Duluth, GA vs. Alpharetta, GA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Atlanta suburbs in 2025? Here’s a rapid-fire cost of living comparison between Duluth and Alpharetta:
- 🏠 Median rent for a 2BR apartment: $1,450 in Duluth vs $1,850 in Alpharetta
- ⚡ Average monthly utility bill: $180 in Duluth vs $210 in Alpharetta
- 🍎 Typical grocery costs for a family of 4: $850/mo in Duluth vs $1,000/mo in Alpharetta
- 🏘️ Average property tax rate: 0.94% in Duluth vs 1.12% in Alpharetta
This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Duluth and Alpharetta. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of living in these two Atlanta suburbs in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest expense for most households. Here’s how Duluth and Alpharetta stack up:
| Housing Type | Duluth | Alpharetta |
|---|---|---|
| Median Rent (2BR Apartment) | $1,450 | $1,850 |
| Median Mortgage (3BR Home) | $1,750 | $2,200 |
🏆 Winner: Duluth. Renting a 2BR apartment is about $400/month cheaper in Duluth compared to Alpharetta. Buying a home is also more affordable, with mortgage payments averaging $450 less per month.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are another important factor. While both cities have similar climates, there are some differences:
- In Duluth, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash service for a typical apartment.
- In Alpharetta, the same utility bundle averages $210/month.
- Both cities offer “time of use” plans that provide cheaper off-peak rates, which can help reduce summer A/C bills.
🏆 Winner: Duluth. While the difference isn’t huge, Duluth residents can expect to save around $30/month on utilities compared to Alpharetta.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food costs are fairly similar between the two cities, but Duluth has a slight edge:
- In Duluth, a typical family of four spends around $850/month on groceries. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant costs about $50 for a family of four.
- In Alpharetta, expect to spend closer to $1,000/month to feed a family of four. A comparable restaurant meal runs about $60.
🏆 Winner: Duluth. Groceries and dining out are around 15% cheaper in Duluth.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both cities have similar tax rates, but property taxes are higher in Alpharetta:
- Duluth’s average property tax rate is 0.94%. Most neighborhoods have modest HOA fees around $50/month that cover common area maintenance.
- In Alpharetta, the typical property tax rate is 1.12%. HOA fees are slightly higher, averaging $75/month, but often include more amenities like pools and fitness centers.
🏆 Winner: Duluth. The lower property tax rate can save homeowners hundreds of dollars per year.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Duluth | Alpharetta |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | $1,450 | $1,850 |
| Utilities | $180 | $210 |
| Groceries | $850 | $1,000 |
| Transportation | $75 | $75 |
| Taxes (1.5% Effective) | $225 | $285 |
| Misc Expenses | $300 | $350 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,080 | $3,770 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Duluth is more affordable overall, each city has its own vibe that may suit different lifestyles:
- Duluth offers a quieter, small-town feel with more space and privacy between homes. Traffic is lighter and parking is easier, but you’ll likely need a car to get around. Summers are about 2°F cooler in Duluth thanks to more green space and tree cover.
- Alpharetta has a more urban vibe with denser housing, walkable areas, and better public transit. You’ll trade a bit of space and quiet for a shorter commute and more things to do without driving. Restaurant and shopping options are more diverse.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Duluth more affordable than Alpharetta?
A: Yes, Duluth has a lower overall cost of living. Housing, utilities, and groceries are all cheaper in Duluth compared to Alpharetta.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Duluth has significantly lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $400 less per month than in Alpharetta.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Duluth has lower home prices and property taxes, making it more affordable for buyers. The typical mortgage payment is $450 lower in Duluth.
8. Conclusion
While both Duluth and Alpharetta are nice places to live, Duluth comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. It’s ideal for families looking for affordable housing, lower expenses, and a quieter suburban lifestyle. Alpharetta can be a great fit for young professionals who value walkability and don’t mind paying a bit more for an urban vibe.
Of course, these are just averages. Your own cost of living will depend on your specific lifestyle and needs. Check out these sample monthly budgets for Duluth in 2025 to get a more personalized estimate. You can also read our full cost of living overview for Duluth to learn more.
Whichever city you choose, be sure to budget for moving expenses. See our 2025 moving company picks to get an idea of costs and find reputable movers in the Atlanta area.