Affording to buy or rent a house has become a major concern for many Americans, with prices rising in most parts of the country. However, there are still plenty of cities where you can find affordable housing without sacrificing quality of life, just like these affordable 17 US cities.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh offers a mix of historic charm and modern development, with a cost of living that’s below the national average. The city’s housing market has remained relatively stable, and best of all, residents can also apply for housing assistance resources through the URA if they’re struggling.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis has become a magnet for young professionals due to its vibrant downtown and budget-friendly housing options. The real estate market offers a wide range of choices, including trendy condos, family-friendly neighborhoods, and city apartments. They’re all pretty affordable in comparison to other parts of the U.S.
Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville’s housing market is one of the most affordable in the Midwest despite being famous for its historic architecture and lively culture. Residents can enjoy a low cost of living and access to a diverse range of job opportunities, so it’s certainly worth researching!
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City offers diverse housing options at affordable prices; the cost of living is also low, and the job market is booming, with growth in the technology and healthcare sectors. The city also provides a unique blend of urban and suburban living at a reasonable cost, so what’s not to like about all that!?
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Oklahoma City has a reputation for its friendly community and low living costs, with Forbes putting housing costs at 27% lower than the national average. Spacious homes and large lots are available at a fraction of the price seen in other major cities, so it’s a serious option to consider!
Columbus, Ohio
Columbus’s cost of living is below the national average, and the city offers a range of different housing options, making it a highly appealing option for those on a budget. Columbus also has a strong economy that is driven by the education, technology, and healthcare industries, making it ideal for career-driven people.
Memphis, Tennessee
Renowned for its music history, Southern hospitality, and authentic sense of community, Memphis is a truly desirable place to purchase a home. It’s also one of the most affordable cities in the US, with its housing market offering a huge range of relatively cheap options!
Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland’s affordable housing market is a major draw for those looking to buy their first home or relocate to a more budget-friendly city, but that’s not all it has to offer. The city has a rich industrial history and is undergoing a cultural revival, with modern restaurants, museums, and entertainment venues.
Birmingham, Alabama
Birmingham’s housing market is among the most affordable in the South; according to AL.com, the cost of housing is a staggering 28.5% less than the rest of the U.S! The city is also famous for its rich history, diverse architecture, and diverse economy, making it an excellent place to live overall.
Wichita, Kansas
Wichita, Kansas, offers a high quality of life at a low cost, along with a varied housing market with affordable homes in both urban and suburban settings. Wichita has a strong sense of community, and sectors like aviation and healthcare provide a steady stream of jobs. It’s a solid option to consider when house-hunting!
Rochester, New York
Rochester combines the charm of a smaller city with the features of a larger one. Its cost of living is well below average, making it an attractive place to call home, and its vibrant cultural scene and historic neighborhoods only enhance this appeal.
Buffalo, New York
Buffalo’s cheap housing market makes it an appealing choice for those seeking budget-friendly city living. The cost of living is low, the city has a strong sense of community, and its economy has seen recent growth in the technology and healthcare sectors. It’s a pretty future-proof option!
Tulsa, Oklahoma
The real estate market in Tulsa offers a range of options, from downtown lofts to suburban homes, at prices well below the national average. Its economy is also diverse, with strong sectors in energy, manufacturing, and healthcare. If you work in these areas, add Tulsa to your list!
Omaha, Nebraska
The Nebraska city of Omaha has a low cost of living and a strong economy driven by industries like finance, healthcare, and technology. Most attractive of all, the city also offers a unique blend of urban and suburban charm at low prices, making it a great place to live for all ages.
Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines offers affordable housing without compromising on quality, as well as boasting a strong economy, with sectors like finance and insurance providing stable job opportunities for people moving into the area. It’s an attractive option to many, so get in before it becomes gentrified!
Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock is one of the most affordable cities in the South, with many budget-friendly housing options available. Charming neighborhoods and a rich history make it a highly desirable place to live, and its vibrant arts scene provides plenty of entertainment options.
Lexington, Kentucky
Last on our list, Lexington is known for its horse racing history – with Lexingtonky calling it “the horse racing capital of the world.” If you’re not into horses, don’t be put off; it’s also one of the most affordable cities in the US, and its beautiful scenery makes it, overall, a wonderful place to purchase property.