In a time when housing costs are a major concern for millions of Americans, many are asking: Where can I find the cheapest rent in USA 2025? Whether you’re a remote worker, student, retiree, or simply someone looking to stretch your dollar further, finding an affordable place to live is more important than ever.
In 2025, rental prices continue to rise in many parts of the country, but there are still several states and cities offering affordable options under $1,000 per month. From quiet midwestern towns to up-and-coming Southern cities, this guide explores where renters can find the cheapest rent in the USA without sacrificing safety, amenities, or quality of life.
We’ll dive into city-by-city comparisons, national rent trends, reasons for regional affordability, and the best tools to help you locate a budget-friendly apartment or home. Whether you’re downsizing or relocating, this article is your roadmap to affordable living in 2025.
Top 10 Cities with the Cheapest Rent in the USA (2025)
According to the latest data from Zumper, Apartment List, and RentCafe, these cities have the lowest average rents for 1-bedroom apartments in 2025:
| Rank | City, State | Avg. 1-Bedroom Rent (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wichita, KS | $720/month |
| 2 | Toledo, OH | $735/month |
| 3 | Lubbock, TX | $750/month |
| 4 | Fort Wayne, IN | $765/month |
| 5 | Little Rock, AR | $775/month |
| 6 | Cedar Rapids, IA | $780/month |
| 7 | Springfield, MO | $790/month |
| 8 | Shreveport, LA | $800/month |
| 9 | Akron, OH | $810/month |
| 10 | Fargo, ND | $815/month |
These cities remain budget-friendly due to a combination of low demand, stable job markets, and surplus housing stock.
States with the Cheapest Rent in the USA (2025 Overview)
While rental costs often vary more by city than by state, some states consistently offer lower average rents across urban and rural areas:
1. Mississippi
- Avg. rent (1-bedroom): $795/month
- Known for its low cost of living, Mississippi ranks as the cheapest state for renters in 2025.
2. Arkansas
- Avg. rent: $810/month
- Little Rock and Fayetteville offer affordable housing with growing job opportunities.
3. Kansas
- Avg. rent: $820/month
- Cities like Wichita and Overland Park remain rental bargains.
4. West Virginia
- Avg. rent: $825/month
- Particularly affordable in smaller cities like Wheeling or Parkersburg.
5. Indiana
- Avg. rent: $840/month
- Fort Wayne and South Bend offer excellent value.
Why Are These Areas So Affordable?
1. Low Population Density
Cities like Wichita and Cedar Rapids don’t have the same population pressure as coastal metros, keeping demand — and rent — low.
2. Economic Factors
These areas often have slower-growing economies and fewer major corporations, resulting in lower housing demand.
3. Housing Stock
Many of these regions have ample housing or experienced overbuilding during the 2000s, creating a surplus that depresses rent prices.
4. Cost of Living
These cities are located in states where transportation, food, and utility costs are lower than the national average.
Rental Market Trends in 2025
Key 2025 Rental Insights
- National average rent (1-bedroom): $1,520/month (up 2.2% YoY)
- Coastal cities: Prices in NYC, San Francisco, and Seattle have plateaued but remain high.
- Sunbelt migration: Movement to the South and Midwest continues, but cost-conscious renters are now choosing second-tier cities.
People Also Ask
- Is rent going down in 2025?
No, rent is still rising nationally, but at a slower pace — and some cities have seen minor declines. - What is a good rent budget in 2025?
Ideally, rent should be no more than 30% of your monthly income.
Cost of Living Comparison: Affordable vs Expensive Cities (2025)
| City | Avg. 1-Bed Rent | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|---|
| Wichita, KS | $720 | 84.2 |
| New York, NY | $3,050 | 142.0 |
| San Francisco, CA | $2,990 | 140.8 |
| Austin, TX | $1,670 | 109.5 |
| Cleveland, OH | $835 | 88.7 |
Pros and Cons of Living in Low-Rent Areas
✅ Pros
- Significantly lower cost of living
- Less traffic and congestion
- Often tight-knit, community-driven towns
- Easier to save or invest your income
❌ Cons
- Limited public transportation
- Fewer entertainment and cultural options
- Lower salaries in local job markets
- Some cities may lack major healthcare or educational facilities
Tips for Finding the Cheapest Rent in the USA
- Use Aggregators
Use platforms like Zumper, Apartments.com, Craigslist, and RentCafe with customizable filters for price. - Check Local Listings
Many small-town rentals are posted on local Facebook groups or in local newspapers. - Be Flexible with Location
Rural or satellite cities near major metros (e.g., Springfield near St. Louis) offer big savings. - Look for Move-in Specials
Especially in slower rental seasons (winter), many landlords offer first-month-free deals. - Avoid High Demand Months
Rent typically spikes between May and August. Sign leases between November and February for the best deals.
Conclusion: Where Is the Cheapest Rent in the USA in 2025?
If you’re seeking the cheapest rent in the USA in 2025, cities like Wichita, Toledo, and Lubbock stand out with 1-bedroom rents well below $800/month. These affordable cities offer an opportunity to live comfortably without the financial stress often found in larger metros.
While they may lack the excitement of major coastal cities, they make up for it in community, affordability, and slower-paced living. For those who can work remotely or prefer simpler living, these areas can offer excellent value and quality of life.
Thinking about relocating? Explore our [Cost of Living by State Guide] or subscribe to our newsletter for monthly updates on rent trends across the U.S.
FAQs
What state has the cheapest rent in 2025?
Mississippi tops the list with an average rent of just $795/month for a 1-bedroom unit.
Can I find rent under $600/month in 2025?
Rare, but possible in small towns across the Midwest and South — often for older or shared units.
Is it worth moving for cheaper rent?
If your job is remote or you’re in a flexible life stage, relocating to a low-cost area can lead to significant long-term savings.
