If you’ve ever thought about making a fresh start in the heart of Georgia, Atlanta has probably made your shortlist. Known for its soulful southern hospitality, booming film industry, and an ever-evolving skyline, Atlanta is where tradition meets ambition. But before you pack your bags or dive headfirst into the housing market, you need to answer one crucial question: what’s the actual cost of living in Atlanta?
Housing Costs in Atlanta
Let’s start with the big-ticket item, housing. Whether you're renting or buying, the cost of living in Atlanta can vary wildly depending on where you plant your roots.
Renting: As of 2025, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Atlanta is around $1,600 per month. If you’re looking for more space, a two-bedroom can run you about $2,100, and luxury buildings in areas like Midtown or Buckhead can easily exceed $3,000.
Buying: Median home prices in the city hover around $420,000, but again, that number depends on the neighborhood. For example, you can still find homes in neighborhoods like East Atlanta or West End in the $300,000–$400,000 range, while homes in Buckhead or Virginia-Highland regularly list above $1 million.
Utility Costs in Atlanta
Electricity bills in Atlanta tend to rise with the summer heat. That air conditioning isn't just a luxury, it’s a survival tool.
On average, utility costs for a 900-square-foot apartment (electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage) land around $170 per month. Add another $60–$90 for internet and you’re looking at roughly $230 monthly for basic services.
Homes with larger square footage or older HVAC systems will pay more, especially in the hotter months when temps reach the mid-90s.
Transportation and Gas Prices
Atlanta is famously car-centric, though MARTA (the city’s public transit system) covers some areas with buses and trains.
Gas Prices: In 2025, the average price of gas is around $3.50 per gallon, slightly above the national average. If you’re commuting daily, expect to spend $150–$250/month on gas, depending on your car and route.
Public Transit: A monthly MARTA Breeze Card costs $95, giving you unlimited rides. However, coverage is limited, so owning a car remains a necessity for many.
Car Insurance & Maintenance: Annual insurance premiums average about $1,800, with higher rates in denser neighborhoods. Maintenance, oil changes, and parking fees add another $100–$200/month for most residents.
Groceries and Dining Out
Whether you’re picking up peaches at a local farmer’s market or grabbing brunch in Inman Park, food costs in Atlanta sit somewhere between affordable and upscale.
Groceries: Expect to spend about $350–$500 per month per person on groceries. Stores like Kroger, Publix, and Trader Joe’s are common, while Sprouts and Whole Foods cater to organic and health-focused shoppers.
Dining Out: Atlanta’s food scene is a mix of Southern comfort and global fusion. A meal at a casual restaurant will run around $15–$20, while a mid-range dinner for two could cost $70–$100, especially if drinks are involved.
Healthcare Expenses in Atlanta
Healthcare costs are a critical part of understanding the cost of living in Atlanta. Atlanta is home to top-tier medical institutions like Emory University Hospital and Piedmont Hospital, which offer excellent care, but it’s not always cheap.
If you’re self-employed or paying out of pocket, individual health insurance plans average around $450–$600/month. Employer-sponsored plans may significantly lower those costs. Co-pays for a routine doctor visit generally range from $30 to $60.
Prescription medication is in line with the national average, but always check if your pharmacy is in-network to avoid surprises.
Childcare and Education Costs
Families moving to Atlanta will want to factor in the cost of education and childcare.
Childcare: Daycare and preschool can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500/month depending on the location and facility. Some of the more prestigious or private centers charge well above that.
Public Schools: Atlanta Public Schools are free, but not all schools are created equal. Some neighborhoods, like Morningside and North Atlanta, are highly sought after for their strong school ratings, often driving up housing costs.
Private Schools: If you’re eyeing a private education, tuition in Atlanta can range from $10,000 to $30,000/year.
Taxes in Atlanta
Understanding the tax landscape can also help you grasp the total cost of living in Atlanta.
Sales Tax: Georgia has a state sales tax of 4%, but in Atlanta, the combined state and local rate is 8.9%, thanks to city and county add-ons.
Property Tax: Property taxes are moderate, with a millage rate in Fulton County averaging 1.05%. For a $400,000 home, that’s about $4,200 per year.
State Income Tax: Georgia has a flat 5.75% state income tax as of 2025. So keep that in mind when negotiating salaries or budgeting your income.
Entertainment and Leisure
There’s no shortage of things to do in Atlanta, from concerts and pro sports to hiking trails and breweries. But leisure comes with a price.
Sports & Events: A Hawks or Falcons ticket will set you back $50–$150 depending on the game and seating. Concerts at State Farm Arena or Mercedes-Benz Stadium often go well over $100.
Fitness Memberships: Gyms like LA Fitness or Planet Fitness cost about $30–$50/month, while boutique options (like spin, barre, or CrossFit) can run $100–$200/month.
Nightlife: Drinks in the city range from $6 beers to $15 cocktails. Nights out add up quickly, especially in neighborhoods like Edgewood, Midtown, or Buckhead.
Miscellaneous Costs
Let’s not forget the everyday expenses that sneak up on your budget.Haircuts: $25–$60, depending on where you go.
Pet care: Around $75/month for food, grooming, and vet visits.
Streaming services & subscriptions: $50/month on average.
These costs might not be deal breakers, but they add layers to your cost of living in Atlanta.
Neighborhoods That Impact Your Budget
Atlanta is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own culture, vibe, and price tag.
Midtown: Central, walkable, upscale. Expensive.
Decatur: Family-friendly, strong schools. Moderate housing prices.
West End: Artsy and up-and-coming. Still relatively affordable.
Buckhead: Luxury and nightlife central. One of the priciest areas.
Old Fourth Ward: Hip, historic, and rapidly gentrifying. Competitive rents.
Picking the right neighborhood can drastically impact your housing, commute, and overall lifestyle costs.
Salary Expectations vs. Reality
A common question among newcomers: “What salary do I need to live comfortably in Atlanta?”
A single adult with no children can get by on $55,000–$60,000/year, but if you're looking for more comfort, especially in prime neighborhoods, you’ll want to earn closer to $75,000–$85,000/year.
For families, a combined income of $120,000+ offers a more comfortable lifestyle that includes homeownership, occasional travel, and quality childcare or schooling.
Tips to Save on Atlanta Living Costs
If you’re concerned about costs, don’t worry. There are plenty of smart strategies to save:
Use MARTA passes to cut down on gas and parking fees.
Meal prep using discount grocers like Aldi or Lidl.
Live in emerging neighborhoods like Kirkwood or East Point for more affordable housing.
Find roommates if you’re single and renting.
Consider finding movers in Atlanta who offer seasonal discounts or bundles that include packing services.
Is Atlanta Still Affordable in 2025?
Compared to cities like New York, San Francisco, or even nearby Nashville, Atlanta is still considered moderately affordable. The key lies in choosing the right lifestyle, downtown luxury will cost you, but suburban comfort is still within reach.
Rising home prices and inflation have pushed the cost of living in Atlanta higher than it was just five years ago, but with proper budgeting and smart planning, many people still find the city an excellent place to live, work, and grow.
Is Atlanta Right for You?
At the end of the day, Atlanta is a city of opportunity, diversity, and cultural richness. Yes, the cost of living in Atlanta has risen, but so have the possibilities.
It’s a city that rewards hustle and creativity. If you’re looking for a place where you can grow your career, raise a family, or just experience life in a city that’s always evolving, Atlanta might just be the perfect fit.
And most importantly, don’t underestimate the moving process. From logistics to heavy lifting, the smartest move you can make is finding movers in Atlanta who understand the city and offer affordable, reliable services tailored to your needs.
