5 Southern Cities Where $100K Still Buys a Home
Buying a home has become much more expensive than it was just five years ago. According to Zillow, the average home price nationwide is up to $372,995 (as of July 14, 2026).
Fortunately, if you’re looking to purchase a home in the South and keep it well under the average, you’re in luck. There are still several cities where you can buy a house for under $100,000. Here are five standouts to consider.
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1. Jackson, Mississippi
If you want to stay in a larger metropolitan area, Jackson, Mississippi should be high on your list. With an average home price of $85,739, it's one of the few remaining capital cities where move-in-ready homes in desirable neighborhoods are available in the sub-$100,000 range.
With values increasing only modestly over the past year, affordability has remained intact for those still looking to buy. However, because conditions can vary greatly from one neighborhood to the next, it’s important to do plenty of research before moving too far into the sales process.
2. Pine Bluff, Arkansas
Located about 45 minutes from Little Rock, the city of Pine Bluff is a popular destination for retirees, investors and first-time buyers because of the ability to buy with low monthly payments. With average home prices at $77,734, affordability here is significantly higher than in many other parts of the country.
Home values have decreased slightly over the past year, further improving affordability. However, many homes are older, so it’s important to prioritize inspections to make sure you’re not buying into any major hidden issues.
3. Natchez, Mississippi
While many haven’t heard of Natchez, which has a population of only 12,500, it’s a large Mississippi River city with strong appeal to tourists. Even though the average home price is $117,516, many homes are available for under $100,000.
One of the big draws of Natchez is that the homes are full of character rather than new developments. Just be aware that this character can also bring issues that need to be spotted during an inspection.
4. Albany, Georgia
Albany, Georgia, located in the southeastern part of the state, is a regional healthcare hub that helps create stable employment opportunities. While average home prices are $134,986, many homes still come in under the $100,000 mark. Most residents love Albany because it offers a slower pace of life and a lower cost of living compared to places like Atlanta or Savannah.
5. Monroe, Louisiana
Located in northeastern Louisiana, Monroe has lower property taxes and housing prices than many other areas in the South. Its average home price is $155,595, but there are many neighborhoods where you can still find homes under $100,000.
Keep in mind that many of these less expensive homes are older and would require a thorough inspection. There is also a good chance they would require renovations, which could impact the overall cost.
Editor's note: All average home price data sourced from Zillow on July 14, 2026 and subject to change.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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