I keep finding towns where the forest feels like a neighbor right next door.
Not the far-away kind, the kind you step into before your coffee is cold.
Some are truly budget-friendly with rents far below the national average. Others aren’t rock-bottom cheap, but they’re still more affordable than the famous resort towns nearby.
What they all share is this: small-town charm, everyday access to trails, and the kind of nature that makes life feel bigger and calmer.
What I found surprised me. You can live inexpensively and still wake up to wild beauty.
These 12 U.S. towns put national forests in your backyard, literally.
And whether you’re seeking a modest budget or simply more value for your money, they’re proof you don’t need to be rich to wake up to wild beauty.
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The Rockies: High Peaks & Low Costs
1. Deadwood, South Dakota
Step into a living piece of the Wild West. Deadwood’s historic Main Street feels like a movie set, where the ghosts of outlaws and gold miners still linger in the old saloons.
But just beyond the town’s edge, the vast wilderness of the Black Hills waits.
Affordability:
Deadwood offers a surprisingly low cost of entry for a mountain lifestyle.
While the median home price hovers around $485,000, you can find smaller cabins and homes for much less.
Renting a one-bedroom apartment averages about $1,100 a month.
National Forest Access:
The 1.2-million-acre Black Hills National Forest completely envelops you. You can hike or bike the famous 109-mile Mickelson Trail.
Or, try fishing in the clear streams of Spearfish Canyon. The scenic drives here are absolutely breathtaking.
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.
2. Dolores, Colorado
This is the real Colorado, far from the glitzy ski resorts.
Dolores is an unpretentious, friendly basecamp for true adventurers. It’s a place where your hiking boots will get more use than your credit card.
Affordability:
If you’re looking for truly budget-friendly mountain towns in Colorado, this is it. The cost of living is refreshingly low.
While home prices vary, the average rent for a one-bedroom is around $1,400 a month, a bargain for the Centennial State.
National Forest Access:
The massive San Juan National Forest is your backyard. It offers some of the best mountain biking and hiking in the state.
The nearby McPhee Reservoir is perfect for a day of boating or fishing.
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
Whitefish strikes a perfect balance. It has the amenities of a resort town but maintains a rugged, laid-back Montana soul. It’s the accessible version of that Big Sky dream we all have.
Affordability:
It’s on the higher end of this list but offers incredible value compared to its famous neighbors. The median home price is steep, but rent is more attainable.
A one-bedroom apartment averages a reasonable $973 per month.
National Forest Access:
The 2.4-million-acre Flathead National Forest is your playground. You can go boating on Whitefish Lake.
Hike endless trails in the summer. Or ski at Whitefish Mountain Resort in the winter.
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.
Exploring Affordable US Towns Surrounded by National Forests
4. Joseph, Oregon
Welcome to the “Little Switzerland of America.” Joseph is a remote arts hub tucked into a dramatic valley.
It has a deep connection to the land and its Nez Perce history. The scenery here is simply jaw-dropping.
Affordability:
For such a stunning location, Joseph is quite affordable. The median home price is around $500,000.
The rental market can be competitive due to tourism. But the overall cost of living is low.
National Forest Access:
The town is the gateway to the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. This gives you access to the Eagle Cap Wilderness and Hells Canyon. The pristine Wallowa Lake is just minutes away.
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
Known as the “Lavender Capital of North America,” Sequim is a little slice of sunshine. It sits in the “rain shadow” of the Olympic Mountains. This creates a unique, sunny microclimate perfect for relaxing.
Affordability:
The median home price is around $680,000. However, the overall cost of living is quite reasonable.
The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is about $1,000 per month.
National Forest Access:
You have the vast Olympic National Forest at your fingertips. Explore lush rainforests and rugged mountain trails.
The Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see for bird watchers.
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
This is a truly off-the-grid community. Happy Camp is nestled deep in Bigfoot country on the Klamath River. It’s for those who want solitude and a raw connection to nature.
Affordability:
This is one of the most affordable places to live in California. The median home value is an incredible $153,000. It’s a rare opportunity to own a piece of the Golden State without the golden price tag.
National Forest Access:
The wild and remote Klamath National Forest surrounds you. It’s perfect for whitewater rafting, fishing, and gold panning. The Marble Mountain Wilderness offers incredible hiking.
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
Stowe is the quintessential New England village. Think white-steepled churches and covered bridges. The fall foliage is absolutely spectacular. It’s rightfully called the “Ski Capital of the East.”
Affordability:
It’s a resort town, but it’s still affordable compared to western ski destinations. Home prices are high, but the overall cost of living provides great value. You get world-class scenery and amenities for your money.
National Forest Access:
The Green Mountain National Forest is all around you. It offers year-round recreation. Ski at Stowe Mountain Resort in winter. Hike the famous Long Trail in the summer.
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.
8. Davis, West Virginia
This rugged town in the Allegheny Mountains is surprisingly cool. It has a vibrant, artsy energy and is a major hub for mountain biking. It’s a place that feels alive and adventurous.
Affordability:
Davis is a prime example of an affordable mountain town. The median home price is just under $390,000. Average rent is an incredibly low $615 per month.
It’s one of the most accessible, budget-friendly mountain towns on my list.
National Forest Access:
The Monongahela National Forest is literally at the town’s edge. Explore the unique landscape of Dolly Sods Wilderness. Or, visit the stunning Blackwater Falls State Park.
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
Two Harbors is an Upper Peninsula town on the shores of Lake Superior. It has a strong, unpretentious community feel. It offers a rugged, four-season outdoor lifestyle that’s hard to beat.
Affordability:
Life here is extremely affordable. Median home prices are well under $300,000.
Average rent is below $1,000 a month. The quality of life you get for the cost is incredible.
National Forest Access:
You’re on the edge of the Superior National Forest. This is the gateway to the world-renowned Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It offers some of the best canoeing and hiking in the country.
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
Galax is the heart of Blue Ridge music heritage. It’s a town where traditional bluegrass music is a way of life. The sound of fiddles and banjos fills the air.
Affordability:
This town is deeply affordable. The median home value is under $250,000. Average rent is just $775 per month. It’s a place where you can live well on a modest budget.
National Forest Access:
Galax is your gateway to the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. This part of the Jefferson National Forest is home to wild ponies. The New River Trail State Park is also nearby.
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
Munising is the main entry point to the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The town is surrounded by the deep woods of the Hiawatha National Forest.
Affordability:
Munising is very budget-friendly. The median home price is a low $210,000. Average rent is about $955 per month. It’s a great base for exploring this beautiful region.
National Forest Access:
The Hiawatha National Forest offers endless recreation. There are hundreds of miles of trails for hiking and snowmobiling. The many lakes and streams are perfect for fishing.
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
North Conway is a bustling hub for New England outdoor adventure. It has a classic mountain town feel. The views of Mount Washington are simply stunning.
Affordability:
It’s a bit pricier than other East Coast spots, but still affordable.
The median home price is around $485,000. A one-bedroom apartment rents for an average of $727 per month.
National Forest Access:
The town is completely surrounded by the White Mountain National Forest. This area offers legendary hiking and rock climbing. The scenic Kancamagus Highway is a must-drive.
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 Adventure Awaits
My journey across the country always leads me back to one simple truth: the dream of a life connected to nature is more accessible than you think.
You don’t need a massive bank account to live near wild, beautiful landscapes. The key is looking beyond the famous park entrances.
Your perfect home base in one of these affordable US towns surrounded by national forests might be just one road trip away. Get out there and find it.