Pennsylvania is the #1 best place to buy a house in the USA in 2024. It offers various cities and rural areas suitable for different lifestyles. Whether one wants laid-back living in Amish country or the fast-paced lifestyle of Philadelphia, this first state on our list has it all.
North Carolina boasts a desirable combination of natural beauty, a mild climate, and a thriving economy. Though its home values are a bit higher than those of others on this list, NC still enjoys a lower cost of living than the overall American COL, as housing prices are 14% lower than the national median price. These low prices are combined with a very low property tax rate of just 0.7%, boosting affordability.
Utah is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including national parks, mountains, and picturesque valleys. While Utah is one of the most expensive states on this list, it offers a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, a robust economy, and low crime rates. Utah’s unemployment rate is just 3.2%, while its employment has risen by 2.8%, signaling a healthy economy.
Utah is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including national parks, mountains, and picturesque valleys. While Utah is one of the most expensive states on this list, it offers a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, a robust economy, and low crime rates. Utah’s unemployment rate is just 3.2%, while its employment has risen by 2.8%, signaling a healthy economy.
Nevada’s appeal lies in its famous entertainment hub, Las Vegas, as well as its diverse landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Ranked among the top 10 most affordable states in the U.S., Iowa is also recognized as one of the safest; its crime rate is 25% lower than the US rate. This and its excellent school system make it a perfect place to raise a family. Big cities like Des Moines offer a cosmopolitan atmosphere at a low price tag, and its unemployment rate is a tiny 2.8%.
It’s a very affordable state to raise a family, with a cost of living that is 8% lower than the nationwide index. Housing is 21% lower than the national median home value, so you’ll save more of your paycheck for other needs. While the unemployment rate is slightly higher than that of neighboring Illinois or Ohio, the typical Indianian makes about $57,304. Indiana also had almost 400 schools, which made the US News and World Report list of the best schools.
Ohio consistently ranks highly on various “best of” lists, including having a significant number of top-ranked school districts. It offers abundant job opportunities and a range of entertainment options. The typical salary is about $74,983; even entry-level workers can do well, making about $41,599 at the beginning of their careers. Job opportunities here range from aerospace manufacturing to pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and more; plus, the state is home to top-ranked universities, like Ohio State University.
Known for its happy residents, Nebraska ranks among the top 10 happiest states. Its tourism tagline reflects its combination of affordability and a touch of humor. The state offers a reasonable cost of living and is appreciated for its beauty and recreational activities, including golf.
Those looking for the lowest cost of living have found it in peaceful, laid-back Mississippi. This state has some of the most affordable housing in the country; its home prices are over half the nationwide median home sale price, making it much easier to enter the housing market here.