17 US cities where you can still rent for less than $1,000 a month
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If you’ve ever opened your rent bill and wondered how it got so high, you’re not alone.
Housing costs have climbed sharply across the country, making it feel like affordable rent is a thing of the past.
But while many cities now see monthly rents in the thousands, there are still pockets of the country where prices remain surprisingly reasonable.
In fact, some communities offer median rents well under $1,000 a month, making them appealing to retirees, remote workers, and anyone looking to stretch their budget.
If you’ve been thinking about a change of scenery—or simply want to see where your money might go further—these cities are worth a closer look.
The state of rent: why affordable housing matters
A recent Harvard University study found that rental unaffordability in the US is at an all-time high for the third consecutive year.
In 2023, 22.6 million renters were considered “cost-burdened,” meaning they spent more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities.
Even more striking, 12.1 million households were “severely burdened,” paying over half their income for housing.
The challenge extends beyond low-income households—70% of renters earning between $30,000 and $44,999 also fall into the cost-burdened category.
For many, steady employment no longer guarantees affordable housing.
Also read: Is it really cheaper to buy than rent in this booming city? The surprising truth behind the numbers
The $1,000 club: where affordable rent still exists
According to Apartment List data, there are 17 metro areas across nine states where the median rent for all unit sizes is below $1,000.
This stands in sharp contrast to places like Hoboken, New Jersey, with a median rent of $3,603, or San Mateo, California, at $3,518.
Here’s the full list:
Also read: Are you prepared for the rent hike? How a latest cap proposal might affect your wallet
Why these cities remain affordable
Many of these communities benefit from a lower overall cost of living, with groceries, healthcare, and transportation also costing less than the national average.
Some are former industrial hubs that have reinvented themselves, while others are smaller state capitals or regional centers with steady demand but fewer pressures from large-scale migration.
While certain areas may offer fewer amenities or slower job growth, the trade-off can be well worth it for those seeking a relaxed, budget-conscious lifestyle.
Also read: Outrageous! See how renters are made to queue up for one bathroom while their rent skyrockets—avoid their nightmare
Is moving for cheaper rent right for you?
Relocating isn’t for everyone, but if you have flexibility—such as being retired or working remotely—it may open the door to a less stressful financial future.
Before deciding, consider:
Also read: A shift in the rental market: Here’s what it could mean for your wallet
Tips for finding the right affordable city
Finding a place where rent stays below $1,000 a month may feel rare, but as this list shows, it’s still possible in the right locations.
Whether you’re seeking a slower pace, planning for retirement, or simply trying to make your budget go further, these communities prove that affordable living doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or charm.
The right city could open the door to a more relaxed, financially secure lifestyle—and maybe even your next big adventure.
Read next: New law cracks down on hidden rental fees—here’s what renters need to know
Have you made the leap to a more affordable city—or are you thinking about it? Share your experience, tips, or questions in the comments. Affordable living is still possible, and your story might help someone else find their perfect spot!
Housing costs have climbed sharply across the country, making it feel like affordable rent is a thing of the past.
But while many cities now see monthly rents in the thousands, there are still pockets of the country where prices remain surprisingly reasonable.
In fact, some communities offer median rents well under $1,000 a month, making them appealing to retirees, remote workers, and anyone looking to stretch their budget.
If you’ve been thinking about a change of scenery—or simply want to see where your money might go further—these cities are worth a closer look.
Some smaller US cities still offer rental prices that leave room in the budget for enjoying local life. Image Source: Pexels / Jakub Zerdzicki.
The state of rent: why affordable housing matters
A recent Harvard University study found that rental unaffordability in the US is at an all-time high for the third consecutive year.
In 2023, 22.6 million renters were considered “cost-burdened,” meaning they spent more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities.
Even more striking, 12.1 million households were “severely burdened,” paying over half their income for housing.
The challenge extends beyond low-income households—70% of renters earning between $30,000 and $44,999 also fall into the cost-burdened category.
For many, steady employment no longer guarantees affordable housing.
Also read: Is it really cheaper to buy than rent in this booming city? The surprising truth behind the numbers
The $1,000 club: where affordable rent still exists
According to Apartment List data, there are 17 metro areas across nine states where the median rent for all unit sizes is below $1,000.
This stands in sharp contrast to places like Hoboken, New Jersey, with a median rent of $3,603, or San Mateo, California, at $3,518.
Here’s the full list:
- Lawton, Oklahoma — $841
- Comanche County, Oklahoma — $846
- Hidalgo County, Texas — $898
- McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, Texas — $898
- Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, North Carolina — $902
- Seguin, Texas — $906
- Minnehaha County, South Dakota — $909
- Toledo, Ohio — $913
- Lucas County, Ohio — $915
- Scott County, Iowa — $941
- Davenport-Moline-Rock Island, Iowa-Illinois — $944
- Sioux Falls, South Dakota — $948
- Pennington County, South Dakota — $956
- Rapid City, South Dakota — $973
- Lynchburg, Virginia — $979
- Fargo, North Dakota — $986
- LaGrange, Georgia-Alabama — $989
Also read: Are you prepared for the rent hike? How a latest cap proposal might affect your wallet
Why these cities remain affordable
Many of these communities benefit from a lower overall cost of living, with groceries, healthcare, and transportation also costing less than the national average.
Some are former industrial hubs that have reinvented themselves, while others are smaller state capitals or regional centers with steady demand but fewer pressures from large-scale migration.
While certain areas may offer fewer amenities or slower job growth, the trade-off can be well worth it for those seeking a relaxed, budget-conscious lifestyle.
Also read: Outrageous! See how renters are made to queue up for one bathroom while their rent skyrockets—avoid their nightmare
Is moving for cheaper rent right for you?
Relocating isn’t for everyone, but if you have flexibility—such as being retired or working remotely—it may open the door to a less stressful financial future.
Before deciding, consider:
- Healthcare access — Availability of hospitals and clinics, especially for ongoing needs.
- Community life — Visiting neighborhoods and meeting locals to gauge the fit.
- Weather — Whether you’re prepared for regional climates like Midwest winters or Southern summers.
- Transportation — Access to public transit or need for a personal vehicle.
Also read: A shift in the rental market: Here’s what it could mean for your wallet
Tips for finding the right affordable city
- Do your homework using rental resources like Apartment List, Zillow, or local real estate contacts.
- Join local groups on social media or neighborhood forums to get insights from residents.
- Visit first when possible, spending time in top contenders before committing to a move.
Finding a place where rent stays below $1,000 a month may feel rare, but as this list shows, it’s still possible in the right locations.
Whether you’re seeking a slower pace, planning for retirement, or simply trying to make your budget go further, these communities prove that affordable living doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or charm.
The right city could open the door to a more relaxed, financially secure lifestyle—and maybe even your next big adventure.
Read next: New law cracks down on hidden rental fees—here’s what renters need to know
Have you made the leap to a more affordable city—or are you thinking about it? Share your experience, tips, or questions in the comments. Affordable living is still possible, and your story might help someone else find their perfect spot!
