Affordable Cities to Find a Roommate and Rooms for Rent in 2023

by iROOMit Team
April 26, 2023
7 min read

Looking to make a move and save money? iROOMit has visibility into market trends from our thousands of members and has compiled rental data to provide you with the Top 10 Most Affordable Cities for 2023. Take a look at real-time data to see the most affordable cities to share a living space. From Ohio to Kansas and everywhere in between, the perfect city and perfect roommate awaits you!

1. Dayton, OH

  • Average Rent: $502/month
  • Median Income: $28,174
  • Cost of Living: 71.1
  • Median Age: 33.1
  • Population: 138,416

Dayton is a city located in the western region of Ohio. Known for its history in aviation, Dayton is home to the Wright Brothers National Museum, as well as the National Museum of the United States Air Force. In addition to its aviation roots, Dayton offers a variety of cultural attractions, including the Dayton Art Institute and the Victoria Theatre Association. The city also boasts a thriving food scene, with a range of options from casual to upscale dining. With its rich history and diverse offerings, Dayton is a great destination for visitors looking to explore the heart of Ohio.

2. Akron, OH

  • Average Rent: $526/month
  • Median Income: $34,139
  • Cost of Living: 68.9
  • Median Age: 36.7
  • Population: 191,483

Akron, Ohio is a vibrant city located in the northeast region of the United States. Known as the "Rubber Capital of the World" due to its historical ties to the tire and rubber industry. Akron is known to be a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. Home to the University of Akron and a thriving arts and culture scene, visitors can explore museums, galleries, theaters, and local festivals throughout the year. The city's scenic parks and trails offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, while the downtown area boasts a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. With its rich history and forward-thinking spirit, Akron offers something for everyone.

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3. Wichita, KS

  • Average Rent: $546/month
  • Median Income: $45,907
  • Cost of Living: 81.6
  • Median Age: 34.5
  • Population: 394,574

Wichita, Kansas, is a vibrant city located in the heart of the United States. Known as the "Air Capital of the World," Wichita is home to several major aircraft manufacturers, including Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems. In addition to its aviation industry, Wichita boasts a thriving arts scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing local and international talent. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the city's many parks and trails, while history buffs can explore the Old Cowtown Museum and other historic sites. With its diverse economy, rich culture, and Midwestern hospitality, Wichita offers something for everyone.

4. Baton Rouge, LA

  • Average Rent: $568/month
  • Median Income: $38,790
  • Cost of Living: 91.7
  • Median Age: 31.1
  • Population: 225,539

Baton Rouge, LA is the capital city of Louisiana, located on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious Cajun cuisine, Baton Rouge offers visitors a unique taste of the Deep South. Explore the historic State Capitol building, stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens of the LSU Rural Life Museum, take a swamp tour of the nearby Atchafalaya Basin, or catch a live music performance at one of the city's many bars and music venues. There's something for everyone in Baton Rouge. Come experience the charm and hospitality of this iconic Southern city for yourself.

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5. College Station, TX

  • Average Rent: $590/month
  • Median Income: $33,434
  • Cost of Living: 88.5
  • Median Age: 22.7
  • Population: 116,276

College Station, TX is a vibrant and growing city located in the heart of the Brazos Valley. Home to Texas A&M University, the city is known for its strong sense of community, lively college atmosphere, and abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore the beautiful campus, attend a football game at Kyle Field, or take a stroll through the picturesque Lick Creek Park. With a thriving downtown area filled with unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, College Station offers something for everyone. Whether you're a student, a family, or just passing through, College Station is a must-visit destination in Texas.

6. Roanoke, VA

  • Average Rent: $607/month
  • Median Income: $39,530
  • Cost of Living: 83.5
  • Median Age: 38.5
  • Population: 99,578

Roanoke, VA is a vibrant city nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Known as the "Star City of the South," Roanoke offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, art galleries, cultural events, or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing in the nearby parks and trails. Roanoke is also home to a thriving food and craft beer scene, with local restaurants and breweries showcasing the best of Virginia's culinary offerings. With its welcoming community and stunning surroundings, Roanoke is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Virginia.

7. Lexington, KY

  • Average Rent: $618/month
  • Median Income: $48,667
  • Cost of Living: 90.5
  • Median Age: 34.3
  • Population: 321,354

Lexington, KY is a charming city in the heart of the Bluegrass Region of Kentucky. Known for its rich history, picturesque horse farms, and bourbon distilleries, Lexington offers visitors a unique blend of southern hospitality and urban sophistication. The city boasts a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and theaters, as well as a diverse culinary scene featuring everything from traditional southern fare to modern fusion cuisine. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, while history buffs can explore the many historic sites and museums. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Lexington is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through the American South.

8. Milwaukee, WI

  • Average Rent: $622/month
  • Median Income: $35,489
  • Cost of Living: 84.7
  • Median Age: 31.3
  • Population: 578,198

Milwaukee, located in the Midwestern state of Wisconsin, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Known as the "Brew City", Milwaukee is home to several famous breweries and a thriving beer culture. The city is also renowned for its stunning architecture, including the Milwaukee Art Museum and the historic Pabst Theater. Visitors can explore the city's numerous parks, beaches, and attractions, including the Harley-Davidson Museum and the Milwaukee County Zoo. With its friendly locals, delicious food scene, and lively music and arts scene, Milwaukee is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Midwest.

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9. Lancaster, PA

  • Average Rent: $636/month
  • Median Income: $33,772
  • Cost of Living: 91.3
  • Median Age: 31.6
  • Population: 58,034

Lancaster, PA is a charming city located in the heart of Pennsylvania's Amish country. Known for its rich history, Lancaster offers visitors a glimpse into America's past through its museums and historic sites. The city is also a hub for the arts, with a vibrant downtown area filled with galleries, theaters, and live music venues. Lancaster is a foodie's paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants serving everything from classic Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine to international fare. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the city's many parks and hiking trails, while families will enjoy attractions such as Dutch Wonderland and the Lancaster Science Factory. Overall, Lancaster offers something for everyone and is a must-visit destination in Pennsylvania.

10. Overland Park, KS

  • Average Rent: $640/month
  • Median Income: $72,231
  • Cost of Living: 107.9
  • Median Age: 37.9
  • Population: 195,249

Overland Park is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Midwest. It's the second most populous city in Kansas and has been named one of the best places to live in America by numerous publications. With a strong economy and excellent schools, Overland Park is an ideal place to raise a family. The city is home to numerous parks, golf courses, and recreational facilities, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition, the city has a rich cultural scene with museums, theaters, and galleries. Whether you're looking for a place to settle down or a destination to visit, Overland Park has something for everyone.

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