Atlanta is considered moderately expensive in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $1,950 and slightly higher grocery and transportation costs compared to the national average.
In 2025, the average monthly cost of living in Atlanta for a single person is around $3,200 before taxes. For a couple, a comfortable lifestyle may require a gross monthly income of $4,800. Here’s a closer look at the expenses that make up Atlanta’s cost of living.
Housing Costs in Atlanta
Housing is the biggest expense for most Atlanta residents. In 2025, the typical rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Atlanta ranges from $1,700 to $2,200 per month, depending on the neighborhood and amenities. Buying a 3-bedroom house in Atlanta will cost between $350,000 and $550,000 on average.
Some of the more affordable neighborhoods for renters include:
- East Point: $1,500 – $1,800 for a 2-bedroom
- Decatur: $1,600 – $1,900 for a 2-bedroom
- Chamblee: $1,700 – $2,000 for a 2-bedroom
Pricier areas like Buckhead and Virginia-Highland can see rents over $2,500 for a 2-bedroom apartment. HOA fees are common in many Atlanta neighborhoods, adding $200 to $400 per month on top of mortgage or rent payments.
Utilities and Energy Bills
In Atlanta, basic utilities like electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 915 sq. ft. apartment cost around $180 per month. High summer temperatures mean cooling costs tend to spike from June through September. Expect to pay $250 or more per month for energy bills during the hottest months.
| Utility | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $110 |
| Gas | $40 |
| Water | $30 |
| Trash | $25 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries in Atlanta cost about $350 per person per month, which is slightly higher than the national average. A gallon of milk is around $3.80, a loaf of bread is $2.50, and a dozen eggs cost $2.20. Dining out will add to your food budget, with an average meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing $15.
Here’s an example of what a typical grocery basket might cost in Atlanta:
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.80
- 1 loaf of bread: $2.50
- 1 dozen eggs: $2.20
- 1 lb chicken breast: $4.50
- 1 lb apples: $2.00
Taxes and Hidden Fees
The property tax rate in Atlanta is around 1.1%, which is slightly higher than the national average. For a $400,000 home, that equates to $4,400 per year or $367 per month. Sales tax in Atlanta is 8.9%, which includes the state rate of 4% plus local taxes.
Vehicle owners in Atlanta must pay an annual ad valorem tax based on the value of their car. The rate is 6.75% of the vehicle’s assessed value. For example, the owner of a $20,000 car would owe $1,350 per year or $113 per month.
Monthly Budget Summary
| Expense Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent for 2BR) | $1,950 | $1,950 | $2,500 |
| Utilities | $180 | $220 | $320 |
| Groceries | $350 | $700 | $1,200 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| Healthcare | $300 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Miscellaneous | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Total Monthly Expenses | $3,280 | $4,270 | $6,220 |
| Recommended Gross Income (Monthly) | $4,100 | $5,300 | $7,800 |
Lifestyle Considerations
Living comfortably in Atlanta often means making tradeoffs between housing costs, commute times, and neighborhood amenities. Homes inside the Perimeter tend to be pricier but offer shorter commutes and better access to jobs, dining, and entertainment. More affordable options exist in the suburbs, but residents may face longer drives and less walkability.
Atlanta’s notorious traffic means many residents prioritize living close to work or MARTA stations. Walkable neighborhoods like Midtown, Virginia-Highland, and Decatur command higher rents and home prices but can significantly reduce transportation costs and commute stress. More car-dependent suburbs like Alpharetta, Kennesaw, and Lawrenceville offer larger homes for lower prices, but residents spend more time and money getting around.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What salary do you need to live comfortably in Atlanta?
A: To live comfortably in Atlanta, a single person needs to earn around $50,000 per year before taxes ($4,100 per month). A couple would need a combined gross income of $64,000 annually, or $5,300 per month.
Q: Is Atlanta cheaper than other major cities?
A: Compared to cities like New York, San Francisco, and Washington D.C., Atlanta is relatively affordable. However, it is more expensive than smaller cities in the Southeast like Charlotte, Nashville, and Birmingham.
Q: What is the cheapest place to live near Atlanta?
A: Some of the most affordable suburbs near Atlanta include Lithonia, Forest Park, Conley, and Riverdale. In these areas, it’s possible to find a 2-bedroom apartment for under $1,200 per month.
Q: How much money should I save before moving to Atlanta?
A: Aim to save at least 3 months’ worth of living expenses before relocating. For a single person, that’s around $10,000. For a couple, save at least $15,000 to cover rent, deposits, and other moving costs.
Q: What are the highest-paying jobs in Atlanta?
A: Some of the highest-paying professions in Atlanta include surgeons, anesthesiologists, chief executives, and software developers. However, salaries vary widely depending on experience, industry, and employer.
Q: How much does childcare cost in Atlanta?
A: The average cost of childcare in Atlanta is around $1,000 per month for an infant and $800 per month for a 4-year-old. However, prices can range from $700 to over $1,500 depending on the type of care and location.
Q: Is Atlanta a good place to retire?
A: Atlanta can be a good retirement spot for those seeking a mild climate, affordable housing, and access to world-class healthcare. However, retirees on a fixed income may find the rising cost of living and high taxes challenging.