The cost of living is rising to unaffordable levels across the United States. Between housing and utility costs, the rising price of food, and higher gas costs, making ends meet has become a challenge, even when you make an effort to live frugally.
Fortunately, there are places around the country where the cost of living is affordable. For $2500 a month, you can live comfortably in these wonderful cities and towns. They’re worth a look if you’re thinking of relocating.*
Mobile, Alabama
A vibrant Southern city with a long history, Mobile, Alabama is a Gulf Coast town with personality to spare. It was once called the Paris of the South, and it’s still a place where friendly people, good food, and culture come together.
Mobile is also extremely affordable with an $1825 monthly cost of living, and the mild winters appeal to snowbirds who are ready to put cold wintry weather behind them. Mobile may not be on your relocation radar, but it should be.
Tucson, Arizona
The desert Southwest is some of the most picturesque and gorgeous areas on earth, and Tucson, Arizona is no exception. The beauty of the Sonoran Desert alone is enough to make you want to move there as soon as possible.
The city offers a blend of Mexican and American cultures, and has events and activities year round. The bright sun gives way to an amazing night sky where the stars look close enough to touch. For a $1957 monthly cost of living, you can make it happen.
Fayetteville, Arkansas
If moving to the South is of interest to you, then take in the stunning beauty of the Ozark Mountains while living in Fayetteville, Arkansas. With more than 4000 acres dedicated to parks and natural areas, there’s plenty to do outdoors.
If the name Fayetteville sounds familiar to sports fans, it’s the home of the University of Arkansas and its Razorbacks teams. The city also has an art scene that can hold its own with other cities around the U.S. The cost of living in Fayetteville is $1968 a month.
Fort Wayne, Indiana
What does a $1939 monthly cost of living get you in the U.S.? A pretty nice life in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The city has a lot going for it, such as being the headquarters of Vera Bradley, the famed manufacturer of handbags and other lifestyle goods.
Fort Wayne is full of hidden gems, like its historical West Central Neighborhood and Southwood Park, and has other distinctive communities. It’s also in proximity to popular destinations, including Chicago, Milwaukee, Louisville, and Cincinnati.
Wichita, Kansas
It’s no exaggeration to say that many people think the Midwest is full of sleepy towns, but Wichita, Kansas has an energy that’s a pleasant surprise. Art lovers can participate in the First Friday Gallery Crawl, where amazing art can be viewed at various locations around the city.
The nightlife in Wichita is highly active, with nightclubs and over 200 restaurants and bars, as well as multiple entertainment spots in Old Town. You can go dancing or enjoy a quiet get together with friends, all for $1811 a month.
Lansing, Michigan
Called the Festival Capital of Michigan, greater Lansing hosts numerous festivals and events to the delight of residents and visitors alike. The MSU Science Festival, Puppy Yoga, and karaoke at Summerlands Brewing Company are just a few examples of the fun to be had in Lansing.
Do you prefer buying sustainable, locally sourced food? You’re in luck if you live in Lansing. The city has multiple farmers markets, some open seasonally and others that are open all year. You’ll get a lot for your money with a monthly cost of living that comes in at $1582.
Jackson, Mississippi
The self-described “City with Soul” lives up to its name with its soulful music scene, colorful arts culture, and historical museums. Jackson’s culinary creations range from Southern fusion restaurants to James Beard award-winning eateries.
One of the city’s claims to fame is it’s the birthplace of famed novelist Eudora Welty, Her impact on the community is felt even to this day. The Eudora Welty House and Garden is a centerpiece of the city. The $1954 monthly cost of living only adds to Jackson’t appeal.
Fargo, North Dakota
Fargo was put on the map by the movie and television show of the same name, and yes, it’s located in a region of the country known for having cold winters. The affordable $1666 a month cost of living is enough to withstand a few cold months.
No matter what time of year it is, there’s a lot to see in Fargo. For aviation enthusiasts, the Fargo Air Museum has classic aircraft and interactive exhibits. The Historic Fargo Museum has been open for more than 90 years and is a major attraction.
Norman, Oklahoma
Norman may not be the biggest city in Oklahoma, but that only adds to its charm. It simultaneously has big city amenities combined with the quaint atmosphere found in small towns. You get the best of both worlds for $1989 a month.
A large part of the small town feel is found in the unique shops and boutiques From flower shops to clothing stores, and record stores to stationary shops, shopping in Norman is a fun experience for everyone.
Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Despite its tragic history as the site of the terrible flood that occurred in 1889, there’s much more to Johnstown than that. Surrounded by the Allegheny Mountain range, the city of Johnstown has a place in Hollywood history.
The 1977 hockey film Slap Shot, starring Paul Newman, was filmed there. Today, you can take a tour of the different filming locations. It’s a great way to see the picturesque beauty of the region. It also has a very reasonable $1455 a month cost of living.
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Living in Sioux Falls means having the ability to participate in fun, interesting, and unique activities all year long. The history of Sioux Falls isn’t complete without acknowledging the contributions of Indigenous Americans.
The beauty of the Indigenous American culture is found in modern events like the All My Relatives festival, and in the city’s history, which includes the Woodland Indian cemetery that’s more than 1600 years old. You can experience dynamic American history for $1848 a month.
Memphis, Tennessee
For nonstop entertainment, it doesn’t get much better than Beale Street, where legends like W.C. Handy and B.B. KIng made their mark. A National Historical Landmark, Beale Street is the home of the International Blues Challenge.
The music doesn’t stop there. The iconic Stax Records museum is the home studio of Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Booker T. and the MGs. There’s also Elvis Presley’s beloved Graceland. You can be a part of this music hub for $1874 a month.
Abilene, Texas
Texas has a spirit like no other state, and when you move to Abilene, you’ll experience it firsthand. Its Downtown Cultural District has walkable streets lined with restaurants, shops, and the world’s largest collection of storybook statues.
The monthly cost of living, which is $1763, keeps enough money in your pocket to enjoy the city in style. During the day, you can visit the Abilene Zoo, go birdwatching, or hike through Abilene State Park. After dark, you can catch a concert or go dancing.
Waco, Texas
Another city with that unique Texas spirit is Waco. Its diversity is evident in the people and its food culture. The city has dozens upon dozens of restaurants and food trucks, serving everything from fine dining to Tex-Mex.
After sampling the food, there are plenty of places to visit where you can get in touch with nature, like the Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat, the Carleen Bright Arboretum, and Cameron Park. The cost of living is $2230 a month, giving you the extra funds you need to roam your new home
* Cost of living is for one person, including rent. Cost of living data obtained from: https://livingcost.org/cost/united-states