Best Places to Start Over with No Money

Have you reached that point where you’re bored with life and want a fresh start? Many people have felt that way in their lives. Whether you’re 18 and just graduated from high school, fresh out of college, in your 30s, suffering from empty nest syndrome or just tired of your current, a new life in a different city or state (or maybe even a different country) may be just what you need. 

But maybe you’ve put off an imminent move because money’s tight. After all, who moves to a new place without any job prospects? Plenty of people do! Or maybe you're looking to start your own business or project and are looking to lower your expenses considerably while you do so. (BTW a great starting place and community for those looking to start their own business to check out is Create Your Start!)

Don’t let your current financial situation stop you from enjoying a new life with a different scenery. After all, you could be missing out on cool people, fun events and the job of your dreams. Are you ready to make a move? Consider these places as your next home. 

Durham, North Carolina 

While Durham is home to Duke University – one of the most expensive schools to attend – Durham in general is easy on the wallet. In 2011, the city was named one of “America’s Best Cities for Young Professionals.” It’s also known as one of the most affordable cities in the United States. It was also ranked seventh in the United States as having the best quality of life overall. 

Home of Research Triangle Park, Durham is a great place to live if you’re looking to pursue a career in medicine. If not, well, it’s still a great place to live and work. Jobs are still plentiful in the tech industry, with IBM and Cisco making their homes there. 

The unemployment rate in Durham is not much less than the national average, but income growth is at 3.3%. Downtown Durham is seeing some improvements, with many of the old buildings being converted into housing and retail spaces. Plus, nearly 34% of the population consists of single adults, so if you’re looking to meet someone special, you have a good chance of making a love connection. 

Charleston, South Carolina 

When you think of places to move to, South Carolina may not immediately come to mind. However, its capital, Charleston, has many things going for it that make it attractive to those in need of a new job, new love or new start. Unemployment is below average and the city is a growing hotspot for the technology industry. Incomes in Charleston are growing by nearly 4% and more than 31% of the population consists of single adults, so if you’re looking for love, you’ve come to the right place. 

Charleston is also known for its strong tourism industry. You can find jobs in this area or at least meet a lot of friendly people along the way. 

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 

If you’re looking to set roots in a city that’s fairly large but has a country feel, Oklahoma City is a good place to start. It’s a great place if you enjoy warm weather, with the average temperature of 72 degrees. The population is growing steadily, but employment prospects are still good. You can work for the federal government, the energy industry and even the growing tech industry.  

Provo, Utah 

Utah gets a bad reputation for being home to a large Mormon population, but it’s a great place to start even, if you’re not religious. Provo is especially great for those starting over and in need of a job. The unemployment rate is at just 4.6%. There are many employment prospects in Provo, such as Novell Software, Ancestry.com and Nature’s Sunshine Products. 

Income growth in Provo is at just under 3%. Thirty percent of the population is comprised on single adults. Provo is also known for its cool mountain air, so it’s a fun place if you enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors.  

Des Moines, Iowa 

Iowa may be known for its corn fields, but Des Moines really has it going on for those in need of a change in scenery. It has been ranked the “Best Place for Business” in 2010 and one of “America’s Best Cities for Young Professionals” in 2011. 

Income growth is at 2.6% and the unemployment rate is one of the lowest in the country, at 4.6%. Des Moines is known for its burgeoning insurance and financial industries. It’s also known for presidential politics, so you’ll always have a job in that field, if you so desire. Des Moines is also home to Adventureland Park and the State Fair, so there are thrills to be had in this not-so-boring town. 

Albany, New York 

If you’re seeking the thrills of New York, but are petrified of living in New York City, consider Albany instead. The state capital boasts a 6.4% unemployment rate and 2.6% in income growth. Nearly 33% of the population consists of single adults, so if you’re looking for someone special in your hometown, consider Albany. 

In terms of employment, you have many options. The government and economic industries are quite strong. Health care companies are popular in the area and the tech industry is also on the move. If you currently live on the West Coast, living on the East Coast will be a nice change of scenery. 

Omaha, Nebraska 

Known for its farming and the fact that it is the home of Warren Buffett, Omaha probably isn’t first on your list for places to move to. Omaha, however, is a place where the poor and rich can coexist peacefully, so even if you don’t have as much money as Warren Buffet, you can still make a great life for yourself here. 

If you enjoy music, Omaha has a burgeoning music scene. The city is also revitalizing its downtown areas to create more buildings and jobs. The two biggest employers are ConAgra Foods and Mutual of Omaha. Omaha is also known for Reuben sandwiches and a fun place called Cool Stuff, which boasts tie-dye clothing, Halloween costumes, CDs and incense. If you’re looking for a laid-back environment with a country feel, don’t overlook Omaha.  

Bali 

No, Bali isn’t located in the United States, but who says you can’t start over in another country? An island off of Indonesia, Bali has it all, from beaches to mountains to rice paddies. Bali is not only a gorgeous place to live, but it’s also surprisingly cheap. The average one-bedroom place costs just $200 a month. Food and groceries are also much cheaper in Bali than in the United States. You can eat like a king there for very little money, so if finances are a concern, consider Bali. 

Mexico 

Many former American citizens have gone on to live in our neighbor to the south. While not all cities in Mexico are affordable (or safe), Mexico City, Los Cabos and Sayulita are some great places to consider. They are also budget-friendly. The most expensive places in Mexico charge $750 a month to rent a one-bedroom apartment. That’s probably a better deal than what you’re living in right now. Mexico is a great place to truly get away from it all without having to jet halfway across the world. 

Portugal 

if you’ve always dreamed of living in Europe, but can’t afford Paris and the like, consider Portugal. Portugal is not too far from France, plus it’s extremely affordable. Portugal is a hot spot for travelers, but if you want to live there, you won’t have to break the bank. In the city of Porto, a one-bedroom apartment can be yours for a budget friendly $500 a month. 

Thailand 

Thailand may seem a bit too much for many people, especially Bangkok, which is home to more than 8 million people. However, there are many other cities to consider in this beautiful country, which boasts gorgeous beaches, royal places and temples. Consider visiting it first, as most of those who do instantly fall in love. 

If you do decide to move to Thailand, you’ll save a ton of money with the cost of living 44% lower than New York. You can eat for just several bucks a meal. You’ll have access to some of the best food in the world. Plus, rent is affordable, with the average rent in Bangkok at around $600 a month.  

Start Over Anew Today 

Being a stranger in a strange land can be a frightening experience, but you can make it work, even if your finances aren’t in the best shape. Many people have got up and moved to new cities to start over. You won’t be the first and you definitely won’t be the last. 

If you’re bored with your life and ready to start over, consider one of the cities listed above. You may think that running away from your problems isn’t the answer to the difficulties you are facing in life, but sometimes it is. A change of pace in a city far away from bad memories and toxic people may be just the thing you need in your life. So pack your bags and start planning a move today. 

Sources: 

https://www.creditdonkey.com/start-over-small.html 

https://www.moneyunder30.com/best-cities-young-broke-single-8800 

http://thezoereport.com/culture/travel/cheapest-places-to-live-in-the-world/