As of late 2025, the American travel landscape is shifting. While inflation has touched many corners of the tourism industry, a select group of states remains defiantly affordable, offering incredible value without compromising on the experience. At Top 10 America, we believe that a memorable journey shouldn’t require a second mortgage. We have analyzed current cost-of-living indices, average daily tourist expenditure reports, and accommodation data to curate this list of the most budget-friendly states in the nation.
Our criteria go beyond simple rock-bottom prices. We look for the intersection of affordability and meaning. These are destinations where your dollar stretches further, allowing you to indulge in local cuisine, historical tours, and outdoor adventures for a fraction of the cost found on the coasts. From the natural splendor of the Ozarks to the white sands of the Gulf Coast, these states prove that the heartland and the south hold some of the best travel secrets in the USA.
In this guide, Top 10 America takes you through the ten states where your budget works the hardest. We act as your local guide, separating the “cheap” from the “value,” ensuring that every recommendation offers a genuine slice of American culture. Whether you are a solo backpacker, a family on a road trip, or a couple seeking a weekend getaway, these states offer a warm welcome to your wallet.
Overview: Top 10 Best Cheapest States to Travel in the USA
| Rank | Location/State | Best For | Average Daily Cost (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mississippi | Coastal relaxation & Blues history | $145 – $160 |
| 2 | Oklahoma | Route 66 & Western heritage | $150 – $165 |
| 3 | Arkansas | Free outdoor adventures & Hot Springs | $155 – $170 |
| 4 | West Virginia | Mountain hiking & National Parks | $158 – $175 |
| 5 | Alabama | White sand beaches & Civil Rights history | $160 – $180 |
| 6 | Missouri | Free city attractions & Lake life | $165 – $185 |
| 7 | Kansas | Heartland history & BBQ | $168 – $188 |
| 8 | Iowa | Rural retreats & scenic drives | $170 – $190 |
| 9 | Kentucky | Cave exploration & Bourbon country | $175 – $195 |
| 10 | Indiana | Family museums & Dunes | $178 – $200 |
Top 10. Indiana
Located in the crossroads of America, Indiana offers a surprising density of affordable attractions, particularly for families. While the northern edge touches the Great Lakes, the state’s interior is a hub of budget-friendly Midwestern hospitality. Indianapolis, the state capital, is remarkably accessible compared to other major US cities, offering a walkable downtown and reasonable lodging rates that drop significantly as you move into the suburbs or rural counties.
In Top 10 America’s analysis, Indiana ranks here because it balances modern amenities with low costs. We suggest this state specifically for families; the sheer volume of museums and parks that offer low entry fees is impressive. While costs can tick upward near the Chicago border, the vast majority of the state remains a bargain. Historical records and economic data consistently place Indiana’s cost of goods and services well below the national average, meaning your dining dollars go much further here.
For a true insider experience, we recommend visiting the Indiana Dunes National Park. While it is a National Park, the surrounding state park areas and local beaches often offer a very affordable lakefront experience compared to coastal ocean destinations. A “did you know” fact for travelers: Indianapolis is home to the world’s largest children’s museum, which, while ticketed, offers a full day’s worth of value that rivals expensive theme parks elsewhere.
Key Highlights
- Average Hotel Cost: Approx. $110 per night in metro areas (2025 avg).
- Top Attraction: Indiana Dunes National Park (Lake Michigan shore).
- Budget Tip: Indianapolis offers an “Indy Attraction Pass” for bundled savings.
Top 9. Kentucky
Situated where the Midwest meets the South, Kentucky is a state of rolling hills, deep caves, and rich history. From the horse farms of Lexington to the urban vibes of Louisville, the state offers diverse experiences without the high price tag of coastal tourism hubs. The state’s geography, dominated by the Appalachian Mountains in the east and river valleys in the west, provides endless free outdoor entertainment.
We view Kentucky as a premier destination for travelers who love the outdoors but want more than just hiking trails. The state is home to Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest cave system in the world, which offers tours that are incredibly reasonably priced compared to other major natural landmarks. Economically, Kentucky’s food and fuel prices remain competitive, allowing road trippers to explore the Bluegrass Parkway without draining their gas budget.
A unique reflection on the state is its accessibility to “luxury” experiences for less. You can tour world-famous bourbon distilleries for a fraction of what a wine tour in California would cost. Insider tip: majestic Red River Gorge offers some of the most stunning geological formations in the eastern United States, and hiking there is completely free, with very affordable cabin rentals available nearby.
Key Highlights
- National Park: Mammoth Cave (World’s longest known cave system).
- Cultural Asset: The Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
- Economic Stat: Dining costs are roughly 12% below the national average.
Top 8. Iowa
Often overlooked as merely “flyover country,” Iowa is a hidden gem for the budget-conscious traveler who appreciates serenity and Americana. Located in the heart of the Corn Belt, this state offers vast, open landscapes and charming small towns like Pella and Winterset. The capital, Des Moines, has blossomed into a cultural hub with a cost of living that keeps hotel and restaurant prices refreshingly low.
Top 10 America suggests Iowa for those seeking a “slow travel” experience. The lack of massive tourist traps means you are rarely price-gouged. Our analysis shows that accommodation prices in Iowa are among the most stable in the country, rarely seeing the massive seasonal spikes found in tourist-heavy states. It is a place where you can visit the genuine “Field of Dreams” movie site or explore the Bridges of Madison County for little to no cost.
One specific detail that locals love is the Maquoketa Caves State Park. Unlike many commercial caves that charge steep entry fees, this state park allows you to explore a complex system of caves and limestone formations for free. It is a perfect example of the high-value, low-cost adventures available throughout the Hawkeye State.
Key Highlights
- Free Attraction: Maquoketa Caves State Park (Free entry).
- Cultural Event: The Iowa State Fair (August) is world-renowned and affordable.
- Geography: Located between the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers.
Top 7. Kansas
Located in the exact geographic center of the contiguous United States, Kansas defines the American heartland. Travelers here are treated to wide-open prairies, stunning sunsets, and a cowboy culture that is authentic rather than manufactured. Cities like Wichita and Dodge City offer a glimpse into the Old West at prices that feel like a throwback to a different era.
We frame Kansas as the ultimate road-trip state. The cost of fuel and lodging is consistently in the bottom tier of national rankings, making it easy to cover ground. We suggest visiting the tallgrass prairie preserves, which are not only ecologically significant but free to roam. The state’s lack of “luxury” pretense works in your favor; high-quality BBQ and steak dinners can be found in family-run establishments for significantly less than in major culinary capitals.
An insider reflection involves the unexpected artistic side of the state. Wichita has a vibrant art scene, including the “Keeper of the Plains” statue which features a nightly “Ring of Fire” lighting ceremony that is completely free to watch. It is these small, community-funded spectacles that make Kansas a welcoming and wallet-friendly stop.
Key Highlights
- History: Dodge City offers authentic “Wild West” history.
- Nature: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve (Free admission).
- Cost Factor: Gas prices are consistently among the lowest in the US.
Top 6. Missouri
Bordered by eight different states, Missouri is a diverse blend of Southern culture and Midwestern practicality. It is a powerhouse of affordable tourism, anchored by two major cities, Kansas City and St. Louis, and the massive vacation region of the Ozarks. The state has made a strategic effort to keep tourism accessible, resulting in some of the best value-for-money attractions in the entire USA.
In Top 10 America’s view, Missouri is perhaps the best value for families on this list. This is largely due to St. Louis, which boasts a “zoo-museum district” where entry to the world-class St. Louis Zoo, Science Center, Art Museum, and History Museum is absolutely free. This is a rarity in 2025. When you combine this with the low cost of cabin rentals in the Branson/Table Rock Lake area, the savings are substantial.
A key reflection here is the “Show-Me State” attitude toward food. You can get world-famous BBQ in Kansas City for the price of a fast-food meal in New York City. Insider tip: The Gateway Arch National Park grounds are free to explore, though the tram ride to the top has a fee—but viewing the monument from the park below is equally majestic and costs nothing.
Key Highlights
- Major Perk: St. Louis Zoo and Science Center have FREE admission.
- Region: The Ozarks offer affordable lakeside vacations.
- Culture: Home to two distinct styles of world-class BBQ.
Top 5. Alabama
Located in the deep South, Alabama offers a diverse geography ranging from the Appalachian foothills in the north to the sugar-white sands of the Gulf of Mexico in the south. While neighboring Florida’s beaches have skyrocketed in price, Alabama’s Gulf Shores and Orange Beach remain a comparative bargain, offering the same warm waters and stunning sunsets for a significantly lower premium.
We suggest Alabama for travelers who want a beach vacation without the “tourist tax.” Our analysis indicates that vacation rentals and seafood dining in Alabama are priced 20-30% lower than similar destinations in the Florida Panhandle. Beyond the beach, cities like Birmingham and Huntsville (Rocket City) offer rich civil rights history and space exploration exhibits that are incredibly affordable educational opportunities.
A specific insider detail is the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville. While it has an entry fee, the value is immense, hosting one of the most comprehensive collections of space hardware in the world. Furthermore, the state’s system of “RTJ Golf Trail” courses allows golfers to play championship-level courses at public course prices, a major draw for sports enthusiasts on a budget.
Key Highlights
- Beach: Gulf Shores offers white sands at budget prices.
- History: Crucial sites for the American Civil Rights Movement.
- Space: Home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.
Top 4. West Virginia
Known as the “Mountain State,” West Virginia is the eastern United States’ best-kept secret for budget adventure. It is the only state located entirely within the Appalachian Mountain range, offering rugged beauty, whitewater rafting, and rock climbing. For nature lovers, this state provides world-class outdoor access with almost zero entry fees.
Top 10 America ranks West Virginia highly because it offers “National Park quality” scenery at state park prices. In fact, the state is home to America’s newest National Park, the New River Gorge, which has no entrance fee—a rarity in the National Park system. Economic data shows that West Virginia consistently has one of the lowest costs of living in the USA, which directly translates to cheap lodging, camping, and dining for visitors.
Our reflection on West Virginia focuses on its rustic charm. You won’t find many five-star resorts, but you will find charming mountain cabins and historic towns like Harpers Ferry that feel frozen in time. A “did you know” for travelers: The state has some of the darkest skies in the East, making it a premier destination for stargazing, an activity that costs absolutely nothing.
Key Highlights
- Top Value: New River Gorge National Park & Preserve (Free entry).
- Activity: World-class whitewater rafting and hiking.
- Stat: Consistently ranks in the top 3 for lowest cost of living.
Top 3. Arkansas
Appropriately nicknamed “The Natural State,” Arkansas is a haven for travelers who want to disconnect and explore without spending money. Located west of the Mississippi River, it features the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, offering dramatic topography that rivals the West at a fraction of the cost. From diamond digging to thermal baths, the unique attractions here are surprisingly affordable.
We view Arkansas as a top contender because of its unique public lands. It is home to Hot Springs National Park, which is not only historically significant but free to enter (though bathhouse services cost extra). We suggest this state for road trippers; the scenic byways through the Ozarks offer breathtaking fall foliage and river views that rival New England, yet lodging and food costs remain firmly in the budget tier.
An insider detail that sets Arkansas apart is the Crater of Diamonds State Park. It is the only place in the world where the public can search for real diamonds in their original volcanic source—and keep what they find. The entry fee is nominal, making it a thrilling “treasure hunt” adventure that you can’t find anywhere else in the United States.
Key Highlights
- Unique Park: Crater of Diamonds State Park (Keep what you find).
- Nature: Buffalo National River (America’s first National River).
- Cost: Little Rock and Fayetteville offer very low daily travel costs.
Top 2. Oklahoma
Oklahoma is a powerhouse of culture and affordability, sitting at the crossroads of the American West. With the longest driveable stretch of the historic Route 66, it is a nostalgia-seeker’s dream. The state has invested heavily in tourism infrastructure in cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa, yet prices have remained incredibly low compared to the national average.
Top 10 America’s analysis highlights Oklahoma’s exceptional value in urban tourism. Oklahoma City (OKC) boasts Scissortail Park and the Myriad Botanical Gardens, both offering world-class urban green spaces for little to no cost. We suggest visiting the First Americans Museum for a deep dive into tribal history; while ticketed, the depth of the experience is unmatched. The state’s cost of living is frequently cited as one of the lowest in the nation, ensuring your travel budget stays intact.
A specific reflection is the state’s “Gathering Place” in Tulsa. It was named the best city park in the country by multiple outlets, and it is entirely free. It is a massive, whimsical wonderland that puts expensive theme parks to shame. This commitment to public, free-to-access excellence is why Oklahoma takes the silver medal on our list.
Key Highlights
- Top Park: The Gathering Place in Tulsa (World-class & Free).
- Road Trip: Hosts the longest stretch of historic Route 66.
- Culture: Deep Native American heritage and cowboy culture.
Top 1. Mississippi
Taking the top spot is Mississippi, the undisputed champion of budget travel in the USA. Located along the Gulf of Mexico and the mighty Mississippi River, this state offers a richness of culture—particularly music, food, and literature—that belies its low price tag. From the Delta blues joints to the casinos of Biloxi, Mississippi offers a full vacation experience for the lowest average daily cost in the country.
Top 10 America ranks Mississippi number one because the data is undeniable. Year after year, it ranks as the state with the lowest cost of living and the most affordable housing, which translates directly to cheap hotels and vacation rentals. We suggest exploring the “Secret Coast” (the Mississippi Gulf Coast), where you can enjoy white sand beaches, fresh shrimp, and ferry trips to Ship Island for a fraction of the price of neighboring states.
Our final reflection is on the soul of the state. You can visit the birthplace of Elvis Presley in Tupelo or stand at the “crossroads” of Blues legend in Clarksdale. These are globally significant cultural sites that are often free or very cheap to visit. In Mississippi, you aren’t just saving money; you are connecting with the roots of American music and culture in a profound, unpretentious way.
Key Highlights
- #1 Rank: consistently lowest average daily travel cost in the US.
- Coast: 62 miles of scenic coastline on the Gulf of Mexico.
- Culture: Birthplace of the Blues and Elvis Presley.
Conclusion
Traveling across the United States in late 2025 doesn’t have to drain your savings. As our list demonstrates, states like Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas offer world-class experiences—from white sand beaches to diamond hunting—at prices that are accessible to everyone. By choosing these destinations, you aren’t settling for less; you are choosing authentic, “main street” America where hospitality is high and prices are low.
