When we talk about the “cost of living,” it sounds like there is just one cost and everyone pays the same amount. But of course, if you’ve travelled or lived in a variety of places, you know that the cost of living can vary wildly from place to place, city to city, and region to region. The cost of homes varies, of course, but also the cost of gas for the car, heating and cooling for the home, and even the cost of going out on a Saturday night.

We looked at a number of factors in determining the top five most affordable places to live for 2019, including not just real estate prices, but also overall expenses and bang for your buck. We also chose a variety of places, from large metropolitan areas to smaller towns and suburbs. Finally, we looked at a wide range of geographic areas so that you could have options whether you want to live in the North or South, East or West Coast -- with a couple of markets smack dab in the middle.

Our 2019 Most Affordable Cities

Tampa FL

If working or retiring to the Sunshine State is part of your plan, look to the Tampa Bay area in order to find some of the most affordable living in the entire state. According to financial tech firm SmartAsset’s assessment of affordability, six of Florida’s top 10 affordable areas are within about 50 miles of downtown Tampa.

With beautiful beaches, the Florida Aquarium, Busch Gardens, and the highly regarded University of South Florida, there’s plenty of fun things to do in Tampa, no matter what your entertainment and activity budget may be. And due to its central location along the Gulf Coast, Tampa is an easy drive to the best of the rest of Florida as well. Pulte has new homes for sale in Tampa and across Florida.

Atlanta GA

According to WalletWyse, if it’s big city living you’re looking for at an affordable cost, Atlanta is your best option. While Atlanta definitely has its share of pricey real estate and fancy shopping, it is also home to a wide variety of communities within easy commuting distance that offer affordable single family homes and condos. In addition, as a city that’s always under development, you’ll find stellar employment options and an ever-evolving downtown corridor.

Add to affordable home prices the cost advantage of living in a temperate climate with mild winters. That saves you money on your utilities and gives you the ability to enjoy a variety of sports and recreation options all year round. With a robust network of colleges and universities centered in the region, there’s always a free or low-cost concert, class, art exhibit, or film festival on offer. Explore our new homes for sale in Atlanta and see why this city is one of the best in the country.

Irvine CA

NerdWallet’s overwhelming choice for livability for those who are California Dreamin’ is Irvine.  Located in Orange County, Irvine is known as one of the safest, greenest, healthiest, and best-educated areas in the country and regularly tops lists for a variety of indices.

Irvine is home to a large number of colleges and universities including UC Irvine, Pepperdine, and Stanbridge. This helps the area draw excellent employment opportunities with high wages. While Irvine has its share of expensive neighborhoods, much of the cost of living is offset by the availability of excellent public schools and the year-round picture-perfect weather, keeping heating, cooling, and maintenance costs low. That is part of the reason Irvine is also one of our top 5 places to live in California. Visit our new homes for sale in Irvine California today.

Frisco TX

If you want to be deep in the heart of Texas, you’ll find a lot to love in Frisco. This Dallas suburb consistently ranks on lists of the most affordable Texas towns, as well as having one of the state’s lowest unemployment rates. That’s just part of the reason that Money Magazine named it their 2018 Best Place to Live in the entire US.

You’ll find plenty of places to spend the money you save, since Frisco is known for its exciting shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It is also home to a number of professional sports teams and their practice facilities, meaning that there’s always something fun going on. In addition, Frisco’s Collin County ranks at the top of the lists for health factors and behaviors among Texas counties. Explore our new homes for sale in Frisco Texas and see why it is one of the best places to live in the US.

Woodbury MN

Located just 15 minutes from St. Paul, Woodbury provides all of the access and amenities of big city living in a bucolic, small-town setting. An affordable real estate market is matched by high employment and high incomes, adding up to one of the most affordable areas in Minnesota, according to Money Magazine.

With 51 parks and a variety of arts and entertainment venues, there’s always something fun going on in Woodbury. Here you’ll find a mix of outdoor recreation and the shopping, restaurants, and other conveniences you expect in a suburban area. And with more education and less crime and poverty than almost any comparable US city, Woodbury is consistently ranked as one of the state’s premier places to live. Visit our new homes for sale in Woodbury Minnesota.

It’s tough to narrow down a top five because there are so many amazing cities and towns throughout the country that offer both exceptional amenities and affordability. No matter where you want to call home, chances are there is a Pulte community that you should consider. Learn more about where we build.

Contributed to Your Home blog by Joshlin Grayson

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Published 4.12.19