With inflation everywhere in the USA, it’s important to live in states with the lowest cost of living.
The cost of living and quality of life can vary dramatically between different areas of the country.
This article explores some of the states that offer a low cost of living along with a high overall quality of life.
We’ll look at factors like housing costs, taxes, crime rates, climate, and access to amenities.
Read on for a guide to some of the best states to live in the USA with the lowest cost of living and high quality of life.
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USA States with Affordable Housing
Deciding where to live is an important choice that affects your daily life and long-term happiness.
One of the biggest factors in the cost of living in some states in the USA is housing prices.
Large coastal cities like New York and San Francisco are infamous for extremely high rents and home prices.
However, go inland and you can find much more affordable options without sacrificing amenities.
Here are some states with inexpensive housing markets:
Arkansas
The Natural State ranks #5 for most affordable housing among all 50 states. The median home price is just $155,000 in Arkansas.
Rents are also reasonable, with average apartment rent around $740 per month.
Ohio
The Buckeye State offers homes for just $175,000 on average. Apartment rents come in at around $830 monthly.
Focus your search on mid-sized metro areas like Columbus rather than Cleveland for the lowest prices.
Tennessee
You can become a homeowner in Tennessee for about $210,000 typically. Rents average $970 per month across the state.
Nashville is growing more expensive, but other parts of Tennessee remain budget-friendly.
Oklahoma
Housing is a bargain in Oklahoma compared to much of the country.
The median home price is only $155,000 and rents sit around $830 per month. Oklahoma City offers an affordable urban living option.
USA States with Low Taxes
Along with affordable housing, low taxes help reduce the cost of living in some states in the USA. High local and state taxes eat into your budget.
To keep more cash in your wallet, check out areas with tax rates below the national average:
Wyoming
This rugged Western state has no personal income tax and low sales tax.
Property tax rates are also reasonable. Wyoming lets you hold onto more of your hard-earned income.
Tennessee
You won’t pay income tax on wages in Tennessee. Retirees also benefit from low property and sales taxes across the state.
Florida
Florida attracts retirees with its lack of income tax and average property tax burden.
The state sales tax is on the higher side, but overall taxes are still affordable.
Alaska
In addition to no income or sales tax, Alaska gives residents an annual tax-free stimulus payment just for living there! However, housing costs are higher than average.
USA States with Safe Areas for Families & Singles
Beyond money matters, safety is a top priority in choosing where to live.
These states offer low crime rates in many communities:
Maine
This New England state has the lowest violent crime rate of any state, plus safe towns with old-fashioned small-town charm.
Coastal Maine also provides easy access to the ocean and nature.
Vermont
Vermont claims the 2nd lowest violent crime rate in the U.S. The state still has a rural character despite growing popularity.
Cities like Burlington remain secure places to settle down.
New Hampshire
The Granite State ties with Vermont for the 2nd lowest violent crime level.
New Hampshire also has vibrant small cities with cultural attractions and job opportunities.
Minnesota
Among Midwestern states, Minnesota enjoys low crime throughout most of the state.
There are safe neighborhoods in Minneapolis along with small-town living.
Escape the Big City without Sacrificing Culture
Some small towns feel isolated or lack things to do. These states manage to deliver cultural attractions, entertainment, and other amenities even outside major cities:
Minnesota
Minneapolis offers big city museums, sports, and dining. But smaller cities like Rochester and St. Cloud also have cultural institutions such as orchestras and theaters.
The Twin Cities metro area contains more than half the state’s population.
Colorado
Arts scenes thrive in Denver and Colorado Springs, but you can also find community theaters, concerts, and festivals in mountain towns like Grand Lake and Durango. The natural scenery provides endless outdoor activities.
Maine
Portland has a buzzing food scene and arty vibe, but even tiny coastal towns in Maine have galleries, community events, and tourist attractions. The lobster is delicious everywhere too.
Wisconsin
Milwaukee and Madison have all expected big city perks, but Wisconsin’s small towns promote local culture through theaters, art fairs, and folk festivals.
There are also hundreds of microbreweries across the state.
USA States with Reasonable Temperatures and 4 Distinct Seasons
Some people prefer year-round warmth, while others like definitive seasons.
These states offer moderate climates without extreme weather:
Oregon
This Pacific Coast state has mild weather year-round. Winters are rainy but not frigid, while summers are warm and dry. Outdoor activities are possible at any time of year.
Tennessee
Tennessee enjoys 4 distinct yet moderate seasons. Summers are warm but not oppressively hot, while winters remain relatively mild outside a few cold snaps.
Fall and spring offer pleasant temperatures as well.
North Carolina
The Tar Heel State basks in over 300 days of sunshine per year. The Appalachian Mountains provide cozy winters with summer heat mitigated near the shore. Outdoor living is easy most of the year.
Kentucky
Located in the heartland of the country, Kentucky sees all 4 seasons yet avoids harsh winter extremes.
Plus, you can hide out in the gorgeous Bluegrass region horse country if the bitter cold does strike.
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Conclusion
You don’t have to be rich to find your ideal home base with a great quality of life.
Plenty of affordable states combine low living costs with amenities, culture, outdoor access, and pleasant climates.
Just be sure to look beyond the trendy big cities and tourist hotspots to find the best deals.
Do your research to figure out which states offer what you need most – whether that’s career opportunities, low taxes, outdoor recreation, or a relaxing pace of life.
With an open mind and a sense of adventure, landing a home in an affordable wonderland could be easier than you think.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which US State Is the Cheapest Place to Live?
Mississippi and Arkansas consistently rank as the most affordable states for cost of living in the U.S.
Housing costs less than $1,000 per month on average for a 2-bedroom apartment in both states. Groceries, utilities, and other expenses are also very low.
What Is the Cheapest and Safest State to Live In?
Maine emerges as the cheapest and safest state, offering both the lowest crime rate and below-average living costs.
Other affordable options like Ohio and Wisconsin are also relatively safe.
What State Has the Lowest Taxes for Retirees?
Florida is the most tax-friendly state for retirees because it has no state income tax and a low overall tax burden.
Tennessee and Texas are other affordable states with no income tax.
What States Have No Winter?
Hawaii, southern California, south Texas, and south Florida experience virtually no freezing winter weather.
Arizona and New Mexico also have very mild winters overall.
What Is the Most Boring State to Live in US?
What Is the Most Boring State to Live in US?
North Dakota frequently tops lists of the most boring or unhappiest states due to its remote location, empty countryside, and long winters.
However, it remains an affordable place to live.
