Why is it important to know the cost of living in Atlanta? Whether you’re planning to study abroad in Atlanta or relocate to the city, understanding Atlanta cost of living is essential for managing your budget, which is the primary factor in living a harmonious and meticulously planned life. Gauging various financial aspects of living will help you create your desired lifestyle and navigate the city’s unique offerings. This article will provide crucial cost information, including housing, utilities, daily necessities, transportation, recreation, and healthcare, so you can make informed decisions about your fantastic life in Atlanta.
Is Atlanta Expensive?
First and foremost, determining whether the cost of living in Atlanta is expensive depends on your income and lifestyle. This article aims to objectively analyse whether residing in Atlanta is costly.
According to BestPlaces, the cost of living Atlanta is 13.3% above the national average and 19.9% higher than the Georgia average. As a well-known metropolitan area in the United States and the economic and cultural hub of Georgia, it’s unsurprising that the price of living in Atlanta, Georgia, is slightly higher than in many other parts of the country. Next, let’s delve deeper and examine each aspect of the cost of living in Atlanta GA.
Cost of Living in Atlanta: General Overview
Atlanta GA cost of living encompasses several key areas, including housing, utilities, daily necessities, transportation, recreation, and healthcare. The following is a comparative analysis of the monthly median expenses for a person living in Atlanta, compared with the averages for Georgia and the United States.
| Cost of Living in Atlanta | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Item | Atlanta | Georgia | USA |
| House for Sale | $364,300.00 | $308,200.00 | $338,100.00 |
| Apartment for Rent(two-bedroom apartment) | $1,730.00 | $1,280.00 | $1,430.00 |
| Utilities | $195.39 | $66.67 | $204.90 |
| Groceries | $414.00 | $550.00 | $389.00 |
| Transportation | $150.00 | $21.60 | $150.00 |
| Entertainment | $89.60 | $65.57 | $82.00 |
| Healthcare | $128.01 | NA | $137.40 |
Cost of Living in Atlanta: Housing
For Non-Students
For those relocating to Atlanta, securing housing is a top priority. Housing costs significantly influence the overall Atlanta living expenses. Currently, the median home price in Atlanta is $364,000. Similarly, the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,730.
For Students
Off-Campus Living: Student Apartments in Atlanta
Student housing is an excellent choice for students planning to study in Atlanta, which offers greater independence and privacy. An affordable student apartment can significantly cut down on the cost of living in Atlanta for international students.
- The price range for student apartments varies between $800 and $3,930, influenced by the type of room, location, and the amenities the apartment offers.
Selecting the perfect student apartments in Atlanta is essential for enriching the college experience. Key factors include location, amenities, security, specific housing needs, and affordability. Atlanta boasts numerous quality and affordable student apartments situated near colleges and universities and in vibrant local neighborhoods. These apartments often are fully furnished and equipped with modern amenities, providing students comfortable, safe, and convenient living spaces to help students adjust to Atlanta life and support their academic success.
Fortunately, we’ve found a list of affordable and comfortable student apartments in Atlanta, such as One 12 Courtland, 100 Midtown, and Inspire Atlanta. Students planning to move to the city and those already here can save on their living expenses in Atlanta by considering renting one of these well-suited properties.
On-Campus Living: University Halls
University halls are university-provided residential facilities aimed at easing students’ transition into their new culture and environment. Situated on campus, these halls offer both single and shared rooms, with access to communal kitchens and bathrooms. Though living space and privacy may be limited, this experience fosters a supportive and immersive university life.
- The price range for an Ensuite or a studio varies between $800 and $1,500.
Cost of Living in Atlanta: Utilities
As part of the price of living in Atlanta, it’s essential to account for utilities as a monthly expense when budgeting. These costs vary depending on location, usage, seasons, and service providers. Utilities typically include essential services like electricity, heating, cooling, water, and waste disposal. In Atlanta, utility costs are notably 14% lower than the national average.
- Electricity, heating, cooling, water and garbage for an 85 square meter apartment is $195.39 per month.
Cost of Living in Atlanta: Groceries
Groceries is pivotal in determining the overall Atlanta living cost. The cost of groceries includes fruits, vegetables, grains, eggs, and milk. In Atlanta, grocery prices are notably 7% lower than the national average, and the monthly expense varies based on family size and preferred products. Here are some of the current grocery prices in Atlanta compared with the nation and the state:
| Groceries | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Item | Atlanta | Georgia | USA |
| Milk (1 gallon) | $1.09 | $7.16 | $1.05 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (1 lb) | $3.58 | $0.56 | $3.57 |
| Rice (1 lb) | $5.91 | $0.78 | $4.55 |
| Eggs (12) | $3.76 | $2.33 | $3.67 |
Cost of Living in Atlanta: Transportation
Transportation costs form a small yet significant portion of the living expenses in Atlanta. In Atlanta, transportation encompasses driving and public transit options. Transportation expenses in Atlanta are approximately 3% above the national average.
- For those who drive, the primary expense is petrol, which averages $3.48 per gallon.
- Public transport offers an affordable alternative, with one-way tickets priced at $2.50 and monthly passes for $95.
Naturally, cycling or walking for nearby journeys can be a cost-effective transportation alternative tailored to suit specific circumstances. For Atlanta students, there is another alternative method to save money on transportation. They can use the UPASS (University Pass Program) for just $68.50, granting unlimited access to MARTA’s buses and streetcars. MARTA stands out as a premier public transportation system in Atlanta, offering an extensive network of buses and streetcars that conveniently serve the surrounding suburbs. This will, in turn, make the cost of living in Atlanta more affordable.
Cost of Living in Atlanta: Entertainment
Residing in the vibrant city Atlanta, a dream destination for tourists, means that the cost of entertainment is inherently part of the average cost of living in Atlanta. Daily leisure activities often include indulging in sports events and theatre performances:
| Entertainment | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Item | Atlanta | Georgia | USA |
| Fitness Club | $63.50 | $47.17 | $46.27 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour) | $9.60 | $12.31 | $21.47 |
| Cinema | $16.50 | $6.09 | $14.00 |
Moreover, Atlanta boasts an extraordinary array of memorable attractions, making it essential to consider the costs of experiencing things the city offers.
- Fernbank Museum Of Natural History:
Tickets: Adults (13-64) – $25.95, seniors (65+) – $24.95, children (3-12) – $23.95
- World of Coca-Cola:
Tickets: Adults (13-64) – $19, Seniors (65+) – $17, Children (3-12) – $15
- High Museum of Art:
Tickets: Adults (13-64)- $16.50, free for children under 6 years of age
Atlanta is home to countless other attractions too numerous to mention here. Additionally, there are also a wealth of free things to do in Atlanta, perfect for those looking to explore without breaking the bank.
Cost of Living in Atlanta: Healthcare
Healthcare expenses generally encompass medical prescriptions, doctor appointments, and other health-related services.
| Healthcare | ||
|---|---|---|
| Item | Atlanta | USA |
| Dentist Visit | $142.65 | $114.87 |
| Doctor Visit | $128.01 | $137.40 |
| Optometrist Visit | $128.60 | $126.99 |
| Prescription Drug | $376.87 | $355.98 |
In Atlanta, health insurance costs vary significantly depending on the chosen healthcare provider, and the specific insurance coverage. Health insurance costs in Atlanta are 7% higher than the national average, with the typical health insurance premium at approximately $590 per month.
Conclusion
After knowing the cost of living in Atlanta, you must have high aspirations for a better life in this vibrant city. This guide offers insights into the expenses associated with housing, utilities, daily necessities, transportation, recreation, healthcare, and some strategies to help reduce specific costs. While the initial price of living in Atlanta, Georgia, may seem intimidating, learning it is more than just managing expenses—it’s about investing in your future well-being. By carefully planning every aspect of your budget, you can ensure a continually improving quality of life in Atlanta.
FAQ
Is it expensive to live in Atlanta?
Cost of living in Atlanta is generally lower than in many other major US cities like New York or San Francisco. Housing, in particular, tends to be more affordable, with a variety of options ranging from bustling student apartments in Atlanta to private apartments and suburban family homes.
Is rent in Atlanta expensive?
No, the average rent in Atlanta is $1,574 per month, generally lower than in many other major US cities like New York or San Francisco. In addition, there are many affordable apartments in Atlanta on uhomes.com, with a price as low as $800 per month.
How much is the average housing in Atlanta GA?
The median price for renting an apartment in Atlanta is $2,365. The median cost for homes in Atlanta is $425,000, showing a year-over-year decline of 3.2%. As the city continues to evolve, Atlanta offers diverse neighborhoods that cater to a range of preferences and budgets, ensuring a place that truly feels like home.
