9 U.S. Cities Where You Can Still Buy a Home on a Teacher’s Salary

While most Americans feel the impact of higher housing prices across the country, there are still plenty of cities where you can buy a home. Even on a teacher's salary, home ownership is still attainable.

The National Education Association reports that the average annual teacher's salary is $72,030. And as many experts advise, it's a smart homeowner move to stick to a house priced 2.5 to 3 times your annual salary, given a normal down payment. That means around $216,000 for a home budget for the average teacher.

While that might not get you much in certain parts of the country, there are plenty of amazing and affordable cities where you can own a home on that budget. Here are 10 cities worth considering.

Editor's note: All housing data comes from Redfin.

Median home sale price: $134,000


Situated just outside of Fort Lauderdale's beaches and bustling urban sprawl, Lauderdale Lakes is an ideal place to buy a home. The city is known for its diverse community, family-friendly atmosphere, and easy access to the beach and the Everglades.

With a cost of living 2% below the national average, residents also benefit from Florida's lack of state income tax, making it an affordable choice for those on a modest income.

Median home sale price: $139,950


As Michigan's capital, Lansing combines urban amenities with small-town charm. Affordable housing and a lower cost of living make Lansing an attractive option for individuals and families seeking homeownership on a budget.

Additionally, there's a great balance of outdoor spaces and recreational activities for residents to enjoy.

Median home sale price: $160,000

This rust-belt city is undergoing a major revitalization, with investments in downtown development, new housing, and cultural amenities attracting many new homebuyers. Its proximity to big cities like Louisville and Nashville gives you plenty of options for visiting a big city.

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Median home sale price: $176,250


Urbana is a charming college town that offers a blend of academic culture and Midwestern hospitality. The city has a strong sense of community and plenty of lush and expansive parks for nature lovers.

Another perk of living in a college town is that residents can enjoy access to educational resources and various local events, all in an affordable environment.

Median home sale price: $178,000


Nestled along the Ohio River, Marietta is known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes. It offers affordable housing and a welcoming community atmosphere, and with various local shops, parks, and cultural events, the city provides residents a high quality of life on a modest income.

Median home sale price: $180,000

Springfield is located in the southwestern part of Missouri and offers a blend of urban living and natural beauty. The city's cost of living is around 13% lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for individuals and families on a modest income.

In one of Missouri's most underrated gems, you'll enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities, including parks, trails, and lakes. Springfield also has an excellent public school system, making it even more enticing to families.

Median home sale price: $193,000

Montgomery stands out for its affordability. The city's cost of living is about 11% lower than the average for the entire United States. Recent legislative measures also aim to reduce the state sales tax on essential items, including food, to further enhance this affordability.

As the state capital, Montgomery has a rich historical heritage, cultural institutions, and community events, providing residents with a vibrant living experience.

Median home sale price: $200,000


The state capital of Iowa is known for its vibrant downtown, cultural attractions, and strong economy. The city's cost of living is approximately 13.2% lower than the national average, which makes it an appealing location for affordable homeownership. Its diverse neighborhoods and abundant community events also contribute to a high quality of life for residents.

Median home sale price: $216,000


Situated just across the river from Cincinnati, Covington combines historic charm with modern conveniences. The city's cost of living is also 13% lower than the national average, making it an affordable choice for homebuyers.

Covington's revitalized downtown and community initiatives enhance its appeal to those seeking a vibrant yet economical place to call home.

Finding affordable housing is one of the smartest money moves for homeowners, especially those in professions such as teaching. It can be discouraging to think about owning your primary residence when the average cost of a house in the U.S. is now $430,787, but it is still possible.  

There are plenty of affordable cities where you can buy a house on a teacher's salary and still have all the great urban amenities and gorgeous outdoor adventures. By creating a realistic budget, doing extensive research, and saving intentionally for a down payment, it's possible to make the dream of homeownership a reality.