9. Durham, North Carolina Provides Majestic Southern Beauty For Little to Nothing
Recently called one of the best cities for for mid-career professionals, Durham serves as part of North Carolina’s Research Triangle and as the hub of the Tar Heel State’s biotechnology industry. The city’s population is 245,475 with a median annual household income of $48,241 and unemployment at only 5%. Utility and transportation expenses are significantly lower than the national average and the median home value is $179,500. Residents of the city can explore nature trails and attend free arts festivals and concerts, or even take classes at Duke.
8. Lincoln, Nebraska May Sound Sleepy, But There’s Plenty to Keep You Awake
Lincoln is home to a booming job market and one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country. Forbes ranked Lincoln sixth on its 2014 list of the 200 best places for business and careers. The median home value is $142,200 and monthly rent is only $700 for a 2-bedroom apartment. Lincoln opened the Railyard Entertainment District, a massive fenced-in courtyard that’s home to dozens of local restaurants and bars, as well as a live performance spaces and an ice rink in winter. Overall the cost of living is 10.3% below U.S. average in this thriving city, making it one of the cheapest places to live in the US.
