30 Most Affordable Cities in America

2. Jonesboro, Arkansas

Cost of Living: 16.8% lower than the national average
Median Home Value: $170,950
Median Household Income: $45,931
Unemployment Rate: 3.9%

Located on Crowley’s Ridge, Jonesboro is a city in the northeastern corner of Arkansas. With a population of 80,714, it is the 5th largest city in the state, growing at a rate of 1.46% annually. Home to the Arkansas State University, it is the economic and cultural hub of northeast Arkansas. Jonesboro benefits greatly from its close proximity to Crowley’s Ridge Parkway and other scenic attractions, making it a decent tourist spot, with activities ranging from trekking, boating and fishing. While Jonesboro’s average income falls slightly short of the national average, its low Cost of living, running at 16.8% less than the national average and its housing costs, 34.1% below the average, offset the smaller paychecks, ranking Jonesboro 2nd on our list.