Living in a big city is always harder on the wallet, so we seek out the smaller American towns when we’re looking to save a few dollars. That’s the logical assumption, anyway, but believe it or not, many of America’s small towns and cities are among the most expensive places in the world.
People are drawn to small towns because of their community feel, access to nature, quiet neighborhoods, restaurants, arts and culture — besides, many small towns are typically short drives from major metropolises and all the amenities and conveniences those provide. Some of the towns on this list aren’t surprising (we’re looking at you Jackson, Wyoming), but others may come as a shock — like the two towns in Idaho or the several along the Oregon coast.
Are you ready to explore America’s most expensive small towns with populations of 50,000 or fewer? Keep reading to see what makes them worth the splurge.
Why Red Wing Is Worth the Splurge
Straddling the line between small town and big city, Red Wing manages to have the best of both worlds: an intimate community and access to nature as well as tons of fun things to do.
Following the mighty Mississippi River, the town exudes charm with the historical homes that line its downtown. It is also here that you’ll find many of the most fun things to do, including catching a show at the Sheldon Theatre of Performing Arts. After the show, you can get a local brew and pizza at the Red Wing Brewery. If you don’t mind getting out of town, spend the day sipping wine at the Falconer Vineyards.
As in other small towns, locals here absolutely love the outdoors, hitting up trails to get to Barn Bluff, Red Wing’s most iconic landmark.
Why Rock Springs Is Worth the Splurge
Rock Springs has everything you could expect from a cute Wyoming small town: a historic downtown, a strong rodeo culture and some out-of-this-world nature.
Downtown is the perfect place to go boutique shopping or to support the local economy by dining at family-owned restaurants that cook like no one else can. As for rodeos, small ones happen throughout the year, but there are also some big events, like the Sweetwater County Fair and Rodeo, that take place in Rock Springs.
But great as those two things are, they pale in comparison to the amazing Killpecker Sand Dunes just outside of town. As the second largest sand dunes in the entire world, they offer some really fun activities, like ATV driving through the arid landscape in order to see things like petroglyphs and the core of an extinct volcano.
Why Bennington Is Worth the Splurge
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The quintessential small Vermont town, Bennington has plenty of historic buildings, delicious local restaurants and easy access to nature. What it has over other places in the state, however, is relative proximity to three major cities: New York, Boston and Albany. The first two are three hours away, while it’ll only take you an hour to get to the capital of New York state.
Located on the Appalachian Trail and near Lake Shaftsbury State Park, nature is always at your fingertips. Of course, fall foliage is next level, making autumn the best season to visit Bennington and walk around its historic old town. Landmarks to visit include Robert Frost’s grave, the whitewashed Old First Church and the Bennington Battle Monument, which is the tallest structure in Vermont.
Of course, putting maple syrup into as many foods as possible is an absolute must.
Why Spearfish Is Worth the Splurge
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Nestled at the foot of the majestic Black Hills National Forest, Spearfish is a perfect destination for outdoors enthusiasts. In fact, nature is the No. 1 reason to visit this town, which also has a fair amount of historic buildings to boast about.
In town, you can learn about pioneer history at the High Plains Western Heritage Center or drive to the edge to visit Frawley Ranch, South Dakota’s largest farm. But once you’ve checked that off the list, don’t waste time getting into the northern Black Hills and Spearfish Canyon. Activities abound — hiking, fishing, swimming (depending on the time of year), canoeing and picnicking are all possible. There are also numerous waterfalls in the area, which make for a particularly rewarding hike.
Why Brevard Is Worth the Splurge
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Mountain bikers talk about Brevard in reverent tones, as the town is one of the best destinations for the activity in the entire country. The title is mostly thanks to it being the gateway into the vast Pisgah National Forest. Hiking is the second most popular activity in town, particularly in the summer, when you can hike to one of the many waterfalls hidden within the forest, some of which offer a chance for a refreshing swim.
Another cool thing to do is to visit Crystal Mountain Gem Mine, where you can learn about the history of mining in the area and actually mine for your own gemstones. Families particularly enjoy this activity, as it’s something that entertains people of all ages. Since this is North Carolina and Asheville is not too far away, you can expect a strong microbrewery scene as well.
No matter what you do, be sure to be on the lookout for the unique resident white squirrels.
Why Moscow Is Worth the Splurge
Nicknamed the “Heart of the Arts,” Moscow — Idaho, not Russia — is one of the state’s coolest small towns. The town earned the nickname with its numerous festivals, which focus on culture, art and music and which include the Lionel Hampton International Jazz Festival, the Renaissance Fair and Festival Dance. The town also holds an artwalk on the third Thursday of each month from fall to spring. This event opens up galleries and hosts events that showcase local and national artists.
Moscow is also virtually surrounded by mountains on all sides, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to fish, bike, ski, kayak, hike, fish and more. In fact, the city is right next to Pullman, Washington, so it’s very easy to visit Washington State University as well as the aforementioned museums.
Why Taos Is Worth the Splurge
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The 400-year-old Taos is a friendly small town known for its heavy arts scene and fabulous outdoor activities. Located at the foot of some of the tallest peaks in the state, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to activities. Think hot-air ballooning, hiking, river rafting, gallery hopping and fine dining.
You can even visit a Native American pueblo that dates back thousands of years and is still inhabited today. The town is also about 70 miles from Santa Fe, meaning the big-city essentials are never very far.
Though nothing can beat the original, pueblo-style houses are popular in Taos, making for some of the coolest houses in American small towns.
Why Ketchikan Is Worth the Splurge
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Facing Alaska’s famous Inside Passage, Ketchikan is a popular stop for cruise ships heading deeper into the Alaskan wilderness. As you can expect, it is one of the most beautiful places on the planet, home to the Misty Fiords National Monument, waterfalls, rivers, wildlife and centuries of Native American history.
If you like salmon, this may be the spot for you, as it is the self-proclaimed “Salmon Capital of the World.” Visit the Tongass National Forest, explore the Potlatch Totem Park or stroll the historic (former red-light-district-turned arts and crafts area) of Creek Street.
Why Gardnerville Ranchos Is Worth the Splurge
South of Carson City, Gardnerville Ranchos is a beautiful town located not far from the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. As such, you can imagine that it is brimming with wonderful outdoor activities. Lampe Park, for example, spans 32 acres and features recreational fields and sports courts, free for use.
Similarly, the community has Heritage Park Gardens, which is a community garden downtown where visitors and volunteers are able to stroll through and participate in workshops. Horseback riding is big in Gardnerville Ranchos as well. And, of course, let’s not forget the easy access to the banks of Lake Tahoe and all the activities that the alpine lake provides year-round.
Why Steamboat Springs Is Worth the Splurge
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When looking to explore the very best of Colorado’s great outdoors, you can’t do much better than Steamboat Springs. Surrounded by the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, as well as the towering Mt. Werner, Steamboat Springs is a haven for outdoor activity. The summer sees golfers, hikers and campers, while winter brings world-class skiing.
The town, itself, has splendid restaurants, art galleries, botanical gardens and walking paths. Historic sites also abound, as Steamboat Springs was one of the original mining towns of Colorado.
Why Vineyard Haven Is Worth the Splurge
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Hop a ferry from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and you’ll land on Martha’s Vineyard — essentially the premiere island getaway for New Englanders. This paradise of an island is known for its sandy beaches, sailing culture, New England cottages, lighthouses, nature and fabulous hotels.
Vineyard Haven started as a small fishing village, but today, it is a prime tourist destination and a great place to live thanks to its charming shops, restaurants and harbor. Even when things get bleak and cold in the winter months, Vineyard Haven’s summer reputation makes it one of the most desirable places to live in the world.
