There is no official ranking of the cheapest US state to live in, and the answer depends on your lifestyle. Housing is the biggest cost for most people, and housing prices differ far more between cities than the state averages suggest.
In general, states in the Midwest and South have lower housing costs, cheaper groceries, and lower taxes than coastal states. Smaller cities and towns cost less than big metros in any state. Rural areas are cheapest of all, but they offer fewer jobs and services.
To compare honestly, price out rent, transport, food, health insurance, and taxes for the specific city you would live in. State level averages hide big differences. A cheap state with a long car dependent commute can cost more than a pricier state where you can walk or take transit.
Related reading: which state is cheapest for international students, how much money a student needs in the USA, which US state is best for international students, and which city is cheapest to study in the USA.

