Finding affordable places to live in the United States without sacrificing quality of life can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. However, several cities across the country offer an attractive combination of low living costs and high living standards.

These locations provide reasonable housing prices, lower daily expenses, and vibrant communities that make them ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

Based on factors including housing costs, median household income, and percentage of income spent on living expenses, these cities stand out as the most affordable places to live in 2024.

1. Fort Wayne, Indiana

Fort Wayne, nicknamed Summit City, stands out as one of the most affordable cities in the United States. With residents spending only about 20% of their median household income on living expenses, the city offers exceptional value.

Housing costs are particularly attractive, with median home prices around $170,000 and monthly rent averaging $1,100. The city’s population of roughly 325,000 enjoys a median household income of about $72,000, providing comfortable living standards.

Fort Wayne’s thriving sports scene and active community make it more than just an affordable place – it’s a city where people can truly enjoy life while saving money. Its prime location in the heart of the Midwest adds to its appeal, offering easy access to major metropolitan areas while maintaining its affordable charm.

2. Huntsville, Alabama

Huntsville’s fascinating history as a NASA rocket design hub has evolved into a modern success story. Despite its impressive growth, with a population of approximately 240,000, the city maintains remarkably affordable living costs.

While housing prices are slightly higher than some other cities on the list (median home price around $245,000), the above-average median household income of about $84,000 helps offset these costs.

Residents spend just around 20% of their income on housing, leaving plenty of room in their budgets for other activities and savings.

3. Wichita, Kansas

Located in south-central Kansas, Wichita combines its rich aviation heritage with modern entrepreneurial spirit. The city offers substantial savings on housing, with median home prices around $175,000 and monthly rent averaging $1,100 – both well below the national average of $282,000.

With a population of roughly 400,000, Wichita is one of the larger cities on this list, offering more amenities and opportunities while maintaining its affordability.

This prairie city has successfully created an engaging urban environment that attracts people from both coasts, proving that affordability and quality of life can coexist.

The median household income of about $71,500 allows residents to enjoy the city’s offerings while spending only around 22% of their income on living expenses.

4. Springfield, Missouri

Springfield, known as the Queen City of the Ozarks, stands out for its vibrant community life and festival culture. While housing costs take up about 24% of the median household income of roughly $56,000, the city’s overall affordability is enhanced by its competitive prices for goods and services.

The city’s population of around 210,000 enjoys year-round events like the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival, Artsfest, and Cider Days. Additionally, its traditions and festivals create a strong sense of community while maintaining affordability for its residents.

5. Davenport, Iowa

Positioned between Des Moines and Chicago, Davenport offers big-city excitement at small-town prices. With a population of approximately 100,000 and a median household income of about $67,000, residents spend only around 23% of their income on living expenses.

Its location along the Mississippi River provides residents with entertainment options including casinos and breweries, while maintaining a cost structure that keeps daily living affordable.

The city’s position as one of the busiest areas along the Mississippi River adds to its appeal, offering both economic opportunities and recreational activities.

6. Hickory, North Carolina

Nestled in the Appalachian mountains, Hickory provides an attractive blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. With median home prices around $215,000 and monthly rent averaging $900, the city offers excellent housing value.

Despite its modest population of roughly 60,000, Hickory offers a median household income of about $64,000, with residents spending just around 22% on living expenses.

The combination of a bustling arts district, mountain recreation opportunities, and a notable speedway makes Hickory appealing to various age groups, from retirees to young professionals. Besides, the state is home to some of the best hot springs in the country.

To add, its proximity to major cities like Charlotte and Asheville provides additional advantages while maintaining its affordable cost of living.

7. Montgomery, Alabama

Montgomery proves that Southern living can be both historically rich and affordable. The city’s median home price of around $155,000 is notably low, and monthly rent averages $1,100.

With a population of approximately 205,000 and a median household income of about $62,000, residents spend roughly 23% on living expenses.

The city’s rich history, including landmarks from the Civil War and Civil Rights Movement, provides cultural depth while maintaining reasonable living costs.

8. Green Bay, Wisconsin

Green Bay demonstrates that northern cities can be just as affordable as their southern counterparts. Despite Wisconsin’s high property taxes, the city maintains reasonable housing costs with median home prices around $180,000 and monthly rent averaging $925.

The city’s population of roughly 110,000 enjoys a median household income of about $64,000, spending just around 23% on living expenses.

The revitalized downtown, nearby colleges, and famous football culture create a dynamic community atmosphere that doesn’t demand high living costs.

9. Little Rock, Arkansas

Arkansas’s capital combines urban amenities with outdoor accessibility. With a population of approximately 210,000 and a median household income of about $74,000, residents spend roughly 23% on living expenses.

The city maintains competitive housing costs while offering easy access to natural attractions like Hot Springs National Park, Ouachita National Forest, and the Ozark Mountains.

Little Rock’s blend of natural beauty and urban development comes with reasonable living costs, making it an attractive option for those seeking both affordability and quality of life.

10. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s capital offers an impressive combination of metropolitan amenities and affordable lifestyle. With a population of around 680,000, it’s the largest city on our list, offering extensive opportunities while maintaining affordability.

Median home prices around $200,000 and monthly rent averaging $1,175 make housing attainable for many residents. The median household income of about $75,000 allows residents to spend just around 23% on living expenses.

Known as the “Big Friendly,” Oklahoma City maintains its distinct cowboy culture while providing modern urban amenities at reasonable costs, making it an attractive option for those seeking big-city living without the typical price tag.

Wrapping Up

woman with us flag — Source: Canva by wundervisuals from Getty Images Signature

These cities prove that affordable living doesn’t mean compromising on quality of life. From Fort Wayne’s impressive 20% income-to-expenses ratio to Oklahoma City’s blend of culture and affordability, each location offers unique advantages while keeping costs manageable.

Whether you’re attracted to Huntsville’s tech scene, Hickory’s mountain views, or Green Bay’s sports culture, these cities demonstrate that you can find a high quality of life without the high price tag typically associated with America’s larger metropolitan areas.

Each city’s unique combination of reasonable housing market costs, strong community features, and overall affordability makes them stand out as excellent choices for those seeking a better balance between cost of living and quality of life.

Also Read: Best 37 Solo Getaways in the USA You’ll Love

Like this article from Upscale Adventuring? Be sure to follow us

Amanda OBrien

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

10 Most Affordable Cities to Live in the USA Without Compromising Quality of Life