- By Ridam Sharma
- Tue, 20 May 2025 07:11 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Cheapest Cities Of America: Most Americans are always on a hunt for affordable housing options, all thanks to increasing living expenses across the country. Some of the cities in the US have in-budget housing options, which highlights that affordable living can also be attained in the US, however, each comes with its own opportunities, culture, and value for the money. To know more, here’s a list of the top 10 cheapest cities in the US to reside in, according to data by Doxo’s annual report ‘50 Largest U.S. Cities Household Spend Report.
Top 10 Cheapest Cities to Live in the US (2025):
| Rank | City | State | Avg. Household Monthly Spend | per cent of Avg. Household Income |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Detroit | MI | $1,640 | 53 percent |
| 2 | Cleveland | OH | $1,735 | 41 percent |
| 3 | Dayton | OH | $1,773 | 32 percent |
| 4 | El Paso | TX | $1,784 | 38 percent |
| 5 | Rochester | NY | $1,858 | 35 percent |
| 6 | Oklahoma City | OK | $1,896 | 38 percent |
| 7 | Albuquerque | NM | $1,907 | 36 percent |
| 8 | Memphis | TN | $1,912 | 43 percent |
| 9 | Louisville | KY | $1,936 | 34 percent |
| 10 | Indianapolis | IN | $1,976 | 38 percent |
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit is the cheapest city to live in the US, with locals paying $1,640 on average per month on bills. Housing prices are particularly cheap, with average rents and mortgages being some of the lowest in the country. Nevertheless, lower wages mean locals still pay a considerable amount (53 per cent) of their income on bills, so it's relative.
Cleveland, Ohio
The second-cheapest city in the US is Cleveland, Ohio, whose average monthly expenditure is $1,735, which represents 41 percent of household expenditure. The city is budget-friendly, with low costs for housing, groceries, and utility bills. Its location near Lake Erie and the presence of a good healthcare industry contribute to be a good location for families and individuals.
Dayton, Ohio
Dayton have one of the lowest costs of living in the country, with families only expending of $1,773 per month, which is only 32 percent of their average income. Its affordable real estate market and low utility bills makes it a popular destination for individuals looking to stretch their budget a little.
El Paso, Texas
El Paso has residents who spend only a low average monthly amount of $1,784, representing 38 per cent of household income. The city features low-cost real estate, a temperate climate, and a lively cultural scene, which is perfect for living a high-quality of life at less cost.
Rochester, New York
Rochester has a monthly average cost of $1,858, which is 35 percent of the household income. The city is known for its affordable housing and proximity to the Finger Lakes area, which makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy both the urban location and the outdoors.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
With a monthly expense of $1,896 (38 percent of salary), Oklahoma City has affordable housing and a growing employment sector. The city possesses friendly neighbourhoods and a developing cultural scene, which makes it a strong pick for affordability and opportunity.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque residents spend $1,907 per month, which is 36 percent of household income. The city has an affordable lifestyle, a vibrant Southwestern culture, and proximity to outdoor activities, which attract families and retirees alike to the city.
Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis sports an average household spend of $1,912 (43 per cent of income). The city is widely known for its music heritage and barbecue, but also for having low housing and utility expenses, making it feasible for numerous types of residents.
Louisville, Kentucky
In Louisville, the typical monthly expenditure is $1,936 on just 34 per cent of family income. The city boasts an affordable lifestyle, rich arts and food culture, and famous southern hospitality.
Indianapolis, Indiana
The list of top 10 cheapest cities in the US concludes with Indianapolis, where people spend $1,976 a month, roughly 38 percent of their income to live a life. The city has affordable housing, a strong job market, and an environment that is family-oriented, making it a sensible option for much of America.
