Dreaming of a lifestyle that balances quality and affordability? Whether you’re planning a move or just curious, check out this list of the 10 cheapest states to live in the USA. These states boast low living costs, affordable housing, and excellent opportunities to stretch your dollar.
Arkansas
- Cost of Living Index: 89 (National Average = 100)
- Why It’s Affordable:
- Low housing costs (median home price: $160,000).
- Reasonable healthcare and utilities expenses.
- Lifestyle Highlights:
- Home to the Ozarks, lush forests, and cultural hubs like Little Rock.
Missouri
- Cost of Living Index: 89
- Why It’s Affordable:
- Budget-friendly rent and property prices.
- Lower-than-average transportation costs.
- Lifestyle Highlights:
- Enjoy St. Louis attractions or scenic views in the Ozarks.
Indiana
- Cost of Living Index: 91.3
- Why It’s Affordable:
- The median home price is 34.5% less expensive than the national average.
- Cost of living is 10.5% below the national average.
- Lifestyle Highlights:
- Known for its friendly residents and community-oriented lifestyle, Indiana fosters a strong sense of belonging and neighborliness.
- The state offers diverse outdoor experiences, such as hiking in Brown County State Park and enjoying the beaches of Indiana Dunes National Park.
Kansas
- Cost of Living Index: 86.7
- Why It’s Affordable:
- Low housing costs (median home price: $145,000).
- Affordable food and healthcare.
- Lifestyle Highlights:
- Rolling prairies, small-town charm, and accessible urban areas like Wichita.
Alabama
- Cost of Living Index: 88.8
- Why It’s Affordable:
- Housing costs are 33% below the national average.
- Lower transportation and healthcare expenses.
- Lifestyle Highlights:
- Rich in history, with attractions like the Civil Rights Trail and Gulf Coast beaches.
Oklahoma
- Cost of Living Index: 87.9
- Why It’s Affordable:
- Inexpensive utilities and housing options.
- A steady job market helps keep living costs manageable.
- Lifestyle Highlights:
- A mix of cowboy culture and modern city living in places like Tulsa.
Tennessee
- Cost of Living Index: 90
- Why It’s Affordable:
- No state income tax.
- Affordable housing paired with a thriving job market.
- Lifestyle Highlights:
- Music lovers will thrive in Nashville or Memphis; natural beauty abounds in the Smoky Mountains.
Mississippi
- Cost of Living Index: 87.5
- Why It’s Affordable:
- Extremely low housing and grocery costs.
- Cheapest state for healthcare in the country.
- Lifestyle Highlights:
- Southern hospitality, delicious cuisine, and proximity to the Gulf Coast.
Iowa
- Cost of Living Index: 90.4
- Why It’s Affordable:
- Affordable rent and housing costs, significantly lower than the national average.
- Groceries and utilities are considered low compared to other states, with a typical family paying around $200 a month.
- Lifestyle Highlights:
- Iowa is known for its small-town energy, fostering a sense of connection and mutual support among residents.
- Iowa’s diverse landscapes offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
- The state boasts a high literacy rate and top-ranking high school graduation rates.
West Virginia
- Cost of Living Index: 84.8
- Why It’s Affordable:
- Rock-bottom housing prices (median home price: $120,000).
- Cheap utilities and transportation.
- Lifestyle Highlights:
- Appalachian culture, outdoor adventures, and small-town living.
While these states might not be for everyone, their affordability can’t be denied. Whether you’re a retiree, young professional, or someone seeking a simpler lifestyle, these 10 states provide options to live well without breaking the bank.
