Longmont is not all that inexpensive, though certainly less expensive than Boulder proper. Rental prices in 2016 are horrendous and many people are struggling. Pricing not be the biggest obstacle, however, as finding a rental seems to be very challenging in the current economy. My husband and I have lived here for the last 13 years, after moving from out of state. We have not found people to be particularly friendly or welcoming. I wouldn't say people are rude, but more stand-offish, in our experience. There's not a lot of culture to be immersed in (you'd be better off sticking in Boulder for that). Longmont is trying, somewhat, but it seems to be a very slow process. We moved to Colorado to escape high prices and have found ourselves in the same situation again, so we may be looking for a new area soon, whether we like it or not.