The 5 Cheapest Cities to Live in the USA
- Murtaz Navsariwala
- Dec 29, 2025
- 4 min read
If you’re planning to move to the United States but worry about the high cost of living in cities like New York, Miami, or Los Angeles, here’s some good news: there are affordable alternatives - and they may surprise you.
Several U.S. cities offer a high quality of life with a cost of living up to 25% lower than the national average, according to the latest data from the Cost of Living Index (C2ER).
These often-overlooked cities are great starting points for newcomers to the U.S., whether you're coming on a work visa, student visa, investment route, or pursuing permanent residency.
Keep reading to discover the 5 cheapest cities to live in the United States.
Table of Content
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Kalamazoo tops the list as the most affordable city in the U.S. in 2026, with a cost of living index of just 76.5.
Located in Michigan, this vibrant college town has a diversified economy and excellent infrastructure. It’s also just a few hours from Chicago. Rent prices are very reasonable, even in central areas, and the city offers several local housing and education support programs. For those who are planning to study, work, or move with family, Kalamazoo is a smart, cost-effective option to start your U.S. journey.
McAllen, Texas
In southern Texas, McAllen has become a favorite among Hispanic immigrants - and is gaining popularity too.
With a cost of living index of 77, McAllen combines low daily expenses with strong local commerce and business opportunities. Food and transportation costs are among the lowest in the country, and the city enjoys warm weather year-round. McAllen’s diverse population and welcoming vibe also make it easier for newcomers to adapt and build community.
Harlingen, Texas
Also in Texas, Harlingen stands out for having some of the lowest average rent prices in the U.S. With a cost of living index of 79, this small, welcoming city offers everything a solo immigrant or family needs to get started comfortably.
Harlingen appeals to those seeking peace of mind, safety, and a vibrant Latin-American community. Its year-round warm climate is also attractive to many people, and essential services like healthcare, groceries, and utilities remain very affordable.
Tupelo, Mississippi
Best known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, Tupelo is more than just a historic city - it’s also an excellent choice for those looking to live in the U.S. on a budget.
With a cost of living index of 81.2, it offers extremely affordable housing. A one-bedroom apartment can cost less than $750/month, and basic living expenses such as groceries and utilities are among the lowest nationwide. Tupelo has a small-town feel, a rich cultural identity, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere - ideal for families and individuals seeking financial stability and quality of life.
Muskogee, Oklahoma
Rounding out the list is Muskogee, Oklahoma, with a cost of living index of 79.6. This peaceful, small city is ideal for those looking to live comfortably without the stress of big-city life. Rent and utility costs are very low, allowing newcomers to stretch their budget further.
Muskogee is also known for its deep connection to country music and its strong sense of community. For immigrants seeking a calm, budget-friendly lifestyle in the U.S., Muskogee is a great fit.
How to Live Legally in the United States?
As we’ve seen, moving to the United States can be more achievable than it seems. Choosing cities with a lower cost of living is a smart strategy for those who want to start calmly, save money, and still have access to solid infrastructure to work, study, and live legally in the country.
At Murtaz Law, we help immigrants like you find the best legal path to live in the U.S., whether through work visas, student visas, investment options, or family-based immigration.
Would you like to understand which visa option is best for your profile? Click here, submit your résumé, and receive a personalized evaluation of your case.
This is the first step to turning your plan into reality - with clarity, security, and full legal support throughout your immigration journey.
About Murtaz Law
With more than a decade of experience, we take pride in guiding families and individuals on their journey to legally immigrate to the USA, whether temporarily or permanently.
Our success story spans a variety of cases, including temporary immigration, family reunification, naturalization, and especially, work visas like the EB2-NIW, which leads to the Green Card. Over the years, we have built a solid reputation and become a reference for skilled professionals, artists, and elite athletes who wish to expand their careers or undertake ventures in the USA.
Our 99.5% approval rate in cases demonstrates our commitment to a personalized approach, combining ethics, creativity, and deep knowledge of the laws and economic issues. We recognize that each client has a unique story and work side by side, individually, to create tailored strategies that achieve the desired outcomes. We take the importance of our work in our clients' lives seriously. Your future deserves a unique strategy, and we at Murtaz Law have the experience and expertise to meet your immigration needs.
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