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Cost of living can vary greatly depending on your location. While some states have high-priced cities, there are still affordable small towns nearby. Here are the most economical small towns across all 50 states.
Business Insider compiled this list using data from the Census Bureau. You can check out their full methodology here, but here's the breakdown:
We focused on towns with populations ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 where households spend no more than 30% of their yearly income on housing expenses. We considered the average costs for three types of housing—mortgaged homes, homes without mortgages, and rental properties—and averaged them based on their respective proportions in each town.
Keep in mind that these are averages, so actual costs may differ based on housing type and income levels. The full list is available at the link below, but here are some notable examples:
Massachusetts: Brookfield
79.4% of homes are affordable
This charming New England town invites visitors with its tree-lined streets and elegant Victorian homes. Brookfield is not only picturesque but also community-oriented, offering various events throughout the year, including summer concerts, a Memorial Day parade, a pumpkin festival, and a holiday tree-lighting ceremony organized by a dedicated cultural committee.
California: Kettleman City
85.9% of homes are affordable
Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Kettleman City is a rural farm town nestled near the oil-rich Kettleman Hills. The town also lies close to the California Aqueduct and the controversial Kettleman Hills Hazardous Waste Facility, marking it as a location of both natural beauty and industrial significance.
New York: Peru
89.7% of homes are affordable
Situated about 30 minutes from the Canadian border, Peru lies on the New York side of Lake Champlain. Rich in military history, particularly around the time of the French and Indian War, Peru has transformed from a battleground into a peaceful haven featuring apple orchards and dairy farms that attract tourists.
Hawaii: Maunawili
74.5% of homes are affordable
Known for its stunning hiking trails and breathtaking waterfalls, Maunawili, located on Oahu, attracts many visitors. However, the town has more to offer than just scenic spots; it is also home to Ulupo and Kukunono heiau, sacred Hawaiian temples that provide a deeper cultural significance to the area.
To view the complete list, visit the provided link.
Image courtesy of Battle Creek CVB.
