I Asked ChatGPT the Best 3 Cities To Live in To Save Money — Here’s What It Said
Written by
Crystal Mayer
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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Today, affordability is key. According to a Goldman Sachs study, 42% younger working adults from three generations (Gen Z, millennials and Gen X) report living paycheck to paycheck.
A rising cost of living across the country has forced many to explore less expensive places to live. To find out where I should consider relocating, I asked ChatGPT for the best cities to live in to save money.
Here are the three places the chatbot said had the most potential.
McAllen, Texas
McAllen, Texas is having a moment. The city frequently comes up on lists of affordable places to live and for good reason.
According to ChatGPT, McAllen was ranked the city with the lowest cost of living at 13% below the national average. In particular, the AI-assistant noted that housing regardless of whether it is renting or owning, is highly affordable. The bot also mentioned that the southern Texas city may have lower taxes and “other cost advantages” that are dependent on individual circumstances.
While AI may not be perfect when it comes to reporting facts, it hit the mark in recommending an affordable place to live. According to Sperling’s BestPlaces, a family would need approximately $3,270 per month to live in McAllen, 39% less than the national average. To live comfortably, BestPlaces said a family would need a minimum annual income of $39,240. Contributing to the border town’s affordability is its low housing cost and reduced utilities.
ChatGPT does caution that job opportunities may be limited in the area and that future residents should consider the availability of amenities in the area before relocating.
Wichita, Kansas
Ranking second on ChatGPT’s list for best cities to live in to save money is Wichita, Kansas. The famed Midwestern town scores high for affordability in housing and general living costs. It also has a strong job market for individuals who work in aviation, manufacturing or other industries local to the area.
The chatbot does caution that the city may have lower wages compared to other major metros. There may also be limited job opportunities or limited opportunities for growth depending on the sector.
One claim to fame that the “Air Capital of the World” has is as the most affordable city for solo living, according to The Economist. For the second year in a row, the city topped the list of affordable places to live for people who live alone. Wichita earned the title because median wages are 75% higher than what is needed to rent a studio apartment in the city.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Rounding out the top three for ChatGPT was Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. “Steel City” combines a lower cost of living with big city amenities, making it not only affordable but also attractive to those seeking employment.
The AI-assistant recommended researching local districts since affordability can vary significantly by neighborhood. It also cautioned that taxes, utilities and cold weather may offset some of the lower costs, so all expenses should be considered before relocating.
Hopeful homebuyers are also in luck when it comes to Pittsburgh. A report by Realtor.com found that Midwestern city was the only metro where it was more affordable to buy a home than to rent one. Housing is generally one of the biggest obstacles to financial stability, making the home of the Pittsburgh Steelers that much more enticing.
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