Cities like New York and San Francisco are home to some of the most reputable academic institutions in the world, but they also come with a higher cost of living. Luckily, international students have lots of options when choosing where they want to study in the United States (US). Today, we’ll be spotlighting the five most affordable cities in the US, per 2024 data collected by US News and World Report. So, if you’re looking for a study abroad destination that will help you stick to your budget, keep reading!
Find an American institution that fits your needs on the ApplyBoard platform today.
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5. Davenport, Iowa
Davenport is a city rich in cultural events, offering international students plenty to do alongside their studies. With a cost of living that ranks 7th out of 150 top U.S. cities, Davenport is an ideal choice for budget-conscious students on a budget.
Situated along the Mississippi River and between the cities of Des Moines and Chicago, Davenport combines a lower cost of living with nearby access to big city amenities. Local gems like lively breweries, cultural events, and nearby institutions like the University of Iowa make it a welcoming destination for international students.
Fun Fact: Davenport is part of the Quad Cities, a region spanning the states of Iowa and Illinois, home to several successful Fortune 500 companies including Kraft Heinz, Nestle Purina, Sears Manufacturing, and John Deere.
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4. Springfield, Missouri
Known as the “Queen City of the Ozarks,” Springfield offers international students a vibrant cultural experience paired with affordability. The city hosts lively festivals year-round, such as the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival, Artsfest, and Cider Days.
The city ranks third across the US for price parity on goods and services, ensuring students can enjoy a rich cultural life while keeping their expenses in check.
Fun Fact: The Birthplace of Route 66 Festival, held in Springfield, Missouri, celebrates the history of the Route 66 highway with car shows, music, and parades.
Find your dream program at Drury University, located in the heart of Springfield.
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3. Wichita, Kansas
Looking for an affordable and dynamic place to study? Look no further than Wichita. This city may be especially attractive to students interested in aviation history or entrepreneurship.
Located in south-central Kansas, Wichita’s affordable cost of living attracts people from across the country. The city’s median monthly rent of US$1,097 makes it an excellent choice for students looking for affordable housing. Wichita’s affordability, combined with its engaging community and rich history, makes it an ideal destination for many international students.
Fun Fact: Wichita is known as the “Air Capital of the World” due to its significant role in the aviation industry.
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2. Huntsville, Alabama
Huntsville offers international students a unique blend of history, quality of life, and affordability in one of the fastest-growing cities in the American Southeast. Known for its significant role in the Space Race, Huntsville has evolved into a city with a high standard of living while maintaining a low cost of living.
With a median monthly rent of US$1,226, Huntsville’s affordability and rich history in innovation make it an attractive destination.
Fun Fact: Huntsville is home to the Marshall Space Flight Center, NASA’s largest field center. It continues to be a hub for pioneering space missions.
The University of North Alabama offers more than 100 different undergraduate or graduate programs at four different college campuses.
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1. Fort Wayne, Indiana
Fort Wayne tops our list with its remarkably affordable cost of living. In 2024, the average monthly rent was US$1,078. The city’s friendly atmosphere also makes it an attractive option for students seeking a balance between quality education and budget-friendly living.
With its welcoming community and vibrant cultural scene, including museums, parks, and festivals, Fort Wayne provides students with a balanced lifestyle.
Fun Fact: Fort Wayne is known for its extensive network of public parks and trails. Exploring them on foot or by bicycle can be a great way to get to know the city.
These five US cities prove that there’s no need to choose between a great education and affordable living. Start your study abroad journey in one of these cities to get the best of both worlds!
Ready to get started? Start by looking for programs at American institutions on the ApplyBoard platform now!
