Choosing a place to settle down with a family is hard. Your first instinct might be to settle in a city like New York or San Francisco, but that is not always an option or the right choice. The place you choose should not be based entirely on desire. There are important factors that you should take into account. You should base your choice upon a critical evaluation of these factors. Thankfully the United States is a great nation with many admirable cities. Cities like New York and San Francisco are no doubt impressive, but there is more to America than these cities, and each place has its distinctive features.
Crucial factors that determine the affordability of a city.
Money is almost everything. If you have the money, you can live anywhere in the world without a second thought. But if you have humble earnings and a simple lifestyle, you want to find the best place at the most affordable price.
The factors that you should note are median household income, median home value, median rent, gasoline cost, state, and local taxes, insurance cost, and cost of living index.
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Memphis, Tennessee
This area has a metro population of 1.3 million and is the second-largest populated center in Tennessee. Located on the flood banks on the eastern banks of the Mississippi River, this area needs no introduction. What is Memphis famous for? Graceland is one of the most visited places in the world. No Elvis Presley admirer would ever miss a trip to Graceland. Memphis is considered the best city in America for renters. Also, it’s not bad for homebuyers. The local economy is soft, which is why the rent and the gas price in this area are relatively less. The best part of this area is that it has no state, city, or county tax. Apart from its living benefits, the great music and food serve as a bonus.
Greenville, South Carolina
The weather and housing fluctuations are pretty stable in Greenville, so you do not have to worry about these two factors. Major hubs like Atlanta and Myrtle Beach are just a drive away, making Greenville a great choice. Apart from the housing factors, this city is also famous for its museums, food, downtown areas, and last but not least, the tough job market.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
The city is close to ski towns, just a commute away. As if this isn’t already enough of a reason to stay in Colorado Springs. The housing costs in this area are quite modest. You would be happy to know that this area also boasts health care with the fittest residents in the country. Outdoor activities are major in this area, so it keeps the people moving.
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is known for its ever-proud American spirit. The city boasts some beautiful scenery and an arts community. Also, the city has an economic appeal. The city also has a strong medical infrastructure, so much so that it attracts out-of-area patients. San Antonio may be the seventh-largest city in America, but that does not affect the housing prices in this area. The housing prices are a tenth of the house costs of many major hubs.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is the sin city of America and the home of buffets. Las Vegas is a great option for those who can resist the heat and gambling, both of which are a specialty in this city. Despite the glamour and shine of this city, Las Vegas does have some affordable destinations. The utilities and transport are below the country’s average rate. Plus, when you combine the affordable factor with the city’s entertainment factor, Vegas does seem like the jackpot.
Louisville, Kentucky
There are many reasons why Louisville is an affordable place in the United States. The city offers less health care cost and food costs as compared to the national average. One of the most overlooked benefits of Louisville is the utility expense. This is the perfect place for those looking to save some money in this regard. Also, if you’re someone who is searching for a job, Louisville is a good spot. The city has had a constant high employment rate and has avoided economic downturns.
Birmingham, Alabama
Birmingham is also known as the magic city. With low housing costs, living costs, and moderate temperature, this city would be an ideal spot to settle. If you are a food lover, then this city, with its 500+ restaurants, will be a delight. The city also offers a variety of house types, from quiet neighborhoods to lofts; there is something for everyone. The city also has quite many spectacular views, which is always a bonus.
Omaha, Nebraska
The balance sheet of Omaha is quite impressive; the residents pay less than the national average while making more money. The young crowds count in the city is also quite high. More than one-third of the city’s crowd is less than 24 years of age. The city also has a high prospect of white-collar jobs. Some of the largest corporations in the United States fall within the city limits.
Dayton, Ohio
Where can you get a T-bone steak for 10$ and a quality home for $70,000? The answer is Dayton. The city has impressive economic development resources, which are perfect for small businesses looking to expand. The healthcare facilities of the city are top-notch, with excellent diagnostic and treatment facilities. The city is mainly built around highways and diversions, which is a bonus point.
Buffalo, New York
This city does offer low median living costs but by no means falls under the cultural deprivations found in “affordable” cities. Sports lovers will be in awe of Buffalo due to its major sports teams. The city has splendid geographic features with lots of museums and attraction spots. Buffalo’s schooling districts are rated as one of the best in the country, which makes this city perfect for those with children. Most working places are within a 20-minute drive distance.
Conclusion
All of the cities mentioned above are affordable and beautiful, so take your pick and enjoy. You can find something you love in at least one, if not more, of the cities above. Moving to a more affordable location doesn’t mean you have to miss out on everything you are looking for in a home.
