10 Most Affordable (Safe) Places to Live in the U.S. [Updated]

As the halfway mark of the year comes to a close, many begin to plan their future for the remaining months and beyond. If one of these ideas has been relocation, whether it be for affordability, safety, or overall quality of life, the following Top 10 list is the perfect read. Using current data and figures of this year from notable outlets, including U.S. News & World Report, MoneyGeek, SafeWise, and FBI crime data, the guide makes it easy to understand potential new landing spots to consider moving to in the near future. 

I. HOMEiA’s Methodology:

A. Weighted Criteria:

1. Housing Affordability: 30% — Median price, value trends, rental availability
2. Safety: 25% — Violent/property crime rates, local policing effectiveness
3. Employment: 20% — Unemployment, wage trends, major employers
4. Education: 15% — School district ratings, college readiness, local universities
5. Quality of Life: 10% — Healthcare, outdoor spaces, commute, lifestyle amenities

B. Key City Statistics:

• Cost of Living Index (CoL) (vs. U.S. average)
• Median Monthly Rent (Rent)
• Income to Rent Ratio (Inc:R) (%)
• Home Price to Income Ratio (Price:INC)
• Overall Safety Ranking (Rank Source)

Summary Table (All Best 10 Cities at a Glance)

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II. Top 10 Cities: HOMEiA’s City-by-City Analysis

1. Ankeny, Iowa

• Housing: Located in Polk County near the suburbs of the state’s capital (Des Moines), Ankeny’s residential development emphasizes planned growth with greenbelts, parks, and diverse housing options that serve families at various life stages. The city’s housing market greatly benefits from being less than a 20-minute drive from the metropolitan area while preserving a suburban, Midwest charm and affordable housing costs. New construction focuses on energy efficiency and family-friendly designs, while established neighborhoods offer revered scenery and community amenities.
  
• Safety: Ankeny maintains crime rates below state and national averages through community-oriented policing and proactive crime prevention programs. The city’s investment in public safety infrastructure, including emergency services and traffic safety improvements, makes families feel safe and secure. School safety programs and youth engagement activities provide the grassroots for their strong community security.
• Employment: While the local economy benefits from being close to Des Moines, the city itself has economic drivers of their own for those looking for a shorter commute. Major corporate employers with well-paying opportunities primarily exist within the IT (CenturyLink) and manufacturing (Siemens) fields, while some of the largest employers overall are in retail food establishments (Hy-vee and Casey’s). The city’s business parks also attract technology companies and professional services firms.
• Education: Ankeny Community School District consistently ranks among Iowa’s top-performing districts with high graduation rates and strong college preparation programs. The district offers Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education, and comprehensive support services that help all students succeed. For higher education, Faith Baptist Bible College and DMACC (Des Moines Area Community College) have been around since the late 1960s, providing those with opportunities to learn and grow in the classroom.
• Quality of Life: Ankeny’s extensive parks system includes over 50 parks, including Miracle Park tailored for children with special needs, trails, and recreational facilities such as the public Otter Creek Golf Course that support active lifestyles and family activities. Downtown Ankeny features local businesses, restaurants, and community gathering spaces that bring neighbors together and strengthen community spirit.

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2. Rochester, Minnesota

• Housing: Rochester’s housing market benefits from the stability provided by Mayo Clinic employment while maintaining reasonable pricing for a city of its amenities and economic strength. It offers diverse housing options from downtown condominiums to suburban single-family homes. Current construction developments emphasize energy efficiency and modern design. Local housing programs are able to support and provide both workforce housing and first-time buyer assistance.
• Safety: America’s City of Care and Innovation looks after its own, maintaining outstanding safety records with crime rates significantly below national averages and comprehensive public safety services. The city’s police department employs community policing strategies and crime prevention programs, which create a secure environment for all residents and visitors. Emergency services coordination supports both routine public safety and medical emergency response needs.
• Employment: Known colloquially as “Med City,” Rochester developed that nickname with Mayo Clinic being the largest employer. The company provides high-paying, stable employment for thousands of residents while attracting related healthcare and research businesses. A diversified economy expanding to tech (IBM, Benchmark Electronics), manufacturing, and professional services provides a safety net by not relying on a single employer. Healthcare focus creates opportunities for workers at any stage of their career. 
• Education: Rochester Public Schools provides high-quality education with strong performance metrics and comprehensive programming. The district offers Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education, and specialized programs that meet diverse student needs. Besides Mayo Clinic’s medical school, higher education opportunities for those looking to work in a field other than that include the University of Minnesota Rochester and Rochester Community and Technical College. Augsburg University, College of St. Scholastica, St Mary’s University, and Winona State University all have a branch in Roch.  
• Quality of Life: Rochester’s quality of life benefits from its healthcare focus, which ensures access to world-class medical services for residents. The city’s parks and recreation system offers diverse programming and facilities, while cultural attractions include professional theater music venues, and semi-pro athletics including the appropriately-named Med City FC of the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) and Med City Freeze in the Southern Plains Football League, along with the Rochester Honkers for summer baseball. Downtown features restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues that create a vibrant urban core.

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3. Sugar Land, Texas

• Housing: Sugar Land’s community development is home to premier amenities, including golf courses, resort-style amenities, and beautiful architectural standards that dazzle locals and tourists alike. Being in the Greater Houston area, it attracts families and professionals seeking high-quality neighborhoods with excellent schools and low crime rates. New developments are focusing on maintaining their signature sustainable design but incorporating smart home technology to provide a modern twist.
• Safety: Sugar Land is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the Lone Star State and the U.S. Their police department employs community policing strategies and advanced crime prevention techniques that continue to keep the crime rates low as more people move to the area. Emergency services coordination and disaster preparedness programs address both day-to-day safety and natural disaster risks.
• Employment: A primarily white-collar city, taking around 30 minutes to get to Houston is a draw for those looking to escape the metropolis when they’re not working. Those employed in the energy sector and at the Texas Medical Center reap these benefits as a Sugar Land residents. For the city itself, major employers, including Fluor Corporation, Schlumberger, and other corporate campuses, are local job options. Median household income exceeds $120,000, reflecting the high-skill nature of local employment.
• Education: Fort Bend Independent School District serves Sugar Land with some of Texas’s highest-rated schools that consistently achieve top performance ratings. The district offers extensive Advanced Placement programs, International Baccalaureate options, and specialized programs that prepare students for competitive colleges and careers. Wharton County Junior College and the University of Houston at Sugar Land are great options for those looking to enhance their education while staying close to home. 
• Quality of Life: Sugar Land’s commitment to quality of life shows in its extensive parks system, cultural programming, and recreational facilities. The Smart Financial Centre hosts major entertainment events, while numerous parks and trails provide outdoor recreation opportunities. Notable attractions include Sugar Land Town Square, First Colony Mall, and the “Selfie” statue of two girls taking a selfie that has garnered praise and criticism alike. Besides the sports teams in Houston, there is city pride when residents go to Constellation Field to watch the Sugar Land Space Cowboys (AAA affiliate of the Houston Astros) take the field. The city’s location provides access to H-Town’s urban amenities while maintaining suburban character and a family-friendly environment.

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4. League City, Texas

• Housing: Similar to Sugar Land, League City also benefits from being located within the Greater Houston area and is another option for those working in and around the metropolis. Residents also take advantage of standout luxuries offered throughout the area.   HOA-managed communities maintain property values and provide resort-style living.
• Safety: League City keeps lower crime rates than the Houston metropolitan average by implementing comprehensive public safety services and community policing programs. Their investment in emergency services, traffic safety, and crime prevention has created a secure environment for families. 
• Employment: Situated between Houston and Galveston, it provides access to diverse employment opportunities, including aerospace (NASA Johnson Space Center), petrochemicals, healthcare, and tech sectors. It’s not uncommon for locals to make the 34-minute drive to the metro area and end the day in the safer, family-oriented League City. The economy also consists of retail, healthcare, and professional services opportunities for those looking to avoid a long commute to work.  
• Education: Clear Creek Independent School District serves League City with highly rated schools that consistently perform above state averages. The district offers extensive Advanced Placement programs, career and technical education, and specialized programs for gifted and talented students. Despite no colleges in LC, residents enjoy being close to the University of Houston-Clear Lake, College of the Mainland, and San Jacinto College.  
• Quality of Life: Their parks and recreation system includes numerous facilities for sports, fitness, and family activities. The most notable is Hometown Heroes Park, extending over 28 acres, ideal for recreational activities. Its location allows residents to take advantage of the cultural, natural, and entertainment attractions in Galveston Bay, the Gulf Coast, and Houston. Shopping and dining options range from neighborhood centers to major retail destinations, creating convenience for residents.

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5. New Philadelphia, Ohio

• Housing: Lying along the Tuscarawas River, the largest city in the county offers affordable homeownership opportunities with a median home price of $124,400—significantly below state and national averages. Mixing classic homes filled with Ohio charm and newer developments having modern amenities, there’s something for everyone’s taste. Local banks provide competitive financing options, while the city’s housing programs assist first-time buyers and support home rehabilitation projects. The stable housing market provides security for both buyers and long-term residents.
• Safety: New Philadelphia ranks among Ohio’s safest cities, with violent crime rates being well below the state and national averages at 0.2 per 1,000 residents and property crime rates of 1.1 per 1,000 residents. This has been achieved through law enforcement prioritizing community relationships and keeping a pulse on what’s going on throughout to serve and protect accordingly. 
• Employment: Their local economy revolves around manufacturing, healthcare, and government employment. Major employers include TimkenSteel, Union Hospital, and Tuscarawas County government operations. Being near Interstate 77 allows for logistics and distribution businesses to flourish, while small business development programs encourage entrepreneurship. Unemployment rates remain below state averages due to these thriving employment opportunities. 
• Education: New Philadelphia City Schools consistently perform above state averages, with strong college placement rates and comprehensive career preparation programs. The district offers Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education, and special education services that meet the needs of every student. For postsecondary education, the Kent State University Tuscarawas campus is an ideal place to study, while partnerships with regional employers create internship and job placement opportunities to bolster one’s resume.
• Quality of Life: Tuscora Park provides unique family entertainment with vintage rides and attractions that create a nostalgic atmosphere, while numerous other parks offer recreational opportunities. The city’s downtown area features local businesses, restaurants, and community events that foster neighborhood connections, most notably New Towne Mall. Annual festivals and community celebrations bring residents together and attract visitors to the area while celebrating heritage and culture. 

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6. Decatur, Illinois

• Housing: Decatur offers strong housing affordability for both in-state and nationwide, with median prices averaging around $150,000. The city’s housing rehabilitation programs and down-payment assistance help residents achieve homeownership, while rental options remain affordable for all income levels. Historic neighborhoods feature early 20th-century architecture, while newer developments include updated modern amenities without the sticker shock. Their land bank program addresses vacant properties and supports reinvesting in the community. 
• Safety: Community partnership initiatives and neighborhood policing have contributed to improving safety trends in Soy City. Continual investment in street lighting, security cameras, and community engagement programs has paid off as public safety keeps improving. Youth programs and after-school activities help keep young children off the streets. Regular community meetings allow residents to participate in safety planning and priority setting.
• Employment: The largest city in Macon County has evolved its economy beyond the traditional manufacturing jobs that dominated the 20th century. Shifting to logistics, agriculture tech and healthcare are some of these sectors, as evidenced by primary employers such as Caterpillar and ADM. The latter is how the nickname “The Soybean Capital of the World” was earned. Additionally, their central Illinois location and transportation infrastructure support logistics and distribution operations, while agricultural research and development activities create specialized employment opportunities. 
• Education: Public schools show annual improvement in achievement metrics, while Richland Community College, Millikin University, and Walter Theological Seminary provide higher education opportunities. The school district’s career and technical education programs prepare students for local employment opportunities, while college preparation programs support those earning undergraduate degrees. Adult education and workforce training programs serve residents seeking career advancement or transition opportunities.
• Quality of Life: Lake Decatur provides recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and waterfront parks that enhance residents’ quality of life. The city’s parks and recreation system offers diverse programming for all ages, while places such as the local Civic Center host cultural attractions. Historical sites and community festivals are also abundant here, most notably the Transfer House located in downtown Decatur. This area has also begun to breathe new life with recent additions to the dining and entertainment scene. 

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7. McAllen, Texas

• Housing: When they say everything is bigger in Texas, that includes the savings on housing prices. McAllen offers some of the nation’s most affordable housing with a median home price of $169,631, over $200,000 below the national average. They benefit from abundant developable land and lower construction costs, enabling both rental and ownership opportunities for diverse income levels. New subdivisions feature modern amenities and energy-efficient construction, while archetypal neighborhoods offer quintessential housing at exceptional values. Local banks and credit unions provide competitive financing options that support homeownership goals.
• Safety: McAllen maintains reasonable safety standards for a city of its size, especially in South Texas. School safety programs and youth engagement initiatives help prevent juvenile crime, while business security partnerships enhance commercial district safety.
• Employment:
  The Rio Grande Valley’s economy has transformed into an international trade hub, along with ample employment in healthcare, education, and retail sectors. Major employers include DHR Health, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and numerous retail operations such as Walmart, Macy’s, and Burlington which attract residents and international visitors alike. 
• Education: The Independent School District and surrounding districts provide educational services with improved performance metrics and expanded program offerings. The district emphasizes bilingual education and cultural competency that prepare students for the global economy. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and the main campus of South Texas College create higher education opportunities within the area for those looking to enhance their working and professional skillsets. Career and technical education programs align with local industry needs in healthcare, education, and international business, with strong investments in research and development activities. 
• Quality of Life: The City of Palms celebrates its American and Mexican heritage by uniquely blending the cultures. Location provides access to both Gulf Coast recreation and Mexican cultural attractions, while festivals and events reflect the community’s diverse character. Shopping destinations cater to both local and international visitors, creating a vibrant retail environment. The region’s reputation as one of America’s premier birdwatching destinations. The Quinta Mazatlan, World Birding Center, and McAllen Nature Center are all spots where people go to take in all of the incredible scenery they have to offer.  

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8. Westminster, Colorado

• Housing: Location between the major city of Denver and the college town of Boulder makes for prime real estate for both seasoned professionals and fresh-faced individuals alike. When looking to buy a home, know that the median price is $541,000. This reflects both quality and location value that residents can take advantage of. 
• Safety: Westminster maintains lower crime rates than most large cities while providing comprehensive public safety services. Emergency services coordination and disaster preparedness programs tackle both day-to-day safety and natural disaster risks common to the Colorado Front Range. Investment in mental health resources and substance abuse programs addresses the root cause of a majority of crime.
• Employment: Taking around a 20-minute drive to get to Denver, the local economy benefits from the proximity to conomic drivers in technology, aerospace, and energy sectors, with major employers being Ball Aerospace, Trimble Navigation, and numerous tech companies, including Maxar and CACI International. Boulder is less than a 30-minute commute, allowing those looking to have a career in education the opportunity to teach at the main campus of the University of Colorado. Its 58% five-year income growth rate is the second-highest nationally, reflecting the dynamic nature of the local economy and the state’s overall economic prowess. 
• Education: Adams 12 Five Star Schools and Jefferson County Schools serve Westminster with highly rated institutions that emphasize both academic achievement and career preparation. For private education, Belleview Christian Schools serves Pre-K and K-12, located at Westminster Castle (aka the Pillar of Fire), a National Register of Historic Places landmark. The district offers extensive career and technical education programs, Advanced Placement courses, and college partnership programs that provide students with multiple pathways to success. Front Range Community College located near the University of Colorado Boulder and the University of Denver provide continuing education opportunities for residents.
• Quality of Life: Westminster’s location provides access to both urban amenities and outdoor opportunities that makes Colorado so iconic. The city maintains extensive parks and recreation facilities in and around Standley Lake, including the popular Butterfly Pavilion and numerous trail systems, including the Farmers’ High Line Canal and Walnut Creek. Cultural attractions include the Westminster Center for Arts and Culture, while the city’s location provides easy access to enjoy all that the state’s capital has to offer for entertainment venues, cultural institutions, and athletics at the college (UC-Boulder and the University of Denver) and professional level (Denver Nuggets for the NBA, Colorado Avalanche in the NHL, Colorado Rockies in the MLB, Denver Broncos for the NFL, and Colorado Rapids in the MLS). The Rocky Mountains are famous for their world-class skiing, hiking, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

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9. Johns Creek, Georgia

• Housing: Another Fulton County gem, Johns Creek, has a modernized approach to housing, leading to cutting-edge features. They offer luxury single-family homes, upscale townhomes, and high-end apartments that cater to diverse lifestyle needs. Fans of the show Ozark will be familiar with how it looks, as some of the show was filmed here. Strict development standards ensure architectural consistency and environmental preservation, while HOA management maintains property values and community amenities. Implementing a smart city practice allows for energy-efficient designs and smart home technology, which appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
• Safety: With the police and fire departments launching in the Fall of 2008, these programs have grown to earn the distinction as #1 in national rankings for low crime rates according to U.S. News, with violent crime rates among the lowest in the country. Their investment in traffic safety infrastructure and pedestrian-friendly design reduces accident rates and enhances overall community safety.
• Employment: Nestled in the Atlanta suburbs, it provides access to major employment centers while maintaining a suburban work-life balance for those looking for an escape. Tech companies (INTRALOT), food retail (Publix, Kroger), and healthcare organizations (Emory Johns Creek Hospital, Alcon) make up the majority of employment in the area. The median household income of $163,653 reflects the high-skill, high-wage nature of local employment opportunities. Remote work infrastructure and co-working spaces support the growing number of professionals who seek work flexibility.
• Education: Containing some of Georgia’s elite schools, the city has three high schools ranking in the state’s top 20, with Chattahoochee (Hooch), Johns Creek, and Northview. The district’s commitment to academic excellence includes extensive AP and IB programs, award-winning arts programs, and competitive athletics. Advanced technology integration and innovative teaching methods ensure students are prepared for what lies ahead of them in any career, with counseling programs designed to map out their plan for success. The city’s diverse population—46.2% non-white—creates an inclusive learning environment that prepares students for global citizenship.
• Quality of Life: The city’s commitment to setting the standard for a high quality of life is evident in its extensive park system, recreational facilities, and cultural programming. Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra and Arts Center provide cultural enrichment, while numerous parks and trails offer outdoor recreation opportunities. For those into cycling, the Rogers Bridge Park is ideal with its recently expanded lanes allowing for safer riding conditions.  Its location provides easy access to both Atlanta’s urban amenities and North Georgia’s mountain recreation. Shopping and dining options range from neighborhood centers to upscale destinations, creating convenience without sacrificing quality.

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10. Roswell, Georgia

• Housing: Roswell’s residential market benefits from being 30 minutes north of Atlanta, offering suburban tranquility with metropolitan access. The housing market spans from historic neighborhoods near the Chattahoochee River to modern subdivisions with resort-style amenities. Local government incentives support first-time homebuyers while its communities maintain property values through active HOAs and architectural standards. Recent developments focus on mixed-use projects that combine residential, retail, and office space to create walkable neighborhoods ideal for young professionals and families alike.
• Safety: Maintaining exceptional safety standards with crime rates significantly below national averages is always the goal here. The city’s comprehensive public safety strategy includes community-oriented policing, advanced emergency response systems, and proactive crime prevention programs. Investment in modern police technology, including license plate readers and enhanced dispatch systems, has contributed to rapid response times and crime deterrence. The city’s Safe Routes to School program and neighborhood watch initiatives engage residents in maintaining community security. 
• Employment: The local economy thrives on its proximity to Atlanta’s diverse job market while maintaining independent economic drivers. Major employers include tech (Pharsalia), healthcare systems (Wellstar North Fulton Hospital), and corporate headquarters (Kimberly Clark) that have set up shop away from downtown Atlanta to save on operational costs. The city’s business-friendly policies and available office space attract startups and established companies alike. With a 57% five-year income growth rate—the third highest among small cities nationally—residents benefit from expanding opportunities in these sectors and more. 
• Education: Fulton County Schools serve Roswell with consistently high-performing institutions that rank among Georgia’s best. The district offers extensive Advanced Placement programs, International Baccalaureate options, and specialized STEM curricula that prepare students for competitive colleges and careers. For those looking for special education, Cottage School is a private K-12 school focusing on teaching students with special needs. Early childhood programs and after-school enrichment activities support working families, while the city’s proximity to Georgia Tech, Emory University, and other Atlanta-area institutions provides continuing education opportunities for adults.
• Quality of Life: The city combines historic charm with modern amenities to create an exceptional living environment. It maintains over 900 acres of parkland, including the popular Riverside Park and numerous sports complexes. Cultural attractions include the Barrington Hall historic site and the vibrant downtown arts district. The Chattahoochee River provides opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and nature walks, while the city’s festival calendar includes events that celebrate both local heritage and contemporary culture, such as the Riverside Sounds Concert Series and Keep Roswell Beautiful Duck Race. 

Conclusion: These ten cities represent the best opportunities for Americans seeking the ideal balance of safety, affordability, and quality of life in 2025. Whether it be Georgia’s family-friendly suburbs, Texas’s economically vibrant communities, or the Midwest’s stable, traditional values, each location offers unique advantages while maintaining reasonable living costs and strong security. No matter if the aim is to gain affordable housing, top-rated schools, or proximity to major employment centers, this data-driven analysis provides the foundation for making an informed relocation decision that supports a multitude of long-term financial and personal goals.

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III. FAQ: Most Common Questions about Affordable & Safe Cities for Relocation 

1. What factors should I prioritize?
Balance the cost of living, safety, job market, school quality, healthcare, transportation, and neighborhood feel.

2. How do I best compare real affordability?
Use comprehensive calculators and compare cost indices for housing, taxes, and daily expenses as opposed to only rent. 

3. How do I check a city’s safety?
Consult FBI crime stats, local police data—comparing both violent and property crime by neighborhood.

4. Why does the ‘income to rent ratio’ matter?
This matters because it highlights how much of your gross income goes to rent—lower is better for affordability and savings.

5. How do taxes and insurance impact the cost of living?
They can change monthly payments by hundreds per month—always budget for them before committing.

6. Do cities offer relocation incentives?
More and more cities have begun to adopt this process. Look for cash bonuses, grants, or job placement help, especially in smaller cities eager for skilled workers.

7. How strong are schools in affordable cities?
Many feature schools ranked above the national average—always cross-check district ratings when house-hunting.

8. Will I save on utilities and healthcare?
Frequently, yes, as smaller or Midwestern cities have lower average costs in both areas.

9. What hidden move-in costs should I plan for?
New deposits, high utility setup costs, moving/registration fees, and “lifestyle” changes—always have a cushion.

10. How can I maximize my transition success?
Take a preview trip, talk to locals, start by renting, and confirm job prospects or have strong financial reserves before moving.

Overall, this article serves as your comprehensive and most current guide to finding a city that balances affordability, safety, quality schools, employment, and life enrichment in 2025 and beyond.