11 Most Affordable Liberal Cities and Towns in the US
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Cleveland, Ohio
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Syracuse, New York
- Racine, Wisconsin
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Rochester, New York
- Ferndale, Michigan
- Oberlin, Ohio
- Chicago, Illinois
- New Orleans, Louisiana
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, also known as Philly, is the most populous city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1.567 million. It's a hub of liberal values, with 81.2% of its residents voting Democrat in the last presidential election. The city boasts a rich cultural scene and an active LGBTQ+ community.
Housing in Philadelphia is relatively affordable, with a median house price of $225,159 and a median rent of $1,700. For over seventy years, the city has been under Democratic leadership, reflecting its strong liberal leanings.
Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland is another affordable city for those with liberal values. With a population of 361,607, this city saw 66.4% of its voters choosing the Democratic candidate in the last presidential election.
The median home price in Cleveland is just $110,545, and the median rent is $1,240. The cost of living index is 94.8, making it cheaper than the national average. Cleveland remains a significant Democratic stronghold in Ohio, aligning well with its residents' political preferences.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee, the largest city in Wisconsin, is a diverse and culturally vibrant place. It has a population of 563,305 and is known for its liberal stance, with 69.1% of voters supporting the Democratic Party in the last election.
The city offers affordable living, with a median home price of $208,972 and a median rent of $1,126. The cost of living index is close to the national average at 97.2. Milwaukee is also known for its annual PrideFest, celebrating the LGBT community and adding to its inclusive atmosphere.
Syracuse, New York
Syracuse, located in Onondaga County, is a moderately liberal city with 58.9% of its residents voting Democrat in the last election. With a population of 148,620, the city is home to significant institutions like Syracuse University and SUNY Upstate Medical University.
Housing remains affordable, with a median home price of $189,462 and a median rent of $1,133. The cost of living in Syracuse is on par with the national average, making it a balanced option for those seeking an affordable liberal city.
Racine, Wisconsin
Racine, situated on the shore of Lake Michigan, has a population of 77,816 and a rich history of organized labor. This diverse community predominantly supports the Democratic Party. The median home price in Racine is $189,442, and the median rent is $892, making it a very affordable place to live.
The cost of living index is 94.3, lower than the national average. Racine's affordability and liberal values make it an attractive option for those seeking a budget-friendly, progressive community.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh, located in Allegheny County, has a population of 302,898. The city leans liberal, with 59.4% of its residents voting Democrat in the last presidential election. The median home price is $239,496, and the median rent is $1,299.
The cost of living index in Pittsburgh is 95.4, close to the national average. Democrats have held the mayor's office in Pittsburgh almost continuously since 1933, underscoring its progressive stance.
Rochester, New York
Rochester, known both as "the Flour City" and "the Flower City," has a population of 211,328. The city is liberal, with 59.3% of voters supporting the Democratic Party in the last presidential election.
The median home price is $224,734, and the median rent is $1,194. The cost of living in Rochester aligns closely with the national average, making it a balanced option for affordability and liberal values.
Ferndale, Michigan
Ferndale, with a population of 18,969, is a hub of the LGBTQ+ community in Metro Detroit and a center for progressive politics. In the last presidential election, 56.2% of voters chose the Democratic candidate. The median home price is $250,267, and the median rent is $1,378. The cost of living index in Ferndale is 97, slightly below the national average.
This small city's liberal stance and community focus make it an attractive place for progressive-minded individuals.
Oberlin, Ohio
Oberlin, in Lorain County, is one of the most affordable small towns on this list, with a population of 7,721. The city is home to Oberlin College, a liberal arts college and music conservatory. The median home price is $223,417, and the median rent is $616.
The cost of living index in Oberlin is 93.9. Known for its motto "live, learn, lead," Oberlin provides a liberal environment at a very affordable cost.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago, the most populous city in Illinois, has a population of 2.665 million. It's a very liberal city, with 74.2% of residents voting Democrat in the last presidential election. The median home price is $298,397, and the median rent is $1,842.
Chicago has the third-largest LGBT population in the United States. The city has been under Democratic leadership since 1931, highlighting its strong progressive roots.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans, located along the Mississippi River, has a population of 369,749. The city is very liberal, with 83.1% of its residents voting Democrat in the last presidential election. The median home price is $247,672, and the median rent is $1,277.
The cost of living index in New Orleans is 97.5, near the national average. Known for its unique cross-cultural and multilingual heritage, New Orleans stands out as a vibrant and progressive city.
Most Affordable Liberal Cities and Towns FAQs
What Are the Most Affordable Liberal States?
While traditionally liberal states like California and New York offer a lot, affordability isn't their strong suit. Look towards the Midwest (think Michigan, Wisconsin) or even some Southern states (like North Carolina) for a blend of liberal policies and a lower cost of living.
What Are the Most Affordable Liberal College Towns?
The most affordable liberal college towns include Syracuse, New York; Oberlin, Ohio; and Rochester, New York. These towns offer a blend of progressive values, vibrant cultural scenes, and relatively low housing costs. Syracuse and Rochester are moderately liberal with a strong educational presence, while Oberlin, home to Oberlin College, is known for its affordable living and liberal arts focus.