The top reasons for moving to the United States include the booming economy, wide employment options, and world-class tourist sites. The country’s high cost of living is, however, one major drawback. Fortunately, we’ve identified the nine largest cities in the United States where living costs are more affordable to many.
In this blog post, we will talk about the 9 Cheapest Big Cities to Live in the USA!
Cheapest Big Cities to Live in the USA
#9 Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha is surrounded by some of the richest soil terrains in the country, so you can expect to eat some of the freshest and most delightful food you’ll ever taste. Aside from the delicious meals, Omaha is also a great place to work. The city’s unemployment rate is significantly lower than the national average. Given this and the beautiful surroundings, Omaha is one of the best cities to raise a family.
This city is also relatively affordable. Zillow estimates that the median home value in this area is $243,029, and paying rent will cost you $1,195. Furthermore, some of the best neighborhoods to reside in this city include Benson, La Vista, Ralston, and Aksarben Village.
#8 Columbus, Ohio
The next city we’ll mention in this video is home to one of the country’s best zoos. This city’s population embraces art, theater, science, and performance arts. Despite being home to the state capitol and several Fortune 500 firms, Columbus maintains a small-town atmosphere to match its small-town living prices. Dublin, Bexley, Powell, and Hilliard are just a few of the best spots to visit in this area. Forbes even listed Columbus as the No. 7 best city for young professionals in 2016.
Moreover, this city has a 10% cheaper cost of living than the national average, particularly in areas such as healthcare, housing, and utilities. The median household income in this area is approximately $58,642. Meanwhile, data from Zillow finds that the average price of a property in this area is $214,828.
#7 Indianapolis, Indiana
Another affordable place to live in is the city of Indianapolis, located in the state of lovely Indiana. As the third-most populous city in the Midwest, Indianapolis serves as the capital of the state. If you are into sports, this may be the perfect city for you. Indianapolis is home to the NBA’s Indiana Pacers and NFL’s Indianapolis Colts, as well as the Indianapolis 500. Moreover, the city’s American cuisine also appeals to foodies across the world.
Indianapolis also boasts an astonishing diversity of urban, suburban, and semi-rural areas that appeal to residents of all demographics. In terms of living expenses, we found from the Zillow website that the city’s median home value is $194,453. Additionally, the median household income in this area is $46,442.
#6 Fort Wayne, Indiana
Fort Wayne is well-known for its traditional way of life and peaceful neighborhood. Housing costs in this city are approximately 30% lower than the national average, with a median rent of $918, according to RENTCafe. Furthermore, Zillow found that the median property price in this area is $182,502. Overall, the cost of living is 13% lower than the national average.
Cheap taxes go in hand with the low cost of living. With a total tax burden of 8.9 percent, the state ranks 11th in the country for the lowest taxes. Other advantages of Fort Wayne include low crime rates, outstanding universities, a pleasant environment, and a diverse economy.
#5 McAllen, Texas
This city has one of the lowest cost of living metro areas in the country. Residents pay less than the national median sale price on property purchases and less than the national average on living expenditures such as food, transportation, and health care. Moreover, we learned from Zillow that the median property value in this area is around $176,306.
While maintaining small-town vibes, McAllen still offers the benefits and conveniences of a metropolitan location. People often opt to reside here due to the high quality of education. McAllen is close to five colleges and universities, including The University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley, The University of Texas-Brownsville, Texas Southmost College, Texas State Technical College, and South Texas College.
#4 Tulsa, Oklahoma
Moving on, let us take a look at this Oklahoma city that is recognized as the “Oil Capital of the World.” Diversity is one of the top reasons why many people like to live here. People from all over the world come to this city to experience the diverse cultures and exquisite foods it has to offer. Students also prefer Tulsa because of the city’s top-notch educational institutions, which consistently rank among the best in the country.
With an unemployment rate of 4.6%, Tulsa has a solid job market compared to similar-sized cities throughout the country. As of the most recent data from Zillow, a Tulsa home is worth an average of $159,080. The median price per square foot in Tulsa is $99, which is lower than the Tulsa Metro average of $104.
#3 Augusta, Georgia
Augusta, like many much larger cities, has a plethora of cultures and attractions. When you live here, you will have access to concerts, theatres, and museums. This city is also well-known for its numerous outdoor festivals.
Moving here will mean reaping the benefits of a cost of living that is about 16% lower than the average. Purchasing homes here will cost around $146,939, according to Zillow. Moreover, Residents pay approximately 15% less than the national average for utilities and transportation and receive roughly 10% lower prices in grocery products.
#2 Birmingham, Alabama
The next city on our list is known for hosting the nation’s oldest and largest Veterans Day event. Not only that, but Birmingham city is also known as the birthplace of heavy metal icons such as the Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin’s lead singer. Among the advantages of living here are the exquisite southern cuisine, wonderful festivals and fairs, and world-class craft breweries.
Most importantly, this city is also affordable. The cost of living is around 14% lower here than the national average, and the average price of a property in this city is $133,500, says the Home website.
#1 Memphis, Tennessee
Finally, we have reached the top of our list. Welcome to Memphis, Tennessee, where the cost of living is 14.6% below the U.S. average and the unemployment is 9.9%. The median property value in this neighborhood is approximately $129,392, according to Zillow. Meanwhile, the average apartment rent of $825 per month is 21% less than the national average.
In fact, Memphis is consistently ranked as one of the best destinations in the country for bargain-hunting millennials and Gen Zers frustrated with the high-cost coastal towns. This city provides access to world-class music, intriguing traditions, fascinating history, and access to magnificent outdoor activities.
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