America’s 10 Cheapest States to Live in 2026

CNBC’s 2026 Top States for Business rankings highlight where everyday living costs remain lower than in much of the country. The list looks at housing, rent, food, energy, and insurance, showing that affordability can vary widely from state to state. Among the least expensive states are Missouri, Ohio, Kansas, Iowa, Indiana, Wyoming, South Dakota, Alabama, North Dakota, and West Virginia. The article notes that lower housing costs are a major factor in each state’s score, although insurance expenses are rising in some places because of severe weather and broader market pressures. West Virginia ranks as the cheapest state overall in CNBC’s analysis, with especially low housing burden compared with income. The story also points out that Midwest and Southern states often combine relatively low rents and home prices with moderate everyday expenses, even as inflation remains a national issue.