The Midwest offers affordability, strong communities, and excellent quality of life. Often called “America’s Heartland,” this region features everything from bustling cities to charming towns where many find “the American dream is still obtainable” thanks to reasonable housing costs.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago offers world-class amenities, stunning architecture, and lakefront beauty. Despite higher taxes, residents value the cultural scene, restaurants, sports, and summer activities. The city “comes alive in summer” with beaches, diverse neighborhoods, and endless entertainment options.

• Median household income: $75,134
• Cost-of-living index: 105.7 (5.7% higher than national average)
• Cost-of-living estimate: $2,678 per month
• Estimated income-to-expense ratio: 1.8 (months of expenses covered by median income)

Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota

The Twin Cities rank highly for quality of life, outdoor recreation, and cultural amenities. Despite harsh winters, the cities maintain vibrant atmospheres year-round with extensive parks, lakes, and well-maintained spaces.

• Median household income: $80,269
• Cost-of-living index: 94.0 (6% lower than national average)
• Cost-of-living estimate: $1,925 per month
• Estimated income-to-expense ratio: 2.1 (months of expenses covered by median income)

Cincinnati, Ohio

Cincinnati features vibrant culture, excellent schools, and distinct neighborhoods. With architectural variety and abundant parks, it offers excellent family-friendly amenities. One resident noted it’s one of the hilliest Midwest cities, giving it character unique to the region.

• Median household income: $51,707
• Cost-of-living index: 92.2 (7.8% lower than national average)
• Cost-of-living estimate: $1,925 per month
• Estimated income-to-expense ratio: 2.1 (months of expenses covered by median income)

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Grand Rapids combines urban amenities with easy access to western Michigan’s natural beauty. The city offers affordable living, safe neighborhoods, and proximity to Lake Michigan’s beaches. Its downtown is notably safe, and the region continues to experience steady growth.

• Median household income: $65,526
• Cost-of-living index: 99.0 (1% lower than national average)
• Cost-of-living estimate: $1,845 per month
• Estimated income-to-expense ratio: 2.1 (months of expenses covered by median income)

Madison, Wisconsin

Madison boasts affordable living with a growing economy fueled partly by the University of Wisconsin. Known as “The City of Four Lakes,” it offers the most parks, playgrounds, and beaches per capita in the U.S., balancing environmentalism with a quirky, creative culture.

• Median household income: $71,790
• Cost-of-living index: 95.5 (4.5% lower than national average)
• Cost-of-living estimate: $1,810 per month
• Estimated income-to-expense ratio: 2.2 (months of expenses covered by median income)

Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis provides “everything you’d ever want” in a Midwest city: mild winters, minimal traffic, abundant entertainment options, and professional sports. Strategically located within a couple hours of several major cities, it makes weekend getaways convenient.

• Median household income: $62,995
• Cost-of-living index: 95.0 (5% lower than national average)
• Cost-of-living estimate: $1,845 per month
• Estimated income-to-expense ratio: 2.0 (months of expenses covered by median income)

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Twice named America’s best place to live, “Tree Town” reflects strong environmental values. The University of Michigan drives an economy focused on education, healthcare, and technology. Note that property taxes run higher than in many Midwest locations.

• Median household income: $78,600
• Cost-of-living index: 108.0 (8% higher than national average)
• Cost-of-living estimate: $2,110 per month
• Estimated income-to-expense ratio: 1.9 (months of expenses covered by median income)

Iowa City, Iowa

Iowa City combines collegiate energy with impressive cultural amenities. Home to the University of Iowa and designated a UNESCO City of Literature, it offers excellent healthcare and a vibrant downtown while maintaining reasonable living costs.

• Median household income: $57,619
• Cost-of-living index: 91.8 (8.2% lower than national average)
• Cost-of-living estimate: $1,780 per month
• Estimated income-to-expense ratio: 2.0 (months of expenses covered by median income)

Lexington, Kentucky

Recently ranked 32nd best city in America (2025), Lexington provides job opportunities, safety, quality healthcare, and affordable living. The city offers a “clean and modern” environment with moderate winters and all four distinct seasons.

• Median household income: $75,818
• Cost-of-living index: 92.0 (8% lower than national average)
• Cost-of-living estimate: $1,845 per month
• Estimated income-to-expense ratio: 2.1 (months of expenses covered by median income)

Omaha, Nebraska

Often overlooked but praised by residents as “recession-proof,” Omaha features a world-class zoo and stronger urban amenities than outsiders expect. The city offers substantial cultural offerings, employment opportunities, and community spirit.

• Median household income: $66,101
• Cost-of-living index: 89.3 (10.7% lower than national average)
• Cost-of-living estimate: $1,732 per month
• Estimated income-to-expense ratio: 2.2 (months of expenses covered by median income)

Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City attracts young professionals with reasonable living costs, a growing tech scene, and cultural amenities. The city delivers excellent barbecue, vibrant downtown energy, and affordable housing options, particularly in its family-friendly suburbs.

• Median household income: $62,285
• Cost-of-living index: 91.2 (8.8% lower than national average)
• Cost-of-living estimate: $1,780 per month
• Estimated income-to-expense ratio: 2.1 (months of expenses covered by median income)

St. Louis, Missouri

This “sleeper” city provides impressive amenities at affordable prices, including free world-class attractions like its zoo and art museum. While certain areas have safety concerns, many neighborhoods are both safe and culturally rich.

• Median household income: $49,638
• Cost-of-living index: 85.6 (14.4% lower than national average)
• Cost-of-living estimate: $1,662 per month
• Estimated income-to-expense ratio: 1.9 (months of expenses covered by median income)

• Weather: Northern states (Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota) have intense winters; southern Midwest cities (Cincinnati, St. Louis) offer milder conditions.
• Location Strategy: Consider living 20-30 minutes outside major downtowns for the best value—affordable housing with easy city access.
• Taxes: Research property and income taxes carefully; they vary significantly (Illinois higher, Indiana/Ohio more moderate).
• Transportation: If you travel often, prioritize proximity to airports with good flight options.
• Recreation: Cities near the Great Lakes offer exceptional beach access and water recreation opportunities.

The Midwest provides diverse options that balance opportunity and livability at prices that make homeownership attainable, whether you prefer major cities, mid-sized communities, or college towns.

When you’re ready to relocate to one of these fantastic Midwest destinations, American Way Van & Storage is here to make your transition smooth and stress-free. Serving the Dayton-Cincinnati-Indianapolis metro area, American Way Van & Storage offers comprehensive moving services that can help you relocate anywhere in the USA. With deep knowledge of Midwest communities, their professional team provides the reliable service you need for your Midwest adventure.

The Midwest provides diverse options that balance opportunity and livability at prices that make homeownership attainable, whether you prefer major cities, mid-sized communities, or college towns.