10 Best Warmest Places To Live In The U.S. With A Low Cost Of Living (Updated 2023)
The United States offers numerous cities that provide an excellent balance of affordability and desirable weather.
From the Southern hospitality of the Southeast to the arid landscapes of the Southwest, anyone looking to relocate will find a variety of warm and inexpensive places to call home.
Ten of the warmest places to live in the U.S., with a low cost of living, are:
- Bakersfield, California
- Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Birmingham, Alabama
- Greensboro, North Carolina
- Jackson, Mississippi
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Port Charlotte, Florida
- San Antonio, Texas
- Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Savannah, Georgia.
This article will highlight some of the most affordable cities in the United States with the most desirable climates all year long.
Key Takeaways
- Warm and cost-effective destinations can be found across the U.S., offering a variety of climates and lifestyles.
- From the desert landscape of Phoenix, Arizona, to the charming historic city of Savannah, Georgia, each city caters to different preferences.
- Housing prices and overall cost of living vary between locations, but overall, these are among the warmest and most affordable cities in the United States.
1. Bakersfield, California
Bakersfield, California, offers warm weather and a cost of living that is only 3.4% higher than the U.S. average, making it an attractive option for those seeking a comfortable climate without breaking the bank.
Bakersfield is a mid-sized city just over 100 miles (160 km) North of Los Angeles.
The average summer temperature can hit 97°F (36°C), but the winters are mild, with lows of around 39°F (4°C).
The median house price in Bakersfield is around $350,000, which is significantly lower than California’s state average.
2. Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Baton Rouge is the capital city of Louisiana, located on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River.
The vibrant cultural atmosphere of the city is perfectly complimented by hot summers and easy winters.
Summer sees an average high of 92°F (33°C) and an average low of 74°F (23°C).
In winter, the city experiences milder temperatures, with an average high of 63°F (17°C) and an average low of 43°F (6°C).
In terms of housing, Baton Rouge is relatively affordable compared to other areas in the United States.
The median house price is around $200,000, making homeownership more attainable for many people. Additionally, the overall cost of living is lower than the U.S. average.
3. Birmingham, Alabama
Birmingham, Alabama, might be an ideal choice if you’re seeking a balance between a warmer climate and cost-effective living.
During the summer months, you can expect the average high temperature to reach 90.4°F (32°C), while the coldest months typically have an average low of 43°F (6°C).
Birmingham has an overall lower cost of living compared to the U.S. average, and the median house price in this area is around $100,000.
4. Greensboro, North Carolina
When exploring warm places with a low cost of living, consider Greensboro, North Carolina.
The climate in Greensboro features hot, humid summers and mild winters.
In summer months, temperatures average a high of 89°F (32°C) to a low of 64°F (18°C). As for winter, you’ll enjoy average highs of 56°F (13°C) and tolerable temperatures throughout the season.
Housing in Greensboro is quite affordable, with a median home price of around $230,000, and overall cost of living is 17% less than the national average.
5. Jackson, Mississippi
Jackson, Mississippi, is a large but comfortable city with affordable living options and a dynamic community.
Jackson offers a pleasant climate, providing residents with balmy summers and mild winters.
The average summer temperature is about 85°F (29°C), while winter temperatures average around 55°F (12°C).
The cost of living in Jackson is nearly 20% lower than the national average, and the median home price in the area is $92,400 – which is quite affordable compared to other cities with similar climates.
6. Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona, is the classic choice for those leaving the frigid north in search of more comfortable weather.
You’ll experience a desert climate in Phoenix characterized by hot summers and mild winters.
On average, the summer temperatures reach a high of 104.5°F (40.3°C), while the winter months see temperatures remaining cool and comfortable, ranging between 43°F (6°C) to 67°F (19°C).
Rain is rare, with only 9 inches (22.86 cm) of yearly precipitation.
When it comes to housing and cost of living, Phoenix is a bit more expensive than other cities on this list.
The median home price is around $400,000, but the area offers numerous suburbs with affordable housing options.
7. Port Charlotte, Florida
Port Charlotte, Florida, is a great choice for affordability and year-round comfortable weather.
During summer months, you can expect temperatures around 92°F (33°C), while winters are mild with an average low of 51°F (11°C).
With a median house price of $296,500, housing prices are significantly more affordable than the U.S. average.
This low cost of living also extends to other areas, with average costs nearly 15% less than the rest of the nation.
8. San Antonio, Texas
Consider San Antonio, Texas, if you’re looking for a big city with great weather.
San Antonio is the second-largest city in Texas, defined by a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters.
On average, summer temperatures hover around 86°F (30°C) while winter temperatures are about 63°F (17°C).
Be prepared for some humidity due to San Antonio’s proximity to the Gulf Coast, with summer temperatures occasionally exceeding 100°F (38°C).
Regarding housing, the median house price in San Antonio is $254,000, making San Antonio an attractive option for those seeking a warm-weather city with a low cost of living.
9. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe, New Mexico, is known for its great weather, stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, and downtown Plaza.
In Santa Fe, you’ll enjoy a mild climate throughout the year.
Winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing – although January can be a bit cold – while summer highs don’t often soar above 90°F (32°C).
Santa Fe is the most expensive city on this list, with the cost of living hitting about 14% higher than national averages and the median price of a home sitting at around $540,000.
However, like Phoenix, Santa Fe has lovely suburbs that may be more affordable, and the pleasant weather and scenic landscapes make it a great option to consider.
10. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, Georgia, is a historic coastal city offering Southern charm all year round.
In Savannah, you can enjoy pleasant weather throughout the year. During the summer months, temperatures hover around 88°F (31°C), while winter months bring milder temperatures averaging 45°F (7°C).
Housing in Savannah is quite affordable, with a median house price of $260,000 and an overall cost of living 10% lower than the U.S. average.
If you’re seeking a warm and affordable place to live in the U.S., Savannah, Georgia, should be on your list.
