Texas Cities Lead Nation in Affordability Rankings

Recent analyses highlight several regions across the U.S. as standout options for affordable living. Texas dominates with three cities—Brownsville, Wichita Falls, and Beaumont—ranking among the nation's most affordable due to low housing costs and overall living expenses. Meanwhile, states like Iowa, West Virginia, and Kansas are identified as the best for homeowners spending less of their income on housing, with housing costs taking under 30% of median incomes in much of the Midwest and South. Bismarck, North Dakota, is recognized as the most affordable U.S. city for renters, with residents spending just over 15% of their income on rent, while Miami ranks as the least affordable. These trends suggest that, despite rising home prices and interest rates, there remain many pockets of affordability, particularly in the South and Midwest, providing financial relief and opportunities for both renters and buyers.