Many data points are used to calculate the most affordable cities in America. Housing costs, income levels, demographics, and infrastructure are just a few things that are considered. The cities on this list will allow you to stretch your dollar without forcing you to sacrifice your quality of life.
Boise, ID
Population: 214,196Young families are flocking to Idaho’s capital because it’s one of the safest cities in the country. Start-up companies and a burgeoning tech scene draw talent from all over the U.S.
Raleigh, NC
Population: 432,520The only Southern city on the list, the capital of North Carolina is one of the fastest-growing cities in America: its metropolitan population increased by about 18% between 2010 and 2017. This beautiful city is also home to NFL and NHL teams: the Panthers and the Hurricanes, respectively.
Madison, WI
Population: 243,122The home of the University of Wisconsin will always have a small-town feel because no building on the Madison Isthmus may be constructed at a taller height than the capitol building, which stands at about 284 feet tall. Affordable housing, low crime rates, and a vibrant nightlife keep the population rate trending upward.
Iowa City, IA
Population: 71,832Go for the Hawkeyes football game - stay for the world’s largest wooden nickel. Iowa City is one of just 28 cities in the world designated as a UNESCO City of Literature. A median monthly rent of $924 and safe neighborhoods make this a nice place to live.
Rochester, MN
Population: 116,000Increasing home prices - which mean a greater return on investment when it comes time to sell again - and steady population growth make the home of the renowned Mayo Clinic a desired destination. In Rochester, you can dedicate a smaller portion of your income to housing and taxes.
Columbia, MO
Population: 115,391The home of the University of Missouri has a low average rent price of $950. The beautiful lakes and caves of Rock Bridge State Park surround the area, making it a nice mix of urban and rural.
Sioux Falls, SD
Population: 164,341A cost of living 2% below the national average and the availability of jobs in health care and financial services are a few reasons why people are moving to Sioux Falls. The local government also offers tax abatement and other perks to attract new residents.
Pittsburgh, PA
Population: 305,928Residents of the Steel City enjoy a lower cost of living than their neighbors in Philadelphia, spending only 20% of their income on housing and related expenses.
Lincoln, NE
Population: 269,726A median home value of $160,000 and a median household income of $55,792 makes the capital of Nebraska an ideal place to stretch a dollar. Home to the University of Nebraska, Lincoln has plenty to do, day or night.
Greenville, SC
Population: 61,734Greensville’s population saw an increase of over 4% from 2013 to 2017. Manufacturing giants like Michelin and General Electric are big draws for people looking for work and a good quality of life.
