Let’s face it: No one looks forward to moving! If you are considering a change of scenery, one of the most significant considerations – in addition to finding the best long-distance Denver movers – is to ensure you can actually afford to live in the next city you call home! Unfortunately, simply throwing a dart at a map and hoping for the best is not a realistic option, so you need to do your homework instead!
Finding an Inexpensive Place to Call Home: Factors to Consider
You’ve loved your time in Colorado, but because the cost of living in the state is relatively high, you are ready to find one of the best long-distance moving companies in Littleton or cross-country moving companies in Monument to assist you in planning a relocation to a more cost-friendly location. Here are a few of the critical factors to consider when determining if you can truly afford to buy a house, rent a modest apartment, or purchase a week’s worth of groceries in any town:
Cost of Living Index: Overall Score and National Average
First and foremost, consider the overall cost of living in any city. The cost of living is quite simply the amount it costs to live in a particular area. For example, the average cost of living throughout the United States is between $2,500 and $3,500. This means that the average family in the U.S. would need to earn at least that much to meet their basic needs.
The average living cost in the United States is rated at 100. Any score over 100 means that the average living costs in a state or city are higher than the average cost of living in the entire United States. Conversely, if the score is less than 100, it is cheaper. To put this into perspective, the average living cost in Colorado is roughly 120.5. This is compared to the cost of living in Minnesota, 97.2, which is slightly lower than the national average.
In addition to considering the living cost index in any state, you need to keep in mind the living costs in a particular city or area – which can vary wildly. For example, in most states, smaller towns are the most affordable places to live. With a little research, you will be able to find an affordable city with all the amenities you want.
Housing Costs
Generally, you should not spend more than 30% of your monthly income on housing costs. The average price of housing, whether you are purchasing a home or renting an apartment, condominium, or townhouse, will significantly impact your ability to live comfortably anywhere in the country. The median home price in the United States is roughly $416,000. Once again, housing costs will vary greatly depending on where you live.
For example, the median price for a single-family home in California is $797,700. Travel all the way across the country to Alabama; the median home price is $285,500. Rental costs will also vary greatly, depending on where you live, as well.
The average cost of a rental apartment in the U.S. is $1,702. In addition to the state or city where you live, the population size or number of residents will significantly impact how much you will pay for an apartment or house. Housing costs are typically much lower in rural and suburban areas than in metropolitan areas. This means that if you cannot afford to live in a big city, your best bet is to commute.
Average Household Income
Of course, the average household income will play a huge role in any region’s overall cost of living. Although there are several factors to consider, including your level of schooling and the industry, the location will also impact the average household income and, in turn, the living costs. The average household income in the United States is $87,864.
Employment Opportunities
Employment opportunities in any area go hand-in-hand with the average household income. If you work in a very specialized field, you might find it challenging to find a high-paying job in a relatively inexpensive city to call home. Do your homework and before you choose a city based on its cost of living, consider the employment opportunities and the average income you can expect to earn in your field.
Utilities
From the cost of data for your cellphone to the price you pay every month for natural gas, electricity, water, and garbage, you would be amazed at how much the cost of utilities can vary throughout the country. For example, the average cost of electricity in the United States is $0.13/kWh – although the price can range drastically between $0.09/kWh to over $0.30/kWh. The cost of water can also range a lot – from $2.00 per 1,000 gallons in some cities to almost $7.00 per 1,000 gallons in another.
Healthcare Costs
Whether you are retiring or just starting a family, the cost of visiting your doctor, getting a prescription, or staying the night in the hospital is a huge consideration. As with other expenses, the overall cost of healthcare can vary widely, depending on the state in which you live. For example, the healthcare costs in South Dakota, West Virginia, and Florida are some of the highest in the country, especially when compared to Texas, Nevada, and Michigan, where the costs are much lower.
Transportation Costs
In addition to the cost of filling your gas tank, you also need to consider not only the availability of transportation but also the various transportation costs. For example, evaluate and compare the two biggest cities in the United States: New York City and Los Angeles, where there is plentiful access to a wide variety of reliable public transportation options. The cost of a one-way ride on the subway or bus in NYC is $2.75. In Los Angeles, this cost is $1.75.
In addition to the cost, consider the variety and availability of services. Most rural areas don’t offer bus service, leaving you with no other option than to own a car, truck, or SUV. Conversely, the cost of owning a vehicle is often very high in massive metropolitan areas, which is why many simply walk, take advantage of ride-share apps, or take the bus.
Additional Costs
Don’t forget to include the other costs associated with living in any city or area – including educational costs, local and state income tax, the price of a movie ticket, or the cost to visit the salon and get your hair cut and colored. Now that you’ve crunched the numbers, are you ready to hire out-of-state movers in Lakewood or work with the best long-distance moving company in Golden? Give the crew at DTC Movers a call!
Top 5 Most Affordable Cities To Live in the U.S.
Are you ready to move to a beautiful city that won’t break the bank? Here are five of the most affordable cities in the U.S. – in no particular order:
Knoxville, Tennessee
If you not only want to live in one of the most affordable cities in the U.S. but also want a place with plenty of excellent restaurants, tons of sites to participate in outdoor activities, and vibrant, eclectic residents, set your sights on Knoxville, Tennessee.
The third largest city in Tennessee, Knoxville, enjoys a cost of living index score of 89.6, which is below the national average. Additionally, the median rental price of $920/month and a median home price of $315,000 is well below the national average.
Knoxville is a relatively large city with a population of just under 875,000 residents. When you compare several cost of living markers, including the cost of utilities and transportation, you will quickly discover that Knoxville is a relatively inexpensive place to plant some roots and watch them grow.
The city is also an excellent place for outdoor enthusiasts because you are within driving distance of the incomparable Great Smoky Mountains or can splash in the beautiful Tennessee River. One downside of Knoxville is the unemployment rate of 6.8%, which is much higher than the national unemployment rate of 3.6%.
Des Moines, Iowa
If housing affordability is at the top of your list, Des Moines is a great option. The average housing prices are significantly lower than the national average of $141,300. The average rent is also low at $881 per month. The overall cost of living is also much lower than the national average at 78.7. This lower cost of living is partly thanks to low home prices and utilities. Home to four universities, including Iowa State University, there are several jobs in education and academics.
The median household income in greater Des Moines is $58,444, making living relatively comfortably in the city possible for a family of four. Aside from the inexpensive housing and reasonable price of cable and internet, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a low-cost sunny afternoon! The Des Moines River, which flows north into the Mississippi River, is a great place to fish, kayak, or simply enjoy a picnic.
Fort Wayne, Indiana
One of the cheapest places to live where you can also enjoy several employment opportunities, Fort Wayne, Indiana, is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the Midwest. The cost of living is 80.6, making it well below the national average.
Fort Wayne, one of the lowest-cost cities in Indiana, has a population of 268,378 residents. The average rent is $776, which is very low for a city of this size. The average home price is $121,600, making it possible for first-time homebuyers to enjoy the financial benefits of owning property.
Fort Wayne enjoys a lower cost of living than other Midwestern cities because of its low-cost housing and grocery prices. The median income is $51,454, making it slightly below the national average. However, when you consider the historically low housing costs combined with the lower cost of utilities and groceries, you will quickly find that Fort Wayne is a great place to start a family or even retire.
Louisville, Kentucky
Nestled on the breathtaking Ohio River, Louisville is arguably the most affordable city of its size in the Upper South. With a population of 663,500 residents, Louisville has a cost of living score of 89.7. The median home price is $229,700, and the average monthly rental fee is $1,026. Because of Louisville’s reputation of being a top manufacturing hub, the median household income is slightly above the national average at roughly $90,000 each year.
Once again, the low cost of housing is one of many reasons Louisville is considered an affordable city to call home. The low cost of groceries, healthcare, and other miscellaneous expenses are other reasons why Louisville is such a reasonably-priced place to live. As with any other area, do a little economic research to ensure that you can both find a job and an affordable neighborhood in the area.
South Bend, Indiana
Another of the most affordable areas in the Midwest, you will love raising a family and making friends in South Bend, Indiana. South Bend has a population of 103,450 residents and a cost of living index of 75.0, the Lotion City, and yes, that is the city’s nickname, is the ideal place if you want to save big money on your housing costs. The median home price is much lower than the national average at an astonishing $161,900. Want to rent rather than purchase a home? You can expect to pay $1,194 – which is arguably high for a city of its size.
The median household income in metro South Bend is $59,416, much lower than the national average, but you can still live comfortably making this salary in the area. The cost of groceries, transportation, and healthcare are slightly lower than the national average, so keep this in mind if you plan on owning a car or are retiring and need to pay for regular doctor visits.
Are you considering moving to any of these low-cost cities on the list? Want to live in other cities that are arguably just as affordable, from Green Bay and Wichita to Little Rock or Broken Arrow? Hire the fantastic staff at DTC Movers. Whether you need expert cross-country movers in Boulder or interstate movers in Colorado Springs, we are only a phone call away!
Which U.S. City has The No 1. Most Affordable Housing Market?
Purchasing a home has always been the American dream. Unfortunately, the current economic climate can make that dream seem like it is slipping away. If finding an affordable home is at the top of your list, then pack your bags and start searching for prime real estate in the City of Bridges: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania! Pittsburgh was recently named the city with the most affordable housing, according to Fortune Magazine!
Where is The Cheapest and Safest Place to Live in America?
The word “affordable” is at the top of your must-have list, but do you also want to raise your kids or start a family in a safe environment? Here is a list of the most affordable and safest cities across the country:
- Arlington, Massachusetts
- South Kingston, Rhode Island
- Zionsville, Indiana
- Rexburg, Idaho
- Madison, Mississippi
Want to learn about some additional unique locations across the U.S.? Here is a list of 10 additional beautiful places to move!
Just Starting Out or Preparing to Retire? Avoid These Top 5 Most Expensive Cities in the United States
Whether you are fresh from college and ready to take on the world, or your kids have moved out, and you are prepared to downsize in a new area code, chances are, in most situations, you want to save as much money as possible on your everyday needs.
The above-mentioned cities are some stellar options. On the other side of the coin, there are some of the most expensive cities in the United States. If you choose to live in any of these cities, be prepared for the sticker shock of expensive housing and transportation costs that will quickly empty your wallet.
San Diego, California
Lovingly called “America’s Finest City,” chances are whoever gave San Diego this nickname didn’t do so because of its affordable housing costs or low rental prices. The median home price in the city of San Diego is an astounding $930,00 – and this price continues to rise.
The average rental cost is just shy of $3,000 a month at $2,917. It’s no surprise that California is one of the most expensive states in the country, and even San Diego is 3% higher than the state average cost of living and over 50% higher than the national cost of living.
San Francisco, California
One of the most expensive cities in the entire country, the average home price in San Francisco is $1.4 million. Want to rent instead? Get ready to pay $5,059 for a three-bedroom in The City By the Bay. The average household income is roughly $119,000, but this often isn’t enough to pay for the skyrocketing rent costs, your monthly mortgage payment, or the high cost of food, transportation, and utilities.
New York City, New York
No list of the most expensive cities in the U.S. would be complete without mentioning New York City – and Manhattan, in particular. The cost of living is 128% more than the rest of the country. This is because it is not only expensive to dine out, buy clothing, or even afford your electric and internet bill in The Big Apple; it is primarily because of the astoundingly high cost of housing. The average home price in Manhattan is 1.6 million dollars. If you want to live in the coveted downtown area, be prepared to pay far more.
Rent is notoriously-high in Manhattan. The average price of a small studio apartment is $3,500! Want to buy that studio apartment in downtown Manhattan, be prepared to spend over $900,000. The median household income is $127,919. If you want to experience the thrill of living in NYC, your best option is to live in one of the more affordable boroughs or, better yet, commute from nearby New Jersey!
Washington D.C.
Our nation’s capital, Washington D.C., is steeped in history – and you will pay a premium for living amongst our country’s leaders and politicians. The cost of living is 45% higher than in the rest of the country, and this number is steadily on the rise. If you dream of purchasing a historic home in downtown Washington D.C., you will pay well over $2 million! Rental prices are equally as excessive, and you will spend roughly $2,400 a month for a small apartment in the area.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Many people dream of leaving their old life behind and jetting off to beautiful Hawaii. Honolulu, in particular, is very expensive, with a cost of living index score of 168.9. If you move to Honolulu for the warm weather, sun, and surfing, be prepared to pay above the national average across the board – from utilities and groceries to healthcare and transportation. One of the main reasons that your everyday essentials will be expensive is that Honolulu is a hot tourist town. The median home price is $778,600, and the average rent is $2,223.
Saving Money on Your Long-Distance or Local Move? Simple Tips to Plan an Economical Stress-Free Relocation
Are you searching for the best long-distance moving company in Golden to plan a move to Grand Rapids, Michigan? Are you moving to Winston Salem, North Carolina, and need state-to-state movers out of Broomfield, or are you searching for reliable, established Aurora, CO, moving companies?
Whether you are moving to one of the most affordable cities in the country or have your heart set on relocating to a pricey neighborhood, you don’t want to overpay for moving services. Here are a few simple tips and tricks to save big money on your moving expenses:
Start Saving For and Planning Your Move ASAP
Give yourself plenty of time to not only plan your move but also start saving for your long-distance relocation. A straightforward method is to start cutting back on non-essentials in the weeks and months before hiring long-distance movers out of Englewood or nationwide movers to help you relocate from Centennial, Colorado.
For example, stop eating out and dine in instead. Skip your weekly trip to the movie theater in favor of a night in with your significant other or kids. You will be pleasantly amazed at how fast you can save money for your long-distance move when you cut back on luxury items.
Create a Comprehensive Moving Budget – And Stick To It!
The best way to save money in almost every situation is to create a thoughtful budget and not deviate from the numbers. In addition to basic moving costs, you must consider other incidents, hidden fees, and surprise expenses that will inevitably occur before, during, and even after moving day. Here are a few categories to include in your moving budget:
- Cost of moving long-distance. The formula most long-distance moving companies use is very simple. The rough price is based on the approximate weight of your belongings plus the distance from your current address to your next home and apartment. Don’t worry about figuring out this cost because you will receive this information in your free moving quote.
- Hidden fees and unexpected costs. Several unexpected expenses come with moving, from heavy item surcharges to the cost of accidentally forgetting to turn off your cable. Educate yourself, and please remember to cancel the water, electricity, and internet service at your current address before you move.
- Costs of lodging, food, and storage. Moving is hectic, and there is no guarantee that once you leave your current address, your new home or apartment will be fully move-in ready. Anticipate the unexpected and set aside money for food, lodging, and temporary storage.
All moving companies, whether they are based in Kentucky, South Carolina, or Colorado, offer a basic form of moving insurance called released value coverage. This insurance is free, but you must shop around for the right price if you want additional coverage. In some cases, your current homeowner’s policy might cover some moving-related losses, but this isn’t always adequate.
Move During the Off-Season
Whether you are hiring the best full-service movers in Brighton or you live in Arvada and need the assistance of a stellar relocation company, the season and month of your planned relocation will have an impact on your moving costs.
Summer is considered the busy season in the moving industry, meaning that you will pay a premium for relocating in favorable weather. Moving during the late fall or winter, went the weather is not as agreeable, will save you big money.
The moving company’s availability is also a factor. For example, the end of summer is always a busy time for moving companies, especially a highly-rated, affordable moving company like DTC Movers, because college students are packing up and heading to university.
Save Money On Packing Supplies
From bubble wrap and packing tape to a seemingly endless supply of boxes and totes of all sizes, purchasing packing supplies can cost a small fortune. In addition to the well-known ways to find inexpensive or free moving supplies, including asking your local grocery store for used boxes, there are other simple and clever ways to save on packing supplies. For example, think outside your traditional definition of “packing supplies.”
Almost anything in your house can be used to safely secure your belongings during the move – including suitcases, dresser drawers, or even plastic garbage bags. Many long-distance moving companies in Denver, including DTC Movers, offer low-cost packing supplies!
Downsize, Declutter, and Host a Yard Sale
The basic long-distance moving cost equation is easy – the distance traveled + the weight of your household goods = the rudimentary moving price. Downsizing and decluttering will drastically cut down on the CF of your belongings, which in turn, will lower the cost of your long-distance relocation. While this might seem like a simple proposition, your emotional attachment to your belongings can make decluttering a difficult journey.
As you pull out all the boxes in your attic or dig through the back closet in your master bedroom, ask yourself a simple question: Is it worth packing and unpacking each item you touch? Will these items serve you in your new house or apartment, or will each be shoved into a different box in a different closet?
Any items that aren’t crucial or haven’t been useful in the last year should be placed into your yard sale. A garage or yard sale is a great way to not only earn extra money for your upcoming move but also say goodbye to your friends and neighbors.
Ready to Relocate to an Affordable City? Contact the Team at DTC Movers
Are you moving out of state for a job and need help planning an affordable, efficient relocation? Contact DTC Movers. We are a licensed, insured, and reliable company that has r been proudly serving the Denver area for over two decades.
Services We Offer
Moving is an exhausting process, and you want a partner that will help guide you through every step of the way. You will find this partnership when you work with DTC Movers. In addition to our stellar long-distance moving services is a comprehensive list of every service we offer our amazing customers:
Local Moving
Are you moving within a 100-mile radius of your current Denver address? If so, DTC Movers are the perfect local movers for you! Our team of amazing short-distance movers will help ensure that your belongings are transported with the most care and concern, whether you are moving across the street or to a nearby town.
Packing Supplies and Services
Are you exhausted by the notion of spending the next several days, weeks, or even months packing up your entire household? Does the thought of purchasing packing supplies leave you feeling more stressed than excited about your upcoming move? Let the team at DTC Movers handle all your packing needs. Our crew of expert packers has the knowledge and materials available to protect e
Storage
Short or long-term storage is one of those unexpected expenses that seem to pop up at the most inconvenient time during a relocation. Instead of frantically searching for last-minute storage solutions, look for a local Denver company that offers both moving and storage! At DTC Movers, we proudly offer you short-term storage during your relocation.
Our storage facilities are secure, climate-controlled, and constantly monitored with top-of-the-line security cameras. All handling fees as included with your cost estimate, and we will help you safely relocate your belongings to the unit while you prepare to complete the relocation!
White Glove Services
Are you moving expensive furniture, priceless family heirlooms, or pricey electronics? Do you want your movers to handle every hassle associated with planning and executing a professional relocation? At DTC Movers, we offer a specialized white glove service. Unlike other moving companies around Denver, our team of white glove movers will expertly handle every aspect of your move – from purchasing supplies and packing to loading the moving trucks and unpacking all those boxes!
Give Us a Call Today for a Free Quote!
Are you ready to move to one of the country’s most affordable cities? Contact one of our polite, trained professionals to discuss your needs and secure a free, no-obligation moving quote.
