Does it seem like your money runs short no matter what you do to economize? You’re not alone. Money today just doesn’t seem to go as far as it used to. That doesn’t mean you have to settle for living paycheck to paycheck.
There are cities in the U.S. where your money goes further and gives you some financial breathing room. If you already live in one of these cities, you’re very fortunate. If you don’t and are willing to consider relocating, it may be worth your while.
Atlanta, Georgia
Many Southern cities have a cost of living that falls far below that of other regions of the country, and Atlanta, Georgia is no exception. Not only is Atlanta one of the more affordable cities to live in, it’s also one of the most vibrant.
The city has a rich history and is a cultural mecca of entertainment, fashion, sports, and the arts. Atlanta is a city where you can travel back in time for more than 100 years in one neighborhood, and be in the modern era in the next one.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
If you love the idea of living in a picturesque Rocky Mountain state, then Colorado Springs is more than a viable option. Not only does your money last longer in The Springs, you’ll be awed every day by your surroundings.
Colorado Springs is one of those cities that is ideal for making your own adventure, whether as a single person, a couple, or a family. Between river rafting, hiking, climbing, and flying in an air balloon, you’ll never be bored there.
Durham, North Carolina
Durham is not only an affordable and beautiful city to live in, it’s also one of the most educated cities in the South. North Carolina Central University and Duke University are located there, along with several other educational institutions.
It may be a smaller city, but don’t let its size deceive you. It has many of the big city amenities, such as award winning restaurants serving various types of cuisine and amazing coffee shops, without the big city headaches.
Portland, Oregon
It’s easy to understand why people think California has the coolest cities on the West Coast. It certainly does have its fair share of fabulous places to live, but don’t sleep on Portland, Oregon, which is also an amazing city in its own right.
One of the things that makes Portland one of the more affordable cities to live in is there’s no sales tax in the city or state. That alone will stretch your dollar even further. You can use those savings to dine from one of the city’s hundreds of food trucks and pods.
Omaha, Nebraska
In the heart of the Midwestern states is Omaha, Nebraska. You may wonder why a move to Omaha would be on your radar. The cost of living there is much more approachable than in many big cities on both costs, and there’s so much to do!
The arts scene alone will dazzle and impress you. The city has talented sculptors, muralists, and other artists, whose works are displayed in public areas across the city. You may even find yourself inspired to get in touch with your artistic side.
Corpus Christi, Texas
Many beach areas in the U.S. are known for having a high cost of living that’s not possible for most of us to afford. Corpus Christie is a city where you can enjoy more than 80 miles of beaches while living someplace where your dollar goes a long way.
Besides the beautiful beaches in downtown Corpus Christi, there are also multiple beaches in Padre Island and Mustang Island to swim, surf, fish from a jetty, or just spend your free time relaxing on the warm sands.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Talk to a local from the Southern city, and they’ll proudly tell you that “Charlotte got a lot,” and it does. Its entertainment venues, art scene, restaurants galore, and reasonable cost of living are enough to make you a believer.
Charlotte is full of all the Southern charm that region of the country is known for, not to mention the city’s connection to athletics. NASCAR, the Charlotte Hornets, and the Carolina Panthers all have a presence there, which is a huge draw for sports fans.
Bakersfield, California
The state of California is rightfully known as being one of the most expensive places to live in the U.S. However, there are small pockets of communities within the state that are relatively inexpensive for many workers and even retirees.
Bakersfield is one of those cities. The warm year-round weather means there are plenty of outdoor activities to look forward to, no matter the month. Stop by the Haggin Oaks Farmers Market for farm to table foods, or attend the annual fair at the Kern County Fairgrounds.
Denver, Colorado
The Mile High City is becoming a popular destination for transplants from other states, and with good reason. Denver boasts diverse, affordable neighborhoods, each with unique attributes, along with a walkable downtown area.
Nature lovers will delight in the substantial green spaces the city has to offer. At the Denver Botanic Gardens, you’ll find events and exhibitions taking place throughout the year. Washington Park and City Park are also impressive outdoor spaces.
Lexington, Kentucky
The Horse Capital of the World earned its name because of the approximately 450 farms in the area, and its thriving horse culture. If you have a deep love of horses or even a passing interest in them, Lexington is the place to be.
Like many other cities in the South, Lexington is a great place to live where your dollar goes further. It’s also accessible to other major cities by car or a short flight, including Memphis, Nashville, Norfolk, and Indianapolis.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
If you prefer living in a budget-friendly city with four definitive seasons, then you should consider Minneapolis, which provides both natural and manmade beauty 12 months a year. Minneapolis is home to the Mary Tyler Moore statue, and renowned murals of music legends Prince and Bob Dylan.
The natural beauty of Minneapolis is as unique as the city itself. The Minniehaha Falls is 53 feet high, and can be observed from the ground or from the top. Hike one of the adjacent trails or visit nearby Minnehaha Park and have a picnic.
Irving, Texas
Texas may have prominent big cities like Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, but it’s also home to the city of Irving. Not far from Dallas-Fort Worth and the airport, Irving is a city that distinguishes itself from the DFW.
You can take a peaceful ride on a gondola without having to visit Venice, Italy. In the community of Las Colinas, there’s a giant working clock that’s made of green plants and flowers. Irving is also one of the more moderately priced cities in the country.