Let’s Set the Stage
Picture this: You’re a young professional considering a move to the charming city of Kennesaw, Georgia. You’ve heard great things about the friendly community, the thriving local businesses, and the convenient access to Atlanta’s amenities. But before you start packing your bags, you find yourself wondering, “How much does it cost to live comfortably in Kennesaw in 2025?“
Living comfortably means different things to different people, but in Kennesaw, it typically involves a balance of affordable housing, convenient amenities, and a bit of room in the budget for leisure and savings. Of course, the exact income needed to achieve this lifestyle varies based on your household size and specific needs, but we can look at some general benchmarks to give you a clearer picture.
For a single person living in Kennesaw, a comfortable monthly income might fall around $4,000 before taxes. This allows for a decent one-bedroom apartment, reliable transportation, and enough left over for dining out, entertainment, and building a savings cushion. However, for a family of four, that benchmark might be closer to $7,500 per month to accommodate a larger home, childcare costs, and increased food and healthcare expenses.
Essential Monthly Costs
Let’s break down the essential expenses you’ll need to budget for when living in Kennesaw. These are the non-negotiable costs that you’ll need to cover each month to maintain a comfortable standard of living:
- Housing: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Kennesaw averages around $1,400 per month, while a three-bedroom home might cost closer to $2,200.
- Utilities: Expect to spend around $150-$250 per month on electricity, water, gas, and internet, depending on the size of your home and your usage habits.
- Transportation: If you own a car, budget for gas, insurance, and maintenance, which can add up to $300-$500 per month. If you rely on public transit, a monthly pass costs around $100.
- Groceries: A single person might spend $300-$400 per month on groceries, while a family of four should budget closer to $800-$1,000.
- Healthcare: Health insurance premiums vary widely, but budget at least $300 per month for an individual or $1,000 for a family, plus out-of-pocket expenses for doctor visits and prescriptions.
Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown for a single person living in Kennesaw:
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Housing (1BR Apartment) | $1,400 |
| Utilities | $200 |
| Transportation (Car) | $400 |
| Groceries | $350 |
| Healthcare | $300 |
| Total Essential Expenses | $2,650 |
🏆 Quick Stat: Average rent for a 1BR apartment in Kennesaw: $1,400/month.
Comfortable Lifestyles by Household Type
Of course, your monthly expenses and income needs will vary depending on your household size and lifestyle preferences. Here’s a breakdown of what a comfortable monthly budget might look like for different household types in Kennesaw:
| Household Type | Comfortable Monthly Income (Pre-Tax) |
|---|---|
| Single Adult | $4,000 – $4,500 |
| Couple without Children | $5,500 – $6,000 |
| Family of Four | $7,500 – $8,500 |
Keep in mind that these figures are just general guidelines. Your specific needs may vary based on factors like your housing preferences, transportation needs, and lifestyle choices. For example, a couple without kids might be able to live comfortably on $5,500 per month in Kennesaw, but if they prioritize living in a more spacious home or dining out frequently, they may need to budget closer to $6,000 or more.
Similarly, while a monthly income of $7,500 can provide a comfortable life for a family of four in Kennesaw, those who want to enroll their kids in private schools, take regular vacations, or save aggressively for college and retirement may need to aim higher.
Hidden or Overlooked Costs
When budgeting for life in Kennesaw, it’s easy to focus on the big-ticket items like rent and car payments. But don’t forget to account for some of the less obvious expenses that can add up over time:
- HOA Fees: If you purchase a home or condo in Kennesaw, you may be subject to monthly homeowners association dues, which can range from $100-$500 depending on your community and amenities.
- Childcare: For working parents with young children, childcare is a major expense. In Kennesaw, expect to pay around $1,000 per month for full-time infant care or $800 for preschool-aged kids.
- Commuting Costs: If you work in Atlanta but live in Kennesaw, factor in the cost of gas, tolls, and vehicle wear-and-tear for your daily commute, which can easily add $200-$300 to your monthly budget.
- Seasonal Utilities: Georgia summers are hot and humid, so expect your electricity bills to spike from June through September as you run the A/C round-the-clock. Winter heating costs are lower but can still add $50-$100 to your monthly expenses.
Ways to Stretch Your Budget in Kennesaw
While Kennesaw’s cost of living is relatively affordable compared to other major metro areas, there are still plenty of ways to make your dollars go further:
Take advantage of local discount programs like the Kennesaw Parks & Recreation Pass, which offers reduced rates on fitness classes, sports leagues, and community events. You can also save on utilities by installing energy-efficient appliances, using off-peak electricity rates, and taking advantage of weatherization rebates from your utility provider.
When it comes to groceries, shopping at discount stores like Aldi or Lidl can help you save 20-30% on your weekly food bill. You can also use couponing apps like Ibotta or Checkout 51 to earn cash back on your purchases at major retailers like Kroger and Publix.
Finally, consider downsizing your housing expenses by renting a smaller apartment, finding a roommate, or purchasing a home in a more affordable neighborhood. While you may have to compromise on space or amenities, the savings can free up hundreds of dollars each month to put towards other financial goals.
Which Lifestyle Fits You Best?
Ultimately, the amount of income you need to live comfortably in Kennesaw depends on your unique circumstances and priorities. A young professional who values a short commute and vibrant social life might be willing to spend a larger portion of their income on rent to live in the heart of downtown. Meanwhile, a family with school-aged children may prioritize a spacious home in a quiet neighborhood with good schools, even if it means a longer drive to work.
“If you value space and privacy, a $4,500/month lifestyle may be more realistic for a single person in Kennesaw. But if you’re willing to live with roommates or in a smaller apartment, you could potentially get by on closer to $3,000.”
As you evaluate your budget and lifestyle needs, consider factors like your stage of life, career goals, and personal values. Young professionals may find it easier to manage a more compact budget, while families will need more flexibility for childcare, transportation, and healthcare costs. Empty-nesters and retirees, on the other hand, may be able to downsize their expenses and live comfortably on a more modest income.
FAQs About Comfort & Cost in Kennesaw
What is a comfortable salary in Kennesaw?
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Kennesaw is around $48,000-$54,000 per year ($4,000-$4,500 per month) before taxes. For a family of four, a comfortable income would be closer to $90,000-$102,000 annually ($7,500-$8,500 per month).
Can you live well on $3,000/month in Kennesaw?
While it’s possible for a single person to get by on $3,000 per month in Kennesaw, it would likely require some sacrifices in terms of housing, transportation, or leisure spending. Most people would consider $3,500-$4,000 per month a more realistic baseline for a comfortable lifestyle.
What costs surprise new residents in Kennesaw?
New residents in Kennesaw are often surprised by the added costs of commuting, as many people work in Atlanta but live in the suburbs. Other unexpected expenses might include high summer utility bills, homeowners association fees, and the cost of childcare for working parents.
Final Thoughts
So, how much do you need to live comfortably in Kennesaw? While the answer varies based on your specific circumstances, a good rule of thumb is to budget at least $4,000-$4,500 per month in gross income for a single person, $5,500-$6,000 for a couple, and $7,500-$8,500 for a family of four. Of course, these figures can flex up or down depending on your lifestyle choices and financial goals.
As you plan your move to Kennesaw, be sure to create a detailed budget that accounts for both your essential expenses and your discretionary spending. Don’t forget to factor in often-overlooked costs like commuting, childcare, and seasonal utilities, and look for ways to stretch your budget by taking advantage of local discounts and money-saving programs.
Ready to take a deeper dive into Kennesaw’s cost of living? Check out our Sample Monthly Budgets for Kennesaw in 2025 or explore our comprehensive Cost of Living in Kennesaw: Your Monthly Budget Guide for 2025. And if you’re planning a move, be sure to see our 2025 moving company picks to find the best deals and services in the Kennesaw area.