If you are considering moving to a new city, you must check the cost of living. Some cities might be too expensive to live in, while others can be affordable. This article lists U.S. cities with a low cost of living index.
The cost of living index is a comparative parameter with a baseline of 100.
Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville is a city with a great outdoor lifestyle. The city has a low cost of living thanks to its affordable housing and inexpensive amenities. Residents can also enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains in Knoxville. It’s an ideal place to live for people who love arts and nature.
- Cost of living index: 60.7
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati offers a high quality of life at affordable costs. The city has various amenities, including educational museums and riverside parks. It is also famous for various sports teams like Cincinnati Reds and FC Cincinnati. With its growing job market, the city is perfect for young professionals and job seekers.
- Cost of living index: 64.4
Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis, known as the birthplace of rock n’ roll, is one of the most affordable places in America. The city has low housing prices and rents and is generally inexpensive. It also has iconic attractions like Graceland and the National Civil Rights Museum. Memphis is an ideal city for history buffs and music enthusiasts.
- Cost of living index: 65.1
Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City is a city that offers numerous amenities at a low cost of living. It has urban amenities, outdoor activities, and adventure opportunities. These attributes attract people from all over the world to Salt Lake City. Despite its growing popularity, the city still maintains its affordability.
- Cost of living index: 65.8
Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville offers a strong job market for aspiring candidates. It also has good affordability, making it ideal for students. If you have recently graduated and want an affordable place to live, Louisville is the place to be. It has exciting opportunities in the field of healthcare and manufacturing.
- Cost of living index: 66.5
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is a city with scenic beauty and natural water bodies. Known for Almo and its River Walk, the city also has a diverse cultural heritage. Even as more people move into San Antonio, the city maintains a low cost of living. San Antonio is a great choice for people who like a modern lifestyle.
- Cost of living index: 67.6
Saint Louis, Missouri
Saint Louis houses many renowned universities, such as Washington University and Maryville University. It also has the iconic Gateway Arch and a rich cultural scene. The city’s housing scene is affordable, bringing down the overall cost of living.
- Cost of living index: 67.8
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque is a city with stunning natural beauty. It hosts the annual balloon fiesta, which is popular among adults and kids alike. The city has a mild, sunny climate, which attracts people. Combined with its low cost of living, Albuquerque is a haven for families and retirees.
- Cost of living index: 68.1
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City offers ample opportunities for jobs in the healthcare and education sectors. Most of the residents are young job seekers and students who want to leverage the strong job market. Kansas City also has an excellent park system, which keeps the city fresh. It is one of the cities that has a lower cost of living than the national average.
- Cost of living index: 68.2
Tucson, Arizona
Tucson is a city located in the desert landscapes of Arizona. As a result, it has a vastly outdoor lifestyle with an active and close-knit community. Both the housing costs and the general affordability are low in Tuscon. If you love a city with a rich cultural heritage, Tucson is a great choice.
- Cost of living index: 68.3
Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville offers vast beaches and the largest urban park system in America. The city has a diverse economy, with some areas more affordable than others. However, the average housing price and cost of living in the city are below the national average. It’s a great place for those who love the outdoor water activities.
- Cost of living index: 69.9
Houston, Texas
Houston is a popular U.S. city and is a hub for technology. It is well-known for its strong economy and diverse job market. Residents of Houston enjoy living an urban life at affordable prices. The city is suitable for everyone, ranging from families to modern youth.
- Cost of living index: 69.9
Boise, Idaho
Boise is a city that offers good culture, affordable living, and a vibrant community. The city is also home to a growing tech industry. Residents of Boise enjoy a balance of urban life with deep-rooted cultural heritage. It is also a city that welcomes people from various backgrounds and cultures.
- Cost of living index: 70.2
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Oklahoma City has a thriving economy that contributes to its low cost of living. The city still has a cowboy culture, which many people like. It also has a strong sense of community and welcomes people from all walks of life.
- Cost of living index: 70.7
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
One of the vibrant cities in Wisconsin, Milwaukee is a city of celebrations. It has a history of festivals and brewing, which attracts the modern youth. The city is also highly affordable for families and young professionals. With easy access to Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is a beautiful city for residents.
- Cost of living index: 71.3
Orlando, Florida
Orlando is popular among kids and young adults for its theme parks. It attracts thousands of tourists throughout the year and has a bustling life. Compared to other cities in Florida, Orlando has a lower cost of living.
- Cost of living index: 71.4