Check Out Where to Live Cheaply & How to Get There
Living at a low cost is a goal for many people. A lower cost of living takes the pressure off of earning a higher salary to make ends meet. Instead of living paycheck to paycheck, you can put money aside for things you enjoy or start an emergency fund.
Not all states are created equal in their terrain, towns, or their price tag. While some states may look good from the outside, they can charge a hefty price if you wish to reside in them, far exceeding the national average.
Other states, however, are on the opposite end of the spectrum. Their cost of living is low and affordable for many people. But don’t be fooled. Just because these frugal states don’t cost an arm and a leg doesn’t mean they don’t have plenty to offer.
1. Mississippi
The Magnolia State tops the list with one of the lowest costs of living in the U.S. From the cost of Mississippi car insurance to transportation, housing, and groceries, almost everything is reasonably priced.
Overall, the cost of living in Mississippi is almost 20% lower than the national average. The price of a home sits below half of the national average housing cost, and renting is drastically lower than more expensive areas.
While a low cost of living may suggest a lack of scenery or activities, that isn’t the case for the Magnolia State. The state borders the Gulf of Mexico to its south, providing you with powdery beaches and stunning ocean views. Mississippi is known to have some of the most excellent beaches in the gulf.
There are also multiple museums, incredible animal interactions, and stunning nature to be seen. While Mississippi may be a frugal state, it certainly isn’t lacking in activities.
2. Kansas
Many people may not jump to Kansas when determining where they should live. But The Sunflower State has a lot to offer those looking to save money and live more comfortably.
Compared to the national average, Kansas sits well below in overall cost of living. The housing market is highly reasonable — making it easy to find the perfect house. You will also see lower rent prices and inexpensive transportation costs, so making a living is much more accessible in The Sunflower State.
Activities such as dining out are much cheaper in Kansas, leaving you with less guilt for treating yourself now and then. And savings on food aren’t the only thing you’ll find living there.
You can visit the remainder of the tallgrass prairies that once spanned a massive amount of the country. The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is home to over 500 species of plants and over 200 animals.
If you’re not in the mood to venture to the prairie, Kansas also has a variety of historical museums and downtowns, as well as zoos and aquariums.
3. Oklahoma
If you’re looking for stunning views, enticing outdoor adventures, and a reasonable cost of living, The Sooner State could be your ideal location. There are countless places to see and things to do, all while living below the national average.
Oklahoma offers an average home price well below the national average and a low rental rate. Items such as groceries will cost you less than many other states, leaving you extra money to spend on things you enjoy.
When looking for activities, outdoor enthusiasts will surely enjoy the nature and scenery Oklahoma has to offer. With many state parks, beautiful lakes, and scenic drives, it has everything a nature lover could want.
If you’re not much for nature, never fear. Oklahoma also offers indoor options such as malls, museums, and unique dining experiences.
4. Arkansas
The Natural State rightfully earned its nickname from the incredible nature filling the state. With two mountain ranges, the wilderness in Arkansas is breathtaking.
The state’s cost of living doesn’t hurt matters either. Arkansas sits well below the national average in housing, rent, groceries, and transportation. The overall cost of living there is 21% lower than the U.S. average.
Art lovers may enjoy a visit to Fayetteville, which — thanks to its large student population — holds events such as theater shows, festivals, and live music performances. Those looking to step back in time may enjoy Eureka Springs, a town filled with Victorian-style homes and cobblestone streets.
Nature enthusiasts will also enjoy their time in Arkansas, as the state boasts plenty of parks with stunning scenery. You won’t struggle to find a good hike between the Ozark National Forest and the state’s large number of parks.
5. Missouri
Missouri likely isn’t a state you hear about often unless you already reside there or live close. Though it’s not widely popular, The Show-Me State is a beautiful blend of natural wonder and exciting places to visit, all wrapped up in low-cost living.
Compared to the national average, Missouri sits below the line on housing, groceries, and transportation. The state’s overall cost of living is 14% lower than average, making it an extremely affordable option for those looking to lower their monthly bills.
Missouri offers its residents a wide range of beautiful cities, amusement parks, and museums outside of its low prices. There’s a little something for everyone in The Show-Me State.
If you’re outdoorsy, you’ll be happy to know Missouri is home to the Lake of the Ozarks, which boasts almost 800 miles of shoreline. There are also plenty of hiking trails throughout the state’s many parks. You won’t struggle to find an excellent place to get some fresh air in Missouri.
Living Frugal and Enjoying Life
Putting roots down in an area where you’re constantly worrying about your income and the cost of living and cost of home insurance can be a stressful and challenging life. Though you may think there isn’t a better place out there for you, that may not be the case.
These five states of frugality allow you to live a lifestyle that requires less of your income, leaving you with more money to spend on things you enjoy, save for something exciting, or simply add to an emergency fund should the need arise.
Many people may think that because these states have such a low cost of living, they have nothing to offer. However, that simply isn’t the case. From natural wonders to historic towns, these states allow you to enjoy life without worrying about your cost of living.
We hope you enjoyed reading 5 States of Frugality: Where to Live Cheaply & How to Get There. Be sure to check out our post The Most Popular Southern Cities to Move to This Year for more great tips!
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