Underrated Winter Cities: Locations like Miami and Los Angeles are probably the first ones that come to mind when you think of desirable areas to reside in cities with warm climates. Even if it’s true that you can usually count on great weather in those locations, it’s safe to say that those cities are not the most cost-effective vacation destinations for people who enjoy going somewhere warm.
If you don’t like the cold and snow and you’re on a tight budget, you’re going to want to check into destinations that aren’t as well known, many of which are located in the South. We used data from Sperling’s Best Places, Zumper, and other sources to discover the most underestimated locations to live in this winter if you are not a lover of traditional winters. These cities are also among the most cheap.
7 Underrated Winter Cities to Live in
Gulf Shores is located in Alabama.
According to MoneyIncresearch, .’s Gulf Shores has the potential to be one of the warmest cities on this list throughout the winter. According to what they have found, the monthly average temperature in January is 57 degrees Fahrenheit, and the daily highs are often in the low 60s. The town of Gulf Shores is located on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, which brings with it all the gorgeous beaches, seafood, and places to dine and walk that you could possibly imagine.
At $339,100, the median home price in this location is higher than any other on our list; however, it is still over $60,000 less than the average price of a home across the country. It is slightly more expensive than other locations on this list to rent a one-bedroom apartment in this city, at an average cost of $1,622 per month, but this is still significantly cheaper than the rent in major beach resort cities.
Clemson, located in South Carolina
In addition to being a spot where you can escape the freezing winter weather, Clemson is also a vibrant college town that is located approximately two hours outside of Atlanta. This makes it possible to have the feeling of living in a smaller town while still having access to everything that a larger urban city has to offer.
In comparison to other cities with a warmer temperature, the cost of living in this city is significantly lower, making it an attractive option for younger people looking for a location to settle down. The national average for the price of a home is $398,500, so the median price of a home in this area is far lower at $270,600. It only costs $800 a month to rent a one-bedroom apartment, and the overall cost of living is 6.1% less expensive than in the rest of the United States.
Bella Vista, Arkansas
Due to the fact that less than 30,000 people call Bella Vista home, the city is known for appealing to people who enjoy being in warm climates and appreciate the ambiance of living in a tiny town. According to MoneyInc., the location boasts a mild climate, seven lakes, and excellent walking routes in its surrounding forest.
In addition to this, the price is really reasonable. A one-bedroom apartment rents about $1,100 per month, while the typical price of a home is $242,300. The overall cost of living is also 7.1% lower than the average across the rest of the United States.
Florida, in the town of Port Charlotte
Warm-weather enthusiasts have always been drawn to the state of Florida; however, the majority of visitors head to the state’s most populous and well-known towns, such as Orlando, Miami, or Tampa, which are not the least expensive places to visit. Consider going to Port Charlotte instead.
This city on the Gulf Coast has just as many gorgeous beaches and exciting things to do as neighbouring places, but it is less expensive overall. Port Charlotte, Florida has a cost of living that is 11.1% lower than the rest of the United States, but having a median house price that is higher than the national average. The monthly rent for a studio apartment is $1,119. This is the place to go if you like it hot and humid, and you want to be near the water for a lower price than in the rest of the United States.
Yuma, Arizona
Arizona is a great choice for vacation destinations for folks who do not enjoy the cold season. The summers in Yuma are hot and dry, and the winters are not harsh at all. According to research conducted by MoneyInc., this location is also recognised as having a high level of annual sunshine. The average annual sunshine total is 90%.
It’s also within your price range. According to Sperling’s Best Places, the median price of a home is $219,500, and the overall cost of living is 8.5% less than it is in the rest of the United States. According to Zumper, the typical monthly rent for a studio or one-bedroom apartment is $1,000.
The city of Las Cruces in New Mexico
A large number of tourists are drawn to the Southwest due to its abundant natural beauty and much more abundant cultural legacy. Las Cruces is no exception.
The winters in this town in the southwest are mild, while the summers can reach quite high temperatures. A one-bedroom apartment rents for $1,045 a month, while the median home price in the area is $209,600. This affords residents a reduced cost of living overall. In addition, the cost of living in this area is 16.5% less expensive than it is everywhere else in the United States.
Lake Charles, Louisiana
If you despise the cold winter months, Lake Charles, which is located in the south and is bordered by two freshwater lakes and an inland beach with white sand, would be an ideal place for you to make your home. This village on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico is supposed to have been built by the notorious pirate Jean Lafitte. According to MoneyInc, the climate is moderate and there are more days of sun than there are cloudy days.
In terms of affordability, the typical property price is still a respectable $181,800, and the rent for a one-bedroom apartment is only $795 per month on average. The overall cost of living is 16.9 percent less than it is in the rest of the country.