Searching for a home in the South under $250K? The Most Affordable Southern Cities with the Greatest Character Whether its a friendly small town or an ever-expanding metro area, these five communities deliver fantastic values, desirable amenities and authentic southern living for less. But they do know their budget goes further than others, whether for first-time buyers, job relocators or someone looking to retire: So we breakdown the places your money stretches furthest. Read on for your next potential home: Some of these destinations are pretty damn perfect.
5 Best Southern Locations to Buy a Home for Under $250K
Beautiful weather, good people, and robust job markets combine to make the Southern United States a hotbed for homebuyers. If your budget is less than $250,000 south has a lot to offer you in terms of quality, affordable housing. This article discusses five Southern spots that impress with their inexpensive cost of living, lifestyle benefits and plans for future development.
The 5 Best Southern Areas to Purchase a Home for Less than $250K
- Housing Affordability: Each of the five locations boasts median home prices under $250K — giving all homebuyers a place to call their own without breaking the bank.
- Employment Opportunities: Cities like Huntsville and Augusta have strong job markets largely supported by the tech, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors.
- Quality of living: These cities have a range of recreation, culture and lifestyle amenities from outdoor activities to lively arts scenes.
- Southern Charm: Every city comes with its own Southern hospitality and small-town nostalgia, so new residents quickly feel settled in.
- Education: Good public schools and universities make these areas great for families or those seeking educational opportunities.
1. Knoxville, Tennessee
With the Great Smoky Mountains and quite a few recreational parks nearby, Knoxville is recognized for its natural splendor. The city also offers a healthy job market, affordable living expenses and excellent education systems suited for families, young adults, and retirees.
Housing Market: Knoxville has a median home price of around $230,000 which is affordable for buyers on a budget. Safe and family-friendly neighborhoods with affordable homes and local amenities like Fountain City and Halls.
Economy and Jobs: The economy is supported by sectors such as health, education and manufacturing. Main employers include the University of Tennessee, Pilot Corporation and Regal Cinemas.
Lifestyle & Amenities: The fusion of urban and outdoor lifestyle is a combination that entices many, especially now with Knoxville boasting a lively downtown scene, numerous festivals, and cultural venues. People can enjoy recreational activities and places are close to mountains and lakes.
More information, go to Knoxville Chamber of Commerce — knoxvillechamber.com.
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2. Augusta, Georgia
With low living along the Savannah River, historical a big part of Georgia and a rich economy supporting industry in Augusta. Augusta, the home to Masters Golf Tournament has a steady stream of home buyers from all over the country who are drawn by its housing market and friendly living conditions.
Housing Market: The average home price in Augusta is around $190,00. Areas such as Summerville and West Augusta feature neighborhoods with a combination of older and newer homes in safe, family-oriented localities.
Economy & Jobs: Augusta has a lot to lean on with regards to its economy, especially in healthcare and technology since Augusta University and the Georgia Cyber Center add quite a number of jobs.
Lifestyle and Amenities: Features a riverfront promenade, local parks and dining. With unique historical sites and an arts community, Augusta is equally rich in culture, plus it just so happens to be a golfer’s paradise with countless golf courses.
For more, visit Augusta Metro chamber.com
3. Huntsville, Alabama
An affluent, high-tech growing city known for its aerospace industry is Huntsville. With affordable housing, a strong median income, and a rapidly growing economy, Huntsville is quickly becoming the place to be for those seeking an inexpensive place to call home in the South.
Housing Market: A median home price around $250,000 equals excellent opportunities in places like Madison and Hampton Cove for safe family neighborhoods.
Economy and Jobs: The economy is solid as the job sector has major employers including NASA, U.S. Army’s Redstone Arsenal, and many tech companies Huntsville is repeatedly on the list of fastest-growing cites in Alabama, which is drawing tech-specific individuals to other states.
Things to do: Huntsville has many parks, museums, and other space attractions such as the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. With the evolution of the city, new restaurants and entertainment venues have added alongside retail spaces to provide residents with leisure and modern conveniences.
Read more on the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce: huntsville.org
4. Greenville, South Carolina
Over the past few years, Greenville has changed into a vibrant urban hub with an awesome art and culture scene — perfect for home buyers. National praise has arrived for the city’s walkable downtown area, its views of the riverfront and opportunities to see a show.
Housing: The median price of a home in Greenville is about $240,000 and affordable housing can be found around the other nearby towns with great schools like Simpsonville and Travelers Rest.
Economy and Jobs: The economy of Greenville is diverse, with strong presence in manufacturing, health care, and technology sector. Large employers are Michelin, BMW and Prisma Health.
Life Events and Amenities: Greenville boasts beautiful parks, a vibrant downtown area, activities like the Fall for Greenville festival that occurs each autumn… With mountains and the coast nearby, it is an outdoor lover’s dream come true, while an impressive food scene and cultural amenities make it a city dweller’s delight.
For more resources, please check out the Chamber of Commerce for Greenville: greenvillechamber.org
5. Fayetteville, Arkansas
What makes your hometown special or unique? Fayetteville is a beautiful little town in the Ozark Mountains that houses the University of Arkansas. Fayetteville famously strikes the right balance between Southern charm and contemporary conveniences, all with an affordable housing market and a college-town vibe.
Real Estate: Fayetteville has an average home cost of around $245K, and neighborhoods like Wedington Woods and Rolling Hills provide affordable housing options.
Economy and Jobs: Much of Fayetteville’s economy is tied to the University of Arkansas, but it also has a close relation with nearby Bentonville which plays home to several large companies including Walmart and Tyson Foods. As part of the blossoming Northwest Arkansas metropolitan area, this town is a center for jobs.
Lifestyle & Amenities: Fayetteville is home to several outdoor activities and amenities, including hiking trails and parks as well as a thriving music and arts scene. Bikes, Blues & BBQ and the town’s entertainment district: Visitors come from all over the region to attend these annual festivals.
For more information, head to the Fayetteville Chamber website here: fayettevillechamber.org.
Whether you primarily want the lifestyle factors or economic factors of these Southern gems, there are all sorts of people that simply do not want to buy high bang for their buck homes that push too many envelopes on price sheets. As each location boasts a different array of amenities and community aspects, this allows buyers to get an unmatched sense of home within one of the Southern cities booming.
