An Artsy City In Indiana With Beautiful Architecture Is One Of The Cheapest Places To Live In America

Nowadays it feels like living frugally is more difficult than ever. From groceries to transportation and housing, the cost of everyday essentials keeps rising, while paychecks remain largely unchanged. With inflation putting even more strain on households, many individuals are looking for affordable cities across the country as they search for a more frugal living and better overall value.

One place that stands out for its low cost of living is Fort Wayne, located in northeastern Indiana, according to World Atlas. Though it's removed from major hubs like Indianapolis, Fort Wayne — with a population of about 260,000 — blends small-town charm with urban conveniences, all at a fraction of the price. From lower housing costs to a thriving arts scene, the city offers a rare mix of affordability and character and is gaining traction among cost-conscious individuals as a savvy relocation choice thanks to a low cost of living and vibrant local amenities.

Fort Wayne delivers affordability on multiple fronts, from housing to everyday expenses. According to RentCafe, the cost of living in Fort Wayne is about 10% lower than the national average. A major contributor to this is the lower cost of housing. Rent Cafe reported that housing in Fort Wayne is 22% more affordable than the national average, with an average home price of $364,871 and an average monthly rate of $1,150. In addition to housing, utilities are also more affordable, with residents spending around $190 per month in Fort Wayne, about 9% lower than the national average on utilities.

While many essentials are cheaper in Fort Wayne, the city does have a lower median household income than the national average. According to the latest Census data, household income here is $60,293 compared to $80,610 nationally. Still, when compared to regional metros, Fort Wayne remains one of the most budget-friendly options

Before packing the moving van for Fort Wayne, it's worth getting to know the city's growing local art scene, which plays a big role in shaping the community's character and charm. Anchored by the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, which dates back to 1888, the museum is a must-visit for its rotating exhibitions that feature art from around the world. Because of its grass root upbringing and history of teaching informal art classes that inspired the creative mindset, the city is known for more than just curated galleries. It routinely hosts art festivals that draw in thousands and is home to hundreds of murals, sculptures, and other pieces of public art.

Another important consideration before making the big move is employment opportunities. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in Fort Wayne is 2.7% as of April 2025. Some of the largest employers in the region include education, health organization, and manufacturing facilities. There is also a growing number of high technology and defense companies like BAE Systems, L3Harris, and Raytheon, which are attracting highly skilled technology tech workers to Fort Wayne.