Lowest Cost of Living in the US: Where to Live Affordably

When people talk about the lowest cost of living in the US, the total amount spent on housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and taxes in a given location. Also known as affordable living regions, it’s not just about rent—it’s how far your paycheck stretches each month. Many assume big cities like New York or San Francisco are the only options, but that’s not true. In fact, dozens of towns and mid-sized cities across the country offer dramatically lower expenses without sacrificing safety, jobs, or quality of life.

One major factor driving affordability is housing prices, the cost to buy or rent a home in a specific area. Also known as real estate value, it makes up nearly half of most household budgets. In places like Wichita, Kansas, or Tupelo, Mississippi, you can buy a three-bedroom home for under $150,000. Compare that to $800,000 in Portland or $1.2 million in Seattle. Even rent is a fraction of the cost—$700 for a one-bedroom in Little Rock versus $2,800 in Boston. Then there’s cost of living index, a standardized measure comparing everyday expenses across cities. Also known as consumer price comparison, it’s the tool real people use to decide where to move. States like West Virginia, Alabama, and Ohio consistently rank at the bottom of the index because groceries, gas, and utilities are cheaper. You don’t need to be rich to live well there—you just need to know where to look.

It’s not just about saving money on rent. In these low-cost areas, you often get more for your dollar. A $50,000 salary in Des Moines goes further than $80,000 in Chicago. Healthcare costs are lower, property taxes are lighter, and even dining out feels affordable. Some towns even offer relocation grants to attract new residents. You don’t have to give up your career—many remote jobs pay the same regardless of where you live. And if you’re thinking about retiring, places like Knoxville or Fort Smith offer senior discounts on everything from prescriptions to public transit.

The truth is, the lowest cost of living in the US isn’t a myth—it’s a map. And that map is full of places you’ve never heard of but should know about. Below, you’ll find real stories, data-backed insights, and practical guides from people who’ve already made the move. Whether you’re looking to downsize, escape high rent, or start over, these posts show you exactly how it’s done—no sales pitches, no hype, just facts.