Cost Of Living
💰 Cost of Living in Atlanta – Is Atlanta Affordable?
What It Costs to Live in Atlanta & How It Compares to Other Cities
Thinking about moving to Atlanta? Whether you’re relocating for work, lifestyle, or investment, understanding the cost of living in Atlanta is essential. The good news? Atlanta is one of the most affordable major cities in the U.S.compared to places like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago—but costs can vary based on where you live, your lifestyle, and your housing choices.
At HK Realty, we help buyers and renters navigate Metro Atlanta’s housing market to find homes that fit their budget and lifestyle. Let’s break down the true cost of living in Atlanta so you can plan your move with confidence!
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🏡 Housing Costs in Atlanta
One of the biggest factors in the cost of living is housing prices. Here’s what you can expect:
🏠 Buying a Home in Atlanta
🔹Median Home Price: ~$425,000 (as of 2025)
🔹More affordable than cities like Miami, Austin, and Denver
🔹Best neighborhoods for affordable homes: Marietta, Smyrna, and Tucker
🔹 Explore Atlanta Homes for Sale
🔹 Get a Free Home Valuation
🏢 Renting in Atlanta
🔹Average Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,750/month
🔹Luxury apartments in Midtown & Buckhead: $2,500+
🔹More affordable options in Decatur & College Park
🔹 Find Rental Properties in Atlanta
💡 External Resource: Compare Atlanta rent prices on Apartments.com
🛒 Everyday Expenses in Atlanta
Atlanta offers affordable living compared to other major cities, but costs can vary depending on lifestyle.
| Expense | Atlanta Average | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas) | $200 – $250 | $240 – $300 |
| Groceries (for one person) | $350 – $450 | $400 – $500 |
| Public Transportation (MARTA) | $2.50 per ride | $3.00 per ride |
| Gas Prices | $3.40/gallon | $3.80/gallon |
💡 External Resource: Check real-time Atlanta cost of living data on Numbeo
🚗 Transportation Costs in Atlanta
One of the main downsides to Atlanta’s affordability is transportation costs, especially if you drive daily.
🔹Traffic & Commute Time: 30-45 minutes average
🔹MARTA (Public Transit): $2.50 per ride or $95 monthly pass
🔹Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Avg. $15 per trip in city center
💡 Looking for walkable neighborhoods? Explore Car-Free Living in Atlanta
💼 Job Market & Income in Atlanta
🔹Median Household Income: ~$75,000
🔹Growing job sectors: Tech, Healthcare, Film, Logistics
🔹No state income tax on Social Security for retirees
💡 External Resource: Learn about top employers in Atlanta on Indeed
📍 Is Atlanta Affordable? Final Thoughts
Overall, Atlanta remains an affordable city compared to other metro areas. Whether you’re buying a home, renting, or investing, you can find housing options that fit your budget.
Thinking About Moving to Atlanta? Let’s Find the Right Home for You!
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