American cities with high walkability but low cost of living?

[Enrique Kratz]

Hey guys, 

Recent college grad, thinking of buying an apartment. I was living in NYC and I really like it, however, it's very expensive, it doesn't seem like a good place to live when you are starting out in life. 

I'm looking for somewhere  where I can walk around and see shops, stores and dining. However, that it isn't that expensive. I'm looking for something with a relatively lower cost of living compared to NYC. 

I'm wondering what you guys have in mind?