5 Affordable East Coast Cities With the Best Weather

The United States contains a staggering number of over 19,502 incorporated cities. Many Americans move for life transitions like college, a new job, or retirement, and it can be overwhelming to choose a new location with so many options available. If you’re relocating to the East Coast, then keep reading! 

This list will equip you to start considering your options for moving to the East Coast. Many cities on this side of the country have beautiful weather, and most are more affordable than their counterparts on America’s western shores. 

Whether you want sunny summer weather year-round or are longing for mounds of snow in the winter, there’s sure to be a city on this list for you. 

1. Roanoke, VA

Located near Virginia’s Blue Ridge Parkway, Roanoke is a beautiful place to live. The city has over 600 miles of trails and is known for outdoor recreation. Although it experiences four seasons, winters are mild and the sun shines most of the year.  

Roanoke is also a very affordable place to live. The median home value is only $195,000, and the price of renting an apartment is well below the national and state average. Groceries are also below the national average, although healthcare costs are a little higher. 

The only true downside to living in Roanoke is the crime rates – 70% of U.S. cities are safer places to live than Roanoke. The northwest part of the city has lower crime rates than downtown areas. However, by using common sense, you can avoid crime and enjoy the many positive aspects of living in Roanoake.  

2. Savannah, GA

Savannah, Georgia, is another beautiful place to live on America’s East Coast. The city is full of historical sites, beautiful architecture, and green space. Built on the Savannah River near the coast, it also has easy access to the beach and is perfect for people who love sailing. 

The cost of living in Savannah is low, with the average home costing $215,350. Rent prices are lower than national and state averages. The city is home to many young people and families, and the average annual salary of residents is around $45,600. 

Weather for the city averages between a high of 60 degrees and a low of 39 degrees in January and climbs to a high of 92 degrees and a low of 72 degrees in July. However, humidity is high and there’s potential for flooding because of the city’s location. During the fall, there’s also some risk for hurricanes. 

3. Palm Bay, FL

Many people move to Florida for the sunny climate and tropical feel. Although the cost of living in big cities like Miami is high, there are plenty of beautiful small towns to choose from that are much more affordable. Palm Bay is one of the best places to move in the state for good weather and affordability. 

The climate in Palm Bay is balmy year-round. In January, the low is 60 degrees on average, and the high is 69. During mid-summer, temperatures slightly heat up to a high of 86 degrees and a low of 79. The city does experience more rain than the national average each year. 

The median home value in Palm Bay is low at $136,600, and renting is also an affordable option in the city. The cost of food is right around the national average, although transportation costs are a bit higher. Overall, Palm Bay is an affordable place to live for the state.

4. Wilmington, NC

Wilmington is located on the North Carolina coast and is a top destination for many people moving to the state. The community is wonderful, the population is growing, and there are many beautiful beaches located nearby. The city is also home to historical sites and nature walks. 

Although home prices are rising, the cost of living in Wilmington is still 4% lower than the national average. In general, rent costs are higher than average for the state but lower than the national average. The mean cost of a home is $288,100. 

The weather in Wilmington varies from the 30-50s in the winter and the 72-90s in the summer. Although it does experience a lot of rain, the city is sunnier than average for the U.S. The rainiest month is August, and the driest is April. 

5. Albany, NY

If snow is your definition of good weather, consider moving to Albany, New York. This historic town has been ranked the number one city in the state for affordability and quality of life. Residents enjoy winter activities like hockey and ice skating and have easy access to the Berkshire Mountains and Finger Lakes region.  

The cost of living in Albany is low, with the average house valued at $172,700. In addition, the crime rate for the city is better than 11% of New York cities. Rent is lower than the national average and much lower than the state average. 

If you love snow, Albany is the place to be. On average, the city receives 60 inches of snow a year, and the average temperature in the winter is well below freezing. In the summer, the average temperature rises to around 69.7 degrees. 

Affordable Cities on the East Coast

Moving to a new location is challenging for many reasons. If you want to move somewhere with beautiful weather and an affordable cost of living, the East Coast has many beautiful cities that have much to offer. Use this list to start looking for cities where you’d love to live.