6 Affordable Places To Consider Moving If You Love Nature
Written by
Emily Fowler
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
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Idyllic locations in the middle of nature are often great to visit, but living there can come with a hefty price tag. That doesn’t mean budget-friendly options are off the table, however.
The following places offer stunning landscapes and outdoor activities without a steep cost of living there. From hiking and kayaking to beaches and mountains, these places provide plenty of natural beauty without breaking the bank.
Also here are the overall safest and affordable cities to live in the U.S.
Spokane, Washington
- Average home value: $379,025
- Average rent: $1,375
Spokane offers a laid-back vibe with easy access to natural beauty, from scenic parks to the Spokane River that runs through the heart of the city. Riverside State Park offers over 9,000 acres of forest, perfect for hiking and biking and, for winter sports enthusiasts, the nearby Mount Spokane State Park has skiing and snowboarding from Dec. 1 through March 31.
Home prices are only slightly above the average U.S. home value of $355,328 (per Zillow), though rent is well below the average U.S. rent of $2,000, also according to Zillow. The state of Washington has no state income tax, which can lead to substantial savings.
Pocatello, Idaho
- Average home value: $323,069
- Average rent: $1,050
Pocatello is a small city with plenty for nature lovers, from biking and hiking trails for all abilities to picturesque canyons and mountains. The Portneuf Greenway provides trails that go through wetlands and along the river, perfect for birdwatching or enjoying a peaceful walk.
The surrounding foothills and mountains offer opportunities for hiking, mountain biking and skiing in the winter months. Ranked the most affordable place to live in Idaho by Redfin last year, Pocatello is a perfect choice for budget-conscious nature lovers.
Johnson City, Tennessee
- Average home value: $278,292
- Average rent: $1,400
Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, Johnson City offers abundant hiking, waterfalls and parks. Nearby, the Appalachian Trail provides miles of hiking with stunning views and rich wildlife. For a more laid-back experience, Buffalo Mountain Park offers shorter trails with panoramic vistas and access to local flora and fauna.
With lower than average home prices and rent and no state income tax, Johnson City provides a fairly affordable base for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure without breaking the bank — though it’s worth noting that sales tax is high in Tennessee, according to Kiplinger.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
- Average home value: $240,985
- Average rent: $1,300
Hot Springs is known for its natural hot springs — hence the name — and the Ouachita Mountains, offering plenty of hiking and natural beauty. The surrounding mountains provide hiking, camping and fishing opportunities, with trails like the Gulpha Gorge Trail that lead through forests to beautiful waterfalls. It’s a peaceful and affordable location for those who want to be surrounded by nature.
Greenville, South Carolina
- Average home value: $278,292
- Average rent: $1,750
Greenville offers access to the Blue Ridge Mountains and is filled with scenic trails, waterfalls and outdoor recreation. The nearby Table Rock State Park provides hiking trails with stunning mountain views, while the scenic waterfalls at Falls Park in the heart of downtown make for a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.
For those interested in water activities, the Saluda River offers kayaking and paddle boarding. South Carolina’s tax rates are reasonable, with moderate property taxes and an income tax that’s still competitive compared to other states, per Kiplinger.
Grand Haven, Michigan
- Average home value: $362,659
- Average rent: $1,550
Grand Haven offers beaches, forests and miles of trails along Lake Michigan. The Grand Haven State Park, complete with beach and iconic lighthouse, is a great spot for swimming, picnicking or watching the sunset. The nearby Grand River is perfect for kayaking and fishing and surrounding forests provide opportunities for hiking and biking or just enjoying the surroundings.
Editor’s note: Average home and rent values were sourced from Zillow.com
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