The cost of living in Atlanta, Georgia is relatively moderate when compared to other major cities in the United States. However, the cost of living in Atlanta can vary depending on the neighborhood, the type of housing, and lifestyle preferences. Here’s how the cost of living in Atlanta compares to other places:
Compared to other major cities
Atlanta’s cost of living is lower than other major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living between cities, Atlanta’s cost of living index is 76.62, while New York’s is 100.00, San Francisco’s is 98.33, and Los Angeles’ is 83.22. This means that the cost of living in Atlanta is about 24% lower than in New York and 22% lower than in San Francisco.
Compared to other cities in the Southeast
Compared to other cities in the Southeast, Atlanta’s cost of living is relatively high. According to a 2021 report by the Council for Community and Economic Research, Atlanta’s cost of living index is 103.6, which is higher than the national average of 100. Other cities in the Southeast like Birmingham, Alabama, and Charlotte, North Carolina, have a lower cost of living index at 89.3 and 97.8, respectively.
Housing costs
Housing costs in Atlanta are moderate compared to other major cities. According to Zillow, in recent history, the median home value in Atlanta was $306,700, which is lower than cities like San Francisco and New York, where the median home value is now more than $1,378,600 and $683,600, respectively. However, Atlanta’s median home value is higher than other cities in the Southeast like Birmingham, where the median home value is $148,300.
Rent costs in Atlanta vary depending on the neighborhood and type of housing. According to RentCafe, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Atlanta might be, for instance, $1,425, while the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment would be more like $1,844. These rent prices are lower than in cities like San Francisco, where the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is now in excess of $3,100, and New York, where the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is more than $3,000.
Other living expenses
Prices of a meal at a mid-range restaurant or for a gallon of milk are similar to other cities in the Southeast like Birmingham and Charlotte.
In conclusion, the cost of living in Atlanta is moderate compared to other major cities in the United States, but higher than some cities in the Southeast. Housing costs in Atlanta are moderate compared to other major cities, while rent costs vary depending on the neighborhood and type of housing. Other living expenses in Atlanta are relatively moderate compared to other major cities and other cities in the Southeast. However, it is important to keep in mind that the cost of living can vary depending on individual lifestyle preferences, and it is always a good idea to research and compare costs before making any big decisions.