Discovering America's Most Budget-Friendly and Secure Communities in 2024

Finding the perfect place to settle down doesn’t have to drain your wallet or compromise on safety. A comprehensive analysis of housing markets across the nation has identified 15 outstanding cities where residents can enjoy both affordability and low crime rates. If you’re wondering about the cheapest state to live in 2024, the data reveals some surprising contenders—particularly in the Midwest.

Why Ohio Dominates the Affordability Rankings

Ohio leads the pack with seven cities making the top 15 list, making it the clear winner for budget-conscious homebuyers seeking secure neighborhoods. What makes these communities special is their combination of manageable housing costs and remarkably low violent crime rates.

The Most Wallet-Friendly Options

New Philadelphia, Ohio stands out as the most economical choice, with an annual cost of living at just $35,549. A typical single-family home averages $186,258, translating to monthly mortgage payments around $1,101. The violent crime rate sits at a mere 0.69 per 1,000 residents, while property crime remains equally modest at 1.50 per 1,000.

New Ulm, Minnesota offers another compelling alternative with annual living expenses of $36,361. Though home values are slightly higher at $222,693, the violent crime rate is exceptionally low at just 0.29 per 1,000 residents—among the safest in the nation. With a livability score of 82, this community appeals to those prioritizing peace of mind.

San Elizario, Texas presents an intriguing option for those seeking the lowest upfront housing costs. Average home values reach only $167,333, with monthly mortgages averaging $989—the most affordable in the entire ranking. The community boasts an impressively low violent crime rate of 0.10 per 1,000.

Mid-Range Communities Offering Strong Value

For those willing to spend slightly more for enhanced safety and livability, several Ohio communities deliver excellent returns:

Berea, Ohio attracts residents with annual expenses of $37,768 and a strong livability score of 77. Home values average $220,573, while violent crime remains controlled at 0.60 per 1,000.

Mount Vernon, Ohio rounds out the early-stage options with annual costs of $37,928 and comparable safety metrics. The community maintains a livability rating of 75.

Columbus, Indiana marks the transition to slightly larger towns, supporting over 51,000 residents while keeping annual living expenses at $40,402. The violent crime rate of just 0.19 per 1,000 makes it exceptionally secure.

Premium Value Communities

The upper tier of this ranking includes larger municipalities offering enhanced amenities alongside affordability:

Trenton, Michigan achieves the highest livability score of 86 among all 15 cities, with annual expenses at $41,641. This positions it as ideal for families seeking vibrant communities without excessive costs.

Edwardsville, Illinois rounds out the list with an impressive livability score of 90—the highest overall. Despite annual costs reaching $45,323, the combination of safety and community resources justifies the investment for many relocators.

Making Your Decision

The choice among these 15 communities depends on your specific priorities. If minimizing housing costs matters most, Ohio and Texas offer the lowest entry points. For those emphasizing safety and community quality, Minnesota and Illinois communities provide exceptional value. Population size varies dramatically—from under 10,000 in small towns to over 50,000 in larger municipalities—allowing you to match your lifestyle preferences with your financial constraints.

All data reflects analyses based on FBI crime statistics, U.S. Census data, property valuations, and consumer expenditure surveys current through February 2025.