When looking for a great place to live, you might prioritize walkability or access to green space, but with inflation still is still putting the squeeze on budgets around the country, it’s no surprise that affordable living is now a lifestyle goal. If you’re among the many looking to relocate to a place where your dollar goes further, GoBankingRates just released a solid list of options: their 2025 Most Livable Destinations ranking.
The site sifted through U.S. News & World Report’s top 50 picks from the “250 Best Places to Live” and crunched the real numbers—rents from Zillow, spending data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and a salary breakdown using the tried-and-true 50/30/20 rule (50% needs, 30% wants 20% savings).
Topping the list of the most affordable, livable destinations in the U.S. is Laredo, Texas. Homeowners there can cover all living expenses for just $36,008 a year. Renters need only a bit more: $36,888. That means you can live comfortably in Laredo with a salary around $72K—far below the six-figure pressures of coastal metros.
Coming in at number two is another Texas city, McAllen, with similar affordability stats. Moore, Oklahoma and Midland, Michigan follow. Rounding out the top 10 are Broken Arrow (OK), Springdale (AR), Saint Peters (MO), Eau Claire (WI), Sioux Falls (SD) and West Des Moines (IA).
Every city on the list requires a salary above $70K to live comfortably. This number is slightly above the national average of $67K—but still a far cry from the $150K+ budgets needed in major cities.
If you’re looking for some financial breathing room without giving up quality of life, these underrated cities might just be your next move. Find the full breakdown here.
Most livable U.S. cities
- Laredo, TX
- McAllen, TX
- Moore, OK
- Midland, MI
- Broken Arrow, OK
- Springdale, AR
- Saint Peters, MO
- Eau Claire, WI
- Sioux Falls, SD
- West Des Moines, IA