The United States is a diverse land with unique flavor and different regions that offer something for just about anyone. No two cities or states are quite the same --which can also be said about the costs of living in these places.
Some cities and states demand a higher cost of living due to several socioeconomic factors, such as availability of employment, average household income, proximity to major metropolitan areas and overall desirability. However, there are other places where the cost of living is lower--where you can settle down and raise a family rather affordably.
Here are the top 10 most affordable states to move to:
Oklahoma
This Midwestern gem has been ranked as the cheapest state to live in for two consecutive years now, and for good reason. In the most expensive part of the state, the average home price is still a reasonable $265,154 and the average monthly energy bill will only set you back about $150.
Tennessee
Home of country music, good barbecue and some old-fashioned Americana, Tennessee also happens to be one of the most affordable states to live in the country. The average price of a home in the most expensive part of the state is only around $211,000, and you can expect to pay around $145 per month on your energy bill.
Idaho
Idaho isn't only known for its stranglehold on the potato industry – it's also the third most affordable state in the country. With rolling hills and sweeping vistas that fill the horizon, Idaho is as picturesque as it is cheap. The average home price in the Boise metropolitan area is around $256,124.
Kentucky
Bluegrass, bourbon and basketball -- the three things Kentucky does best. But you can also add affordable living to that list, because Kentucky is right up there with some of the cheapest places in the nation to live. The average home price is $232,139 in Louisville, the largest metropolitan area in the state, and your monthly energy bill can be as low as $123.
Nebraska
Nebraska may not be the first place you think of when you picture an affordable, family-friendly, all-American destination, but it should be. In the Hastings metropolitan area, the average price of a home will set you back around $263,000, while the average doctor visit will only cost you $71.33.
Indiana
With the exception of perhaps Idaho, all of the states on this list so far have one thing in common: they're located in the Midwest. It's no surprise that the Midwest is the most affordable region in America to settle down, and Indiana is no exception. The average home price in the Fort Wayne metro area is $284,543, and your monthly energy bill will be as low as $114.72 if you make the move to the Hoosier State.
Arkansas
Southern hospitality reigns supreme in Arkansas, which fell from the ranking of fifth cheapest state in 2012 to seventh cheapest in 2013. Still a very affordable place to relocate, its proximity to major metropolitan areas like Dallas/Fort Worth and major port cities like New Orleans mean that it's an excellent place to settle down. The average home price in the Little Rock area is just over $300,000.
Kansas
Once again proving that the Midwest is the ideal place to relocate if you want to live comfortably and affordably, Kansas has a lot to offer. With highly-rated public education systems found throughout the state, a prime location in the heart of America and major colleges and universities, Kansas has a little something to offer everyone. With average home prices of $261,000 in the Dodge City area, the state is both practical and affordable.
Texas
Everything is bigger in Texas – except of course for the bills if you decided to relocate to this unique state. With several major metropolitan areas like Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth and San Antonio, interspersed with plenty of small-town charm and appeal, you shouldn't have a problem finding an affordable home in Texas. The average home price in the Houston metro area is $239,000, one of the lowest in the country.
Mississippi
Mississippi rounds out the top 10 with a little bit of Southern charm and an attractive location on the Gulf of Mexico. Cities like Jackson and Hattiesburg are located with prime access to plenty of resources. Numerous transportation options are available to connect you with nearby metropolitan areas like New Orleans, Shreveport and Birmingham. Coastal cities like Gulfport and Biloxi located on the Gulf of Mexico, offer plenty of activities and affordable vacation destinations for the family. Best of all, the average home price in the Jackson area is only $248,167.
Photo by: Stuart Miles (Freedigitalphotos.net)