Looking for affordable travel in North America? This guide highlights 16 of the cheapest cities to visit in the USA, with estimated daily costs, budget accommodations, free or low-cost attractions, food and transport tips, and the best time to go. Use these ideas to plan a wallet-friendly trip without missing out on culture, nature, and local flavor.
How we Define “Cheap”
Estimated daily costs include budget lodging (hostel/private budget hotel/Airbnb), cheap eats, local transport, and low-cost attractions. Prices vary by season and booking timing—book early and travel off-peak to save more.
1. New Orleans, Louisiana
- Estimated daily budget: $60–$100
- Why go: Free live music in French Quarter and Frenchmen Street, affordable street food and po’boys.
- Cheap stays: Budget hotels in Mid-City, hostels, guesthouses in Bywater.
- Free/cheap attractions: Stroll the French Quarter, City Park, Garden District walking tours, historic cemeteries.
- Money-saving tips: Eat at food stalls, use streetcar day passes, explore on foot.
2. San Antonio, Texas
- Estimated daily budget: $50–$90
- Why go: Historic River Walk, Alamo, low-cost Tex-Mex dining.
- Cheap stays: Budget motels and downtown hostels.
- Free/cheap attractions: The Alamo grounds, Missions Trail (UNESCO), free river-side walks.
- Money-saving tips: Use VIA Metropolitan Transit, buy attraction combo passes if visiting museums.
3. Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Estimated daily budget: $50–$85
- Why go: Affordable nature access, unique culture, inexpensive local markets.
- Cheap stays: Motels and budget inns along Central Ave (Route 66).
- Free/cheap attractions: Sandia foothills hiking, Old Town Albuquerque, Balloon Museum on budget days.
- Money-saving tips: Rent a car only if needed; many hikes are free.
4. Tucson, Arizona
- Estimated daily budget: $55–$95
- Why go: Cheap outdoor activities, desert parks, budget-friendly Mexican food.
- Cheap stays: Hostels, motels, budget hotels near downtown.
- Free/cheap attractions: Saguaro National Park (low entrance fee by vehicle), University of Arizona campus, free art walks.
- Money-saving tips: Visit in shoulder season for lower rates; picnic instead of dining out.
5. Memphis, Tennessee
- Estimated daily budget: $55–$100
- Why go: Blues and BBQ on the cheap, lively Beale Street scene.
- Cheap stays: Budget hotels near downtown and hostels.
- Free/cheap attractions: Visit the National Civil Rights Museum (ticketed), stroll along the riverfront, explore Cooper-Young neighborhood.
- Money-saving tips: Eat at local BBQ joints with affordable portions; free live music at some bars.
6. Kansas City, Missouri
- Estimated daily budget: $60–$100
- Why go: Known for affordable BBQ and museums with free admission days.
- Cheap stays: Budget hotels and chain motels near downtown.
- Free/cheap attractions: Nelson-Atkins Museum has free entry, walk the Country Club Plaza.
- Money-saving tips: Use city streetcars and free museum days; sample food trucks for cheap eats.
7. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Estimated daily budget: $60–$105
- Why go: Compact city with cheap public transit, many free viewpoints and parks.
- Cheap stays: Budget hotels in the Strip District or downtown.
- Free/cheap attractions: Duquesne Incline (small fee), Point State Park, free art installations and trails.
- Money-saving tips: Buy a day transit pass; many museums offer discounted rates on certain days.
8. St. Louis, Missouri
- Estimated daily budget: $55–$95
- Why go: Arch National Park (Gateway Arch grounds have low-cost options), free zoo and botanical garden.
- Cheap stays: Budget hotels and motels in Central West End and downtown.
- Free/cheap attractions: St. Louis Zoo and Missouri Botanical Garden offer free or low-cost entry.
- Money-saving tips: Use MetroLink and buses; picnic in Forest Park.
9. Portland, Maine
- Estimated daily budget: $65–$110
- Why go: Coastal charm, lobster rolls at market prices if you choose wisely, affordable outdoor options.
- Cheap stays: Guesthouses, budget inns, hostels in Old Port.
- Free/cheap attractions: Lighthouses, Eastern Promenade, free walking tours (tips-based).
- Money-saving tips: Visit outside peak summer; buy seafood at markets and cook if staying in an Airbnb.
10. Boise, Idaho
- Estimated daily budget: $55–$95
- Why go: Outdoor recreation, cheap craft breweries, growing food scene without big-city prices.
- Cheap stays: Budget hotels and motels near downtown.
- Free/cheap attractions: The Boise River Greenbelt, free festivals, trails around Table Rock.
- Money-saving tips: Rent a bike instead of a car; many attractions are outdoors and free.
11. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Estimated daily budget: $50–$90
- Why go: Affordable attractions, museums, and food; low accommodation costs.
- Cheap stays: Budget hotels and motels across the city.
- Free/cheap attractions: Myriad Botanical Gardens (free areas), Bricktown Riverwalk, inexpensive museums.
- Money-saving tips: Use rideshare for short hops; explore free public art and parks.
12. Columbus, Ohio
- Estimated daily budget: $55–$95
- Why go: College town energy, inexpensive dining and free cultural spots.
- Cheap stays: Budget hotels near the Short North and Downtown.
- Free/cheap attractions: Scioto Mile, Ohio State University campus, free galleries and markets.
- Money-saving tips: Attend free community events and farmers’ markets for cheap meals.
13. Greenville, South Carolina
- Estimated daily budget: $55–$95
- Why go: Charming downtown, walkable parks, budget-friendly Southern cuisine.
- Cheap stays: Small inns and chain motels near downtown.
- Free/cheap attractions: Falls Park on the Reedy, free public art, nearby hiking.
- Money-saving tips: Explore on foot and dine at local diners for lower prices.
14. Asheville, North Carolina
- Estimated daily budget: $60–$110
- Why go: Easy access to Blue Ridge Parkway, inexpensive outdoor activities and breweries.
- Cheap stays: Hostels, budget lodges, and campsites nearby.
- Free/cheap attractions: Blue Ridge hikes, self-guided walking tours, many free music events.
- Money-saving tips: Hike and picnic; visit breweries with no cover charge.
15. Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Estimated daily budget: $65–$110
- Why go: Art, culture, and Southwestern cuisine without coastal price tags.
- Cheap stays: Budget inns, guesthouses, and off-season discounts.
- Free/cheap attractions: Plaza and Canyon Road galleries (window shopping), hiking in nearby trails.
- Money-saving tips: Look for museum free days and shop local markets for meals.
16. Bangor, Maine
- Estimated daily budget: $50–$85
- Why go: Gateway to Maine’s outdoors, lower prices than larger coastal towns.
- Cheap stays: Motels, budget hotels, and cabins nearby.
- Free/cheap attractions: Trails, nearby Acadia National Park access (parking fee applies), local festivals.
- Money-saving tips: Combine Bangor as a base to explore nearby state parks and share fuel costs if driving.
Budget Travel Tips for the Cheapest Places to Travel in North America
- Travel off-season and midweek to lower accommodation and flight costs.
- Book in advance or use last-minute deals depending on flexibility.
- Stay in hostels, budget hotels, guesthouses, or shared Airbnbs; camping is cheapest for outdoor destinations.
- Cook or assemble meals from groceries; eat street food and local markets for cheap, tasty options.
- Use public transit, walk, or rent a bike. Avoid taxis where possible.
- Look for city tourism cards, free museum days, and neighborhood walking tours (often tip-based).
- Pack light to avoid checked-bag fees on budget airlines.
Sample 3-Day Budget Example (Typical Low-Cost City)
Accommodation: $30–$60 per night (hostel or budget hotel). Food: $20–$35 per day (groceries, street food, cheap restaurants). Transport: $5–$15 per day (public transit or bike). Attractions: $5–$25 per day (parks, museums, tours). Estimated daily total: $60–$100. Three days: $180–$300.
Final Notes
Many of the cities above are among the most affordable options when searching for the cheapest places to travel in North America. Prices change based on season, special events, and exchange factors—so check local calendars and book early for the best deals. With smart planning you can enjoy vibrant culture, scenic outdoors, and great food without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these cities safe for budget travelers?
Most are safe when you use standard travel precautions: keep valuables secure, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and research neighborhoods before booking.
How much should I budget per week?
A reasonable low-cost weekly budget is $420–$700 depending on city and travel style; this covers budget lodging, food, local transport, and some paid attractions.
Can I find cheaper options than listed?
Yes—camping, couchsurfing, volunteer programs, or house-sitting can reduce accommodation costs significantly.
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