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You Can Live Cheaply in the US

The rising inflation and cost of living call for cities offering affordability which means more money in your pocket.

By Liz JayPublished 2 years ago 3 min read

In 2020, we faced the enormity of COVID-19 and the impact that it’s had on the world. Lockdowns have caused businesses to suffer, and many people have been affected by unemployment or salary cuts. Then, just as more countries start the process of lifting restrictions, the year 2022 brings the Ukraine and Russia war with fuel, commodity, and the general cost of living set to rise yet again.

Unfortunately, for many of us, these rising costs and global disasters have been too taxing on our pockets and our ability to remain self-sustainable.

To ease such financial distress, one of the best steps we can take is to find a place to live that is safe, comfortable and offers a better cost of living.

Why Move to a Cheaper Location?

Cities including Tennessee and Alabama offer some of the lowest tax and housing rates in the US. If you were to live in New York City, for example, you’d have to earn double or even triple what you need to make in a low cost city such as Tennessee to cover your most basic expenses. By moving to a more affordable location, you not only manage costs for food and utilities, but you also benefit from affordable homes and apartments and lower tax or medical costs depending on where you move to. The more money you can stretch, the better quality of life you can live without the stress and challenges of trying to afford your rent or food on the table.

While relocating to a new city can be challenging, it can also be incredibly rewarding. It is up to you to find the time to settle and to determine whether the location of your choice provides the affordability and the lifestyle you are looking for.

Which are the Cheapest Cities to Relocate to in the US?

1. Florence, Alabama

By Zach Farmer on Unsplash

At a 15% lower cost of living compared to the rest of the country, Florence in Alabama is one of the lowest cost cities to support individuals and families across the US. With an unemployment rate of below 3.5%, the city is known for its wide range of attractions and warm southern hospitality. You’ll also find that the general cost of housing is just over 30% lower than elsewhere making it easier to rent or to buy a house.

2. Hattiesburg, Mississippi

By Justin Wilkens on Unsplash

You can live for below 16% of the national average when you move to Hattiesburg in Mississippi. With the average home value around $145 000, you’ll be pleased to know that the region also boasts some of the lowest unemployment rates, the esteemed Southern Mississippi University, and various museums depicting the history of the state.

3. Knoxville, Tennessee

By Terrance Raper on Unsplash

In Knoxville, you’ll pay around 16% less for goods, services, and more compared to the national average. Tennessee is well-known for its affordable living, but Knoxville certainly tops the list for cost effectiveness across the board. It is a large metropolitan offering a variety of services, amenities, and low cost housing that makes it easier to afford an everyday lifestyle.

4. McAllen, Texas

By Vivian Arcidiacono on Unsplash

One of the cheapest places to live in the US is McAllen in Texas. It costs around 22% less than the national average and the median cost for a house in this region is around $94 000. While the general cost of living is low, unemployment rates are close to 10% of the population.

Is It Possible to Live Cheaply in the USA?

With so many people looking for affordability, it is possible to find an affordable city to live in. You just need a little bit of research and you need to think about what you want to satisfy your lifestyle.

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    LJWritten by Liz Jay

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