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Corn, cows and affordable cost of living. While that sums up the Midwestern state of Nebraska in a nutshell, this state has far more up its sleeve. For one thing, it boasts an incredible variety of natural landscapes ranging from sand dunes to sweeping prairies. Its vibrant cities are alive with sports, dining, art, culture and diverse industries like business. Some cities are up-and-coming hubs for young professionals to pursue exciting new careers. And yes, the Cornhusker State is famous for its agricultural output.

The cost of living in Nebraska is also affordable. Between the big cities and smaller towns, you’re bound to find a place that fits your budget. Many cities around Nebraska also offer a great blend of urban amenities, as well as outdoor access. From housing to taxes, here’s what you can expect in terms of the cost of living in Nebraska.

Nebraska housing prices

Overall, Nebraska’s housing costs are below the national average. Similar to most places, you’ll be paying more to live in bigger cities. But, while the average rent in cities like Omaha is on the higher end for the state, it trumps average rents in more expensive states like California. Even if you’re priced out of Nebraska’s bigger cities, you can make ends meet by getting roommates. You can also look for more affordable housing in the greater metro area or a nearby town.

Here’s what average rent and house prices are like in two of Nebraska’s biggest and most popular cities.

Lincoln

Located in the southeastern part of the state, Lincoln is Nebraska’s capital city. It’s also the second-most-populous city in the state with a population of around 292,657. From the historic downtown to numerous city parks, the friendly atmosphere here feels more “small town” than “big city.”

Residents get to enjoy the walkable downtown area, visit museums and galleries and support the growing live music scene. Lincoln is also the home of several universities, including the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Just outside the city limits, locals can also hike and boat in nearby lakes and recreation areas.

Housing costs in Lincoln are 23.1 percent below the national average. But, the cost of rent here is on the rise. You’ll find one-bedroom apartments available for $1,115 a month, which is up 4 percent from last year. Prices for two-bedroom apartments are up 8 percent from the previous year to $1,375.

With a median sale price of $270,000 — that’s up 10.7 percent from last year — Lincoln’s housing market is also on the rise.

Omaha

Along with housing costs that are 17.1 percent below the national average, Omaha is Nebraska’s center for art, culture, dining and sports. In addition to being Nebraska’s most populous city, it’s also the center of the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area. It’s considered a great city for musicians and artists to live and practice their craft.

Numerous Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 companies are here, helping fuel a robust local economy. Its top industries include insurance, banking, transportation and telecommunications. From a good jobs market to the abundance of family-friendly activities like the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, Omaha appeals to both young adults and families.

Living in Omaha, renters will find a wide range of neighborhoods to choose from. To rent an apartment, you’re looking at an average monthly rent of $1,072 for a one-bedroom apartment. Two-bedroom units are going for around $1,510. Both these rates are up from last year. The cost of one-bedroom units has gone up 13 percent and two-bedroom apartments have gone up 18 percent.

If you want to buy a home in Omaha, the median sale price is $265,000. This price is up 9.1 percent from the previous year. This is one of the more affordable housing markets around the state. It’s also affordable compared to the national median sale price for a house, which is $428,379.

Nebraska food prices

It’s not called the Cornhusker State for nothing. Nebraska is well-known for its agriculture industry, especially for crops like corn. Cows, soybeans and hogs are also among the state’s top agricultural commodities. Living in such a bountiful state with near-instant access to so much fresh food could be a contributing factor to Nebraska’s lower-than-average food costs.

The average Nebraskan spends between $233 and $266 a month on food. That comes out to $2,801 and $3,200 annually, which is on par with food spending in states like California and New York. Overall, total grocery costs in Nebraska are 1.4 percent below the national average. In some cities, that amount is even lower:

  • Lincoln is 7.1 percent below the national average
  • Omaha is 3.3 percent below the national average

Just because Lincoln has the least expensive food costs compared to the national average doesn’t mean prices will always be lower than in other Nebraska cities. For example, the cost of a dozen eggs is more expensive in Lincoln at $1.52 compared to $1.39 in Omaha. However, buying a loaf of bread in Omaha costs $3.94 but is only $3.79 in Lincoln.

Nebraska utility prices

Living in Nebraska, the cost of basic utilities like water and electricity is below the national average. How much below depends on the city:

  • Lincoln is 15.1 percent below the national average
  • Omaha is 4.9 percent below the national average

Lincoln has the least expensive utilities. As an example, total energy costs for the month in Lincoln come out to $120.74. In Omaha, that monthly energy bill will be much higher at $152.54.

Another essential utility is water. The average water bill in Nebraska is $23. For most households, having the internet is now an essential modern utility, as well, costing an average of $59.99 a month. Paying for a minimum connection of 60 megabits per second is higher in Omaha, though, where it costs $77.46. In Lincoln, you’ll pay around $66.82.

Nebraska gets its electricity from a variety of sources. The majority comes from coal, followed by wind power and nuclear power. Along with wind power, Nebraska also gets renewable energy from hydropower. Vast underground aquifers like the High Plains Aquifer provide Nebraska with its water supply.

Nebraska transportation prices

Depending on where you live in Nebraska, you’ll be paying either above or close to the national average for transportation costs. Unlike the cars of Carhenge, a famous roadside attraction, you need to get from one place to another.

With the exception of a few counties, the majority of Nebraska counties have access to public transportation. Some counties, cities or municipalities may also operate their own mass transit. Nebraska is largely agricultural, with 92 percent of the state’s land dedicated to agriculture and farms. With cities and towns far between, many will view having a car as a necessity in Nebraska.

However, there are mass transit options for those without. Furthermore, there are plenty of benefits to using public transportation even if you do have a car. It can help you save money on gas or other vehicle expenses. If you live in a big city, it can reduce your commuting time and ease traffic congestion. Finally, it’s more sustainable and eco-friendly.

Here’s how transportation costs in these cities compare to the national average:

  • Lincoln is 2 percent below the national average
  • Omaha is 5.7 percent above the national average

Overall, Omaha is the most expensive city for transportation. This makes sense considering it’s the state’s biggest city. Let’s take a closer look at public transportation options in Omaha and Lincoln.

Omaha Metro in Omaha

Consisting of buses, paratransit and rapid transit services, Omaha Metro provides mass transit to the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area. It operates 27 different routes around a territory of roughly 100 square miles. The fixed-route transit buses make up the majority of the routes. The ORBT Rapid Transit only operates on Dodge Street, providing more frequent service and stops along this main thoroughfare. Paratransit services are available on an on-demand basis.

Fares on fixed-route buses start at $1.25 for a single ride. Transfers cost an additional $0.25. Instead of a weekly pass, you can purchase a 10-day ride pass for $12.50 or $15 with transfers included. An unlimited 30-day pass is $55. Riders can pay in cash or with the system’s Umo card or app, and reduced rates are available for eligible riders.

The only tolled route in the Omaha metro area is the Bellevue GAR Memorial Bridge south of the city. This bridge crosses the Missouri River connecting Nebraska to Iowa. For passenger cars, it costs $1 to cross.

If taking the bus or using a car doesn’t work, you’ll be happy to hear that some parts of Omaha are pedestrian-friendly. The city has a walk score of 62. Its bike score is slightly lower at 53. Although it would be a challenge to fully navigate the city by bike or on foot, certain neighborhoods and districts are easily walkable or bike-able.

StarTran in Lincoln

The StarTran system offers bus routes around the city of Lincoln, with 14 different routes to choose from. It also provides paratransit services and designated routes for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. There’s also a downtown trolley for tourists and workers.

Usually, one-way fares cost $1.25 and a monthly pass is $17. But at the moment, all StarTran buses are free to ride for everyone.

If you use your car to get around Lincoln, you won’t have to worry about toll roads or bridges. While Lincoln isn’t the most walkable city with a middling score of 48, it’s more bike-friendly. Its bike score is 64, indicating it’s fairly easy to get around the city by bike.

Nebraska healthcare prices

Healthcare is one of Nebraska’s few cost of living categories that are consistently above the national average. However, it’s important to point out that it’s difficult to calculate average healthcare costs in general. This is because these costs will be different for everyone depending on personal factors. If you have a pre-existing condition, illness or specific medication needs, you may pay far more for healthcare than your neighbor. So, these costs are definitely not set in stone and will vary depending on your personal healthcare needs.

For a rough overview, though, here’s the average cost for a doctor’s visit in these two cities:

  • Omaha: $142.67
  • Lincoln: $167

While both are expensive, Lincoln claims the top spot for the most expensive doctor’s visits. Going to the dentist is also more expensive in Lincoln, costing $100.40 compared to $97.67 in Omaha. Similarly, Lincoln’s total healthcare costs are the highest above the national average:

  • Omaha is 2.1 percent above the national average
  • Lincoln is 7.6 percent above the national average

The good news is that even though prices are higher than the national average, the quality of care should match the higher rates. Nebraska ranks 28th in the nation for its healthcare. It has especially good marks for access to healthcare and overall public health. If a state has a healthy population, it makes healthcare professionals’ jobs easier. The Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha is also ranked alongside the likes of the Mayo Clinic as one of the best hospitals in the nation. This provides Nebraska residents with access to a top-tier medical facility.

Nebraska goods and services prices

Along with housing, food, utilities and other essentials, you also need to factor miscellaneous goods and services into your monthly budget. These are routine items or services you need on a regular basis, like toothpaste or getting a haircut. Some are less utility-based and are more about lifestyle and enjoyment, like ordering pizza or going to see a movie.

Overall, you’ll be paying below the national average for goods and services in these two Nebraska cities:

  • Omaha is 8.2 percent below the national average
  • Lincoln is 2.8 percent below the national average

For total goods and services, Omaha is generally the least expensive city of the two. A haircut in Omaha costs $22.80 compared to $24.20 in Lincoln. A trip to the dry cleaners rings up a bill of $14.08 in Omaha. In Lincoln, that dry cleaning run will set you back $16.56. If you want to go out to the movies in Omaha, you’ll pay $11.62 for tickets. Those same tickets cost $13.10 in Lincoln.

Taxes in Nebraska

Whether in the form of sales tax or income tax, state taxes are another important cost of living factor to consider since they can vary widely between states.

Nebraska’s statewide sales tax of 5.5 percent. This means that if you spend $1,000 on Reuben sandwiches, you’ll pay $55 extra in sales tax.

Furthermore, cities and counties around Nebraska can also add their own local sales tax onto the statewide rate:

  • Omaha has a combined tax of 7 percent
  • Lincoln has a combined tax of 7.25 percent

In Omaha, you’ll be paying a total of $70 in tax for every $1,000 spent. In Lincoln, you’ll be paying slightly more at $72.50. Throughout the state, local sales tax ranges from 1 percent to 2 percent, with 2 percent being the maximum local sales tax you’ll pay. The majority of cities and towns implement a 1.5 percent local sales tax.

For income tax, Nebraska has a graduated individual rate ranging from 2.46 percent to 6.84 percent.

How much do I need to earn to live in Nebraska?

Rent is usually the biggest monthly expense. To make sure you’re not living outside your means and can afford other necessities like food and utilities, it’s recommended that you only spend 30 percent of your gross monthly income on rent. This ensures you have sufficient funds for everything you need as well as fun expenses like going out.

With Nebraska’s average rent being $1,009, that requires a monthly income of $3,363 or an annual income of $40,356. The median household income in Nebraska is $63,015. An individual paying for only their expenses and no dependents need to make at least $34,519 to live comfortably in Nebraska. As salaries here range from $25,359 to $99,457, some people working in lower-paying industries may struggle to afford housing if they’re living on their own. But, if you have roommates or live with a partner, housing costs become manageable.

You can use our rent calculator to estimate what you can afford to pay in rent based on your monthly income, location, type of desired housing and expenses.

Living in Nebraska

Now that you’ve learned more about how Nebraska’s cost of living changes by city and area, you can determine the best place for you to live. Throughout the state, you’ll enjoy access to the great outdoors, cultural scenes and growing job markets.

The Cost of Living Index comes from coli.org.
The rent information included in this summary is based on a calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Rent. as of August 2022.
Rent prices are for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.

Source: rent.com

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Arkansas is filled with natural beauty from the Ozark Mountains to the Hot Springs National Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. And with charming small towns and vibrant city centers, there are plenty of reasons to consider calling Arkansas home. If you’ve been debating moving to Arkansas or are hoping to relocate to a new city, you also probably have a budget you’d like to stay under as you look for a place to live. When it comes to buying a home in Arkansas the median home sale price is $299,900. 

Don’t worry if that price doesn’t fit in your budget – we’ve got options to help you find a home or apartment that does. Redfin has collected the 5 of the most affordable places to live in Arkansas. And the best part is that they all have a median home sale price under $299,900. From Little Rock to Jonesboro, let’s jump in and see what cities are on the list.

#1: North Little Rock

Median home price: $163,500 
Average sale price per square foot: $111 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $627 
Median household income: $45,590 
Nearest major metro: Little Rock (3 miles)
North Little Rock, AR homes for sale
North Little Rock, AR apartments for rent

With a median home sale price of $163,500, North Little Rock claims the first spot on our list of affordable places to live in Arkansas. About 64,600 people live in this city and it’s roughly 3 miles north of the nearest major metropolitan area Little Rock. If you’re considering moving to this area make sure to spend the day outside at Burns Park or Emerald Park, explore the Park Hill Historic District and stop by The Old Mill. You can also stroll along the riverfront or visit the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum.

#2: Fort Smith

Median home price: $170,250 
Average sale price per square foot: $118 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $675 
Median household income: $48,033 
Nearest major metro: Tulsa, OK (120 miles)
Fort Smith, AR homes for sale
Fort Smith, AR apartments for rent

The second spot on our list of affordable cities to live in Arkansas is Fort Smith. When living in this city of 89,200 people, you can visit parks like Ben Geren Regional Park or Fort Smith Park, check out historic sites and museums like Fort Smith National Historic Site, Fort Smith Museum of History, and the Clayton House, or stroll along the Ronnie Udouj Walking Trail.

#3: Jonesboro

Median home price: $224,950 
Average sale price per square foot: $130 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $840 
Median household income: $48,901 
Nearest major metro: Memphis, TN (70 miles)
Jonesboro, AR homes for sale
Jonesboro, AR apartments for rent

Third is Jonesboro where about 78,600 residents currently live. The median home sale price is $224,950 which is about $70K less than the median home sale price in Arkansas. If you find yourself moving to the third most affordable place, make sure to explore the Arkansas State University campus, check out downtown Jonesboro, and spend the day at Craighead Forest Lake where you can camp, hike the trails, or fish. 

#4: Conway

Median home price: $250,750 
Average sale price per square foot: $146 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $730 
Median household income: $48,033 
Nearest major metro: Little Rock (35 miles)
Conway, AR homes for sale
Conway, AR apartments for rent

Slightly more expensive than Jonesboro is the city of Conway. About 64,200 people live in Conway, where there are plenty of unique activities to do. Be sure to check out the charming downtown, golf at one of the courses, or hike the Tucker Trail.

#5: Little Rock

Median home price: $261,250 
Average sale price per square foot: $141 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $830 
Median household income: $48,033 
Little Rock, AR homes for sale
Little Rock, AR apartments for rent

Another great area to add to your list is Little Rock. Home to 202,600 residents, this affordable town can be a great option to add to your list. In Little Rock, you can visit the Little Rock Zoo, check out riverfront parks like Murray Park or Rebsamen Park, and stop by the Arkansas State Capitol building. There are countless museums in Little Rock like the Historic Arkansas Museum, Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, William J. Clinton Library and Museum, and the Museum of Discovery.

Methodology: All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have a median home sale price under the average median home sale price in Arkansas. Median home sale price and median sale price per square foot from the Redfin Data Center during July 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2023. Population and median household income data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.

Source: redfin.com

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There are many benefits to living in the Southern state of Mississippi. Defined by the mighty Mississippi River on its western border, the state has beautiful natural landscapes that are both a playground for hiking, boating, fishing and more, as well as an abundant agricultural resource.

It’s famous for being the birthplace of blues music and its scrumptious Southern cuisine. Its small and mid-sized cities are diverse hubs for industry, music, art and culture, full of friendly, welcoming locals that are a big reason why Mississippi is known as the Hospitality State.

Living among all this is also very affordable, as the cost of living in Mississippi is below the national average. Whether you want to live in a city with outdoor access or a great live music scene, Mississippi has tons of different options to choose from. These cities also offer different price points for all kinds of budgets. If you’re considering moving to the Magnolia State, this in-depth look at the cost of living in cities around Mississippi will help you find the right fit for your lifestyle and budget.

Mississippi housing prices

Starting off with the cost of housing in Mississippi, the state is an attractive option for affordable housing costs. Total housing costs here are below the national average, even in the most populous cities. The average rent in most cities is below $1,000 for a one-bedroom, and the cost of buying a house here is similarly accessible.

To see how housing costs vary around the state, let’s look at the average rent and home prices in some major Mississippi cities.

Hattiesburg

Known as Hub City, Hattiesburg, in southeastern Mississippi, earned its nickname due to being a major crossroads for the railroad and lumber industries. Nowadays, it’s a hub for arts, dining, sports and higher education. It’s the home of The University of Southern Mississippi and is also close to Camp Shelby, which is the biggest U.S. National Guard training camp east of the Mississippi River. With such a diverse mix of industries and attractions, Hattiesburg appeals to both families and young adults. Nearby De Soto National Forest is a regional destination for hiking and outdoor recreation.

Although housing costs here are 38.3 percent below the national average, Hattiesburg has some of the highest average rents in the state. One-bedroom apartments cost around $997 a month, up 1 percent from last year. The average rent for two-bedroom units is up 2 percent to $1,250.

Hattiesburg has one of the cheapest housing markets in the state, with a median sale price of $84,000. Information about whether this rate has increased or decreased over the past year isn’t available.

Jackson

Located in the southwestern part of the state, Jackson is the state capital of Mississippi. It’s also the most populous city in the state with a population of 149,761. Along with affordable housing costs, locals here enjoy a vibrant cultural scene encompassing everything from blues music to numerous museums, as well as sports and outdoor recreation in state parks and on the Ross R. Barnett Reservoir.

The city has numerous sites along the Mississippi Freedom Trail and Mississippi Blues Trail, documenting the city’s key role in both the creation of blues music and the civil rights movement. Jackson also has several universities, the biggest of which is the HBCU Jackson State University. Overall, it’s a nice state capital to call home.

Housing costs here are 37.1 percent below the national average, and prices have actually gone down over the past year. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment has gone down 12 percent from the previous year to $737. At $832 a month, the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is down 3 percent.

The housing market in Jackson is down 1.8 percent from last year, as well. Here, median sale prices for a house are $180,000. In comparison, the national median sale price is $428,379.

Meridian

Located in southeastern Mississippi, Meridian is another notable town in Mississippi’s music history. It was the hometown of the Father of Country Music, Jimmie Rodgers. Live music, art and culture are still alive and well here, with music festivals, grand theaters and museums. The city is also known for its great vintage shopping, family-friendly activities and lovely parks like Bonita Lakes Park.

Meridian’s overall housing costs are 31 percent below the national average. You can rent a one-bedroom apartment for $650 a month, which is 2 percent less than last year. Prices for two-bedroom apartments are up 9 percent from last year to $825 monthly. Overall, it’s one of the cheapest places to live in Mississippi.

With a median sale price of $20,450 and no known change in price from the previous year, Meridian’s housing market has the least expensive house prices of our highlighted cities.

Tupelo

With a population of 37,667, the small city of Tupelo in northeastern Mississippi is best known for being the hometown of the King himself, Elvis Presley. His childhood home is now preserved as a museum. On top of its Elvis fame, Tupelo has a vibrant arts and culture scene with museums, a symphony, community theaters and festivals. City parks like Ballard Park are throughout the town, and camping, hiking and other outdoor recreation are available at nearby lakes and state parks.

The cost of housing in Tupelo is 38.5 percent below the national average, with one-bedroom apartments available for an average rate of $595 a month. This rate has stayed consistent over the past year. However, the cost of two-bedroom apartments has gone up 24 percent to $840.

To buy a house in Tupelo, you’re looking at a median sale price of $121,000. Data isn’t available about how prices have changed over the previous year.

Mississippi food prices

From mud pies to soul food, the delicious local cuisine is one of the best parts of living in Mississippi. Both the Gulf Coast and the Mississippi River keep the state supplied with great fish like catfish and seafood like crawfish. You’ll also find barbecue, biscuits and other classic Southern staples on menus. Thanks to a diverse immigrant population, you’ll also find multicultural dishes like hot tamales, as well.

With so many tasty dishes and food items to spend money on, it’s a good thing that food costs in Mississippi are below the national average. Mississippi residents spend between $200 and $233 per person on food a month, which is between $2,400 and $2,800 a year. This puts the cost of living in Mississippi for food among the lowest in the U.S. Total grocery costs around the state are 6.9 percent below the national average, and some cities are even lower than that:

  • Tupelo is 13.1 percent below the national average
  • Meridian is 12.3 percent below the national average
  • Jackson is 2.6 percent below the national average
  • Hattiesburg is 2.8 percent below the national average

Let’s look at the cost of different food items in these cities to see how they compare. Tupelo and Meridian have the lowest-priced food items compared to the national average, and some items reflect this. A dozen eggs cost $1.57 in Meridian and $1.34 in Tupelo. You’ll be paying the most for eggs in Jackson at $1.96. For a half-gallon of milk, Tupelo is the least expensive at $2.14 while Hattiesburg is the most expensive at $2.78. However, not all food costs in Tupelo or Meridian will be the lowest among the four cities. Meridian has the second-highest price for steak in our highlighted cities at $13.15, while Tupelo is the cheapest at $11.14.

Mississippi utility prices

For basic utilities like water, electricity and internet, you’ll be paying below the national average in Mississippi.

Natural gas makes up the majority of Mississippi’s energy production. Coal and crude oil are other big energy production sectors. Mississippi is also the home of the Grand Gulf Nuclear Power Station. This single-reactor nuclear plant is the biggest generating capacity in the country, so nuclear power also makes up a decent chunk of Mississippi’s energy production. Along with groundwater resources, the Mississippi River is another major water supply resource for communities throughout the state.

The cost of utilities is below the national average throughout the state, but some cities are lower than others:

  • Jackson is 17 percent below the national average
  • Tupelo is 11.6 percent below the national average
  • Hattiesburg is 5.8 percent below the national average
  • Meridian is 5.7 percent below the national average

With total monthly energy costs of $132.78, Jackson is the least expensive city for energy costs in Mississippi. Both Hattiesburg and Meridian have roughly the same energy costs, but Meridian is slightly more expensive at $159.70. In Hattiesburg, you’ll pay $159.48. The average electric bill for the whole state is $135.67.

The average water bill in Mississippi is $23.

Mississippi transportation prices

Living in Mississippi, you’ll be paying below the national average for transportation costs. This includes private transportation like using a personal car, as well as public transportation. Since Mississippi is a largely rural state, having a car is a necessity here. If you do need a car to get around, Mississippi doesn’t have any toll roads.

However, all parts of the state have public transportation of some kind, with over 60 different providers. Using public transportation is a great way to save on transportation costs like gas or vehicle maintenance. It’s also more eco-friendly and reduces traffic congestion and commutes in bigger cities.

Here’s how transportation costs in these cities compare to the national average:

  • Jackson is 21.7 percent below the national average
  • Meridian is 9.4 percent below the national average
  • Tupelo is 8.2 percent below the national average
  • Hattiesburg is 4.3 percent below the national average

All these cities have some form of public transportation available to their residents. But bigger cities like Jackson and Hattiesburg have more extensive systems. Before we look closer at transit in these bigger cities, let’s do a quick overview of options in Tupelo and Meridian. Tupelo Transit offers on-demand bus public transit services around the city for $2 one-way and $4 round-trip. In Meridian, Choctaw Transportation offers weekday-only bus public transportation within the city limits. One-way fares are $3 and round-trip is $6.

Now, let’s see what residents of Jackson and Hattiesburg have in terms of public transportation.

JTRAN in Jackson

The JTRAN system in Jackson offers bus service transit along 11 different routes for the city of Jackson. It also has on-demand paratransit services. A one-way ride on a fixed-route bus costs $1.50. Weekly passes are $15 and a monthly pass costs $42. Transfers are free. Discounts are available for students, senior citizens and those with disabilities. Kids under the age of 5 ride for free, and with the exception of one-way $0.75 fares, kids between the ages of six and 14 ride for free, as well.

Since Jackson is a fairly spread-out city, using the bus or your own personal vehicle is the best way to navigate the city with ease. This is because Jackson has low scores for walkability and bikeability. Its walk score is 35 and its bike score is 37. While certain neighborhoods or city parks are pedestrian- or bike-friendly, the overall city isn’t.

Hub City Transit in Hattiesburg

With one-way fares of $0.50, Hub City Transit offers residents of Hattiesburg a low-cost way to get around town. Its bus fleet operates 7 different bus routes around the city, as well as an on-demand paratransit service. Discounts are available for qualified riders like senior citizens and children. City employees and students, staff and faculty of the University of Southern Mississippi ride free. Weekly and monthly passes aren’t available at this time.

With a low walk score of 37 and a bike score of 47, Hattiesburg isn’t the best city to explore or navigate by bike or foot. Using the bus or having your own form of transportation are the best ways to easily get around.

Mississippi healthcare prices

At first glance, it may look like you’ll be getting a great deal on healthcare prices in Mississippi. Here’s how much it costs to go to the doctor’s office in these different cities:

  • Jackson: $60
  • Tupelo: $75
  • Hattiesburg: $112.50
  • Meridian: $95

While Hattiesburg is the most expensive city for doctor’s visits, an average cost of $103.75 makes it the cheapest city to go to the dentist. Going for a cleaning and dental check-up costs the most in Jackson at $146. Right off the bat, we can see that dental costs are higher than general healthcare costs in Mississippi. This trend holds true for other cities, as well. It costs $107 to go to the dentist in Tupelo and $133 in Meridian. Tupelo is actually ranked nationally for its low healthcare costs.

Along with these average costs, total healthcare costs in most Mississippi cities are below the national average:

  • Tupelo is 8.8 percent below the national average
  • Jackson is 2 percent below the national average
  • Meridian is 0.5 percent above the national average
  • Hattiesburg is 0.3 percent below the national average

However, these healthcare costs require some context. First and foremost, it’s a challenge to determine average healthcare costs in a particular area because healthcare prices are different for everyone. Some people may pay more for their healthcare due to pricey medications or pre-existing conditions. So, just because the average doctor’s visit costs $60 in Jackson doesn’t necessarily mean that’s what you’ll pay.

Another important caveat is that even though Mississippi has low average healthcare costs, that doesn’t mean you’re getting the best care. Mississippi is ranked dead-last for healthcare in the United States across all categories. These categories are healthcare access, quality and overall public health. So, not only do Mississippi residents have low public health in general, but then, they lack good access to quality healthcare for treatment. If you have specific healthcare needs that require a specialized level of care, Mississippi’s poor healthcare record is something to consider.

Mississippi goods and services prices

Similar to most other costs of living categories, you’ll be paying below the national average for assorted goods and services in Mississippi. How much less depends on what city you live in:

  • Jackson is 13.9 percent below the national average
  • Tupelo is 9.5 percent below the national average
  • Hattiesburg is 5.6 percent below the national average
  • Meridian is 3.1 percent below the national average

Compared to the national average, Jackson is the least expensive city for goods and services. It’s the cheapest place to get a haircut, costing $18.67. At $26.63, Hattiesburg is the most expensive place to get a haircut. Movie tickets are $8.21 in Jackson compared to $11.24 in Hattiesburg. But Jackson doesn’t always have the lowest prices. It has the second-highest price for dry cleaning at $12.25, while Meridian has the cheapest at $11.06. Just because a city is lower or closer to the national average doesn’t mean all costs there will hold the same rank.

Taxes in Mississippi

Since taxes vary from state to state, it’s important to know what you’ll be paying for sales tax and income tax. Both have an impact on your budget and monthly spending.

Mississippi’s statewide sales tax rate is 7 percent. This rate is among the highest state sales tax rates in America. To put that amount in perspective, if you spend $1,000 shopping in Jackson, you’ll be paying $70 extra in sales tax.

Many Mississippi cities also add their own local sales tax on top of the statewide rate, bringing the overall sales tax up:

  • Jackson has a combined tax of 8 percent
  • Tupelo has a combined tax of 7.25 percent
  • Hattiesburg has a combined tax of 7 percent
  • Meridian has a combined tax of 7 percent

Jackson has the most expensive sales tax, bumping that $70 in sales tax up to $80 in sales tax for every $1,000 spent. Hattiesburg and Meridian don’t have any local sales tax, and Tupelo’s additional sales tax of .25 percent is a small step up from the statewide rate.

Currently, Mississippi has a graduated income tax ranging from 4 percent to 5 percent. However, the state recently enacted big cuts to income tax so those rates will be going down in the coming years.

How much do I need to earn to live in Mississippi?

Overall, Mississippi is an affordable state, with most costs falling below the national average. But does it fit your budget?

The cost of rent is the most important factor to consider when determining if you can afford to live in a particular state or city. This is because the cost of housing is usually the biggest monthly expense. To ensure a balanced budget with enough money left over for other necessities like food and fun activities like going out, experts recommend you only spend 30 percent of your gross monthly income on rent.

The average rent in Mississippi is $786, requiring a monthly income of $2,620 or an annual income of $31,440. The median household income in Mississippi is $46,511, showing that most households can afford the cost of the rent. However, annual salaries here range from $20,694 to $79,341, so some renters in lower-paid industries may struggle to only spend 30 percent of their income on housing if they live on their own.

Figure out what you can afford to pay in rent each month using our handy rent calculator.

Living in Mississippi

Mississippi’s overall low cost of living makes living here accessible to all sorts of budgets. It’s true that these lower costs could be a trade-off in quality, as the state ranks low in key areas like healthcare and education. But, depending on where you want to live, the pros could outweigh the cons. You’ll also get to live in friendly communities with great music, food and picturesque landscapes.

The Cost of Living Index comes from coli.org.
The rent information included in this summary is based on a calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Rent. as of August 2022.
Rent prices are for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.

Source: rent.com

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Welcome to the vibrant and thriving city of Nashville, where luxury living reaches new heights amidst the enchanting landscapes and soul-stirring music. If you’re contemplating living in Nashville or already on the hunt for a home in the city, you’ll find yourself surrounded by an array of exquisite features and amenities that epitomize opulence and comfort. mike

From elegant architecture and expansive living spaces to state-of-the-art technology and breathtaking views, Nashville’s top luxury home features are a testament to the city’s dynamic allure and unparalleled lifestyle. Join us on a journey to explore the finest residences that encapsulate the essence of luxury in Music City, USA.

Top neighborhoods with luxury home features in Nashville

Nashville’s luxury neighborhoods, Green Hills, Belle Meade, and Brentwood, boast exquisite home features, each offering a distinct blend of opulence and charm where homebuyers are willing to pay premium prices. In fact, the median sale price of homes in these three neighborhoods is a minimum $543K more than the median sale price for the city. 

Green Hills, with its tree-lined streets and proximity to high-end shopping and dining, offers an exquisite blend of convenience and elegance. The median sale price for homes in Green Hills was $990K in June 2023.

Belle Meade evokes timeless elegance, characterized by grand estates and a historic charm. Belle Meade tops the list for most expensive neighborhood in June 2023, with a median sale price of $2.1 million. 

Brentwood’s allure lies in its stately residences, expansive lots, and nearby amenities, creating an ideal suburban retreat with a touch of sophistication. The median sale price sits at $1.3 million for homes in Brentwood in June 2023. 

Leiper’s Fork, a charming village near Nashville, exudes rustic elegance with sprawling properties set against picturesque landscapes. This retreat is perfect for those in the market for a refined countryside lifestyle, with homes also set at premium prices.

1. Outdoor living spaces

Outdoor living spaces are a highly sought after feature in the luxury home market in Nashville. The “glass wall,” or collapsible sliding doors, allow the indoor living space to flow seamlessly to the outdoor living space. These spaces often have high-end kitchens, fireplaces, TV’s, and all of the comforts of the indoor space. This design provides the perfect solution for a mix of indoor/outdoor entertaining. They are also great for offering the homeowner their own private respite after a long hard day. Plus, if the outdoor living space is private, that tends to add more value. This is typically achieved with privacy fences, screens, plantings, and pergolas, creating intimate and secluded retreats.

One of my recent listings perfectly encapsulated the fusion of luxury and aesthetics. This exquisite home spanned four stories with an impressive five balconies, each offering breathtaking panoramas of downtown Nashville. The top floor featured a captivating wrap-around balcony, providing an unparalleled vantage point to soak in the city’s skyline and dynamic energy. 

2. Wine room

With the growing interest in wine comes the growing demand for wine rooms, a popular luxury home feature in Nashville. The wine room has quietly replaced the wine cellar as homeowners have shifted towards displaying their collection instead of hiding it away in a cellar. These spaces, often accommodating 300 to 500 bottles, provide a cozier and more-intimate way to entertain and enjoy a bottle of wine. Beyond the functionality, wine rooms serve as a way to highlight a wine collection years in the making.

3. Luxury pools

Luxury pools are a must-have for luxury homes in Nashville, yet uniquely challenging due to the city’s rocky terrain. Because of this, building a pool can be expensive because of the need for blasting or chipping out of rock. 

In Nashville’s housing market, private pools are more than just amenities – they are extensions of the luxurious lifestyle. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these pools seamlessly integrate with the architecture, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. You’ll often find creative pool designs, such as a pool within a barn, each providing a reflection of the homeowner’s taste and personality.

4. Breathtaking views

Breathtaking views are a highly desirable feature in Nashville homes, and luxury properties are often strategically positioned to maximize the beauty of the natural landscape. For estates nestled on expansive acreage, the view might be of gently rolling hills with green pastures, magnificent trees, and ponds or other water features. Or, if the home is in the heart of Nashville, it might be perched on a hilltop, providing incredible views of downtown. 

These residences feature expansive windows and meticulously crafted floor plans to enhance the seamless blend between indoor and outdoor realms. This design philosophy ensures that the mesmerizing landscape remains a constant presence, forging an unbroken connection between the interior and the natural world beyond.

5. Guest houses and DADUs

Guest houses, or separate living spaces that are attached or detached from the house, are a highly desirable feature for luxury homes in the Nashville market. A growing trend that has been embraced throughout luxury homes is multi-generational living, where different generations within a family have separate spaces on the same property. This allows adult children to live with their parents (or vice versa) yet each still has their own space and privacy. 

A guest house provides a dedicated space for visitors and overnight guests, ensuring their comfort and privacy while maintaining a sense of separation from the main residence. From an investment perspective, guest houses add versatility and potential for rental income. Homeowners can lease these separate living spaces for additional financial gain, making their luxury property not only a residence but also a potential source of revenue.

DADU‘s (Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a specific type of guest house that is fully detached from the main residence. A DADU must be placed behind and smaller than the primary residence, typically 700-1,000 sq. ft. These dwellings have become popular in recent years – especially for those homes located in a historic overlay district that might prohibit changes to the principal home. 

6. Land and privacy

In Nashville’s luxury market, larger land and privacy translate directly to higher home prices. Homes with ample acreage offer room for innovative designs and serene surroundings, and the scarcity of open space makes seclusion a premium. 

Homeowners can use their land to create expansive gardens, add amenities like pools or tennis courts, and build peaceful retreats. Privacy also grants an escape from city life, providing room for various leisure activities. 

If you’re buying a luxury home in Nashville, your Redfin Premier Agent is equipped to offer valuable insights into the local market, including insight into the neighborhoods, highly sought-after amenities, pricing trends, and available luxury properties.

Source: redfin.com

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The cost of living in Minnesota sits within range of the national average, but just below. This affordable state is not only beautiful but an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking to every kind of water-based activity possible, you’re able to keep busy without setting a foot inside.

Add to that some great cities and small towns, friendly people and delicious food, and you’ve got a state that’s really the complete package.

The question, then, is can you afford to live in Minnesota? To figure that out, it’s best to break down all the elements that make up your total cost of living to see if everything fits into your budget. That means looking at:

Minnesota housing prices

Housing throughout Minnesota varies enough to give you plenty of options when needing to find your most affordable city. With numbers all below the national average, though, it’s not too much of a struggle to locate the perfect place to live in Minnesota.

Mankato

The great thing about Mankato is it feels like a small town, but has all the amenities of something a little bigger. The neighborhoods are cozy, but the city’s parks, rivers and hiking trails provide ample activities year-round. This means hitting your favorite lake to waterski in the summer and then, returning to ice fish in the winter. Home prices are also incredibly affordable at 25.2 percent below the national average.

Both apartment rent and home sale prices are on the more reasonable side in Mankato. The average rent in the city is $1,078, and the median sale price for a home in Mankato is $337,000. Home prices are rising though, up 38.8 percent over last year.

Minneapolis

Though the cost of living in Minneapolis is the highest in Minnesota, home prices here are still below the national average by 6.8 percent. This means there are so many great neighborhoods here to consider as your next home.

Situated right across the river from St. Paul, Minneapolis has amazing food, a great craft beer scene and a strong job market. The city shares many of its professional opportunities with its neighbor and combined, the two cities are home to a large number of Fortune 500 companies.

Rent prices here are also taking a downturn, with one-beds dropping 4 percent and two-beds down by 8 percent. Rent remains reasonable, although more expensive than any other Minnesota city on our list. Your average one-bedroom apartment costs $1,265 per month, and a two-bed apartment goes for an average of $1,595 per month.

Just as in St. Paul, home prices in Minneapolis are rising, but only barely. The median sale price in Minneapolis is $359,900, up 5.9 percent over last year.

St. Cloud

Considered a family-friendly community, St. Cloud offers up a stable economy, small-town comforts and popular events for every age, all year-round. Housing ranges from quaint bungalows to modern lofts with a few historic buildings tossed in there for good measure. What’s even better is that home prices are 17.9 percent below the national average.

This means low rent overall, even though certain units are seeing some serious growth when it comes to price. Although one-bedroom apartments are only up a single percent over last year, two-bedroom prices have increased by 17 percent. However, even with this growth, the average two-bedroom apartment rents for only $927 per month. One-bedroom apartments average out at $704 per month.

Home prices are almost the same, dropping in price only by 0.65 percent over last year. The median home price in St. Cloud is a reasonable $231,000.

St. Paul

As Minnesota’s capital city, St. Paul provides year-round outdoor fun alongside excellent job opportunities and affordable living. With water sports in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter, you’ll always have a reason to get outside. To get a good dose of city life, stroll down Grand Avenue to wander into all the shops and restaurants along this historic strip. All of this is just the tip of the iceberg as to what makes St. Paul special, but even better, home prices are 8.2 percent below the national average.

When it comes to renting an apartment in this perfect town, rent prices are actually going down. Slipping at about the same rate, one-bedrooms saw a 14 percent drop over last year, and two-bedrooms went down by 13 percent. This keeps rent prices at a decent rate. The average one-bedroom apartment rents for $1,270 per month, and a two-bedroom is averaging out at $1,587 per month.

Home prices are going up, but just barely. Prices rose only 4.6 percent over last year. The median home price in St. Paul is $295,900.

Minnesota food prices

The cost of living in Minnesota is relatively reasonable, but food prices are actually on the higher end of the scale. Not every city is above the national average, but a few are.

  • St. Paul is 5 percent below the national average
  • Minneapolis is 2 percent below the national average
  • Mankato is 8.6 percent above the national average
  • St. Cloud is 13.9 percent above the national average

This aligns with shopping trends throughout the state, where the average Minnesotan’s monthly grocery bill is between $233 and $267. Now, what’s on that shopping list definitely impacts price. This can include ingredients to make your own Juicy Lucy or Tater Tot Hotdish. It could also mean splurging on a nice Walleye fillet. Regardless of what’s on your list, it’s good to know that ground beef is the most expensive in St. Cloud, but you’ll get the best deal on potatoes (for tots) in Minneapolis.

Minnesota utility prices

Winters in Minnesota are rough, which means your heater will work hard to keep your home warm and comfortable. The season is below-freezing temperatures and lots of snow. Heavy snowfall happens over a long season, from November to April, and the average number of annual blizzards is two.

Although winter is extreme, summer isn’t too bad. It’s hot and humid, but temperatures linger in the mid-80s. Your AC will run all summer long, but not to as big of an extreme as that winter heater.

As a result of this weather, utility prices can get high, however, overall, you’ll pay about the same as what’s average across the country.

  • Mankato is 3.7 percent below the national average
  • St. Cloud is 3.3 percent below the national average
  • St. Paul is 2.3 percent below the national average
  • Minneapolis is 1.1 percent below the national average

These close averages keep monthly energy bills in a very tight range. On average, expect to pay between $165 and $174 per month.

Minnesota transportation prices

Even with severely cold winters, certain cities in Minnesota are highly walkable. Minneapolis has a walk score of 75, and St. Paul’s is 61. Mankato and St. Cloud aren’t as walkable, but every city has a decent bike score, meaning Minnesota as a whole is pretty bike friendly.

This ability to get around by bike and on foot may positively impact transportation prices, making this particular expense in your cost of living in Minnesota below average. Of course, this isn’t the case everywhere.

  • Mankato is 7.7 percent below the national average
  • St. Cloud is 1.1 percent below the national average
  • St. Paul is 1.5 percent above the national average
  • Minneapolis is 4.8 percent above the national average

Public transportation, and owning your own vehicle, are most likely the two major contributors to your overall transportation expenses. Cars can cost a lot when you factor in maintenance, gas and paying for parking. Public transportation is a way to save a little money, even if you only use the service to commute back and forth to work during the week.

The METRO

Because the two cities are so close together, public transportation for Minneapolis and St. Paul combine through the METRO. The light rail, consisting of a blue line and green line, encompasses both cities. The blue line stays within Minneapolis, but the green line goes across the water.

The METRO also runs plenty of buses, a few rapid transit lines and a commuter rail. Fares vary based on time of day, so you’ll pay more during rush hour, which is from 6-9 a.m. and 3-6:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Each fare is good for 2.5 hours. For local bus services, the non-rush hour fare is $2, and it’s $2.50 during rush hour. Six-hour passes are also available with a weekday rate of $4.50 and a weekend rate of $4.

The METRO bus also pops up in St. Cloud. Here there are 17 different routes that cross the city with a single-ride fare of $1.25. You can buy a variety of passes, as well from anywhere between $4.25 for a day pass to $47 for a monthly pass.

Mankato Transit

Operating its own transit system, the bus service in Mankato consists of eight routes that cover the entire city. This includes stops at Minnesota State University, Mankato. A single-ride fare is $1.50, but frequent rider passes are available in one-, 15- and 30-day passes. The monthly pass is $40 and is the best deal.

Minnesota healthcare prices

Healthcare prices in Minnesota can get high. Most cities are above the national average, and since this piece of your cost of living can include multiple doctors, there’s no way to know where the big bills will come in. Could it be a doctor’s visit, a trip to urgent care, the dentist or an eye doctor? What about those medications? Hopefully, your medical needs will stay affordable, but where you live could make the difference.

  • Minneapolis is 1.6 percent below the national average
  • St. Paul is 2.2 percent above the national average
  • Mankato is 2.9 percent above the national average
  • St. Cloud is 25.2 percent above the national average

As the most expensive when it comes to an average doctor’s visit, costs in St. Cloud reach $200.13. This is almost $50 more per visit than the least expensive city, Minneapolis. In fact, St. Cloud hits the top for an eye doctor visit and a dentist trip, although the price differentials aren’t as large.

Minnesota goods and services prices

Most cities in Minnesota hit above the national average when it comes to goods and services. These are all the items you put on the monthly budget that you could do without in a pinch. They include social activities, like grabbing a burger with friends, and maintenance tasks, like getting your hair cut.

The more items you have in this category, the higher your cost of living in Minnesota goes. Can you do without any if you had to?

  • Mankato is 4.8 percent below the national average
  • St. Paul is 5.3 percent above the national average
  • Minneapolis is 5.9 percent above the national average
  • St. Cloud is 6.5 percent about the national average

To decide if some budget cuts are necessary, based on these averages, it’s best to look at how much individual goods or services cost in each city. These are a few popular ones.

Although St. Cloud has the highest average when it comes to goods and services, it’s rarely the highest priced individually. Instead, that honor shifts based on what specifically you’re looking for. Minneapolis is the most expensive place to take a yoga class, and St. Paul has the highest haircut prices. When it comes to a burger, you’re going to pay the most in Mankato. Every city has its own pluses and minuses when it comes to pricing out all your bonus activities.

Taxes in Minnesota

Minnesota has a graduated income tax that hits four specific rates based on your income. You’ll either get taxed at 5.35 percent, 7.05 percent, 7.85 percent or 9.85 percent.

Sales tax in the state is a little less complex. Minnesota has a statewide rate of 6.875 percent. Localities are able to add an additional 2 percent to that total. At the maximum, for every $1,000 you spend shopping, $88.75 goes toward taxes.

Most cities don’t max out their sale tax.

  • St. Cloud is 7.625 percent
  • St. Paul and Mankato is 7.875 percent
  • Minneapolis is 8.025 percent

These rates align pretty closely with the average throughout Minnesota. Across the entire state, the combined average sales tax is 7.49 percent.

How much do I need to earn to live in Minnesota?

When analyzing the cost of living in Minnesota, being able to afford rent is at the top of your list. It will most likely be your biggest expense, and one that’s ongoing, at least until you decide to buy a property and pay a mortgage.

To calculate how much you’d need to earn to afford rent, you can refer to the experts. They suggest that 30 percent of your household income goes to this cost. With the average rent in Minnesota being $1,304, you’d need to make at least $52,160 for all the numbers to align.

The good news is the average household income in Minnesota is $74,593, so you’re well on your way to affording an average apartment, or even one with a few extras. To be sure, though, you can plug your specific information into our rent calculator.

Living in Minnesota

With all those lakes and the Mall of Americas, there’s really nothing that isn’t contained within Minnesota. As a great place for business, you can work hard, shop hard and hit nature hard all without going too far from home. What’s even better is that all this is pretty affordable.

The cost of living in Minnesota makes it accessible to most, but in order to figure out if it will work for you, make sure to take a close look at your own budget and must-haves. You may even find your ideal Minnesota city in the process.

Related articles:

The Cost of Living Index comes from coli.org.
The rent information included in this summary is based on a calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Rent. as of August 2022.
Rent prices are for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.

Source: rent.com

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Swampy bayous full of alligators. Spirited cities full of live music, stately architecture and multicultural roots. An unparalleled food scene that has given the world-famous dishes like jambalaya. Friendly neighbors are always ready for a good time. Of course, we’re talking about the one and only Louisiana.

Located on the Gulf of Mexico in the southeastern U.S., Louisiana has many claims to fame, from being the birthplace of jazz music to its unique Cajun and Creole cultures. While New Orleans is its most famous city, it’s far from the only good place to live. Everywhere in Louisiana, you’ll find great food, friendly communities and access to nature.

The cost of living in Louisiana varies by city. Bigger cities like New Orleans are more expensive, but smaller and up-and-coming cities offer more reasonable prices for things like housing and food. Let’s dive into Louisiana’s cost of living to see what different cities around the state have to offer.

Louisiana housing prices

Living in Louisiana, housing costs are all over the place. For the most part, total housing costs are below the national average. But in New Orleans in particular, the cost of housing is well above the national average. But don’t despair. Even if your dream is proximity to New Orleans, you can likely find more affordable options in nearby cities or get roommates.

To give you an overview of housing costs around the state, let’s take a closer look at average rents and the housing markets in some of Louisiana’s top cities.

Alexandria

With a population of around 44,787, Alexandria is the ninth-most-populous city in Louisiana. It’s located almost in the heart of the state, surrounded by lakes, rivers and forests. These natural areas are a great playground for all kinds of outdoor recreation from hiking to boating. With several universities, fun zoos, seasonal festivals and cool museums, it’s a great place for those seeking a more laidback type of Louisiana city life.

It’s also affordable housing-wise, with total housing costs falling 21.6 percent below the national average. But average rents are going up. The cost of a one-bedroom apartment is down 11 percent over the past year to $1,148 per month. The price for a two-bedroom unit is up 15 percent to $1,522.

Baton Rouge

Situated along the banks of the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge is the state capital of Louisiana. It’s also the state’s second-most-populous city. Living here, residents enjoy access to universities, historic architecture, family-friendly activities and live sports. Louisiana State University is here, home of the LSU Tigers. Even though New Orleans is just down the road, Baton Rouge also has excellent dining and cultural scenes for everyone from families to young adults.

Housing costs here are reasonable, at 8.6 percent below the national average. You can find one-bedroom apartments around town going for $982 a month, up 9 percent from last year. Two-bedroom units go for an average of $1,080 a month, which is up 8 percent from last year.

While the national median sale price for a home is $428,379, the median sale price for a home in Baton Rouge is $242,450. The Baton Rouge housing market has gone up only 5.5 percent over the past year.

Lafayette

Currently, the city of Lafayette in southern Louisiana is the fifth-most-populous city in the state. But it’s one of the fastest-growing cities, as well. People are flocking here for the lower cost of living, good quality of life and vibrant culture stemming largely from Creole and Cajun heritage. The city has great dining, festivals, museums, events and more for its residents, and it’s the home of several universities including the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

Housing costs here are 29.1 percent below the national average. But that fast growth has caused average rents to go up over the past year. With an average monthly rent of $1,140, one-bedroom apartments are up 18 percent from the previous year. Two-bedroom units are up 13 percent to $1,432.

Lafayette’s housing market has also gone up, growing 14.9 percent from last year. The median sale price for a home here is $241,250.

New Orleans

The Big Easy. Crescent City. Call it what you like, New Orleans needs almost no introduction. It ‘s both Louisiana’s best-known and most-populous city with a population of 376,971. With booming tourism, tech and manufacturing industries, residents in the city’s many fun neighborhoods get to live in one of the South’s most vibrant cities. Living here, you can listen to stellar live jazz on Frenchmen’s Street, eat and drink your way through an ever-growing list of restaurants and bars and soak up all the multicultural energy and ambiance.

Living in this exciting city does come at a cost, though. Total housing costs here are 41.2 percent above the national average. Average rents are among the highest in the state, with one-bedroom apartments going for $1,655 and two-bedroom apartments costing $2,175. These prices are both up 6 percent from last year. If you’re looking to live in New Orleans on the cheap, these are the least expensive neighborhoods around town.

New Orleans’ housing market is similarly pricey. The median sale price for a house here is $400,000, which is 8.7 percent higher than last year.

Shreveport

Located in the northwestern part of the state, Shreveport is Louisiana’s third-most-populous city. Its greater metro area includes the neighboring city of Bossier City. Blending business, industry, culture and education, it’s the hub of the Ark-La-Tex region where Louisiana, Texas and Arkansas meet. Many major corporations have operations here, and five different universities are here, as well. A good roster of family-friendly activities like the Sci-Port Discovery Center and numerous museums and art galleries make this a dynamic city to call home.

Housing costs here are 28.6 percent below the national average, and the average rent is going up. The monthly price for a one-bedroom apartment has climbed 27 percent from last year to $1,067. For a two-bedroom apartment, expect to pay around $1,486, which is 16 percent higher than last year.

The median sale price for a house in Shreveport is up 10.6 percent from last year to $194,000. This makes it one of the most affordable housing markets in the state.

Louisiana food prices

From beignets to crawfish boils, Louisiana is a food-loving state. New Orleans, in particular, is famous for its food scene, where a fusion of Southern, West African, French, Spanish and other cuisines has created distinct Cajun and Creole cuisines. New Orleans and Louisiana overall have a whole laundry list of iconic foods that originated here, including po’boy sandwiches, gumbo and jambalaya.

For a state that loves its food, luckily, the cost of living in Louisiana for food costs are on the low side. Total average grocery costs are 4.4 percent below the national average. Louisianians are actually among the lowest spenders nationally on annual and monthly food costs. The average person spends between $200 and $233 a month on food. That comes out to between $2,400 and $2,800 annually.

Similar to the statewide average, food costs in most Louisiana cities are below the national average:

  • Alexandria is 5.7 percent below the national average
  • New Orleans is 3.9 percent below the national average
  • Baton Rouge is 3.1 percent below the national average
  • Shreveport is 0.7 percent below the national average
  • Lafayette is 4.9 percent above the national average

Lafayette is the exception, rising above the national average. Consequently, the prices for some basic food items are more expensive here. A dozen eggs cost $3.35 in Lafayette but are $1.79 in Baton Rouge. But food prices do vary between cities, so costs in Lafayette won’t always be the most expensive. For instance, a loaf of bread is $3.59 in Lafayette but $4.07 in Shreveport.

Louisiana utility prices

In most Louisiana cities, total utility costs for services like electricity, water and internet are below the national average. For electricity, Louisiana gets its power from a mix of natural gas, coal and nuclear power resources. Underground aquifers and surface water resources provide the state’s water.

Let’s see how the cost of utilities in these Louisiana cities compares to the national average:

  • Baton Rouge is 25.5 percent below the national average
  • New Orleans is 19.2 percent below the national average
  • Shreveport is 13.1 percent below the national part
  • Lafayette is 11.3 percent below the national average
  • Alexandria is 3.3 percent above the national average

For energy costs, Lafayette is the most expensive city. When that monthly energy bill comes, expect a price of around $142.85. Baton Rouge has the least expensive monthly energy costs at $99.50. This makes sense considering it’s also the lowest for total utility costs.

For other utility costs, the average water bill in Louisiana is $33. The average internet bill is $59.99, but it can go higher in some cities.

Louisiana transportation prices

Many Louisiana parishes (the local equivalent of a county) and cities offer some form of public transportation. In more rural parishes, these services are sometimes limited to transportation for the elderly or those with disabilities. But, in big cities like New Orleans and Shreveport, you’ll find more extensive, widespread systems to help you navigate the cities. Always helpful for the cost of living in Louisiana.

Using mass transit in your area has many benefits. For one thing, it can help you save money on gas. If you live in a major city, it can reduce commuting times and help cut down on traffic congestion by reducing the number of vehicles on the road. Finally, it’s more friendly to the environment. On top of all this, total transportation costs in most Louisiana cities are below the national average:

  • Alexandria is 5.9 percent below the national average
  • Shreveport is 4.4 percent below the national average
  • New Orleans is 1.7 percent below the national average
  • Lafayette is 0.4 percent below the national average
  • Baton Rouge is 13.5 percent above the national average

Baton Rouge is the sole outlier, with transportation costs significantly above the national average.

All these cities have public transit, but some systems are more extensive than others. For a quick overview of mass transit in Alexandria and Lafayette, here’s how locals in those cities can get around those cities with local public transit. ATRANS provides bus service to Alexandria and neighboring Pineville with beginning fares of $0.75. The Lafayette Transit System operates 12 bus systems around the city during the day, with one-way fares costing $1.

Let’s take a closer look at the more extensive public transportation options in Baton Rouge, New Orleans and Shreveport.

CATS in Baton Rouge

The Capital Area Transit System operates 25 bus routes around the city of Baton Rouge and the surrounding parish. In addition to city transit, the outer routes provide access to the airport and the Ochsner Medical Center. CATS also offers an on-demand ride-share service called LYNX which costs $1.75 a ride. For rides on the fixed-route buses, a single ride costs $1.75. Unlimited 7-day passes cost $19 and a monthly pass is $56.

Having a car or using the bus is handy for getting around town since Baton Rouge isn’t especially pedestrian or cyclist-friendly. Its walk and bike scores are 41 and 46, respectively.

While there are no tolled roads around town, Louisiana Highway 1 runs past the city to the west. For a standard 2-axle passenger vehicle, the toll rate is $3.75 to use the highway.

RTA in New Orleans

Consisting of 34 bus routes, five streetcar lines and two ferry routes, the Regional Transit Authority provides a wide range of transportation options to residents of Crescent City. The streetcar lines are also popular with out-of-town visitors and come with a bit of history attached. The St. Charles line was first founded in 1835, making it the country’s longest continually operating streetcar. The two ferry routes offer transportation across the Mississippi River in the heart of the city.

Fare costs vary depending on the type of transit you’re using. Single ride fares on buses or streetcars are $1.25 with free transfers. Passes are available with the Jazzy Pass, costing $15 for a week and $45 for 31 days. For the ferry, a single ride is $2.

The closest toll road to New Orleans is the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. Extending across Lake Pontchartrain connecting the north and south shores of the lake, it’s the longest continuous bridge over a body of water in the world. Tolls cost $5 in cash on the North Shore or $3 with a tag.

While you certainly can use the charming streetcars or buses to get around town, you can truly embrace that Big Easy energy by walking or biking. This is easy due to New Orleans’ high walk score of 72 and high bike score of 75. The city center, home to renowned neighborhoods like the French Quarter, is famously walkable.

SporTran in Shreveport

SporTran operates 22 different bus routes around Shreveport and Bossier City. It has the distinction of being one of the South’s oldest mass transit systems, first starting out as mule-drawn carts in the 1870s. Today, the fleet has (thankfully) been upgraded to buses and lift vans.

Single ride fares on SporTran buses are $1.25, with weekly passes for $15 and monthly passes for $40. However, the system is currently implementing a pilot program offering free bus rides within the city limits of Shreveport and Bossier City. This free fare program is in place for two years starting from January 2022.

The tolled Louisiana Highway 1 passes through Shreveport, with toll fares of $3.75 for 2-axle passenger vehicles.

Using the bus or having a car is a good idea for getting around Shreveport. With a walk score of 39 and a bike score of 45, it’s not the easiest city to navigate on foot or by bike.

Louisiana healthcare prices

How much you’ll pay in healthcare costs depends on where you live in Louisiana. But the cost of living in Louisiana for healthcare is tricky. It’s hard to come up with average costs for healthcare since prices are different between people. Some people pay more for healthcare due to pre-existing conditions or a need for more expensive medication. So, even if you live in a city with higher healthcare costs, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be paying the same amount.

To give you a rough overview, here’s the average cost of a doctor’s visit in these Louisiana cities:

  • Alexandria: $75
  • Baton Rouge: $119.22
  • Lafayette: $125.35
  • New Orleans: $166.67
  • Shreveport: $112

In most Louisiana cities, the cost of healthcare is below the national average, with two exceptions:

  • Baton Rouge is 10 percent below the national average
  • Alexandria is 5.8 percent below the national average
  • Lafayette is 1.3 percent below the national average
  • Shreveport is 4.5 percent above the national average
  • New Orleans is 17.4 percent above the national average

For doctor visits and total healthcare costs, New Orleans is the most expensive city in the state. The price for going to the dentist is also highest here at $123.33. Baton Rouge is the least expensive city to see your dentist, costing $95.33.

It’s unfortunate to say, but the below-average healthcare costs in most Louisiana cities could mean below-average or average care. Louisiana is ranked 46th in the nation for healthcare, with especially low marks for quality and overall public health. The state consistently ranks low for public health, a problem that healthcare providers and health officials are attempting to tackle with initiatives like Healthy State. One reason healthcare prices are higher than the national average in New Orleans and Shreveport is that they have the top-ranked hospitals in the state. Hopefully, the quality of the care matches the higher prices.

Louisiana goods and services prices

Along with housing, food, utilities and other essentials, you’ll also need to set money aside each month for miscellaneous goods and services, another cost of living of Louisiana. This includes basic items and services you purchase on a regular basis like ibuprofen or getting a haircut.

Let’s see how these and the cost of other assorted goods and services compare to the national average:

  • Alexandria is 7.9 percent below the national average
  • Lafayette is 3.1 percent below the national average
  • New Orleans is 1.6 percent above the national average
  • Baton Rouge is 3.2 percent above the national average
  • Shreveport is 5.3 percent above the national average

Compared to the national average, Shreveport, Baton Rouge and New Orleans are generally the most expensive. Most costs reflect this, with items or services being more expensive in bigger cities. Movie tickets cost $12.64 in Baton Rouge compared to $9.80 in Alexandria. But prices don’t always reflect their city’s rank. While Lafayette is one of the least expensive cities compared to the national average, it’s the most expensive place to get a haircut, setting you back $24.33. You’ll pay the least to get your hair cut in Alexandria at $15.83.

Taxes in Louisiana

Whether it’s being taken out of your paycheck in the form of income tax or sales tax added to a purchase, the cost of living in Louisiana for taxes can also have a big impact on a monthly budget. That’s why it’s important to take note of what a state and city’s local tax rates are.

In Louisiana, the statewide sales tax rate is 4.45 percent. If it’s crawfish season and you spend $1,000 on crawfish, you’ll be paying $45 extra in sales tax, bringing the grand total up to $1,045. For a statewide sales tax, that’s not too bad. But most cities and parishes in Louisiana levy their own sales tax, as well, bringing the local tax rate up:

  • Shreveport has a combined tax of 9.05 percent
  • New Orleans has a combined tax of 9.45 percent
  • Alexandria has a combined tax of 9.95 percent
  • Lafayette has a combined tax of 10.45 percent
  • Baton Rouge has a combined tax of 11.95 percent

The addition of parish and local sales tax makes the overall rate jump significantly. Baton Rouge is the most expensive city on our list, with sales tax on $1,000 worth of purchases coming out to $119.50 extra in taxes. Shreveport has the lowest sales tax rate, but you’re still paying a fair amount at $90.50. Louisiana has one of the highest combined sales tax rates in the U.S.

News is slightly better on the income tax front. Their graduated individual income tax system ranges from 1.85 percent to 4.25 percent.

How much do I need to earn to live in Louisiana?

Are you ready to head to the Bayou State? The cost of living in Louisiana is generally affordable compared to the national average. But does it fit your budget?

To determine if you can afford to live in a particular city or state, you need to figure out if you can afford to pay for housing there. This is because housing costs like rent or a mortgage is the biggest monthly expense. With that in mind, it’s recommended that you only spend 30 percent of your gross monthly income on rent. This leaves 70 percent left for other necessities like food, as well as non-essentials. While the 30 percent recommendation isn’t a strict rule, it’s considered a good financial practice.

The average rent in Louisiana is $1,201, meaning you’d need to make $4,003 a month or $48,036 annually. Average salaries here range from $20,961 to $95,155, but the median household income is $50,800 and per capita income is $53,962. So, housing should fall comfortably within the budgets of most Louisiana residents.

Use our rent calculator to calculate what you can afford in rent in different parts of Louisiana.

Living in Louisiana

From diverse food to outdoor adventures, you can always find a good time in Louisiana. With so many appealing things to see and do, the affordable cost of living in Louisiana is just a lagniappe, a little something extra that sweetens the deal. Even if you’re priced out of popular hubs like New Orleans, you’ll find similar vibes in nearby cities with different cost of living indexes to fit different budgets.

Related Articles:

The Cost of Living Index comes from coli.org.
The rent information included in this summary is based on a calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Rent. as of August 2022.
Rent prices are for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

With the sparkling Great Lakes, the lower peninsula’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the upper peninsula’s Hiawatha National Forest, there are plenty of reasons to love living in Michigan. If you’re considering residing in Michigan, then chances are you have a budget you’d like to stay under when it comes to renting or buying a home. As of July, the median home sale price in Michigan is $289,000. 

Don’t worry if that number doesn’t fit in your budget – we’ve got options to help you find a home or apartment that does. Redfin has collected a list of the 15 of the most affordable places to live in Michigan, and they all have a median home sale price under $289,000. From Detroit to Grand Rapids, let’s jump in and see what cities are on the list.

#1: Detroit

Median home price: $90,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $78 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,320 
Median household income: $32,498 
Detroit, MI homes for sale
Detroit, MI apartments for rent

With a median home sale price of $90,000, Detroit claims the first spot on our list of affordable places to live in Michigan. Detroit is home to roughly 639,100 residents and is known for many things, from its Motown and automotive histories to Detroit-style pizza and professional sports teams. If you’re considering moving to this city make sure to take a tour of the Motown Museum, visit the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, stroll along the Detroit Riverwalk, and explore Belle Isle Park.

#2: Lansing

Median home price: $140,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $107 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $961 
Median household income: $44,233 
Nearest major metro: Ann Arbor (65 miles)
Lansing, MI homes for sale
Lansing, MI apartments for rent

Taking the second place on our list of affordable cities to live in Michigan is Lansing. When living in this city of 112,600 people, you can visit the Michigan State Capitol building and museums like the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum and the Michigan History Center. There are also plenty of outdoor activities such as exploring Crego Park and strolling along the Lansing River Trail.

#3: Taylor

Median home price: $170,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $143 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $775 
Median household income: $52,872 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (18 miles)
Taylor, MI homes for sale
Taylor, MI apartments for rent

About 63,400 people reside in Taylor, which is located just southwest of Detroit. The median home sale price is $170,000 which is about $120K less than the median home sale price in Michigan. If you find yourself moving to the third most affordable city, make sure to visit Heritage Park. 

#4: Battle Creek

Median home price: $182,169 
Average sale price per square foot: $147 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,030 
Median household income: $44,233 
Nearest major metro: Lansing (50 miles)
Battle Creek, MI homes for sale
Battle Creek, MI apartments for rent

Only slightly more expensive than Taylor is the city of Battle Creek. With a population close to 52,700, there is still plenty to do in this mid-sized city. Plan to visit green spaces like Leila Arboretum Society and the Woodland Park and Nature Preserve, see a live event at Kellogg Arena, and explore the shops and restaurants in town.

#5: Westland

Median home price: $190,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $164 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,012 
Median household income: $44,233 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (30 miles)
Westland, MI homes for sale
Westland, MI apartments for rent

Another great area to add to your list is Westland. With 85,400 people living in this affordable town, Westland is a great option to consider when looking to live in Michigan without paying the premium for a home in a larger city. Living in Westland, you can explore Nankin Mills Recreation Area where you’ll find a few trails, and stop by Central City Park.

#6: Pontiac

Median home price: $201,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $123 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $775
Median household income: $34,673 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (28 miles)
Pontiac, MI homes for sale
Pontiac, MI apartments for rent

A recognizable Michigan city is Pontiac, where the median home sale price is about $88K less than the state’s average. Home to roughly 61,600 people, Pontiac is a great place to consider buying a home this year. There are lots of activities to do in this city which is just north of Detroit. You can check out downtown Pontiac, see a race at the M1 Concourse, and visit one of the parks like Hawthorne Park, among many other local favorites.

#7: Kalamazoo

Median home price: $210,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $158 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,081 
Median household income: $43,222 
Nearest major metro: Grand Rapids (50 miles)
Kalamazoo, MI homes for sale
Kalamazoo, MI apartments for rent

Coming in seventh place on our list of affordable places to live in Michigan is Kalamazoo. With a population of close to 73,600, living in Kalamazoo is a great option for those looking for a mid-sized city to call home. Don’t miss out on exploring the downtown area where you’ll find concert venues, museums, local shops, and stellar restaurants. You can also spend time strolling through the expansive Asylum Lake Preserve and checking out Spring Valley Park if you move to this city.

#8: Warren

Median home price: $211,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $160 
Median household income: $51,796 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (20 miles)
Warren, MI homes for sale
Warren, MI apartments for rent

If you’ve been living in Michigan for some time, you might know of Warren. Almost 139,400 residents call this affordable city home, which is located just north of Detroit. Be sure to spend the day at one of the many parks, go shopping, or eat at a local restaurant once you move to Warren.

#9: Dearborn Heights

Median home price: $215,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $175 
Median household income: $50,987 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (15 miles)
Dearborn Heights, MI homes for sale
Dearborn Heights, MI apartments for rent

With a population of about 63,300, Dearborn Heights is a great place to consider living in Michigan. Fun activities to do in Dearborn Heights include golfing at one of the courses or grabbing a meal at a local restaurant.

#10: Southfield

Median home price: $222,500 
Average sale price per square foot: $156 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,079 
Median household income: $58,076 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (15 miles)
Southfield, MI homes for sale
Southfield, MI apartments for rent

Taking the 10th spot is Southfield, another one of the affordable places to live in Michigan. This city has a population of 76,600 and you can visit parks and nature preserves like Beech Woods Park and Bauervic Woods Park, or golf at one of the courses. There’s plenty to do on an afternoon or weekend while living in Southfield.

#11: St. Clair Shores

Median home price: $273,250 
Average sale price per square foot: $182 
Median household income: $62,935 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (18 miles)
St. Clair Shores, MI homes for sale
St. Clair Shores, MI apartments for rent

With a median home sale price of $273,250, St. Clair Shores is another affordable city to consider buying a home in this year. There are about 58,900 people living in this city, giving St. Clair Shores a city-like feel without the hustle and bustle. If St. Clair Shores is the city for you, be sure to grab a meal at one of the many lakefront restaurants, and visit the historic Ford House.

#12: Dearborn

Median home price: $240,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $181 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,390 
Median household income: $56,302 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (9 miles)
Dearborn, MI homes for sale
Dearborn, MI apartments for rent

The city of Dearborn takes the 12th spot on our list. For those looking to buy a home, the median sale price is $240,000. If you move to Dearborn, the nearest major metro is Detroit which is just 9 miles west. There is plenty to do in Dearborn like checking out the exhibits at Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, touring Fair Lane, the home of Clara and Henry Ford, and exploring Ford Field Park.

#13: Wyoming

Median home price: $273,250 
Average sale price per square foot: $210 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,350 
Median household income: $57,088 
Nearest major metro: Grand Rapids (6 miles)
Wyoming, MI homes for sale
Wyoming, MI apartments for rent

The city of Wyoming is another awesome affordable city to consider residing in. With a median home sale price of $273,250 and a population of 76,500 there are plenty of reasons that might convince you to move to Wyoming. You’ll find lots of activities, such as visiting some of the parks in town like Lamar Park, Battjes Park, Pinery Park, and Palmer Park, and golfing at one of the courses.

#14: Sterling Heights

Median home price: $273,500 
Average sale price per square foot: $194 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,212 
Median household income: $66,346 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (24 miles)
Sterling Heights, MI homes for sale
Sterling Heights, MI apartments for rent

In the 14th spot on our list is Sterling Heights. There are about 134,300 residents in the city, and there is a lot to do in the city whether you’re looking to spend time outdoors or inside. For example, you can explore the tranquil Clinton River Park North, golf at one of the courses, or grab a meal at a local spot.

#15: Grand Rapids

Median home price: $279,900 
Average sale price per square foot: $203 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,150 
Median household income: $51,333 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (157 miles)
Grand Rapids, MI homes for sale
Grand Rapids, MI apartments for rent

Taking the 15th and final spot on our list of most affordable places to live in Michigan is Grand Rapids. The median home sale price in Grand Rapids is $279,900, and there are about 198,900 residents in the area. If you’re looking for something to do while living in Grand Rapids, make sure to check out Ah-Nab-Awen Park along the Grand River where you’ll find historic sites and museums. You can also admire the artwork at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, and explore Riverside Park where you can hike, bike, and bird-watch.

Methodology: All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have a median home sale price under the average median home sale price in Michigan. Median home sale price and median sale price per square foot from the Redfin Data Center during July 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2023. Population and median household income data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.

Source: redfin.com

Apache is functioning normally

With the sparkling Great Lakes, the lower peninsula’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the upper peninsula’s Hiawatha National Forest, there are plenty of reasons to love living in Michigan. If you’re considering residing in Michigan, then chances are you have a budget you’d like to stay under when it comes to renting or buying a home. As of July, the median home sale price in Michigan is $289,000. 

Don’t worry if that number doesn’t fit in your budget – we’ve got options to help you find a home or apartment that does. Redfin has collected a list of the 15 of the most affordable places to live in Michigan, and they all have a median home sale price under $289,000. From Detroit to Grand Rapids, let’s jump in and see what cities are on the list.

#1: Detroit

Median home price: $90,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $78 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,320 
Median household income: $32,498 
Detroit, MI homes for sale
Detroit, MI apartments for rent

With a median home sale price of $90,000, Detroit claims the first spot on our list of affordable places to live in Michigan. Detroit is home to roughly 639,100 residents and is known for many things, from its Motown and automotive histories to Detroit-style pizza and professional sports teams. If you’re considering moving to this city make sure to take a tour of the Motown Museum, visit the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, stroll along the Detroit Riverwalk, and explore Belle Isle Park.

#2: Lansing

Median home price: $140,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $107 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $961 
Median household income: $44,233 
Nearest major metro: Ann Arbor (65 miles)
Lansing, MI homes for sale
Lansing, MI apartments for rent

Taking the second place on our list of affordable cities to live in Michigan is Lansing. When living in this city of 112,600 people, you can visit the Michigan State Capitol building and museums like the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum and the Michigan History Center. There are also plenty of outdoor activities such as exploring Crego Park and strolling along the Lansing River Trail.

#3: Taylor

Median home price: $170,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $143 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $775 
Median household income: $52,872 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (18 miles)
Taylor, MI homes for sale
Taylor, MI apartments for rent

About 63,400 people reside in Taylor, which is located just southwest of Detroit. The median home sale price is $170,000 which is about $120K less than the median home sale price in Michigan. If you find yourself moving to the third most affordable city, make sure to visit Heritage Park. 

#4: Battle Creek

Median home price: $182,169 
Average sale price per square foot: $147 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,030 
Median household income: $44,233 
Nearest major metro: Lansing (50 miles)
Battle Creek, MI homes for sale
Battle Creek, MI apartments for rent

Only slightly more expensive than Taylor is the city of Battle Creek. With a population close to 52,700, there is still plenty to do in this mid-sized city. Plan to visit green spaces like Leila Arboretum Society and the Woodland Park and Nature Preserve, see a live event at Kellogg Arena, and explore the shops and restaurants in town.

#5: Westland

Median home price: $190,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $164 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,012 
Median household income: $44,233 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (30 miles)
Westland, MI homes for sale
Westland, MI apartments for rent

Another great area to add to your list is Westland. With 85,400 people living in this affordable town, Westland is a great option to consider when looking to live in Michigan without paying the premium for a home in a larger city. Living in Westland, you can explore Nankin Mills Recreation Area where you’ll find a few trails, and stop by Central City Park.

#6: Pontiac

Median home price: $201,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $123 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $775
Median household income: $34,673 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (28 miles)
Pontiac, MI homes for sale
Pontiac, MI apartments for rent

A recognizable Michigan city is Pontiac, where the median home sale price is about $88K less than the state’s average. Home to roughly 61,600 people, Pontiac is a great place to consider buying a home this year. There are lots of activities to do in this city which is just north of Detroit. You can check out downtown Pontiac, see a race at the M1 Concourse, and visit one of the parks like Hawthorne Park, among many other local favorites.

#7: Kalamazoo

Median home price: $210,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $158 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,081 
Median household income: $43,222 
Nearest major metro: Grand Rapids (50 miles)
Kalamazoo, MI homes for sale
Kalamazoo, MI apartments for rent

Coming in seventh place on our list of affordable places to live in Michigan is Kalamazoo. With a population of close to 73,600, living in Kalamazoo is a great option for those looking for a mid-sized city to call home. Don’t miss out on exploring the downtown area where you’ll find concert venues, museums, local shops, and stellar restaurants. You can also spend time strolling through the expansive Asylum Lake Preserve and checking out Spring Valley Park if you move to this city.

#8: Warren

Median home price: $211,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $160 
Median household income: $51,796 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (20 miles)
Warren, MI homes for sale
Warren, MI apartments for rent

If you’ve been living in Michigan for some time, you might know of Warren. Almost 139,400 residents call this affordable city home, which is located just north of Detroit. Be sure to spend the day at one of the many parks, go shopping, or eat at a local restaurant once you move to Warren.

#9: Dearborn Heights

Median home price: $215,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $175 
Median household income: $50,987 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (15 miles)
Dearborn Heights, MI homes for sale
Dearborn Heights, MI apartments for rent

With a population of about 63,300, Dearborn Heights is a great place to consider living in Michigan. Fun activities to do in Dearborn Heights include golfing at one of the courses or grabbing a meal at a local restaurant.

#10: Southfield

Median home price: $222,500 
Average sale price per square foot: $156 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,079 
Median household income: $58,076 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (15 miles)
Southfield, MI homes for sale
Southfield, MI apartments for rent

Taking the 10th spot is Southfield, another one of the affordable places to live in Michigan. This city has a population of 76,600 and you can visit parks and nature preserves like Beech Woods Park and Bauervic Woods Park, or golf at one of the courses. There’s plenty to do on an afternoon or weekend while living in Southfield.

#11: St. Clair Shores

Median home price: $273,250 
Average sale price per square foot: $182 
Median household income: $62,935 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (18 miles)
St. Clair Shores, MI homes for sale
St. Clair Shores, MI apartments for rent

With a median home sale price of $273,250, St. Clair Shores is another affordable city to consider buying a home in this year. There are about 58,900 people living in this city, giving St. Clair Shores a city-like feel without the hustle and bustle. If St. Clair Shores is the city for you, be sure to grab a meal at one of the many lakefront restaurants, and visit the historic Ford House.

#12: Dearborn

Median home price: $240,000 
Average sale price per square foot: $181 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,390 
Median household income: $56,302 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (9 miles)
Dearborn, MI homes for sale
Dearborn, MI apartments for rent

The city of Dearborn takes the 12th spot on our list. For those looking to buy a home, the median sale price is $240,000. If you move to Dearborn, the nearest major metro is Detroit which is just 9 miles west. There is plenty to do in Dearborn like checking out the exhibits at Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, touring Fair Lane, the home of Clara and Henry Ford, and exploring Ford Field Park.

#13: Wyoming

Median home price: $273,250 
Average sale price per square foot: $210 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,350 
Median household income: $57,088 
Nearest major metro: Grand Rapids (6 miles)
Wyoming, MI homes for sale
Wyoming, MI apartments for rent

The city of Wyoming is another awesome affordable city to consider residing in. With a median home sale price of $273,250 and a population of 76,500 there are plenty of reasons that might convince you to move to Wyoming. You’ll find lots of activities, such as visiting some of the parks in town like Lamar Park, Battjes Park, Pinery Park, and Palmer Park, and golfing at one of the courses.

#14: Sterling Heights

Median home price: $273,500 
Average sale price per square foot: $194 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,212 
Median household income: $66,346 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (24 miles)
Sterling Heights, MI homes for sale
Sterling Heights, MI apartments for rent

In the 14th spot on our list is Sterling Heights. There are about 134,300 residents in the city, and there is a lot to do in the city whether you’re looking to spend time outdoors or inside. For example, you can explore the tranquil Clinton River Park North, golf at one of the courses, or grab a meal at a local spot.

#15: Grand Rapids

Median home price: $279,900 
Average sale price per square foot: $203 
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,150 
Median household income: $51,333 
Nearest major metro: Detroit (157 miles)
Grand Rapids, MI homes for sale
Grand Rapids, MI apartments for rent

Taking the 15th and final spot on our list of most affordable places to live in Michigan is Grand Rapids. The median home sale price in Grand Rapids is $279,900, and there are about 198,900 residents in the area. If you’re looking for something to do while living in Grand Rapids, make sure to check out Ah-Nab-Awen Park along the Grand River where you’ll find historic sites and museums. You can also admire the artwork at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, and explore Riverside Park where you can hike, bike, and bird-watch.

Methodology: All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have a median home sale price under the average median home sale price in Michigan. Median home sale price and median sale price per square foot from the Redfin Data Center during July 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2023. Population and median household income data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.

Source: redfin.com

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Consumer Statement:

Consumer Debt Legal Group took my money for 12 months. When I called to ask if I could make a partial payment, I was told they were canceling my account unless I could pay the full monthly amount.

They canceled my account the next day and told me that because they had done ” a substantial amount of work “on my case I was not entitled to a refund of the monies that they had collected. Before they canceled my account I had access to the client portal and had been monitoring it closely. there was no activity, no documents uploaded, no evidence of Correspondence between creditors and Consumer Debt Legal Group, nothing. I asked for verification of their activities on my behalf in the past 12 months since there was nothing in the portal that would suggest they’d done anything except collect my money . They verified that they had sent six (6)faxes, one to each of my creditors. Each fax contained the exact same language , the only change made was the name of the recipient. Sending 6 Boiler plate faxes does not constitute “a substantial amount of work” done on my case. Sending six boiler plate faxes does not entitle them to keep $2,500 of my money which now desperately need more than ever. Consumer Debt Legal Group did not help me . They stole my $2,500 and I’m still being contacted by collection agency’s.

Consumer Action Taken:

I called and asked to speak with the my case manager who has remained unnamed this entire time and the accounting department as well as asking to speak with one of the attorneys on staff. I emailed and called for days on end. On their website they promise a consult with one of their attorneys. I was never able to get through to anybody except the receptionist who was extremely cagey and shady and would not give me anyone’s name that I could speak to. I never received a call back from my case manager from an attorney or from the accounting department.

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Date This Problem Happened: May 17, 2023

State You Live in: CT

Race/Ethnicity: White

Age Range: 21-35

Total Amount of Fee Paid: $2,504

Do You Have a Question You’d Like Steve to Answer? Click Here.

Company Name: Consumer Debt Legal Group

Company Address:

4525 S Sandhill Rd STE 114
Las Vegas, NV 89121-5956

Company Telephone Number: 1-866-583-0922

Website of Company: https://cdlgconsulting.com/

If you feel you’ve been financially hurt by a debt relief company and deserve a refund, read these step-by-step instructions on how to proceed to attempt to get your money back.

If you do get your money back, come back and leave a comment about it. I’d love to praise companies that step-up and do the right thing for people.

Scam reports are submitted by consumers like you. If you would like to file a scam report, please click here.

If you are the company named in this report and you want to respond, please read How to Handle a Consumer Complaint Like a Pro And Come Out Smelling Like a Rose

This is information that was submitted by a third party and not generated by GetOutOfDebt.org or Steve Rhode.

Source: getoutofdebt.org

Apache is functioning normally

Most people hear South Dakota and immediately think of Mount Rushmore, the larger-than-life memorial of four U.S. presidents carved into the side of a mountain in the Black Hills. But this Great Plains state in the North Central United States has many more feathers in its cap.

It boasts a rich history, rugged landscapes, mighty rivers and small cities renowned for their liveability. Home to nine different tribes, the culture, history, cuisine and lifestyles of tribes like the Lakota, Dakota and Nakota are deeply ingrained in the state’s cultural fabric. From the colorful rock canyons of Badlands National Park to sweeping grasslands, South Dakota is a fantastic place for outdoors and nature lovers to live.

The cost of living in South Dakota is also reasonable. In general, things like housing and utilities cost less than the national average. But, due to the state’s rural location, some expenses like food are more costly. Different cities and towns around the state offer different living costs and lifestyles for a wide range of budgets and interests. If you’re considering moving to South Dakota, gaining a better understanding of how the cost of living differs around the state will help you find the best place for you. Let’s take a closer look at South Dakota‘s cost of living and prices in some of its biggest and most popular cities.

South Dakota housing prices

You’ll be paying below or equal to the national average for housing costs in South Dakota. Affordable housing is one benefit of living here, with low rents and home prices. Even in the state’s most populous cities, average rents for one-bedroom apartments are under $1,000.

Here’s a closer look at housing costs in three of South Dakota’s top cities.

Pierre

Sitting on the banks of the Missouri River in central South Dakota, Pierre is the state capital. With around 14,000 residents, it’s the ninth-most-populous city in the state. It’s also the second-least-populous state capital after Montpelier, VT. Locals here enjoy a laidback, relaxed quality of life, with a charming historic downtown and access to outdoor sports like fishing, boating and hiking. All in all, it’s a great state capital to call home.

Housing costs in Pierre are 5.1 percent above the national average, but average rents are some of the lowest in the state. You can find one-bedroom apartments for an average of $625 a month and two-bedroom units for $740. The price for one-bedrooms dropped significantly by 31 percent from last year. But two-bedroom rates are up 6 percent.

Rapid City

With a population of 76,184, Rapid City is South Dakota’s second-most-populous city. Located in the western part of the state, it’s best known for being the gateway to Mount Rushmore. But there’s far more to Rapid City beyond being a gateway town. Residents here can go hiking in Black Hills National Forest and enjoy the art scene and unique attractions like the Norwegian-style Chapel in the Hills. But, Rapid City is very much a hub for outdoor lovers. Along with the national forest and state parks, Rapid City is close to the spectacular rock formations of Badlands National Park.

The cost of housing here is among the lowest in the state, falling 18.2 percent below the national average. For a one-bedroom apartment, you’ll pay around $955 a month, which is up 9 percent from last year. For a two-bedroom apartment, the average rent is $1,012, up 4 percent from last year.

Sioux Falls

Named after the majestic waterfalls in the heart of town, Sioux Falls is an outdoorsy city in the southeastern part of the state. It’s also South Dakota’s most populous city with a population of 196,528. The Big Sioux River flows right through town, tumbling over rocks in Falls Park. Lush parks, walking trails and bike paths follow the river through town. Along with outdoor recreation and natural beauty, Sioux Falls is known for its vibrant cultural scene, universities and family-friendly atmosphere. If you love to ski but hate ski-town prices, this is one of the cheapest ski towns to live in.

Housing costs here are 5.4 percent below the national average. But both average rental rates and the housing market are on the rise. The cost of a one-bedroom apartment is up 13 percent from last year to $865. The average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is up 10 percent to $976.

Sioux Fall’s housing market has grown 18.5 percent over the past year. The median sale price for a house here is $320,000.

South Dakota food prices

Living in South Dakota introduces you to its underappreciated and diverse cuisine. Dishes here have roots in a variety of cultures and countries, from native South Dakota tribes to German and Russian immigrants. Some typical foods that are popular here include Indian tacos, chislic, kuchen and buffalo.

In most South Dakota cities, you’ll be paying more than the national average for food costs. Overall, total grocery costs are 1.8 percent above the national average. The state’s remote location and far-between cities could be contributing factors to these higher costs. The average South Dakota resident spends between $233 and $266 a month on food, which comes out to between $2,801 and $3,200 annually. Compared to other states’ food spending, that’s a pretty average, middle-of-the-road amount. Residents of states like California and New York spend roughly the same.

But food costs do vary by city, with some areas being more or less than the national average:

  • Sioux Falls is 9.7 percent below the national average
  • Pierre is 4.7 percent above the national average
  • Rapid City is 19.8 percent above the national average

Rapid City comes out on top as the most expensive city for food, while Sioux Falls is the least expensive. A half-gallon of milk costs $3.50 in Rapid City compared to $2.22 in Sioux Falls. The price tag for a loaf of bread in Rapid City is $4.49 in Rapid City but only $3.11 in Sioux Falls.

South Dakota utility prices

For utilities like water, electricity and internet, you’ll be paying less than the national average in South Dakota. With numerous big rivers cutting through the state, South Dakota gets the majority of its electricity from hydropower. In fact, almost 70 percent of the state’s power comes from renewable resources like water and wind. Groundwater from wells and aquifers provides the majority of the state’s water.

It’s always good knowing the energy powering your home is coming from a more sustainable source. But lower costs are also nice. This is how utility costs in these South Dakota cities compare to the national average:

  • Sioux Falls is 18.5 percent below the national average
  • Rapid City is 8.8 percent below the national average
  • Pierre is 4.9 percent below the national average

Sioux City is the least expensive city, both compared to the national average and in average utility bills. The average monthly energy bill here is around $124.73. The city with the most expensive energy bills is Pierre at $157.34.

The average water bill in South Dakota is $24.

South Dakota transportation prices

South Dakota is famous for having a whole lot of space and not many people to fill it. With vast expanses between urban centers, public transit options are few and far between. Most big cities offer some form of mass transit like the bus. In some small towns and communities, though, having a car is a necessity. If you do use a car to get around, you’ll be happy to hear that there are no toll roads in South Dakota.

Using public transportation to get around your city or state has many benefits, like saving money on gas. It’s also more environmentally friendly and reduces traffic congestion in big cities. For the most part, you’ll be paying less than the national average for transportation costs in these South Dakota cities:

  • Sioux Falls is 13.4 percent below the national average
  • Pierre is 13 percent below the national average
  • Rapid City is 2 percent above the national average

Rapid City is the only exception, with transportation costs slightly above the national average. All of these have mass transit options, but some are more extensive than others. For example, Pierre doesn’t have a transit bus system operating around town. But, it is part of Rapid Cities Public Transit, an intercity bus service connecting counties and cities in the central part of the state around the Missouri River. This service is primarily aimed at providing assistance to the elderly, disabled, youth and low-income passengers. But, the general public can use it, as well. Rates start at $2.

Let’s take a closer look at public transportation in Sioux Falls and Rapid City.

Sioux Area Metro in Sioux Falls

Sioux Area Metro provides fixed-route bus connections around the city of Sioux Falls and its metro area. Riders have 12 different routes to choose from. A one-way ride costs $1.50. Riders can purchase 7-day passes for $12.50 and 30-day passes for $30.

If you’re looking for a city that’s easy to get around on a bike or by foot, Sioux Falls isn’t the best option. It has average scores in both areas, with a walk score of 44 and a bike score of 49. However, some parts of town are nicely suited to walking or biking. The riverfront parks along the Big Sioux River make for a lovely spot to bike or walk.

Rapid Ride in Rapid City

Residents of Rapid City can get around town using the six different Rapid Ride fixed-route bus routes provided by Rapid Transit System. The provider also offers a dial-a-ride service for riders with disabilities. In addition to limited route options, Rapid Ride also has limited hours. This reduced service and access could be part of why transportation costs here are higher than the national average. Single ride fares cost $1.50 and a monthly pass is $30. Transfers are free, as well.

Combine limited public transit with a low walk score of 28 and a low bike score of 36 and you’re left with likely needing a car to get around Rapid City rapidly.

South Dakota healthcare prices

The cost of healthcare like doctor’s visits and prescriptions varies widely depending on where you live in South Dakota. But it’s also important to note that healthcare costs can also vary widely by person. It’s difficult to determine an overall average for healthcare costs since these prices and costs are vastly different from person to person. Due to factors like pre-existing conditions, a person may pay much more for healthcare than their next-door neighbor.

Taking this into consideration, the cost of healthcare in most South Dakota cities ranges from fairly affordable to very expensive. Take a look at how much it costs to go to the doctor in these cities:

  • Sioux Falls: $162.50
  • Rapid City: $110
  • Pierre: $125

Rapid City is the least expensive, followed by Pierre. However, Sioux Falls jumps significantly in terms of cost. Compared to the national average, it’s also the most expensive South Dakota city for healthcare:

  • Rapid City is 13.3 percent below the national average
  • Pierre is 1 percent above the national average
  • Sioux Falls is 1.6 percent above the national average

Sioux Falls is also the most expensive city to go to the dentist. A dental check-up costs $102 compared to $73 in Pierre and $90.33 in Rapid City.

South Dakota ranks 29th nationwide for the quality of its healthcare, access and overall public health. Sioux Falls has some of the top-ranked hospitals in the state, which could account for the higher prices. Otherwise, you’ll find good but standard healthcare resources around South Dakota.

South Dakota goods and services prices

Living in South Dakota, you’ll be paying less than the national average for basic goods and services like getting a haircut or going out to the movies. Here’s how the cost of some common items and services varies between different South Dakota cities:

This is how these prices and how the overall cost of other miscellaneous goods and services compares to the national average:

  • Rapid City is 9 percent below the national average
  • Sioux Falls is 8.3 percent below the national average
  • Pierre is 2.2 percent below the national average

In relation to the national average, Pierre is the most expensive city. But, prices are often cheaper there than in other South Dakota cities. A haircut costs $16 in Pierre, but $21 in Rapid City. Movie tickets in Sioux Falls are $10.35 compared to $9 in Pierre. A city’s rank against the national average doesn’t always mean prices will follow the same trend.

Taxes in South Dakota

Whether it’s in the form of income taxes or sales taxes, tax is another important expense to consider. Some states have higher taxes than others. In South Dakota, the statewide sales tax is 4.5 percent. That means that for every $1,000 you spend in South Dakota, you’ll be paying $45 extra in taxes.

Most municipalities also levy their own local sales tax on top of the statewide rate. This amount can vary between cities:

  • Sioux Falls has a combined tax of 6.5 percent
  • Rapid City has a combined tax of 6.5 percent
  • Pierre has a combined tax of 6.5 percent

While some South Dakota municipalities only have a 1 percent local sales tax, the majority are 2 percent. All three of our highlighted cities implement a 2 percent local sales tax in addition to the statewide rate. That brings that $45 extra in sales tax up to $65. Luckily, this is the maximum sales tax you’ll pay in South Dakota.

South Dakota is also one of the few states that doesn’t have an individual income tax. This can help you stretch your budget even more.

How much do I need to earn to live in South Dakota?

From housing to utilities, South Dakota has an affordable cost of living that’s either below or slightly above the national average. But, does it fit your budget? Housing is usually the most expensive part of a monthly budget, so it’s recommended that you only spend 30 percent of your gross monthly income on rent. This ensures you have ample money left over for other essentials like food and utilities, as well as savings or fun activities.

The average rent in South Dakota is $995. To only spend 30 percent of your monthly income on rent, you need to make $3,316 a month. That comes out to $39,792 annually. Salaries in South Dakota range from $24,375 to $103,587. This shows that some people may have trouble affording housing here. But the median household income is $59,896, so families and people who have roommates can make ends meet.

Based on factors like income and location, you can figure out what you can afford to pay in rent each month using our rent calculator.

Living in South Dakota

Living in South Dakota gives you access to epic landscapes to both admire and explore, unique cultural scenes and friendly cities. All this and more comes at a pretty reasonable cost of living that fits all sorts of budgets. So, if you want to live affordably in a sparsely-populated state with tons of wide open spaces and cool cities, South Dakota could fit the bill.

The Cost of Living Index comes from coli.org.
The rent information included in this summary is based on a calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Rent. as of August 2022.
Rent prices are for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.

Source: rent.com