17 Most Affordable U.S. Cities in 2025

Renters across the United States continue to grapple with rising housing costs, but cities like Wichita, Brownsville, and Evansville are still topping our list as the most affordable cities in the U.S. As of August 2025, the national average rent is $2,102, up slightly from a year ago and reflecting steady demand in major metros. That puts many popular cities, from New York to San Francisco, well out of reach for renters trying to stick to a budget.

But not every U.S. market is unaffordable. Our 2025 data shows that a number of mid-sized and regional cities offer rents far below the national figure while still providing access to jobs, culture, and quality of life. These markets stand out as the best places for renters looking to save without sacrificing livability.

Why Our Data Picks Matter

If you’re trying to score a better deal in today’s rental market, simply browsing listings isn’t enough. Verified rent averages paint a more accurate picture of affordability and prevent sticker shock after touring.

By combining national, state, and city-level data, our methodology identifies the places where renters can expect to find sustainable affordability rather than temporary discounts. This approach also makes it easier to compare cost of living across regions, from utilities and transportation to commuting tradeoffs.

Sources We Used for 2025 Rent Figures

We combined multiple trusted sources to capture the U.S. rental landscape:

• Apartment List Rent Data (August 2025): Average rents for more than 100 U.S. metros, covering 0–3 bedroom apartments.
• RentCafe Data (August 2025): Supplemental averages for smaller metros not covered by primary sources.
• CrimeGrade.org (August 2025): Safety benchmarks for each city, with ratings in the C+–F range indicating higher-than-average crime rates compared to national norms.

All figures reflect average rent across all unit types and were normalized to account for outliers caused by temporary concessions, luxury inventory, or unusually small sample sizes.

How Apartment List Calculates True Affordability

Apartment List defines True Affordability as the share of income renters spend on rent, which targets a comfort threshold of ≤30%.

Formula: (Average Rent ÷ Average Renter Income) × 100

This figure gives you an understanding beyond the raw rent prices and measures how livable a city is when compared to salaries and monthly costs like utilities and fees.

17 Most Affordable U.S. Cities for Renters

Wichita, KS

• Average rent across all units: $942
• Average 1BR rent: n/a
• Average 2BR rent: n/a
• Walk Score: 35
• Transit score: 20
• Bike score: 44
• Map of Wichita

Wichita delivers big-city scale with small-city prices. Long known as the “Air Capital of the World,” it couples aviation and manufacturing with steady growth in healthcare and education.

Renters find revitalized riverfront districts, festivals, and a cost of living that stretches paychecks. Transit is limited, but commutes are short and traffic is manageable, keeping day-to-day costs predictable.

For families, students, and professionals wanting space and amenities without coastal price tags, Wichita is a practical, affordable pick for cost of living.

Find your ideal rental in Wichita today.

Brownsville, TX

• Average rent across all units: $987
• Average 1BR rent: n/a
• Average 2BR rent: n/a
• Walk Score: 35
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 41
• Map of Brownsville

Brownsville has earned a reputation as one of America’s most affordable cities. Located at the southern tip of Texas, this border city is deeply connected to Mexican culture, offering renters an authentic food scene, a bilingual community, and year-round warm weather.

While affordability is its biggest draw, Brownsville also benefits from a diverse job market. International trade through the Port of Brownsville, a growing manufacturing sector, and a strong presence in healthcare provide steady employment opportunities. Families appreciate the slower pace and affordability, while retirees often choose Brownsville for its climate and community feel.

For renters, Brownsville is a low-cost option that without giving up on culture, climate, or quality of life.

Find your ideal rental in Brownsville today.

Evansville, IN

• Average rent across all units: $1,120
• Average 1BR rent: $1,040
• Average 2BR rent: $1,250
• Walk Score: 44
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 43
• Map of Evansville

Evansville is a standout in the Midwest for renters seeking affordability, with rents more than 40% cheaper than the national average. Its solid cost of living makes it an appealing option for families, students, and professionals alike.

Located on the Ohio River, Evansville blends small-town warmth with urban amenities. The city has a growing healthcare sector, thanks to the Deaconess Health System, and a diverse economy that includes manufacturing and education. Downtown revitalization has brought new restaurants, cultural attractions, and sports facilities, giving renters plenty to do outside of work or school.

For renters who value low costs, strong community ties, and steady employment opportunities, Evansville delivers a balanced lifestyle.

Find your ideal rental in Evansville today.

McAllen, TX

• Average rent across all units: $1,073
• Average 1BR rent: n/a
• Average 2BR rent: n/a
• Walk Score: 41
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 46
• Map of McAllen

McAllen consistently ranks among the most affordable cities in the United States, with average rents hovering just above $1,000, which is less than half the national average of $2,102. This South Texas hub gives renters a chance to stretch their budgets while still enjoying a vibrant community and strong cultural identity.

The city is known for its rich heritage and cross-border influences, with authentic food, live music, and festivals at the heart of daily life. Its location in the Rio Grande Valley also puts renters close to outdoor destinations like Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park. Job growth has remained steady, particularly in trade, healthcare, and education, adding a sense of stability for residents.

With rents this low, families, retirees, and young professionals all find McAllen appealing. The city blends affordability with culture and a slower pace of life, making it an excellent alternative to more expensive areas with a higher cost of living in Texas.

Find your ideal rental in McAllen today.

Beaumont, TX

• Average rent across all units: $1,090
• Average 1BR rent: n/a
• Average 2BR rent: n/a
• Walk Score: 31
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 37
• Map of Beaumont

Beaumont is one of East Texas’ most affordable metros, with average rents around $1,090 a month. Positioned along the Gulf Coast, Beaumont offers a slower pace of life paired with a diverse economy.

The city is known for its strong roots in the petrochemical and shipping industries, but it also hosts cultural festivals and a growing music scene that give it more character than many similarly priced markets. Families and young professionals appreciate the ability to find larger apartments or rental homes at far lower costs than in Houston, just 90 miles away.

For renters seeking a budget-friendly option with easy access to Houston and the Gulf Coast, Beaumont stands out as a practical and affordable choice.

Find your ideal rental in Beaumont today.

Toledo, OH

• Average rent across all units: $1,136
• Average 1BR rent: $1,095
• Average 2BR rent: $1,108
• Walk Score: 46
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 46
• Map of Toledo

Toledo delivers some of the lowest housing costs in Ohio, with average rents at $1,136. That’s nearly 46% below the U.S. average, giving renters affordable access to a city with a strong manufacturing and trade legacy.

The local economy has diversified in recent years, adding jobs in healthcare, education, and logistics. Renters benefit from Toledo’s revitalized downtown, cultural attractions like the Toledo Museum of Art, and recreational opportunities along Lake Erie.

For renters, Toledo combines a stable Ohio cost of living with cultural amenities and steady job opportunities.

Find your ideal rental in Toledo today.

Fort Wayne, IN

• Average rent across all units: $1,154
• Average 1BR rent: n/a
• Average 2BR rent: n/a
• Walk Score: 32
• Transit score: 22
• Bike score: 41
• Map of Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne has become one of Indiana’s fastest-growing and most livable cities while keeping housing affordable. With average rents around $1,154, it remains well below national benchmarks, even as investment has poured into its downtown and riverfront districts.

The local economy is strong, with healthcare, defense, and manufacturing providing reliable job growth. Cultural amenities are on the rise, from new restaurants to annual festivals, and the city’s extensive park system offers renters access to green space at nearly every turn.

Affordable rents, a growing job market, and cultural revitalization make Fort Wayne an appealing city for renters across age groups.

Find your ideal rental in Fort Wayne today.

Des Moines, IA

• Average rent across all units: $1,220
• Average 1BR rent: $1,122
• Average 2BR rent: $1,279
• Walk Score: 45
• Transit score: 30
• Bike score: 39
• Map of Des Moines

Des Moines is Iowa’s capital and a surprisingly affordable metro, with rents averaging just $1,220, which is over 40% below the national average. As a regional hub for finance, insurance, and agriculture, it offers both job opportunities and a reasonable cost of living.

The city has a thriving downtown with cultural festivals, breweries, and music venues that draw renters of all ages. Outdoor enthusiasts also benefit from trails, riverside parks, and a growing bike scene.

Des Moines proves that capital cities don’t have to come with high housing costs and can enjoy a manageable cost of living.

Find your ideal rental in Des Moines today.

Sioux Falls, SD

• Average rent across all units: $1,251
• Average 1BR rent: $1,133
• Average 2BR rent: $1,390
• Walk Score: 38
• Transit score: 17
• Bike score: 46
• Map of Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls is South Dakota’s largest city and one of the Midwest’s most affordable rental markets, with average rents at $1,251. That’s more than 40% lower than the U.S. average, giving renters significant breathing room.

The city’s economy is strong, with healthcare, financial services, and retail leading the way. Sioux Falls has also seen steady population growth, which has encouraged investment in parks, cultural venues, and infrastructure.

Affordable housing, a strong job market, and outdoor access make Sioux Falls an attractive choice for renters across age groups.

Find your ideal rental in Sioux Falls today.

Memphis, TN

• Average rent across all units: $1,281
• Average 1BR rent: $1,180
• Average 2BR rent: $1,264
• Walk Score: 35
• Transit score: 22
• Bike score: 41
• Map of Memphis

Memphis remains one of the most affordable large cities in the South, with average rents at $1,281, which is nearly 40% below the national average. Known for its music history and barbecue scene, Memphis also offers renters stability through logistics, healthcare, and education jobs.

Affordability is a key draw for families and professionals, especially compared to other Southern metros like Nashville or Atlanta. Cultural attractions, from Beale Street to the National Civil Rights Museum, give Memphis a strong lifestyle appeal.

For renters who want reasonable rent paired with cultural depth, Memphis offers a unique balance.

Find your ideal rental in Memphis today.

Dayton, OH

• Average rent across all units: $1,287
• Average 1BR rent: $1,090
• Average 2BR rent: $1,412
• Walk Score: 45
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 47
• Map of Dayton

Dayton is one of Ohio’s most affordable metros, with average rents at $1,287, which is more than 35% lower than the national average. Known for its aviation history, Dayton now balances a manageable cost of living with job growth in healthcare, defense, and education.

Renters appreciate Dayton’s small-city feel, strong community ties, and proximity to major employers like Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The downtown area has seen ongoing revitalization, with new restaurants, breweries, and housing options.

Affordable housing and growing amenities make Dayton appealing to students, families, and professionals seeking value in the Midwest.

Find your ideal rental in Dayton today.

South Bend, IN

• Average rent across all units: $1,301
• Average 1BR rent: n/a
• Average 2BR rent: n/a
• Walk Score: 42
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 58
• Map of South Bend

South Bend is best known as the home of the University of Notre Dame, but it’s also one of Indiana’s most affordable rental markets. With average rents at $1,301, renters here pay well under the national average, even in a city with strong cultural and academic influence.

The local economy is anchored by higher education, healthcare, and a growing tech presence. Students, faculty, and professionals find the city’s affordability attractive, especially in neighborhoods near downtown and campus. South Bend has invested in revitalizing its riverfront and downtown core, adding to its appeal.

Reasonable rents combined with livability make South Bend a practical choice for renters who want community and opportunity without high costs.

Find your ideal rental in South Bend today.

El Paso, TX

• Average rent across all units: $1,427
• Average 1BR rent: $1,052
• Average 2BR rent: $1,345
• Walk Score: 40
• Transit score: 28
• Bike score: 42
• Map of El Paso

El Paso remains one of the most affordable large cities and among the best places to live in Texas, with average rents roughly a third below the national figure. The metro pairs low prices with a distinctive desert-mountain setting and deep binational culture.

Fort Bliss anchors the local economy alongside healthcare, trade, and logistics. Food, music, and arts reflect the city’s cross-border roots, while the Franklin Mountains offer quick escapes for hiking and views.

Transit coverage is modest and most renters drive, but traffic tends to be lighter than in bigger Texas metros. For renters who want a culturally rich, budget-friendly city with outdoor access, El Paso is a compelling choice.

Find your ideal rental in El Paso today.

Buffalo, NY

• Average rent across all units: $1,436
• Average 1BR rent: $1,295
• Average 2BR rent: $1,732
• Walk Score: 67
• Transit score: 47
• Bike score: 63
• Map of Buffalo

Buffalo is one of the Northeast’s most affordable major metros, with rents far below coastal peers. The city has reinvented itself beyond its industrial past, led by healthcare, education, and a growing tech ecosystem.

Renters get a revitalized waterfront, standout museums, and a respected food scene (yes, wings, but also much more). Easy access to Lake Erie and nearby Niagara Falls adds year-round recreation.

Transit and walkability are stronger than in many equally priced markets, easing car dependence in central neighborhoods. If you want a big-city vibe without big-city prices, Buffalo hits the sweet spot.

Find your ideal rental in Buffalo today.

St. Louis, MO

• Average rent across all units: $1,609
• Average 1BR rent: $1,480
• Average 2BR rent: $1,818
• Walk Score: 66
• Transit score: 43
• Bike score: 58
• Map of St. Louis

St. Louis offers renters a major-metro experience at a discount, with cultural depth, historic neighborhoods, and a strong park system led by Forest Park. The economy spans healthcare, higher ed, manufacturing, and finance, providing diverse job paths.

Light rail (MetroLink) and bus service make car-lite living possible in core areas, and many neighborhoods blend classic architecture with new development.

While affordability varies by neighborhood, the metro’s overall value proposition—city amenities at below-average rents—stands out in the Midwest.

Find your ideal rental in St. Louis today.

Knoxville, TN

• Average rent across all units: $1,836
• Average 1BR rent: $1,575
• Average 2BR rent: $1,874
• Walk Score: 31
• Transit score: 27
• Bike score: 30
• Map of Knoxville

Knoxville blends a lively college-town core with quick access to lakes, rivers, and the Great Smoky Mountains. The University of Tennessee, healthcare, and growing tech and services sectors support a stable job base.

Rents remain well below national levels for a city with an established arts scene, sports, and outdoor recreation. Commutes are generally easy, and neighborhoods near downtown offer the best mix of convenience and amenities.

If you want a reasonable cost of living plus year-round outdoor options, Knoxville is tough to beat.

Find your ideal rental in Knoxville today.

Bismarck, ND

• Average rent across all units: $1,887
• Average 1BR rent: $1,327
• Average 2BR rent: $2,141
• Walk Score: 35
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 38
• Map of Bismarck

North Dakota’s capital of Bismarck pairs government stability with healthcare and energy jobs, keeping the local economy resilient. Rents are still below the national mark, and renters gain space, quiet neighborhoods, and access to Missouri River trails and parks.

Transit is limited, but the city’s scale keeps commutes short and predictable. Larger rentals remain attainable compared with bigger capitals or coastal metros.

For renters seeking calm, value, and steady employment options, Bismarck delivers an underrated package.

Find your ideal rental in Bismarck today.

How These Cities Compare on Daily Life

America’s most affordable rental markets each come with trade-offs. Some are state capitals with steady government and healthcare jobs, while others are smaller industrial hubs or border cities with low housing costs but limited transit. Below, we’ve summarized the lifestyle factors that renters will want to weigh before moving in 2025.

Commute Times and Transit Access

Most of these affordable cities are car-dependent, but commute times are generally shorter than in expensive coastal metros. In some cases, living just outside larger hubs (like St. Louis or El Paso) means renters can save money while staying within reach of urban job centers.

Safety and Walkability Scores

Fiber Internet, Parks, and Local Amenities

How Can I Find Apartment Deals in These Cities?

Affordable apartments in these markets go quickly, especially as more renters shift away from high-cost metros and toward smaller cities with lower rents. To make sure you don’t miss out on the best options, it helps to combine smart searching with a little preparation. Here are proven strategies to land a lease in 2025:

Take Advantage of Virtual Tours

Many landlords and property managers now offer 3D walkthroughs or live video tours of their units. In affordable cities like Evansville or South Bend, this can save you from long drives to multiple properties.

Virtual tours allow you to compare layouts, finishes, and amenities from home, so you can quickly create a shortlist of favorites. Plan to see several units in person on the same day, which is a strategy that gives you a competitive edge when affordable apartments are listed for only a short time.

Come Prepared to Apply on the Spot

Apartments in budget-friendly markets don’t stay vacant for long. In places like McAllen or Dayton, a unit may be off the market within 48 hours. To avoid missing out, keep your application materials organized and ready: proof of income (such as pay stubs or an offer letter), a recent credit report, references from past landlords, and a valid photo ID. Having everything in one folder makes it easier to apply immediately, which can give you an advantage over other renters who wait.

Negotiate Lease Perks

The sticker price on a rental isn’t always final, especially in smaller markets where landlords want to fill units quickly. Don’t hesitate to ask about concessions such as waived application fees, reduced pet deposits, or free parking. In some cases, landlords may offer one month of free rent for signing a longer lease. This type of rent negotiation is especially common in cities with new apartment complexes, such as Fort Wayne or Sioux Falls, where competition between landlords benefits renters.

Search During the Off-Season

Demand for rentals tends to spike in spring and summer, when many families move for school schedules or job changes. If you can time your search for the late fall or winter months, you may be able to find better off-season deals, typically from November through February.

Even in cities with steady demand like Buffalo or St. Louis, landlords are more willing to offer discounts in slower months to keep units filled. Planning your move during this window can translate into hundreds of dollars in savings.

Expand Your Search Radius

Living just outside a larger metro often means paying far less in rent while keeping access to jobs and amenities. For example, Beaumont offers affordability with Houston only 90 minutes away.

Expanding your search radius by 30–60 minutes can uncover apartments that cost hundreds less each month, especially in states where suburban and small-city markets remain overlooked.

Use Rent Filters Strategically

Online rental platforms can surface hidden deals if you know how to filter. One smart tactic is to set your maximum budget about 10% below what you’re actually willing to spend. This uncovers listings with recent price drops, unadvertised promotions, or units where landlords are flexible on pricing. In fast-moving markets like El Paso or Wichita, this strategy helps you find apartments with wiggle room before they’re gone.

Find Your Next Affordable Apartment

Whether you’re focused on saving money, raising a family, or building your career in a lively city, these 17 metros prove affordability doesn’t have to mean compromise. Decide what matters most, from commute times, lifestyle, walkability, or True Affordability to find a U.S. city that feels like home.

Ready to make your move to one of the most affordable cities in the U.S.? Take our quiz and uncover your best match. In just minutes, you can cut through hours of searching and go straight to the apartments that fit your budget and lifestyle.

FAQs About Renting in Affordable U.S. Cities

What is the average rent in the U.S. in 2025?

Currently, the national average rent is $2,102 (July 2025). Every city on our list is at least 20% cheaper, with several under $1,300.

Which U.S. city will have the cheapest rent in 2025?

McAllen, TX is among the cheapest rent in the United States. It has an average rents around $1,073, which is nearly half the U.S. average.

Are affordable U.S. cities safe for renters?

Many rental markets rate below average for safety. If you decide to prioritize affordability over all else, you'll need to exercise discernment for renters and choosing the right neighborhoods.

Do affordable cities have public transit?

Transit is limited in most affordable cities, but Buffalo, Dayton, and St. Louis have bus/light rail options. You'll find that smaller cities like Wichita and Evansville are more car-dependent.

Which affordable city is the most walkable?

Buffalo, NY and St. Louis, MO lead for walkable cores. Most others are suburban and car-oriented.

What are the best affordable cities for families?

Evansville, IN offers larger apartments and green space low prices. Beaumont, TX appeals to families seeking lower prices with access to Houston jobs.

Which affordable cities are best for young professionals?

Buffalo, Dayton, and Knoxville balance low rents with universities, job growth, and culture. El Paso is strong for healthcare/logistics careers.

Do these cities have strong job markets?

Yes. Healthcare drives Sioux Falls and Evansville and government anchors Bismarck. Logistics and manufacturing industries fuel Memphis, Toledo, and El Paso.

When is the best time to rent in these cities?

November to February is among the best times to rent an apartment in the most affordable cities in the U.S. Demand slows and landlords often offer move-in specials or fee waivers.

Can you negotiate rent in affordable cities?

There is an opportunity to negotiate rent, especially during the off-season. If the landlord isn’t interested in lowering the rent, it’s also possible to ask for waived fees, reduced pet deposits, free parking, and sometimes one month free on longer leases.

How much are utilities and internet in these cities?

Utilities and internet typically costs less than in coastal metros. Cities like Dayton, Sioux Falls, and Fort Wayne also offer strong fiber coverage for remote work.

How do these affordable cities compare to big metros?

Expect to pay $700 to $1,000+ less on rent than in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. You may trade walkability or transit for space, shorter commutes, and lower living costs.