Finding the Cheapest Place to Buy Land in the US: Your Complete Investment Guide

If land ownership has been on your radar but prices have kept you away, the good news is there are plenty of opportunities in the United States where you can acquire acreage for well under $10,000 per acre. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time buyer looking for the cheapest place to buy land in the US, understanding the regional market dynamics is key to making a smart purchase.

Land investment offers distinct advantages compared to other real estate ventures. Unlike traditional home purchases, buying land requires minimal ongoing maintenance, provides significant potential for value appreciation, and can serve as a genuine hedge against inflation. As financial planning experts note, the beauty of raw land is that “they cannot make more of it”—making it one of the few truly finite investments available. Prices typically remain insulated from stock market volatility, and when managed strategically, land can generate truly passive income as its value compounds over time.

Why Choose Land Over Traditional Real Estate?

The case for undeveloped land extends beyond simple economics. Many investors appreciate the flexibility of raw acreage—whether it becomes a hunting retreat, a family vacation property, or a development opportunity. The geographic diversity of affordable options means you can find land that matches both your investment goals and your lifestyle preferences. The Midwest and Southern states, in particular, offer exceptional value propositions, with states like Arkansas delivering scenic mountain properties, Mississippi providing forested tracts, and New Mexico offering distinctive desert landscapes.

The Top 10 States with the Most Affordable Per-Acre Prices

Based on market data from landsearch.com as of mid-2023, here are the regions where you’ll find the lowest per-acre pricing on undeveloped land across the nation:

Alaska - Starting at Under $11,000 per Acre

Per-acre average: $10,857
Median total property cost: $371,825

The Last Frontier offers opportunities like 2 acres of residential land in Delta Junction for just $9,000. While Alaska tops the list as one of the pricier options, its vast landscape still provides reasonably priced options for those seeking remote, spacious properties with development potential.

Mississippi - Wooded Acreage Starting Around $10,000

Per-acre average: $9,976
Median total property cost: $217,886

Mississippi strikes an excellent balance between affordability and amenities. You can secure a small 0.31-acre wooded lot in Hillsdale for merely $1,500. Properties in this region often feature proximity to lakes ideal for fishing, quiet rural settings near interstate access, and community amenities including golf courses and recreational facilities.

West Virginia - Golf and Mountain Properties Under $10,000

Per-acre average: $9,806
Median total property cost: $215,040

West Virginia offers remarkable bargains, particularly for niche properties. One listing in Daniels showcases just how affordable it can be—0.26 acre of golf course frontage for a mere $100. Such properties provide scenic views and resort access, making them attractive for those seeking lifestyle properties at investment prices.

Colorado - Mountain Views at Reasonable Per-Acre Costs

Per-acre average: $8,696
Median total property cost: $445,367

Colorado’s Mountain Front region remains competitive despite its scenic appeal. Residential plots in Colorado City start around $2,500 for 0.1 acre, often featuring dramatic views of peaks like Green Horn Mountain. The per-acre pricing reflects the growing desirability of Colorado’s high-altitude properties.

Montana - Big Skies, Small Price Tags

Per-acre average: $7,826
Median total property cost: $736,131

Montana delivers exceptional per-acre value, with residential plots in Glendive available for $5,000 and under. A typical listing might offer 0.09 acre (3,723 square feet) with city water, sewer, and utility infrastructure already in place—eliminating significant development costs for future builders.

Oklahoma - Rapid Market Adjustments Create Deals

Per-acre average: $7,779
Median total property cost: $258,203

Oklahoma properties can offer significant value, particularly when you spot listings with recent price adjustments. Residential land in Indianola can be found for $2,000 covering 0.17 acre. Savvy investors who monitor price trends in this state frequently discover opportunities where asking prices have dropped significantly from initial listings.

Kansas - Great Plains Acreage at Budget Prices

Per-acre average: $7,330
Median total property cost: $377,391

Kansas provides some of the best per-acre pricing in the nation. Residential plots in towns like Ozawkie start at $3,200, making it accessible for those with modest budgets. The state’s flat terrain and agricultural heritage mean land often attracts both investors and those seeking rural lifestyle properties.

North Dakota - Build-Ready Lots with Infrastructure Included

Per-acre average: $6,503
Median total property cost: $147,680

North Dakota ranks among the cheapest places to buy land in the US, with some of the lowest overall prices. Properties in Rolla demonstrate this value—0.21 acre of build-ready land for $12,000, complete with water, sewer, and electrical infrastructure already installed. This pre-developed infrastructure significantly reduces construction costs for future development.

Wyoming - Commercial Development Opportunities

Per-acre average: $5,597
Average total property cost: $640,140

Wyoming delivers some of the lowest per-acre rates nationally. For entrepreneurs interested in commercial real estate ventures, Gillette offers 0.11 acre of developable commercial land for $11,000. The state’s business-friendly environment combines with low land costs to attract commercial investors.

New Mexico - Desert Properties at Rock-Bottom Prices

Per-acre average: $5,352
Median total property cost: $194,533

New Mexico stands out as offering the absolute cheapest place to buy land in the US by per-acre pricing. Belen showcases extreme affordability—0.5 acre of raw land for just $750. New Mexico’s distinctive desert character appeals to specific buyers, and the pricing reflects both its niche market appeal and genuine abundance of available acreage.

Making Your Land Investment Decision

The data reveals clear patterns: land in the Midwest and South consistently offers superior value compared to coastal regions. Your optimal choice depends on three factors: your investment timeline, your geographic preferences, and your development intentions. Whether you’re purchasing for speculation, personal use, or long-term wealth building, these ten states represent the current market’s best opportunities for affordable acreage acquisition.

The cheapest place to buy land in the US varies by individual needs, but across these states, you’ll find legitimate opportunities to become a landowner without six-figure investments. As you evaluate options, remember that land values typically appreciate over extended timeframes while requiring minimal active management—a powerful combination for building wealth steadily.