Finances are a big concern for a lot of Americans these days and those watching their budgets are fully aware just how expensive life has gotten. Some parts of the country are definitely more affordable than others and a new report from GoBankingRates highlights where you can live comfortably on less.
- Their list of America’s Most Livable Destinations has just come out, revealing 10 U.S. cities where you can live well without a six-figure income.
- To determine the list, GoBankingRates started by analyzing the top 50 cities in the 250 Best Places to Live in 2025 report from “U.S. News & World Report.”
- They narrowed down the options after comparing each city’s average rent, home value, typical mortgage payment, and costs for groceries, utilities and transportation.
- GoBankingRates then determined the salary needed for each city by following the 50/30/20 budget rule, which suggests spending 50% of your budget on needs, 30% on wants and 20% on your savings goal.
- So, what is the most livable city in the country? Laredo, Texas, tops the list.
- The annual cost of living expenses for homeowners average just $36,008 and their needed salary is $72,015, which is well below a six figure $100-thousand salary.
- Another Texas city, McAllen, comes in second. The annual cost of living expenses for homeowners there is $36,287, with a needed salary of $72,574.
The 10 Most Livable Cities in the U.S.
- Laredo, Texas
- McAllen, Texas
- Moore, Oklahoma
- Midland, Michigan
- Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
- Springdale, Arkansas
- Saint Peters, Missouri
- Eau Claire, Wisconsin
- Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- West Des Moines, Iowa
Source: GoBankingRates