Dream of having a National Park in your backyard? Sounds amazing, right?
But you might be dreaming of the wrong thing.
The real secret isn’t living near a National Park. It’s living near a National Forest.
Think of National Parks as America’s grand museums. They’re beautiful, but they’re also carefully managed for preservation. That means strict rules and plenty of tourists.
National Forests, on the other hand, are a whole different story. They’re run by the U.S. Forest Service with a focus on “multiple use.” That’s the golden phrase for people who actually want to live and play near the land.
“Multiple use” means these forests are for everyone. You can explore, camp, fish, ride, and roam. While National Parks keep motorized vehicles out, many National Forests welcome them.
You can take your dirt bike or ATV across miles of open trails. You can mountain bike, ride horses, or find a quiet trail where you won’t see another soul.
The best part? That incredible view stays just the way it is. Forest land is protected from future development, which helps preserve not just nature, but your property value too.
We’ve found 12 great small towns across the U.S. where the National Forest is practically your backyard. They’re affordable, peaceful, and give you access to a priceless kind of freedom.
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What Do ‘Low-Cost U.S. Towns’ Really Mean?
What does “low-cost” really mean when we talk about U.S. towns?
Let’s be real. Some of the places on this list aren’t exactly cheap. Towns like Stowe, Vermont, or Whitefish, Montana, have higher home prices and living costs that sit well above the national average.
So why include them? Because “low-cost” isn’t just about the sticker price. It’s about what you get for your money. We’ve divided the list into two kinds of towns to make that clear.
- True Affordability Towns
These are the genuine bargains. Their housing and everyday costs are at or below the national average. You can live well without spending a fortune.
Think of places like Galax, Virginia, or Davis, West Virginia: small, charming, and surprisingly affordable.
- High-Value Recreation Hubs
These aren’t cheap in the strict sense, but they’re great value compared to the big-name resorts.
A home in Whitefish, Montana, for example, costs far less than one in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, yet you still get top-tier skiing, dining, and scenery.
So, whether you’re after true affordability or a high-value mountain lifestyle, this list gives you both kinds of options.
12 Low-Cost U.S. Towns (And High-Value Hubs) to Explore
1. Deadwood, South Dakota
The Forest: Black Hills National Forest
The Vibe: A historic “Wild West” town built on gold rush history and legalized gambling.
Affordability: High-Value Hub. The cost of living is just 1% over the national average. Home values sit around $440,000. But here’s a tip: listing prices are often much higher than what homes actually sell for. You can find a deal here.
Your National Forests Backyard
The Black Hills are an adventurer’s playground. The forest has over 3,800 miles of roads and trails open to OHVs.
Take a drive through the “unique and unparalleled” Spearfish Canyon. Hike to Black Elk Peak, the highest point in the state.
Or take easy walks to see the beautiful Spearfish Falls and Roughlock Falls.
Local Flavor:
After a day on the trails, grab a pint at Sick-N-Twisted Brewery. Then, explore the town’s rich history at the Adams Museum.
This is one of the most unique and affordable US towns surrounded by national forests.
Also Read: The 10 Most Scenic Fall Road Trips in the U.S for Unforgettable Autumn Views You Can’t Miss
2. Dolores, Colorado
The Forest: San Juan National Forest
The Vibe: A rugged, authentic gateway town. The U.S. Forest Service ranger district office is right in town. This is not a polished resort. It’s a real community at the base of massive alpine peaks.
Affordability: True Affordability (for Colorado). This is a rare find. A 2024 study named Dolores one of the least expensive communities in the entire region. The average home value of $476,500 is a true bargain for a Colorado mountain town.
Your Forest Backyard
The San Juan National Forest is famous for its “world-class single track” for mountain biking.
You can also explore deep history. The forest is home to Chimney Rock National Monument, a 1,000-year-old Puebloan cultural site.
Want a truly unique experience? You can rent the Jersey Jim Lookout Tower. It’s a fire tower at 10,000 feet that you can stay in overnight.
Local Flavor:
The Dolores River Brewery is the heart of the town. It’s where everyone gathers after a day of adventure.
You’re also on the doorstep of the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument.
3. Whitefish, Montana
The Forest: Flathead National Forest
The Vibe: Upscale mountain hub. It has a vibrant downtown and stunning Rocky Mountain views. But let’s be real. Locals on Reddit call it “expensive AF”. It’s a high-energy mix of tourists, retirees, and locals.
Affordability: High-Value Hub. This town is not cheap. The cost of living is 15.7% above the national average. The median sold home price is $825,000.
So why is it on the list? It’s one of the best affordable mountain towns if you want premier access. You get Whitefish Mountain Resort and the gateway to Glacier National Park in one place.
Your Forest Backyard
The value is the world-class access. You can ski or bike at Whitefish Mountain Resort, which sits on Forest Service land.1 In the summer, you can swim or boat on massive Flathead Lake.
Most people use Whitefish as the perfect base camp for exploring the wonders of Glacier National Park.
Local Flavor:
The downtown area is always buzzing with energy. Check out the art galleries and craft breweries.
I recommend Bonsai Brewing Project and Blackstar BrewPub for a true taste of the town.
Also See: These 13 Stunning U.S. Beach Towns Prove the WEST Coast Really Is the BEST Coast!
4. Joseph, Oregon
The Forest: Wallowa-Whitman National Forest
The Vibe: “The Little Switzerland of America”. This town is a stunning mix of alpine peaks and a high-desert arts scene. It is famous for its world-class bronze foundries.
Affordability: High-Value Hub. This is a destination town. Home prices are firm, with a median price of about $496,000. You are paying for the art, culture, and unbelievable scenery.
Your Forest Backyard
The Wallowa Mountains are the main event.
Start with the Wallowa Lake Tramway. It’s a gondola that takes you 8,150 feet up Mount Howard.
For a great hike, try the Ice Lakes Trail. It leads you into the stunning Eagle Cap Wilderness.
Want a local-only adventure? Try the Joseph Branch Railriders. You pedal a special cart along a historic, unused railroad line.
Local Flavor:
Joseph is famous for its world-class bronze foundries. Spend an afternoon exploring the galleries on Main Street. Then, grab a beer at Terminal Gravity Brewpub.
5. Sequim, Washington
The Forest: Olympic National Forest
The Vibe: “Sunny Retiree Haven.” This town is famous for its rolling lavender farms. It is often ranked as a top spot for seniors to live.
Affordability: High-Value Hub. The value here is not cost. It is the climate. Home prices are in the $530,000 to $545,000 range.
Here is the secret: Sequim is nicknamed “Sunny Sequim”.
It sits in the “rain shadow” of the Olympic Mountains. It gets only 15 inches of rain per year. That’s the same as Los Angeles. This makes it a priceless, sunny oasis in the Pacific Northwest.
Your Forest Backyard
Sequim is the gateway to both the National Forest and Olympic National Park.
The Dungeness Trail and Gray Wolf Trail start right in Sequim’s backyard.
You can also hike the Dungeness Spit. It is the longest natural sand spit in the entire country. Or bike the paved Olympic Discovery Trail.
Local Flavor:
Visit in the summer for the famous lavender festivals. The downtown is charming and walkable. I highly recommend breakfast at the beloved Oak Table Cafe.
6. Happy Camp, California
The Forest: Klamath National Forest
The Vibe: “Bigfoot’s Hometown.” This is one of the most fun small towns near national forests. The town is the “Heart of the Klamath”. It is the unofficial epicenter of Sasquatch lore.
Affordability: True Affordability (Best on List!). This is our biggest find.
Want to live in California on a budget? This is it. The median home price is around $160,000. The cost of living is 27% less than the California average. This makes it one of the best low-cost U.S. towns you can find.
Your Forest Backyard
Life here revolves around the Klamath, a Wild & Scenic River.
Top activities include whitewater rafting, fishing, and even gold panning.
You have to embrace the local culture. Get a photo with the giant Bigfoot statue. Drive the “Bigfoot Scenic Byway” (Highway 96).
If you can, visit on Labor Day. The town hosts its annual Bigfoot Jamboree. It’s a free festival with a parade and live music.
Local Flavor:
This is a small, tight-knit community. The local taco stand is a town institution. For a craft beer, you can take a scenic drive to a regional spot like Fall River Brewing.
Discovering Budget-Friendly Mountain Towns Out East
7. Stowe, Vermont
The Forest: Green Mountain National Forest
The Vibe: “Picture-Perfect New England”. This is a world-famous, upscale village. It is filled with white-steepled churches, boutique shops, and cozy inns.
Affordability: High-Value Hub (Luxe). This is the least affordable town on the list. The cost of living is 32% over the national average. Median home sale prices are often between $1 million and $2 million.
Stowe is one of the most desirable affordable mountain towns, only in the sense that it’s an aspirational alternative to mega-resorts out west.
Your Forest Backyard
The town sits at the base of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak.
You can ski world-class runs at Stowe Mountain Resort. In summer, ride the Gondola SkyRide for amazing views.
Here is how to live like a local. Drink a world-famous “Heady Topper” beer at The Alchemist Brewery. Shop for flannel and maple syrup at the Stowe Mercantile. Walk the 5-mile paved Stowe Recreation Path.
Local Flavor:
Stowe is a craft beer mecca. Visit The Alchemist, home of the legendary Heady Topper. Or, enjoy an Austrian-style lager at the von Trapp Brewing Bierhall.
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8. Davis, West Virginia
The Forest: Monongahela National Forest
The Vibe: A quaint mountain escape. This tiny, historic town is a popular, quiet getaway for people from D.C. and Pittsburgh. Check out the nearby town of Thomas. You can hear live music at The Purple Fiddle.
Affordability: True Affordability. This town is a gem. The cost of living is 8% below the national average. The average home value is a low $329,000. This is an amazing price for so much recreation.
Your Forest Backyard
Davis is the gateway to two of West Virginia’s most famous natural wonders.
First is Blackwater Falls State Park. Its 57-foot waterfall is tinted a strange, beautiful amber color. This is from the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and spruce needles.
Second is the Dolly Sods Wilderness. This is a high-altitude plateau over 4,000 feet. It has a unique ecosystem that looks more like Canada than West Virginia.
In winter, the area also has the longest sled run on the East Coast.
Local Flavor:
The main street is full of character. Grab a bite at Hellbender Burritos. Enjoy a local brew at Stumptown Ales. Or, catch some live music at the Purple Fiddle in nearby Thomas.
9. Two Harbors, Minnesota
The Forest: Superior National Forest
The Vibe: A rugged, authentic North Shore base camp. It’s a real working town on the shore of Lake Superior. It’s one of the best places to watch the famous “Gales of November” storms.
Affordability: True Affordability. The cost of living is about average. But the housing is a steal. The average home value is only $288,000. This is an incredibly low-cost way to live on the famous North Shore.
Your Forest Backyard
This town is the perfect launchpad. You are minutes from two of Minnesota’s most iconic parks.
Gooseberry Falls State Park is just up the road. So is the world-famous Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. For the best sunset, hike the Day Hill Trail to see the lighthouse glow.
Want the perfect local’s day? Grab coffee at Cedar Coffee Co., which is nestled in the forest. Get a slice of pie at the Rustic Inn. Locals say it’s the best on the North Shore. End your day at Castle Danger Brewery.
Local Flavor:
A visit isn’t complete without a stop at Castle Danger Brewery.
You can also tour the historic Split Rock Lighthouse. And don’t forget a slice from the iconic Betty’s Pies.
More Affordable US Towns Surrounded by National Forests
10. Galax, Virginia
The Forest: George Washington & Jefferson National Forests
The Vibe: “Appalachian Music & Mountain Trails.” This town is famous for its bluegrass and old-time music. It is a major stop on “Country Music’s Crooked Road”.
Affordability: True Affordability. This is one of the best low-cost U.S. towns on our list. The cost of living is 4% to 14% below the national average. The median sold home price is a stunningly low $215,000.
Your National Forests Backyard
The nearby Mount Rogers National Recreation Area offers a magical experience.
The highlands are home to herds of wild ponies. They graze on the grassy mountain balds. It is an unforgettable sight.
Galax is also a major trail hub. The New River Trail starts in town.
And you are a short drive from the Virginia Creeper Trail. It’s one of the most famous bike paths in America. Rent a bike and a shuttle. You can ride 17 miles all downhill from Whitetop Station to Damascus.
Local Flavor:
Be sure to visit the Blue Ridge Music Center. If you’re here in August, the Old Fiddlers’ Convention is a must. End your day at Creek Bottom Brewing & Distillery.
11. Munising, Michigan
The Forest: Hiawatha National Forest
The Vibe: “Upper Peninsula Lake Life.” This is a Great Lakes National Forest. Life here is defined by Lake Superior. It’s also defined by massive “lake effect” snow in the winter. It is the main gateway to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Affordability: True Affordability. The cost of living is average. But housing costs are 37% below the national average. Home values are low, around $205,000 to $250,000.
Your Forest Backyard
The Hiawatha National Forest has two must-do adventures.
First, visit Grand Island National Recreation Area. Take the short passenger ferry. Once on the island, you can take a 3-hour narrated bus tour. Or rent a bike and ride the 20-mile loop.
Second, go in winter to see the Eben Ice Caves. These are not real caves. They are massive curtains of ice. Water seeps through the rock and freezes, creating huge ice walls. A 1-mile trail leads you right to them.
Local Flavor:
The Pictured Rocks boat cruises are famous for a reason. There are also dozens of beautiful waterfalls to explore. I suggest a stop at East Channel Brewing Company for a local pint.
12. North Conway, New Hampshire
The Forest: White Mountain National Forest
The Vibe: The “quintessential New England ski town.” It’s known as the “birthplace of American skiing”. It’s a 4-season hub for adventure. It’s also a hub for shopping and dining.
Affordability: High-Value Hub. The cost of living is 22% above the national average.
The value here is premier access. And a huge bonus: TAX-FREE shopping. The town is home to Settlers’ Green, an outlet mall with over 60 stores.
The local food scene is strong. Look for the “Valley Originals.” This is a group of over 20 independent, locally-owned restaurants.
Your Forest Backyard
The White Mountains are your playground.
Take a scenic drive on the world-famous Kancamagus Highway. This is a must-do during the fall.
Ride the Conway Scenic Railway. Take an easy hike to see the waterfalls at Diana’s Bath. Or walk the stunning boardwalk through the Flume Gorge.
Local Flavor:
Take a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad. Enjoy tax-free outlet shopping. Then, visit Moat Mountain Smokehouse and Brewing Co. for dinner and a drink.
Your Own Forest Backyard
Your own forest backyard; that’s the real American dream. Not a white picket fence, but a trailhead just steps from your door.
These small towns near national forests give you exactly that. They’re your gateway to a life you can actually live outdoors. You can find true affordability in places like Galax, Virginia, or high-value access in spots like North Conway, New Hampshire.
Find the town that fits your budget and your sense of adventure, and start exploring your own backyard.