Johns Creek is considered an expensive Atlanta suburb in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $2,400 and above-average housing costs overall.
For a couple living comfortably in Johns Creek, expect to need a gross monthly income of around $6,500 to cover all typical expenses. Let’s break down the numbers.
Housing Costs in Johns Creek
Housing is the biggest expense for most Johns Creek residents. A typical 2-bedroom apartment rents for $2,200 to $2,600 per month as of 2025. Buying a modest 3-bedroom house will cost between $450,000 to $600,000 depending on the neighborhood, with older homes on the lower end.
Popular neighborhoods like Ocee and Shakerag tend to have higher housing costs, while areas further from GA 400 like Newtown may be slightly more affordable. Many Johns Creek neighborhoods have homeowners associations (HOAs), which can add $200 to $400 per month.
Here’s a quick comparison of housing costs in different Johns Creek areas:
| Neighborhood | Typical 2BR Rent | Median 3BR House Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ocee | $2,500 | $575,000 |
| Shakerag | $2,400 | $550,000 |
| Newtown | $2,200 | $475,000 |
Utilities and Energy Bills
Basic utilities in Johns Creek cost around $250 per month for a 1,000 square foot apartment, including electric, gas, water, and trash. Expect air conditioning costs to spike in the hot summer months.
High-speed internet averages $75 per month. Most homes are individually metered, but some HOAs cover certain utilities in their fees.
Groceries and Food
Groceries in Johns Creek cost about 5% more than the national average. Budget $400 per month for a single person or $1,000 for a family of four. Dining out will add around $300 per person monthly, assuming a mix of casual and upscale restaurants.
A typical grocery basket with basics like milk, bread, eggs, and produce costs about $50 in Johns Creek, compared to $45-$48 in more affordable Atlanta suburbs.
Taxes and Fees
The property tax rate in Johns Creek is 0.545%, slightly higher than the Fulton County average of 0.49%. For a $500,000 home, annual property taxes would be around $2,725.
Georgia has a 4% state income tax and 4% sales tax. Johns Creek residents also pay a 7.75% sales tax on most purchases. Vehicle registration fees are $20 per year.
Monthly Budget Summary
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent or mortgage) | $1,800 | $2,400 | $3,000 |
| Utilities | $200 | $250 | $400 |
| Groceries & Dining Out | $700 | $1,400 | $2,100 |
| Transportation | $500 | $800 | $1,200 |
| Healthcare | $300 | $600 | $1,200 |
| Other (entertainment, shopping, etc) | $500 | $1,000 | $1,500 |
| Total Monthly Expenses | $4,000 | $6,450 | $9,400 |
Note: All figures are estimates and will vary based on lifestyle and exact location. Expenses are based on gross monthly income (pre-tax).
Lifestyle Considerations
Living in Johns Creek offers excellent schools, low crime rates, and plenty of parks and green space. However, the tradeoff is a higher cost of living compared to other Atlanta suburbs. Homes tend to be newer and larger, but come with a bigger price tag.
Many Johns Creek neighborhoods are car-dependent, so factor in the costs of owning and maintaining a vehicle. Commute times can be lengthy, with an average of 30-40 minutes each way to major employment centers.
For those who prioritize top-notch schools and a family-friendly environment, the higher housing costs in Johns Creek may be worth the premium. More budget-conscious residents might consider nearby Alpharetta or Suwanee instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much do you need to make to live comfortably in Johns Creek?
A couple would need a combined gross income of at least $6,500 per month to afford a typical Johns Creek lifestyle. Families may require $9,000 or more. - Is Johns Creek more expensive than other Atlanta suburbs?
Yes, Johns Creek has higher housing costs than the Atlanta metro average. Nearby Alpharetta and Suwanee are more affordable options. - Are there any affordable neighborhoods in Johns Creek?
Newtown and areas further from GA 400 tend to have slightly lower housing costs, but are still above the Atlanta average. - How much are property taxes in Johns Creek?
The Johns Creek property tax rate is 0.545%. For a $500,000 home, expect to pay around $2,725 per year. - Is it better to rent or buy in Johns Creek?
It depends on your budget and long-term plans. Renting allows more flexibility, but buying can be a good investment if you plan to stay 5+ years. Use a rent vs buy calculator to compare costs. - What salary do you need to buy a house in Johns Creek?
To afford a typical $500,000 house with a 10% down payment, you’d need a gross income of around $11,000 per month. Speak to a local lender for personalized estimates.