Are you a digital nomad searching for a budget-friendly place to live in the United States? Here’s a list of the most affordable cities in the USA, perfect for remote workers looking to save some money.
After a year of working remotely and freelancing, I’ve done extensive research on the cheapest places to live in the USA. I understand how essential it is to have a lower cost of living when your income can fluctuate monthly.
This guide will provide all the details you need about the most budget-friendly cities across America. From coast to coast, you’ll find practical options, including a surprise at 10!
First up is Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This city in the western part of the state is rich in history, featuring numerous monuments and museums perfect for history buffs. The average living cost for a single person in Pittsburgh is $1,065 per month, not including rent. Living with a roommate or partner can reduce costs even further. Rent is about 60% cheaper than in New York, making it easier to visit the Big Apple. A one-bedroom apartment downtown costs roughly $1,343 per month, while outside the center, it’s around $951. For three bedrooms, expect to pay about $2,080 downtown and $1,547 in the suburbs. Pittsburgh also offers fantastic coworking spaces and cafes, ideal for networking with fellow remote workers.
Next is Oklahoma City, Oklahoma’s capital, known for its rich history and natural attractions. The cost of living here for a single person is around $852 per month, excluding rent, which is slightly cheaper than Pittsburgh. A one-bedroom apartment downtown costs about $1,166, or $813 outside the city center. For a three-bedroom, it’s $1,665 downtown and $1,162 in the suburbs. Oklahoma City has one of the lowest gas prices in the USA, further reducing living costs. The cost of living here is about 15% below the national average, making it a great option for digital nomads.
Memphis, Tennessee, is another affordable option. Known for its Rock ‘n Roll history and landmarks like Graceland, the city has a population of 651,000. Living costs for a single person are about $840 per month, excluding rent. Rent is approximately $1,025 downtown and $867 in the suburbs. Memphis has numerous coworking spaces and outdoor work areas, perfect for digital nomads. Consider coliving arrangements to save even more and connect with similar-minded individuals.
Louisville, Kentucky, is arguably the cheapest city for digital nomads. With a population of 600,000, the average living cost for one person is about $849 per month, excluding rent. Rents are around $1,065 downtown and $846 in the suburbs. Home prices in Louisville are around $150,000 on average. The city offers low utilities, high employment rates, and lower food and healthcare costs. Louisville hosts many events, has great cafes, and provides easy access to other states via the local airport.
Kansas City, Missouri, is another affordable city. Located on the border of Kansas, it has a population of nearly 500,000. The average monthly living cost without rent is $888. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment downtown is approximately $1,169, or $803 outside the city center. Kansas City’s cost of living is about 6% below the national average. Known for its Jazz history, the city also offers great coworking spaces and a youthful vibe.
Charlotte, North Carolina, is a popular vacation spot with warm weather and less congestion than Florida. The average monthly living cost without rent is about $944. Rent downtown is around $1,581, or $1,070 in the suburbs. Charlotte is still growing, boasting a robust job market and a welcoming atmosphere for digital nomads. The city features numerous coworking spaces, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and excellent nightlife.
Fort Wayne, Indiana, is perfect for arts and culture enthusiasts. With a population of 265,000, the average living cost is about $857 per month, excluding rent. Downtown apartment rents are roughly $800, or $600 in the suburbs. Home prices average around $110,600. Fort Wayne offers a diverse community, many coworking spaces, and a thriving coffee culture.
Buffalo, New York, located near Lake Erie, offers a small-town feel in a larger city. The cost of living is 62% lower than in New York City, with an average rent of $850 for a two-bedroom apartment. Buffalo has a strong sense of community, fantastic sports fans, and a lively foodie scene. The city offers fast wifi, many coworking spaces, and numerous activities.
Omaha, Nebraska, with a population of 500,000, offers affordable living and is filled with American history. The monthly living cost without rent is about $933. Rents for one-bedroom apartments are around $931 downtown, or $769 in the suburbs. Home prices average about $140,000. Omaha has a youthful vibe, plenty of tech companies, and good internet connectivity.
Finally, Salt Lake City, Utah, offers affordable living in a beautiful, mountainous area. With a population of just under 200,000, the living cost for a single person is around $856 per month, excluding rent. One-bedroom rents downtown average $1,301, or $984 in the suburbs. Three-bedroom rents are $2,074 downtown and $1,519 in the suburbs. Salt Lake City has low crime rates, beautiful surroundings, and plenty of coworking spaces.
These cities offer a mix of culture, food, nature, and city life, making them ideal for digital nomads looking to save money and explore new places. Consider hopping from city to city to find the perfect match for your remote working needs.
