What is the cheapest but safest state to live in?
Iowa can be the initial answer. The statewide price level sits well below the US average. And its 2024 violent-crime rate is far under the national rate.
Which states look “safe + affordable” on the numbers?
A snapshot table is presented below — using (1) BEA regional price parities (US=100) and (2) FBI-based violent-crime rates reported by USAFacts for 2024.
How do you select the city?
A city should be selected by looking at local numbers — rather than state averages. Check the actual monthly bills & neighborhood crime maps.
- Housing — actual rent / mortgage quotes for the specific zip code
- Insurance — car & home rates for that exact address
- Jobs — salary offers & commute times
- Services — distance to doctors and schools alongside grocery stores
- Local safety — police reports for the last year
Does 0 income tax mean more money in the pocket?
No. States still collect revenue. Therefore, a 0-income-tax headline may be offset by property taxes or sales taxes as well as higher fees. This is why a “tax-friendly” state might still feel expensive after pricing housing & insurance.
What tax steps apply in the case of moving out of NYC?
New York might still tax you as a resident in the case of keeping a permanent home there and spending 184 days or more in the state.
- Count the days — any time spent in NY counts as a full day
- Cut ties — Update the license and voting record as well as mailing address immediately
- Move your life — your doctor & gym and most personal items should be in the new state
- Save proof — moving receipts & lease agreements and utility bills
Contact Dimov NYC CPA before picking a state
Taxes have a major role in how much can actually be saved when moving. Dimov NYC CPA presents assistance in reviewing residency risks & estimating taxes in the new home. Our team supports you in documenting the move so you are ready in the case of a New York audit.
Reach out to us to discuss your move and get a state-by-state tax scenario.