11 Historic Towns Where Housing Is Shockingly Cheap
Looking for a charming, affordable place to call home? Many historic towns across the U.S. offer a unique blend of rich culture, walkable streets, and surprisingly low housing costs. These destinations provide an opportunity to live in a setting steeped in history, where you can enjoy old-world charm without the high price tag.
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Natchez, Mississippi
Natchez, Mississippi, is a gem of Southern history, founded in 1716, and is one of the oldest cities in the United States. The town is known for its impressive antebellum architecture, with numerous historic mansions and plantation homes that transport you back in time. The historic district is well-preserved, and walking through its streets feels like stepping into the past, with beautiful riverfront views and centuries-old homes. Despite this, the average home price in Natchez is around $125,000, making it a rare find for those seeking a piece of history at an affordable price. These homes are often much larger and more spacious than what you would typically find for similar prices in other parts of the country.
Natchez offers more than just old homes; it provides a slower-paced lifestyle that appeals to those seeking peace and a strong sense of community. The town’s rich cultural heritage, scenic beauty along the Mississippi River, and numerous historical sites such as the Natchez National Historical Park make it a unique and attractive destination. Living here allows you to enjoy historic charm with a modern sense of convenience and, most importantly, an affordable cost of living.
Vicksburg, Mississippi
Vicksburg, located along the mighty Mississippi River, is renowned for its role in the Civil War, particularly the pivotal Battle of Vicksburg. The town’s walkable downtown area is filled with 19th-century homes, historic churches, and beautifully restored buildings that tell the story of its past. Vicksburg’s affordability is one of its greatest assets, with the average home price around $90,000, a stark contrast to many other towns with similar historical significance. This price offers the opportunity to purchase charming historic homes or even properties with river views, often at a fraction of the cost you would find elsewhere.
In addition to its rich Civil War history, Vicksburg boasts a lively arts scene, beautiful parks, and the Vicksburg National Military Park, a must-see for history buffs. The town has a small-town feel with big-city conveniences, making it ideal for those who want to live in a place where history is woven into everyday life. Despite its size, Vicksburg offers a tight-knit community with cultural events, festivals, and a strong sense of pride in its past.
Brevard, North Carolina
Brevard, often referred to as the “Land of Waterfalls,” is a picturesque town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Known for its outdoor recreation and charming Victorian-style architecture, Brevard offers an affordable opportunity to own a piece of history. The average home price in Brevard is around $250,000, which is surprisingly low for a town surrounded by natural beauty and popular tourist destinations. The historic district features beautiful old homes and buildings, some dating back to the late 1800s, offering both history and modern amenities.
Brevard is known for its arts community, with galleries, theaters, and music festivals that attract visitors from across the region. The town’s walkability adds to its charm, as residents and visitors alike can stroll down tree-lined streets, past historic homes, cafes, and shops. The combination of an affordable housing market, scenic beauty, and vibrant culture makes Brevard an ideal place for those looking to live in a historic town while enjoying outdoor activities in the heart of the mountains.
Jefferson, Texas
Jefferson, Texas, is a small town with big historical significance, especially in the 1800s when it was a booming river port. The town’s historic district is full of well-preserved Victorian homes, antique shops, and charming streets. The average home price in Jefferson is $125,000, offering affordable opportunities for those looking to own a piece of history. Many of the town’s historic homes are listed for much lower than you’d find in larger cities, allowing buyers to invest in grand properties with character and charm.
The town’s walkable streets make it easy to explore Jefferson’s history, including the Jefferson Historical Museum, the Riverport Museum, and several beautifully restored homes. Jefferson is also known for its unique events, such as ghost tours and cultural festivals, which draw people to the town throughout the year. Despite its size, Jefferson offers a rich historical experience with modern-day comforts, all while maintaining an affordable cost of living.
Hannibal, Missouri
Hannibal, Missouri, is the iconic hometown of Mark Twain, offering a delightful mix of literary history and small-town charm. The town’s historic district is lined with beautifully restored 19th-century buildings, including Twain’s boyhood home, which still stands today. Despite its literary significance, the average home price in Hannibal is $120,000, making it an affordable town to purchase a historic home. Many of the town’s homes reflect the architecture from Twain’s time, offering a chance to live in a piece of American history without the steep price tag.
Hannibal’s location along the Mississippi River adds to its charm, providing scenic views and a historic riverfront district. The town is walkable and offers plenty of opportunities to explore Twain-related sites, museums, and historic buildings. Hannibal’s affordable housing market, rich literary history, and picturesque setting make it a hidden gem for anyone looking to experience the charm of a small historic town.
Lynchburg, Virginia
Lynchburg, Virginia, offers a rich Civil War history combined with a strong sense of community and an affordable housing market. The town’s downtown area is full of historic buildings, many dating back to the 19th century, and the town is known for its picturesque setting along the James River. The average home price in Lynchburg is about $175,000, which is quite reasonable for a town steeped in history. With affordable real estate options in both historic homes and more modern properties, Lynchburg offers a great opportunity to own a piece of history without the high costs of living in larger cities.
Lynchburg’s walkability makes it easy to explore the town’s historical sites, such as the historic Old City Cemetery, the Anne Spencer House, and Monument Terrace. The town is also home to Liberty University, which gives it a youthful energy while still maintaining a deep connection to its past. Lynchburg offers a blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, making it a great place to live for those seeking both history and affordability.
Columbia, Missouri
Columbia, Missouri, is a vibrant college town with a mix of historic buildings and modern amenities. Known as the “Athens of Missouri,” Columbia is home to the University of Missouri and boasts a downtown area that is both historic and bustling with life. The average home price in Columbia is around $220,000, which is relatively affordable compared to many other college towns. Columbia’s housing market includes a range of properties, from historic homes near downtown to more modern options further from the city center.
The town is incredibly walkable, with plenty of local cafes, shops, and entertainment venues within walking distance of the historic district. Columbia offers a blend of old and new, with historic buildings standing side by side with trendy restaurants and boutiques. Its affordable housing market, vibrant culture, and access to education make it a great place for anyone looking to live in a historic, college-town environment without the high cost of living found in many larger cities.
Danville, Kentucky
Danville, Kentucky, is a small town known for its role in the American Revolutionary War and its preserved 19th-century architecture. The historic district features charming homes that reflect the town’s colonial past, and the area is walkable, making it easy to explore its historical sites. The average home price in Danville is $160,000, which is a great deal for a town with such historical significance. Many of the historic homes are priced lower than comparable properties in other areas, offering an affordable way to live in a town rich in history.
In addition to its history, Danville has a vibrant arts scene and a variety of local businesses that make it an attractive place to live. With its mix of history, culture, and affordability, Danville offers a peaceful, small-town lifestyle without sacrificing modern conveniences.
Elizabethtown, Kentucky
Elizabethtown, Kentucky, offers a blend of historical charm and modern conveniences, making it a desirable destination for those looking to live in a historic setting. Known for its role in the Civil War and its beautiful 19th-century architecture, Elizabethtown features a walkable downtown area filled with historic buildings, local boutiques, and charming cafes. The average home price in Elizabethtown is $160,000, making it an affordable place to buy a historic home in a town with such a rich past. Many of the homes in the historic district have been preserved, offering buyers the opportunity to live in properties with character and history.
In addition to its historical significance, Elizabethtown offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including local parks, nature trails, and community events. The town is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and tight-knit community, making it an ideal place for families and retirees. With affordable housing options, a walkable downtown, and a deep connection to history, Elizabethtown is a fantastic place for those seeking a historic town with modern-day amenities.
Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville, South Carolina, is a charming Southern town that combines rich history with a thriving downtown and modern amenities. The town’s historic district features a mix of Victorian and Neoclassical buildings, many of which have been beautifully restored. The average home price in Greenville is around $225,000, which is quite affordable considering the town’s historical significance and vibrant community. Historic homes in the downtown area offer easy access to restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, making Greenville a desirable place to live for those who appreciate both history and walkability.
Greenville is known for its picturesque downtown, which includes a lovely park along the Reedy River and a lively arts scene. The town hosts regular cultural events, from music festivals to art walks, providing ample entertainment opportunities. With its blend of history, culture, and affordable housing, Greenville offers a great living experience for those who enjoy small-town charm with big-city amenities.
New Bedford, Massachusetts
New Bedford, Massachusetts, is a historic seaport town that was once the heart of the American whaling industry. Today, it’s a charming town with cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and a deep connection to maritime history. The town’s historic district is home to numerous 19th-century buildings, many of which have been repurposed into museums and galleries. Despite its historical significance, New Bedford offers surprisingly affordable housing, with the average home price hovering around $240,000, well below the cost of many other historic New England towns.
In addition to its rich maritime history, New Bedford is a lively town with a strong arts scene, excellent local seafood, and a bustling waterfront. The walkable streets and vibrant cultural events make it a great place to live, especially for those interested in American history and culture. New Bedford offers a rare combination of affordability, history, and access to the ocean, making it an ideal choice for those looking to live in a historic town by the sea.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.