Many immigrants who move to the United States initially have very limited finances and may not have enough money to live in large, popular cities. Therefore for many it would be a wise decision to first settle in a cozy city, where you need much less money for a comfortable life. Such cities are also increasingly chosen by people with remote work.
- The cheapest city in the USA at the moment is Hickory (North Carolina). It is located near the Blue Ridge Mountains and has beautiful nature and many hiking trails. The population here is about 365 thousand people, the average salary is $44,470 per year. Only about 19% of median household income is spent on housing here, making it the cheapest city to live in the United States in 2023.
- Fort Wayne (Indiana) is a cozy city with architectural attractions. The cost of living here is 1% lower than the state average and 11% lower than the USA average.
- Jackson (Mississippi) – the city is famous for the USA International Ballet Competition, which traditionally takes place here. The average home sale price here in 2023 was just $120,000, and the average monthly rent was $1,065.
- Toledo (Ohio) – located on the border of Ohio and Michigan, on the shores of Lake Erie. The city is just a short drive from Detroit and Cleveland, and features lakeside beaches and parks, and ferry service to popular islands. Housing costs about 22% of the average household income.
- South Bend (Indiana) – the cost of housing, food, transportation and entertainment here is much more affordable than the US average. The city’s population is about 104,000 people, the average family income is about $43,000. On average, you had to pay $814 for rent in 2023.
- Brownsville (Texas) is an inexpensive city to live for those who love warmth. It has a subtropical climate with year-round warm temperatures. Located on the western Gulf Coast of South Texas, near the Mexican border. The cost of living is 8% lower than the state average and 15% lower than the USA average.