12 of the Most Affordable Places to Live in the U.S. in 2026

In 2025, the U.S. housing market officially hit a wall. Existing home sales remained at a thirty-year low for the fourth year in a row, while the national median home price hovered around $414,400, an increase of 1.7% from the previous year that left many would-be buyers on the sidelines.

Even so, the dream of homeownership hasn’t gone away. The Coldwell Banker 2025 American Dream Report* reveals that 71% of aspiring homeowners are delaying major life decisions until they can afford to buy a home. The challenge is finding a place where the numbers work.

The good news: those places still exist. Across the country, there are cities where the median home prices sit closer to $150,000–$250,000, rents stay below national averages, and everyday life still feels manageable. A growing number are also offering relocation incentives, including cash, memberships to civic organizations and discounts to local businesses to help remote and in-person workers get settled in.

This 2026 list highlights 12 communities where affordability and quality of life still go hand in hand

1. Evansville, Indiana

Why it's great: Evansville pairs everyday affordability with the amenities of a regional hub, making it easy to enjoy more space, shorter commutes, and a calmer pace of life without giving up culture or recreation. Situated along the Ohio River, Evansville is especially appealing for people looking to balance opportunity with quality of life. Residents benefit from a steady mix of industries that support long-term stability, without the boom-and-bust cycles common in larger metros.

Median Home Price: 189,900

Average Rent: $1,300/month

Don't miss: Stroll the revitalized downtown and Haynie’s Corner Arts District for galleries, cafés, and local breweries. Catch a game or concert at the Ford Center, or take in a summer sunset along the Riverfront. Baseball fans will appreciate Bosse Field, one of America’s oldest active professional ballparks.

“There’s not a lot of distractions here and it has given me the space to hone in on my goals.” - Kyle Giblin, Evansville mover

2. Macon, Georgia

Why it's great: Macon blends affordability with a rich cultural identity rooted in music, history and Southern hospitality. Housing costs remain lower than in larger Georgia metros, making it attractive for families, young professionals and remote workers seeking more space and a slower pace without sacrificing amenities.

Median Home Price: $199,000

Average Rent: $1,140/month

Don't miss: Explore the world-famous music heritage sites tied to legends like Otis Redding and The Allman Brothers. Stroll through historic neighborhoods lined with stunning antebellum architecture, visit the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, or kayak the Ocmulgee River.

“My kids haven’t missed out on anything by moving to a smaller town. If anything, they’ve gained more because they have more freedom. They’re not locked inside.” - Audrey Boyd, Macon mover

3. Hutchinson, Kansas

Why it's great: Life in Hutchinson feels calmer, with less traffic and more room to enjoy everyday moments, whether it’s taking a real lunch break or relaxing outside after work. At the same time, Hutch keeps residents connected, with Wichita just 45 minutes away for bigger-city shopping, dining, and entertainment when you want it.

Median Home Price: $262,000

Average Rent: $2,100/month

Don't miss: Hutchinson is home to the Cosmosphere, a world-class space museum and education center. It's a fantastic attraction for residents and visitors of all ages. Another unique attraction is Strataca, an underground salt mine that locals describe as a fascinating experience.

“In a big city, there are so many people that you don’t feel like you could ever really be part of something. Here, you can.” - Sarah Monje, Hutchinson mover

4. Fort Wayne, Indiana

Why it's great: Fort Wayne regularly appears on national rankings for livability and family-friendliness, including lists that name it one of the best cities to raise a family and one of the top places to live in the U.S., thanks to its strong schools, accessible amenities and community focus.

Median Home Price: $265,000

Average Rent: $1,180/month

Don't miss: Wander the revitalized riverfront Promenade Park, catch a TinCaps baseball game at Parkview Field, or explore cultural staples like the historic Embassy Theatre and the Fort Wayne Zoo.

5. Jacksonville, Illinois

Why it's great: Jacksonville pairs exceptional affordability with a surprisingly diverse and stable local economy. Housing costs are often at a price point that frees up income for savings, family life, or future goals. The city’s economy is anchored by major employers, including Jacksonville Memorial Hospital, the Illinois School for the Deaf and manufacturers like Reynolds Consumer Products and Perma-Bound Books.

Median Home Price: $164,100

Average Rent: N/A

Don't miss: Spend time at Nichols Park, home to community festivals, walking paths and summer concerts. Just outside town is Lake Jacksonville, known for its boating, fishing, kayaking and lakeside sunsets. The beautifully preserved campus and architecture of Illinois College adds cultural programming and lectures throughout the year while serving as another major employer in the area.

“There’s a level of convenience being located in Jacksonville. You’ve got retail, groceries, the county seat - everything’s nearby. It feels like everything we need is right here.” - James Gaudio, Jacksonville mover

6. Indianapolis, Indiana

Why it's great: Compared to other major cities in the U.S., Indianapolis boasts a lower cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Indianapolis is a relatively easy city to navigate, with a well-planned grid system and good public transportation options. This makes it convenient to get around, whether you're driving, biking, or using public transit.

Median Home Price: $250,000

Average Rent: $1,620/month

Don't miss: Locals love exploring the Cultural Trail, riding bikes along the Monon Trail, or spending an afternoon at the world-renowned Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. Sports fans can catch the Indy 500, Pacers, Colts, Indy Fever and collegiate events. Families love the Indianapolis Zoo and Children’s Museum (the largest in the world).

“It was so much more affordable to purchase a home here than in Northern Virginia, where my wife and I used to live. It’s nice because we have the budget to make renovations and turn it into the home we want,” - Luke Lawson, Indianapolis mover

7. Puducah, Kentucky

Why it's great: Paducah combines standout affordability with international cultural recognition as its designation as a UNESCO Creative Cities Network Creative City. The designation has helped fuel a vibrant creative community, historic preservation and a walkable downtown that feels both intimate and culturally rich.

Median Home Price: 258,250

Average Rent: $1,330/month

Don't miss: The Lower Town Arts District, which features restored historic homes that double as working artist studios and galleries. Locals spend evenings taking in sunset views along the Paducah Riverwalk, or seeking outdoor adventures at the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, which offers horseback riding, hiking and wildlife just a short drive away.

"The downtown is so quaint and historic and there are so many different fun and interesting attractions you can walk to, no car or parking hassles required." - Teresa, Paducah mover

8. Richmond, Indiana

Why it's great: Richmond’s identity is shaped by a rich heritage in art, music and architecture - from its role in early jazz recording history to its remarkable collection of historic homes and a growing public art scene. Today, short commutes, a walkable downtown and a community that values local involvement make Richmond especially appealing to families and remote workers seeking a slower pace of life without sacrificing opportunity.

Median Home Price: $144,900

Average Rent: $775/month

Don't miss: Bring your pup to Hills Bark Park, a local favorite with separate areas for large and small dogs and plenty of space to socialize. Spend a quiet afternoon wandering the Rose Garden at Glen Miller Park, where seasonal blooms, a walking path and a gazebo make it a go-to spot for relaxation and photos.

"I fell in love with Richmond when I found it." - Kelley Meadows, Richmond mover

9. Salina, Kansas

Why it's great: Salina is located at the crossroads of I-70 and I-135, between Kansas City and Denver. As a regional hub for north-central Kansas, the city supports steady employment across manufacturing, food production, healthcare, aviation and transportation,thanks in large part to its interstate access. Housing costs remain well below national averages, making it possible to buy a home or rent comfortably while still having room in the budget for travel, family outings, or long-term savings.

Median Home Price: $219,500

Average Rent: $995/month

Don't miss: Art lovers can explore rotating exhibitions and indie films at the Salina Art Center, families flock to Kenwood Cove Aquatic Park in the summer, and the beautifully restored Stiefel Theatre brings national touring acts to town year-round. Each summer, the Smoky Hill River Festival transforms downtown into a lively celebration of art, music and food.

10. Muncie, Indiana

Why it's great: Muncie offers an affordable, college-town lifestyle with a strong sense of place and creativity. The presence of Ball State University shapes daily life in visible ways, from cultural events and public art to independent coffee shops and local restaurants. At the same time, the city’s size keeps routines simple and commutes short.

Median Home Price: $159,900

Average Rent: $982/month

Don't miss: Spend an afternoon at Minnetrista, a local favorite for gardens, trails, exhibits, and seasonal events. For outdoor time, the Cardinal Greenway offers miles of scenic biking and walking paths that connect Muncie to the surrounding region.

"It’s a slower pace here. People are friendlier. It’s been a very pleasant surprise." - Ray Hamilton, Muncie mover

11. Pikeville, KY

Why it's great: Pikeville offers something many communities can’t replicate: a genuine sense of belonging, where family networks, churches, schools, and neighbors create an immediate support system for newcomers and longtime residents alike. Surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, quiet streets and sweeping mountain views replace traffic and noise, while ongoing downtown reinvestment and access to advanced medical care - including a nearby regional neuroscience center brings a level of opportunity and quality of life rarely found in a town of this size.

Median Home Price: $325,000

Average Rent: n/a

Don't miss: Pack a picnic and take in the mountain scenery at the Pikeville Cut-Through, and plan to spend the day enjoying one of eastern Kentucky’s most distinctive outdoor destinations. For more outdoor adventures had to nearby Breaks Interstate Park, often called the “Grand Canyon of the South.”

“After years of looking at traffic and buildings, now we look out at mountains and trees. It feels like living in a state park.” - Molly Bates, Pikeville mover

12. Texarkana, Arkansas

Why it's great: Texarkana is a unique city straddling the border of Texas and Arkansas, offering residents a unique experience. Locals enjoy the best of both worlds, with access to different cultural attractions, events and opportunities in both Texas and Arkansas.

Median Home Price: $202,500

Average Rent: $975/month

Don't miss: Texarkana has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with the Perot Theatre hosting Broadway shows, concerts and other performances. The Regional Arts Center showcases local artists and offers art classes and workshops. Bringle Lake Park provides space for fishing, boating, and picnicking, while Wright Patman Lake is a popular spot for watersports and camping.

“Texarkana is one of those places with incredible untapped potential. You can feel that growth is possible here, and the opportunities are endless; it just takes people willing to get involved.” - Sarah, Texarkana mover