15 Cities Where $100 Goes The Furthest [New Research]

There is price level variation in all cities, which means that you can make your paycheck stretch a bit further in some regions of the country than in others, something that makes an area feel more (or less) affordable to residents and visitors alike.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) released 2024 data looking at the purchasing power of $100 in all major metropolitan areas in the U.S., making it easier than ever to figure out where you can get the most bang for your buck.

Whether you're looking to move, or just to find a spot to head for an inexpensive vacation, these 15 cities will help you keep more cash in your wallet while you’re there.

Real value of $100: $122.10

Plenty of outdoor attractions await you in Gadsden, where you can take in the scenic sights of the stunning Noccalula Falls and the James D. Martin Wildlife Park. Located in the state's northeast corner, it’s a quick drive over to Atlanta, Georgia for a 24-hour excursion for when you want to leave the area’s natural splendor in favor of a more urban vibe.

With the average monthly rent at $790 for a two-bedroom, 81% below the national average, it’s a very affordable city.

Real value of $100: $123.61

Besides cheaper groceries — you can fill a shopping basket for an average of $42 in this city — Pine Bluff has plenty of other things going for it, like housing prices that are 76.3% lower than the national average.

That means residents in this area have a lot of money left in their monthly budget after paying for the essentials.

Real value of $100: $119.19

The bustling metropolitan area in central Alabama is home to some very affordable museums and outdoor adventures, like the Anniston Museum of Natural History or the Berman Museum, which showcases plenty of ancient weaponry and art from around the world.

The cost of living in Anniston is 55.9% less than the average city in the U.S., so you need only $2,100 per month to live comfortably.

Real value of $100: $118.76

If you’re a music lover, Muscle Shoals will be your paradise. Visit the legendary FAME studios where the "Muscle Shoals Sound" was created, and featured recording artists like Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, and Etta James.

You won’t have to shell out as much money as you would in other regions if you decide that you want to settle here for the long haul, because the average home cost in Muscle Shoals is $221,100, which is 34.6% less expensive than the national average of $338,100.

Real value of $100: $117.65

Delicious and affordable food will make your stay in Joplin a good one. That, plus the scenic beauty of Grand Falls — the largest continuously flowing natural waterfall in Missouri — will allow you to make plenty of epic memories while you’re in town.

In fact, you may decide to stay in this region after discovering just how inexpensive it can be to live here. The total cost of living is 22.7% lower than the U.S. average, making it very affordable for individuals and families.

Real value of $100: $117.65

Known as the “Peanut Capital of the World” due to the fact that a quarter of all U.S. peanuts come from this region — they even celebrate with an annual Peanut Festival each November — Dothan has a bright and bustling community, that includes loads of cool art exhibits and theme parks where you can have fun on the cheap.

The monthly cost of a two-bedroom unit in Dothan is $800, which is 44.1% cheaper than the national average, giving you plenty of extra money at the end of the month.

Real value of $100: $117.37

The border cities of Lewiston and Clarkson, Washington offer plenty of outdoor adventures to keep residents and visitors alike occupied, thanks to the sprawling mountains, valleys, and rivers in the area.

When you need a break from all that Mother Nature has to offer the area, you can visit the bustling wineries and breweries, where your dollar is apt to go further than in more expensive places like Napa Valley.

The median home value in the city is around $135,000, which is significantly lower than the national average and makes this region more affordable than many other parts of Idaho.

Real value of $100: $117.37

The twin cities of Texarkana straddle the border between the two states and offer plenty of stunning architecture and live events, like the historic Perot Theater, where you can catch an affordable concert or play.

The average rent in the area is 32.9% cheaper than the national average, which means you’ll have more cash at the end of the month to spend on other activities or investments.

Real value of $100: $117.23

This city covers plenty of cultural ground from the Museum of the Great Plains to Lawton Speedway. You’ll also have good and fresh food at your disposal in town, and you won’t have to break the bank to eat well — or to live your life.

That’s because the total cost of food, healthcare, housing, transportation, childcare, taxes, and other necessities is 25.3% below the U.S. average.

Real value of $100: $117.10

The metro area of Brownsville-Harlingen features various outdoor and indoor activities. Located on the southeastern tip of Texas, it’s only a short drive to the amazing beaches of South Padre Island, where you can soak in the warm waters of the southern Atlantic.

You need an annual income of $31,320 to live comfortably in Brownsville as a family, but just $28,800 if you’re single. That’s far lower than the national average and lower than other high-end spots in Texas.

Real value of $100: $116.96

Beyond the myriad outdoor and nightlife activities to keep you busy if you’re visiting, Enid has a median home value of $107,700, so it's an affordable place to settle down.

And that’s good news for your wallet, because there is a lot to do in the city, including museums and baseball parks.

Real value of $100: $116.82

Straddling the border of the two states and located on the scenic Arkansas River, Fort Smith offers plenty regarding indoor activities and water sports. Add in the fact that the state tax rate averages between 2-5%, it's a very affordable place to live.

Renting a two-bedroom apartment on the Arkansas side costs $840 per month, which is 41.3% less than the national average of $1,430, and aligns closely with the state average of $840.

Real value of $100: $116.41

The name says it all, and Hot Springs is one of the most appealing destinations in the South. Check out the legendary Bathhouse Row and the Garvan Woodland Gardens. You can relax at a premium in this city, knowing your money goes farther than in many other fancy resort towns.

The overall cost of living index is 2% lower than the national average. Housing costs are also affordable for those who want to stay for longer than a visit, with a median home price around $98,000.

Real value of $100: $116.14

Outdoor adventures await you at the rugged border town of Yuma. Given the cheap cost of living and the numerous sand dunes to explore, you will find yourself in a desert wonderland of adventure if that's your thing.

The total cost of necessities: housing, food, transportation, childcare, healthcare, taxes, and other expenses, is 9% lower than the national average and 14.5% below the state average.

Real value of $100: $116.01

Spanning northeastern Tennessee and southwestern Virginia, this metro area has many attractions catering to diverse interests. One such attraction is the Birthplace of Country Museum, which honors the 1927 Bristol Sessions, who gave birth to the genre. The region also has plenty to offer in terms of affordable housing and fun outdoor activities.

The average monthly rent for a two-bedroom unit is $790, 44.8% less than the national average of $1,430 and 35.4% cheaper than the state average of $1,070.

These 15 American cities are perfect locations for a long and cheap weekend getaway and affordable places to settle down, just as long as you make sure that these areas align with your life goals and career aspirations, that is.

While you'll still want to avoid wasting money while you’re in these cities, you’ll definitely have a whole lot more freedom when it comes to your spending.