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5 most affordable cities to live in the US

The South and Midwest rank highest on the list of cheapest places to live with one city in North Carolina taking the top spot.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — If good schools, green space, and spending less than 25% of your income on housing sounds appealing, consider living in one of these spots deemed most affordable by US News & World Report:  

5. Fort Wayne, Indiana

  • Metro area population: 415,887
  • Average salary: $50,330
  • Percent of income spent on housing costs: 20.07%

4. Huntsville, Alabama

  • Metro area population: 483,366
  • Average salary: $61,140
  • Percent of income spent on housing costs: 19.62%

WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to WCNC Charlotte by emailing money@wcnc.com. 

3. Huntington, West Virginia / Ashland, Kentucky

  • Metro area population: 361,177
  • Average salary: $45,520
  • Percent of income spent on housing costs: 20.69%

2. Youngstown, Ohio

  • Metro area population: 542,459
  • Average salary: $45,090
  • Percent of income spent on housing costs: 20.29%

For the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts, download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app.

1. Hickory, North Carolina

  • Metro area population: 364,877
  • Average salary: $44,470
  • Percent of income spent on housing costs: 18.95%

Contact Carolyn Bruck at cbruck@wcnc.com and follow her on FacebookTwitter and Instagram.

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