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The 10 Least Affordable Cities in the U.S. for Canadian Buyers
According to the National Association of Realtors, the national median home price in the U.S. was $407,600 in April 2024, up 5.7% from April 2023. This was the 10th consecutive month of price increases in the past 12 months and the highest April price increase ever.
The good news for Canadians is that there are still affordable cities in the U.S. where home prices, taxes, and the cost of essential goods and services are lower than the national average.
1. Youngstown, Ohio
Located halfway between Cleveland and Pittsburgh, Youngstown is one of the least expensive metropolitan areas in the country. Youngstown was once a major steel-producing city, but home prices fell sharply as residents began to leave the area in the 1970s.
However, the city is currently undergoing a cultural and economic renaissance, and businesses are picking up momentum in the downtown area. With a median price of $139,900, home prices are still very low, making Youngstown an excellent choice for buyers looking for affordable housing.
2. Scranton, Pennsylvania
Scranton was a prosperous city during the industrial era, but like many other cities with a similar history, its population declined when manufacturing plants began to close a few decades ago. Home prices have risen in recent years, thanks to the revitalization of the downtown area and a low crime rate, making it an excellent choice for families. The median price of homes for sale is just $175,000, more than $225,000 below the national average.
3. Syracuse, New York
Realtor magazine recently named Syracuse one of the best cities for middle-class buyers, and it’s easy to see why. Its low crime rate, excellent restaurants, and proximity to Onondaga Lake and its water sports make Syracuse a vibrant college town, where it’s still possible to find a three-bedroom apartment in a historic neighborhood just minutes from the lake for around $155,000.
4. Topeka, Kansas
The cost of living in Topeka, the capital of Kansas, is 14% lower than the national average, according to the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) Cost of Living Survey. Housing there is about 30% cheaper than the U.S. average. The area offers employment opportunities in government, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing, as well as a variety of high-quality local restaurants and water sports at Shani Lake.
5. Jackson, Mississippi
Jackson is the capital of Mississippi, and the cost of living here is 13% lower than the U.S. average. With a median home sale price of under $130,000, Jackson is one of the most affordable cities in the U.S. Known for its literary heritage and soul music, the city embraces traditional Southern hospitality while also continuously evolving in the arts, cuisine, and culture.
6. McAllen, Texas
Some of the best housing deals can be found in this Rio Grande Valley border city, which boasts numerous parks, a vibrant metropolitan area, and a wealth of medical facilities. This major center for retail, commerce, tourism, and manufacturing is home to more than 550 species of birds and 300 species of butterflies. The median home sales price here is $319,000, well below the national average.
7. Anniston, Alabama
Alabama has the second-lowest property tax rate in the United States, making it instantly more affordable for both residents and buyers. Anniston’s low cost of living has placed it in the top 10 most affordable cities in the United States, and the overall cost of housing in the area is 40% lower than the national average. Located between Atlanta and Birmingham, Anniston is close to the Mount Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge. Hikers, mountain bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts will especially love this area.
8. Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock is proving to be a vibrant and livable city. It’s also becoming increasingly popular with art and history buffs, as well as foodies. Plus, Little Rock is just a few hours from the Ozark Mountains, where there are plenty of places to enjoy nature. With a median home price of less than $300,000, a low cost of living, and an ongoing downtown revitalization, Little Rock was recently recognized by Realtor.com as one of the best cities for middle-class buyers.
9. Columbia, South Carolina
Although South Carolina's capital is a large, fast-growing city, it still retains a small-town feel and friendly culture. There's also a great arts and food scene, and three-bedroom homes cost around $275,000. South Carolina, which has some of the lowest property taxes in the country, is a great place for buyers looking for a low cost of living and year-round pleasant weather.
10. Augusta, Georgia
Although it is best known as the host city of the Masters Tournament, Augusta, Georgia has much more to offer than just golf! The city has a rich culinary scene and offers a variety of interesting arts and outdoor activities. It is also a popular destination for retirees due to its pleasant climate and low cost of living. Buyers can find homes on large lots for around $300,000.