastic option. The median home price hovers around $289,000, but Florida’s lack of state income tax makes it more affordable in the long run.
“Jon Zander (Digon3)”, Wikimedia Commons
Jacksonville, Florida (Cont.)
Jacksonville has a growing job market in finance and logistics, plus miles of beaches and the scenic St Johns River. The warm climate attracts retirees, who also get to enjoy a cost of living that is 6% cheaper than the rest of the US.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Located at the Appalachian foothills, Chattanooga is one of the best affordable cities for nature lovers. Average home prices can be around $302,000, and there’s no state income tax, so it can be a smart financial choice if you struggle with your financial commitments.
Chattanooga, Tennessee (Cont.)
There are also different opportunities, as Chattanooga has a 3.4% unemployment rate, which is lower than the average rate in the US. The median annual income is $66,000 as of 2025, so it’s a good place for young people and those trying to improve their financial situation.
Thomsonmg2000, Wikimedia Commons
Augusta, Georgia
Famous for hosting the Masters Golf Tournament, Augusta is more than just a sports destination. It’s a good place to start a family because the median home price sits around $169,000, and Georgia’s relatively low property taxes make homeownership more affordable.
Augusta, Georgia (Cont.)
The cost of living is about 13% below the national average, with solid job prospects in cybersecurity and the military due to nearby Fort Gordon. Housing expenses are about 32% lower when compared to the average prices in the US.
Sir Mildred Pierce, Wikimedia Commons
Huntsville, Alabama
Huntsville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the South, yet it remains highly affordable. Most people can afford to buy a house around the $307,000 mark, and the utility prices are about 7% below the national average.
No machine-readable author provided. Anivron assumed (based on copyright claims)., Wikimedia Commons
Huntsville, Alabama (Cont.)
As a result, it’s an attractive destination for those who want to maximize their savings. The city is known for its booming aerospace and tech industries, led by NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and Redstone Arsenal. It also has a strong education system and plenty of green spaces.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
If you’re looking for a city where you can enjoy good tax benefits, Oklahoma City should be on top of your list. The State of Oklahoma has no estate or inheritance tax, and Oklahoma City’s housing expenses are almost 36% lower than those of other states.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Cont.)
Retirees can find Oklahoma City a good place to live because social security benefits aren’t taxable. Moreover, there’s a $10,000 deduction across all types of retirement or work income. Although sales tax is somehow high, property tax is actually very low.
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Football fans know Green Bay as home to the Packers, but it’s also one of the most affordable places to live in the Midwest. With a median home price of around $252,000, homeownership can be within reach for younger adults.
Green Bay, Wisconsin (Cont.)
The city has a strong manufacturing and healthcare job market, plus an excellent public school system. Green Bay’s housing expenses are 19% lower than the national average while utilities cost almost 9% cheaper than other states.
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Housing expenses in Grand Rapids are about 7% lower than the national average. People living there can also enjoy slightly lower utility and transportation expenses. Moreover, the city is quite safe for retirees and families.
Rachel Kramer, Wikimedia Commons
Grand Rapids, Michigan (Cont.)
Most people can afford buying a house for around $271,000. Grand Rapids also has a strong economy with jobs in several industries including metals, plastics, medical devices, automotive, and food processing. Moreover, it has a thriving art scene.
Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland is making a comeback with a low median home price of around $108,000 and the cost of living nearly 9% below the national average. The job market is strong in healthcare with major employers like the Cleveland Clinic.
FlickreviewR, Wikimedia Commons
Cleveland, Ohio (Cont.)
Medical equipment, medications, and groceries are tax exempted in Cleveland. Retirees find it an appealing place because of the good medical services provided and the absence of social security taxes. Additionally, the city has a good public transportation system.
Charleston, South Carolina
Interested in Southern living? In addition to the warm weather and world-famous cuisine, those living in Charleston, South Carolina, enjoy the lack of state income tax on social security and low property taxes. It’s a pretty affordable place for a coastal city.
Charleston, South Carolina (Cont.)
Although utility and grocery prices are almost the same as the national average, medical expenses are almost 14% lower. Moreover, transportation expenses like bus fares and gas prices are about 9% cheaper than other cities in the US.
Chris Pruitt, Wikimedia Commons
Clinton, Mississippi
For those seeking small-town charm with big-city conveniences, Clinton is a top pick. The cost of living is 17% below the national average, making it a great place to save money. Moreover, the average utility prices are 17% lower than other cities.
Clinton, Mississippi (Cont.)
The city has a strong education sector, thanks to Mississippi College, and job opportunities in government and healthcare. Overall, the State of Mississippi has a below average income tax rate and property taxes are low.
Ken Lund from Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, Wikimedia Commons
Brownsville, Texas
Located on the Texas-Mexico border, Brownsville is one of the Lone Star State's most affordable cities. With a median home price of around $187,000 and no state income tax, it’s a great option for budget-conscious residents.
Brownsville, Texas (Cont.)
The cost of living is about 15% below the national average, and utilities are 21% below other American cities. It’s an excellent place for retirees because of the affordable prices and safe community. Moreover, its warm climate and proximity to South Padre Island make it a paradise for outdoor lovers.
City of Brownsville, TX - On the Border, by the Sea and Beyond by WebsEdgeSociety
Mobile, Alabama
Mobile combines Southern charm with affordability. The average home price is around $186,000, and the cost of living is 13% below the national average. As a port city, Mobile offers job opportunities in shipping and aerospace. It’s also home to America’s original Mardi Gras celebration.
Altairisfar, Wikimedia Commons
Mobile, Alabama (Cont.)
It’s a top choice for renters, with the average rent a little above $1,000. Additionally, you can find several healthcare facilities and good retirement homes. The taxes are below the national average, which is why living in Mobile is affordable for most people.
Wilmington, North Carolina
For those who want coastal living without the high price tag, Wilmington is an ideal choice. The median home price is about $404,000, making it more affordable than many other East Coast beach towns, as the cost of housing is about 23% lower than in other cities.
Jason W. Smith, Wikimedia Commons
Wilmington, North Carolina (Cont.)
North Carolina’s low property taxes add to the affordability. The city’s economy is driven by film production and healthcare, offering many opportunities to young adults. At the same time, retirees can live on a beachfront while enjoying lower taxes.
Bud Davis, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Wikimedia Commons
Indianapolis, Indiana
As one of the most affordable big cities in America, Indianapolis offers a median home price of around $220,000 and a cost of living 10% below the national average. The city is home to a strong job market with major employers like Eli Lilly and Salesforce.
Indianapolis, Indiana (Cont.)
Indianapolis is famous for the Indianapolis 500 and has a thriving sports culture. Utility prices are about 5% lower, while transportation prices are 4% lower than other American cities. Additionally, retirees can claim up to $10,000 in non-taxable income.
Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines usually ranks as one of the most affordable cities in the US. An average home costs around $200,000, and the cost of living is 13% below the national average. It offers multiple job opportunities with a low unemployment rate of about 3.1%.
Tim Kiser (w:User:Malepheasant), Wikimedia Commons
Des Moines, Iowa (Cont.)
People living in Des Moines can enjoy low utility prices and an average rent of about $1,043, which makes the city an excellent choice for young professionals and families. At the same time, it’s an attractive spot for retirees thanks to its low taxes.
Eric Friedebach, Wikimedia Commons
Salisbury, Maryland
Salisbury is a gem on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, which offers affordable living with a median home price of around $252,000. The city benefits from lower property taxes than much of Maryland and no sales tax.
Salisbury, Maryland (Cont.)
With its location near beaches like Ocean City and scenic outdoor spaces, Salisbury provides a mix of affordability and coastal access with an average cost of living that is 5% below the national average and 11% than the rest of Maryland.
Things To Do In Ocean City Maryland with The Legend by In The Loop
Syracuse, New York
Although New York is one of the most expensive states, many people can afford to live in Syracuse, where they can buy a home for an average price of $190,000. The city's relatively affordable rent makes it an attractive alternative to NYC.
John Marino from Pittsburgh, Wikimedia Commons
Syracuse, New York (Cont.)
Syracuse’s economy is driven by healthcare and the service sector, with Syracuse University playing a key role in the local job market. The unemployment rate is about 3.5%, which means that fewer jobs are left without a stable income.
Toledo, Ohio
If you're looking for a city with low housing costs, a strong job market, and plenty of amenities, Toledo, Ohio, is a great option. This Midwestern city offers an affordable lifestyle without sacrificing opportunities for entertainment and outdoor activities.
Toledo, Ohio (Cont.)
Toledo is one of the most affordable places to live in Ohio, with an average home price under $120,000 and a cost of living nearly 5.3% below the national average. Known as the "Glass City" for its glass production history, Toledo is also home to the Toledo Museum of Art and its famous Glass Pavilion.
Warren LeMay, Wikimedia Commons
Wichita, Kansas
Wichita is one of the most affordable cities in the US, with a median home price of around $190,000 and the cost of living nearly 11% below the national average. It’s a major hub for aerospace manufacturing, with companies like Boeing providing stable job opportunities.
Quintin Soloviev, Wikimedia Commons
Wichita, Kansas (Cont.)
Compared to other American cities, the overall housing expenses are about 32%, and the average rent can be around $1,303. Transportation prices and groceries are about 9% and 4% lower than the rest of the country, respectively.
