Johns Creek, GA vs. Smyrna, GA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Johns Creek or Smyrna? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life monthly expenses of living in Johns Creek vs Smyrna in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare:
| Housing Type | Johns Creek | Smyrna |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $375,000 |
🏆 Winner: Smyrna. A household moving from Johns Creek to Smyrna might save $400/month on housing alone.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills can add up, especially with Georgia’s hot summers. Expect to pay around $200-250/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash in both cities.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are similar in Johns Creek and Smyrna.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, household items, and dining out tend to cost about 5% less in Smyrna compared to Johns Creek. For a family of four, that could mean saving $100+ per month.
🏆 Winner: Smyrna, but the difference is relatively small.
Taxes and Fees
Both cities have a 7% sales tax rate. Property taxes are slightly higher in Johns Creek at 0.96% vs 0.88% in Smyrna. Cost of living in Johns Creek also tends to include higher HOA fees, which often cover landscaping and amenities.
🏆 Winner: Smyrna. Lower property taxes and fees can add up to meaningful savings.
Cost Summary
| Category | Johns Creek | Smyrna |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| Utilities | $225 | $225 |
| Groceries | $800 | $760 |
| Transportation | $500 | $450 |
| Taxes & Fees | $600 | $550 |
| Misc | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,375 | $4,035 |
Lifestyle Fit
While Smyrna is more affordable overall, Johns Creek offers more spacious homes and lots. Johns Creek lots average 0.75 acres compared to 0.33 in Smyrna. However, Smyrna has better walkability and more public transit options.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Johns Creek more affordable than Smyrna? No, Smyrna has a lower overall cost of living.
- Which city has lower rent? Smyrna rent prices average about 10% less than Johns Creek.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Median home prices are about 15% lower in Smyrna.
Conclusion
While both cities offer a high quality of life, Smyrna comes out ahead for affordability. Families looking to minimize expenses will likely find their budget goes further in Smyrna. However, those prioritizing more space may prefer what their money buys in Johns Creek.
Budgeting for a move? Our guides to the average monthly expenses in Johns Creek and choosing between moving pods vs trucks can help you plan.