Rent prices are going up fast in certain areas, and it looks like there are no affordable places to live. More and more families are spending over half of their income on rent. This was revealed in a study by Harvard University and Enterprise Community Partners, Inc. This is tough for retired folks living on a fixed income or those trying to stick to a budget. Check out the post “Places In The U.S. Where You Can Live On $1,500 A Month” on SheBudgets for more info.
Casper, Wyoming
Casper is one of just nine states without an income tax, so you’re already saving money. It’s a cozy mountain town with a cost of living that’s 4.5 percent lower than the national average.
Source: TrueWestMagazine/Pinterest
The only downside is that groceries are a bit pricier than average. But if you’re into outdoor activities, you’ll love it here. There are tons of opportunities for boating, hiking, hunting, and fly fishing.
Davenport, Iowa
In Davenport, Iowa is one of these affordable places. It’s living costs are around 18.3 percent lower than the national average. This is good news for anyone considering settling down there. While healthcare expenses might be a bit higher, groceries are cheaper. Also, housing costs are almost half of what you’d find across the country.
Source: TravelAwaits/Pinterest
Art enthusiasts can explore the Figge Art Museum, showcasing artworks from the 15th century onwards. Music fans will also find plenty to enjoy with festivals featuring jazz, reggae, rock, country, and more. And you wouldn’t miss the Vander Veer Botanical Park, designed after New York City’s famous Central Park.
Lawton, Oklahoma
In Lawton, Oklahoma, healthcare costs a bit more than the country’s average price, but groceries and rent are cheaper. This makes the overall cost of living 23.8 percent lower than the national average, making it one of the most affordable places to live.
Source: Flickr/Pinterest
Lawton has a cozy small-town vibe but offers lots of cool city stuff to do. History lovers will enjoy checking out the Museum of the Great Plains. They would also love the Fort Sill National Historic Landmark & Museum. It is an old Army fort with roots dating back to 1869. Plus, you can go hiking to see buffalo.
Winston Salem, North Carolina
Winston Salem, North Carolina, is a wallet-friendly place compared to the rest of the country. Living costs here are nearly 19 percent lower than the America’s average cost of living. This is excellent news if you’re on a budget. While healthcare expenses might be a bit higher, the lower prices for groceries and housing make up for it.
Source: StyleBlueprint/Pinterest
Despite being affordable, Winston-Salem offers plenty of cool stuff to do. You can cheer on the Wake Forest University Demon Deacons at a football game. You can explore the historical sights of Old Salem, enjoy the vibrant art scene, and indulge in delicious food options.
Tallahassee, Florida
If you’re looking for a sunny getaway without breaking the bank, Tallahassee, Florida, is a great option. It’s cheaper to live there compared to other places in the country, with lower costs for groceries and rent. However, healthcare might be a bit pricier.
Source: ChristineDicicco/Pinterest
There are lots of things to do in Tallahassee. Things like attending the Swamp Stomp Music Festival and exploring museums like the Florida Historic Capitol Museum. You can also visit St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge.
Lansing, Michigan
Lansing, the capital of Michigan, stands out as one of the most affordable places to live. Groceries and healthcare here are cheaper than the national average. However, the real deal is housing. You’ll find homes are around 62.7 percent less expensive than the national average.
Source: SherryFernandez/Pinterest
Despite its affordability, Lansing offers plenty of cultural attractions like art galleries, theaters, parks, museums, and historical spots.
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a great place to live on a budget. From healthcare expenses to grocery bills and house prices, you’ll find things are more affordable here compared to other places in the country.
Source: TonetteB/Pinterest
The cost of living in Fort Wayne is 21.1 percent less than the national average. This means you can stretch your money further. Plus, there’s plenty to do downtown, with lots of galleries, shops, music, and historic areas to explore. It’s like enjoying a small-town vibe with significant savings.
Odessa, Texas
If you’re looking for an affordable place to live, consider Odessa, Texas. Housing costs are 25 percent lower than the national average. This means you’ll get more houses for less money. Also, grocery prices are cheaper, so you won’t spend a fortune stocking up on food.
Source: Natalie Wiser-Orozco/Pinterest
Odessa also has some incredible attractions, like an 8-foot-tall statue called Jack Ben Rabbit. It has a replica of Stonehenge and the Globe Theatre, which is a modern version of Shakespeare’s original. There are plenty of regular activities, too, like concerts, amusement parks, and college sports events.
St. Cloud, Minnesota
If you’re aiming to live on a budget of $1500 per month, consider St. Cloud, Minnesota. It’s 16.2 percent cheaper to live there compared to the national average. Rent is affordable, and groceries and healthcare won’t break the bank either.
Source: Flickr/Pinterest
St. Cloud has a cozy, small-town vibe, nestled by the Mississippi and Sauk Rivers. You’ll find beautiful nature spots like protected riverfront areas, parks, and preserves to explore.
Lorain, Ohio
In Lorain, Ohio, living costs are a bit higher than average, especially for healthcare and groceries. Living costs are about 9 percent more expensive than the national average.
Source: LarryHeidler/Pinterest
However, Lorain is still on our list because the median monthly rent is under $500. There are lots of cool things to do here, like visiting museums, art galleries, and wineries. You can also check out the lighthouse, play golf, or go fishing.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is actually quite affordable. This is because the cost of living there is 18.4 percent lower than the average in the country. Housing and grocery prices are much cheaper compared to the rest of the country.
Source: KellyBlasi/Pinterest
There are tons of fun things to do, like playing golf at four different courses and exploring over 70 parks. You could also visit museums like the African American Museum of Iowa, the Czech Village District, and much more. You’ll never run out of activities in this lively city along the Cedar River.
Lynchburg, Virginia
Lynchburg, Virginia, is a great place to live if you’re watching your budget. Everything from housing to groceries is also cheaper, making it more affordable. You will get stunning views of the Blue Ridge and the Appalachian Mountains.
Source: BlueRidgeOutdoors/Pinterest
You will also get a blend of modern and old neighborhoods to explore. If you’re into history, you’ll love checking out Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest and the Civil War Trail. But there’s more than just history here; Lynchburg also offers riverfront concerts and a lively art scene to enjoy.
Grand Forks, North Dakota
In this city in North Dakota, the Forks, which means opportunities and attractions, are very grand. This is because groceries cost about 4.3 percent less than the national average, making it one of the most affordable places to live in.
Source: CultureTrip/Pinterest
The overall cost of living is about 11.8 percent lower than the rest of the country. But just because it’s affordable doesn’t mean it’s boring. You can easily find live music and go fishing or boating on one of two rivers. Also, if you’re into golf, there are lots of courses to enjoy in Grand Forks.
Bloomington, Illinois
Bloomington, located in north-central Illinois, is a great place to live without breaking the bank. The cost of living here is 17.1 percent lower than the average cost of living in the U.S. Here, things like healthcare, rent, and groceries are more affordable.
Source: MidwestLiving/Pinterest
Despite being a mid-size city, Bloomington has a cozy, small-town feel. It has lots of excellent local restaurants, jazz music, art galleries, and museums to explore. If you’re into golfing, there are plenty of courses around. And if you ever crave the big city vibes, Chicago is just 100 miles away.
Lubbock, Texas
Lubbock, Texas, is a great place to save money. It’s cheaper to live here compared to other cities in the U.S. Rent here might be a bit higher than in some other Texas towns. However, groceries and healthcare are both cheaper than the national average.
Source: SpoonUniversity/Pinterest
There’s plenty to do in this small city, like going to music festivals and visiting the Buddy Holly Center. You can enjoy Joyland Amusement Park or explore the art scene in the Cultural District.
Akron, Ohio
Akron, Ohio, is super affordable, making it perfect for folks on a budget. The cost of living here is way lower than the U.S. average. It is like 30.5 percent lower.
Source: GettyImages/Pinterest
Healthcare and groceries are cheaper, and housing is incredibly affordable. But it’s far from dull; there’s tons to do. Things like checking out the Akron Art Museum, hanging at the Akron Zoo, and catching a minor-league baseball game. You could also hit up breweries and enjoy live theater.
Minot, North Dakota
In Minot, the general cost of living is a bit lower than the average price in America. However, buying a typical house can be pricier. The healthcare costs, on the other hand, are more affordable; this helps to even things out. Living here has its perks.
Source: OnlyInYourState/Pinterest
There are places like the Roosevelt Zoo, Dakota Territory Air Museum, and Scandinavian Heritage Park. There’s also the annual North Dakota State Fair. If you love the outdoors, you’ll enjoy the parks, trails, and activities like hunting, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
Terre Haute, Indiana
In Terre Haute, Indiana, people can live on a budget of $1500 a month. Living costs are much lower than the U.S. average, especially for things like healthcare and housing.
Source: VisitIndiana/Pinterest
Terre Haute is home to Indiana State University, so there are lots of fun things to do. You can engage in activities like watching sports and enjoying the art scene. There are also excellent places to visit, like museums and the historic Indiana Theatre. If you’re interested in racing, there’s the Terre Haute Action Track, where exciting events happen on a half-mile dirt track.
Abilene, Texas
Living in Abilene is cheaper compared to other places, mainly because housing is more affordable. The average cost of a home here is almost half of what it is nationally. Also, groceries cost less here than in many other areas.
Source: JeffSalmon/Pinterest
Despite being a small city in north-central Texas, Abilene offers quite a bit in terms of arts and culture. It’s been praised for using the arts to maintain and bring life back to its historic district. There are also lots of golf courses, exciting museums, and even a zoo to check out.
Erie, Pennsylvania
Even though Erie is the third-largest city in Pennsylvania, it’s surprisingly affordable. Compared to other places in the country, the average cost of living here is 25.4 percent lower than the national average. Erie stands out for its low costs, including healthcare. Healthcare is 12.1 percent lower than the national average.
Source: ReviewtheReviews/Pinterest
Living in Erie means you’ll have plenty to do. There are attractions like Presque Isle State Park professional hockey and soccer teams. The Presque Isle Downs & Casino is also here to keep you entertained.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa, Oklahoma, has a lower cost of living compared to other places in the country. Groceries are cheaper here, so you won’t have to spend a lot to fill up your kitchen. Overall, living expenses are about 16.8 percent less than the average consumer cost of living in the country.
Source: Ksé/Pinterest
With the money you save, you can play golf at any of the fourteen public courses. You can also enjoy various festivals, museums, and the Tulsa Zoo throughout the year.
Waterloo, Iowa
Waterloo, Iowa, has a higher healthcare expense compared to other places. But living here is still affordable, especially for high school students. Groceries cost about 7.1 percent less than the country’s average. What’s even better is that housing is much cheaper. It is around 59.3 percent lower than the average in the U.S.
Source: KampgroundsofAmerica/Pinterest
Even though Waterloo isn’t known for its nightlife, there are plenty of things to do. You can explore the beautiful Cedar Valley Arboretum and Botanic Gardens and other fun places.
Lake Charles, Louisiana
In this little city in southwest Louisiana, it’s simple to get by on $1500 each month. Groceries and healthcare here are cheaper than in many places across the country. The cost of housing is cheap, too, making it one of the most affordable places to live in.
Source: PlanetBlueAdventure/Pinterest
In Lake Charles, you can enjoy fantastic music, fun casinos, beautiful parks, and a quaint historic area. Lake Charles is in between Houston and New Orleans, which means you won’t run out of things to do. You can check out museums, water sports, and, of course, celebrate Mardi Gras.
Amarillo, Texas
Amarillo, Texas, would be a great option if you’re looking to save money. Healthcare costs are a bit higher than in other places, but groceries and rent are cheaper. Overall, living expenses in Amarillo are almost 20 percent lower than the average living expenses in America.
Source: VisitAmarillo/Pinterest
Although it is not well known for its nightlife, there are museums, historic sites, and performing arts events to enjoy. You can also take a short trip to Palo Duro Canyon for outdoor activities like horseback riding, hiking, and camping.
Muncie, Indiana
Muncie, Indiana, has a really low cost of living compared to other places in the state and the whole country. Healthcare and groceries are super affordable, and housing is incredibly cheap.
Source: BonnieKing/Pinterest
Muncie is home to Ball State University, so it has that relaxed college-town vibe with lots of artsy stuff to do. There are also plenty of parks to hang out in. You can also check out the fantastic views of the White River from the Cantilevered Walkway.
Springfield, Missouri
Springfield, Missouri, is all about affordability. It’s a perfect pick for people who want to stick to a budget. Living here costs less compared to the rest of the country, about 17.7 percent lower on average.
Source: DangTravelers/Pinterest
The healthcare here is a bit pricier than the national average, but there’s good news. Housing and groceries are affordable. Despite being small, Springfield is the third-largest city in the state and is nestled near the beautiful Ozark Mountains. This means there are a lot of fun activities.
Ocala, Florida
If you want to stick to a budget of $1500 a month, Ocala, Florida, might be the perfect place for you. It is among the most affordable places to live in. Everything here costs about 16.2 percent less than the national average. The typical home is about 35.9 percent cheaper than the average across the country.
Source: DangerousBiz/Pinterest
Forget about Disney World or Miami, Ocala is more laid-back. It’s known for Silver Springs State Park, where you can enjoy activities like kayaking, canoeing, biking, and boat tours.
Evansville, Indiana
For a better deal, consider Evansville, Indiana. Compared to other places in the U.S., it’s cheaper to live there. Groceries, healthcare, and housing costs are very affordable.
Source: OnlyInYourState/Pinterest
Evansville is located along the Ohio River, and it has an inviting downtown with historic areas. It has a mall by the river, golf courses, museums, and minor-league baseball.
Odessa, Texas
Living in Odessa, Texas, gives you an incredible mix of history, money-making opportunities, and pleasant weather. It’s famous for oil, which brings lots of jobs and helps the city grow. You’ll see lots of mesquite trees, yucca plants, and oil rigs around town, giving it a real Western vibe.
Source: Cardcow/Pinterest
Even though oil is a big deal here, Odessa has parks, museums, and sports stuff to keep life interesting. It’s not expensive to live here, so you can enjoy life without breaking the bank.
Knoxville, Tennessee
Living in Knoxville, Tennessee, is great if you like both city life and nature. It is one of the most affordable places to live. You’ll find lots of entertaining things to do, like concerts, festivals, and theater shows. Being close to the Great Smoky Mountains means you can quickly go hiking, biking, or boating.
Source: Hillheady/Pinterest
There are also plenty of job options, and the University of Tennessee gives a youthful vibe and learning opportunities. The only downside might be the hot summers. But overall, Knoxville is an affordable place to live in.
Conway, Arkansas
Conway, Arkansas, is a mix of small-town charm and modern stuff, perfect for families, students, and working folks. It’s called the “City of Colleges” because it has three colleges, which makes for a bright and lively community. There are lots of exciting events all year round thanks to the colleges. Living costs are lower than the national average, and there are affordable homes.
Source: Flickr/Pinterest
Conway is a growing tech scene, so it’s a great place to build a career or go to school. It’s a friendly place with lots of opportunities and a strong sense of community.
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Living in Fayetteville, Arkansas, is like being part of a relaxed college town vibe. It’s home to the University of Arkansas, so something is always happening. It is surrounded by the Ozark Mountains, which means there are lots of outdoor activities to do. Outdoor activities like hiking and camping. Fayetteville has a cozy suburban feel with many coffee shops and parks.
Source: CindyWattsSmith/Pinterest
The best part is that it is super inclusive and welcoming to everyone. Even though it’s growing, it’s still one of the most affordable places to live, whether you’re a student, family, or working professional.
Des Moines, Iowa
Living in Des Moines, Iowa, gives you all the perks of a big city without the crazy rush. Living costs are lower here compared to the rest of the country, so it’s easier on your wallet.
Source: WorldAtlas/Pinterest
Des Moines is not just about work, though. It has an incredible arts scene, with events like the Des Moines Art Festival. It also hosts events like the Iowa State Fair that people from all over come to see. The downtown area is getting a makeover, with lots of new restaurants, shops, and other exciting things to do.
Shreveport, Louisiana
Shreveport is very affordable, it is one of the most affordable places on this list. Living costs are way lower than the national average; it is about 22.5 percent lower! Groceries are 9 percent cheaper, and healthcare costs are 8.7 percent less.
Source: TheTravelFool/Pinterest
Shreveport has this cool riverfront area with nightlife and casinos downtown. And there are many free things to do, too. Things like checking out Artspace, the Southwestern University Museum of Art, and the Spring Street Museum.