Affordable U.S. Cities to Consider Living in 2026
Mar 10th 2026
MoveNumbers analyzed BLS, HUD, Census, and IRS data to show where living costs are lowest in 2026 and what to check before you move.
- Small and mid sized metro areas in the Midwest and South tend to have the lowest housing costs relative to incomes.
- Rent is the largest driver of affordability, so compare HUD Fair Market Rents with local median wages from the BLS.
- Strong local job growth or higher wages can offset higher rents and make a city affordable despite rising housing costs.
- State and local taxes, utilities, and transportation costs materially change your monthly budget and should be included in any move calculation.
- Census and IRS migration data can signal which places are gaining residents and may face future price pressure.
- All figures are estimates drawn from public BLS, HUD, Census, and IRS data and are a starting point for research, not financial advice.