Land prices have exploded in most of the country—but not everywhere. If you know where to look, there are still pockets where raw land can be had for under $1,000 an acre. These aren’t urban lots or prime farmland, but for off-grid living, long-term holds, or low-cost investing, they’re worth a serious look.
1. Arizona
Outside of Phoenix and Flagstaff, rural Arizona still has large parcels listed for dirt cheap—especially in counties like Apache, Cochise, and Navajo. These areas are popular for off-grid setups thanks to the dry climate, solar potential, and minimal restrictions.
Some investors buy 5–10 acre lots for as little as $500 an acre, hold them for a few years, and flip them once prices catch up. Just be aware of access roads and water availability before you jump in.
2. New Mexico
New Mexico offers a lot of land for very little money. In counties like Luna, Valencia, and Torrance, it’s still common to find raw desert acreage under $1,000 per acre. There’s also a big RV and homesteading crowd that keeps interest steady.
It’s not uncommon to see 1–5 acre parcels on sites like LandWatch or LandFlip selling with owner financing and no credit checks, which opens the door for first-time buyers.
3. Texas (Far West and Panhandle)
Texas land near cities is out of reach for most—but the far west and Panhandle regions are a different story. Places like Hudspeth and Culberson County offer huge tracts at old-school prices, often well under $1,000 an acre for bulk deals.
These areas are remote, but if you’re thinking long-term or just want to park some money in hard assets, it’s a low-barrier entry point into Texas real estate.
4. Colorado (San Luis Valley)
While Colorado is known for expensive mountain property, the San Luis Valley is one of the last affordable frontiers. Saguache, Costilla, and Alamosa counties have land listings around $750 an acre—sometimes less for multiple parcels.
This region attracts people looking to go off-grid or invest in land banking. It’s flat, buildable, and surrounded by beautiful views, even if it’s not tourist-heavy.
5. Nevada (Outside Reno and Vegas)
Once you get outside the Reno or Vegas metro areas, prices drop fast. In rural Nevada—particularly Elko and Humboldt counties—you can still grab 1–10 acre lots for under $1,000 per acre in bulk deals or auctions.
There’s a growing interest in desert land from digital nomads and alternative home builders. Just be ready for dry conditions and some infrastructure challenges.
6. Arkansas
Parts of Arkansas remain one of the best-kept secrets in cheap land. In counties like Fulton, Sharp, and Izard, wooded lots under $1,000 an acre still show up regularly. These areas offer low property taxes and mild winters, which appeal to retirees and off-grid builders.
It’s also one of the few eastern states where you can still find usable, undeveloped land without paying a premium.
7. Mississippi
Mississippi doesn’t get much attention in land investing circles, but for raw rural property, it’s still extremely affordable. Counties like Wilkinson and Wayne often list acreage between $800–$1,000, especially when bought in 10+ acre bundles.
Timberland and hunting land are common plays here, and for long-term holds or low-maintenance investments, it’s worth exploring further.
The Bottom Line
If you’ve been priced out of the housing market or just want to park cash in something tangible, raw land is still one of the cheapest entry points. These seven states offer real deals under $1,000 an acre—but you’ll have to move smart, read the fine print, and plan for the long haul.
Alexander Clark is a financial writer with a knack for breaking down complex market trends and economic shifts. As a contributor to The Daily Overview, he offers readers clear, insightful analysis on everything from market movements to personal finance strategies. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for keeping up with the fast-paced world of finance, Alexander strives to make financial news accessible and engaging for everyone.
