11 Charming Small Towns Where You Can Still Buy a Home for Under $250,000

These days, it can feel like no matter where you stand financially, finding an affordable home is nearly impossible. Luckily, that's not the case everywhere. While prices have soared in many parts of the U.S., hidden gems still exist where you can buy a home for under $250,000 and enjoy friendly neighbors, a walkable downtown, and a slower pace of life.

From riverside communities to artsy Midwest towns, here are 11 places where small-town charm meets budget-friendly living.

Editor's note: All home prices are provided by Zillow.

Massillon is part of the Canton-Massillon metropolitan area, but it still offers a quiet, small-town feel. The downtown historic district closes its streets for events like the Massillon Fun Fest and Artoberfest, and nearly the whole town turns out for the home team's football games.

There's something for everyone in Massillon, and you can stretch your budget with a home for less than the average home value, which stands at $213,025.

Racine is called the "Belle City" due to its beautiful location, but it's famous most of all for its Danish kringle and beautiful lighthouse. It's right on the shores of Lake Michigan, where you can go fishing, hiking, and boating, or head over to North Beach for a swim or live entertainment. You'll find a mix of old-world charm and Midwestern friendliness. The average home value for homes in Racine is $209,873.

This Midwestern town continues to rebuild after a tornado in 2011 caused widespread destruction. Joplin's pride and personality are reflected in its public art murals, the History & Mineral Museum, and the Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center. Located along old Route 66, Joplin offers a unique blend of Americana charm and a welcoming community at a great price. The average home value in Joplin is $203,114.

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Owensboro blends small-town hospitality with a lively cultural scene. It's known for bluegrass music, barbecue, and a walkable downtown with Smothers Park on the banks of the Ohio River. With its annual festivals, parks, and affordable historic homes, Owensboro is an attractive, budget-friendly place where the average home value is $200,098. Many cost far less.

Paducah is a truly charming town. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the highly walkable downtown is a certified Kentucky Cultural District. The well-known National Quilt Museum and Yeiser Art Center, along with numerous visual art galleries and theaters, are top attractions.

Many consider Paducah one of the best places to live in Kentucky, and although the average home value is $182,559, plenty of lower-priced options are available.

Oskaloosa is a friendly small town in Iowa with a historic square, local shops, and a traditional, old-timey bandstand. The town is known for its low crime rate and history of coal mining and farming. With a nice variety of parks scattered throughout the town and a growing arts scene, it's an easy place to feel at home. The average home value in Oskaloosa is $182,332.

This affordable Midwestern city has more charm than you might expect. Historic neighborhoods, like Churchill's Grove and Garfield Avenue, feature tree-lined streets, vintage homes, and a real community feel. Rockford offers many attractions, including the Discovery Center Museum, the Anderson Japanese Garden, and the 10-mile Rock River Recreation Path. You'll find lots of things to do. The average home value in Rockford is currently $173,490.

A lot of people don't know that Niagara Falls isn't just a waterfall. It's also a town with picturesque neighborhoods, a walkable downtown, and a quirky retro charm with a lot of variety. Think vintage motels, casinos, wine tours, and easy access to outdoor adventures. It's a great place to live, and the average home value is $166,402.

Anniston, Oxford, and neighboring Jacksonville offer small-town living with natural beauty. They're grouped together because services, infrastructure, resources, and more overlap. All three towns are situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, with access to trails at Cheaha State Park. Each offers a Main Street or downtown district for shopping, as well as museums and other attractions.

The average home value in the combined area is $165,373.

This lovely Gulf Coast town has something going for it besides low home prices — it's one of the most affordable beach destinations in the country. You'll find a walkable downtown, the best seafood joints and po' boys, and plenty of Southern charm. Pascagoula has a warm, laid-back vibe that's perfect for anyone dreaming of coastal living on a budget. The average home value for this town is $144,423.

Home of the world-class PolkaFest and once a booming steel town, Johnstown is a friendly, affordable place to call home. It's surrounded by scenic hills, where you can go hiking, biking, and fishing in the Stonycreek River. There's also a lot of activity in the arts, music, and dance. The average home value in Johnstown is $109,493.

If you're dreaming of a quieter life with lower costs, especially as you prepare for retirement, one of these small towns might be the perfect fit. Whether you want lake views, mountain trails, or historic charm, each offers its own unique appeal without the big-city price tag.

Affordable, peaceful, and full of character. Just be sure to make a checklist of your most important requirements, and research the market and neighborhoods before you buy. A great deal is even better when it truly fits your needs.