Douglasville, GA vs. Smyrna, GA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Douglasville vs Smyrna. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Douglasville vs Smyrna in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Douglasville and Smyrna stack up:
| Housing Type | Douglasville | Smyrna |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,650 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $325,000 | $425,000 |
🏆 Winner: Douglasville. Housing costs an estimated 12-24% less in Douglasville compared to Smyrna.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are another important factor. In Douglasville, expect to pay around $180 per month for a 1,000 sq ft apartment. Costs are about 5% higher in Smyrna, averaging $190/month.
Both cities have hot summers and mild winters. Douglasville residents can save with seasonal off-peak electric plans.
🏆 Winner: Douglasville has slightly lower utility costs on average.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For a family of four, expect to spend around $800-$1,000 per month on groceries in Douglasville. Prices for staples like milk, eggs, and bread are about 3-5% higher in Smyrna.
Eating out is also more affordable in Douglasville. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages $50, compared to $60 in Smyrna.
🏆 Winner: Douglasville offers savings on groceries and dining out.
4. Taxes and Fees
Douglasville has a slightly lower property tax rate of 0.92%, compared to Smyrna’s 1.05%. For a $300K home, that’s a difference of about $390 per year.
In Douglasville, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash. Smyrna HOAs have similar amenities but tend to cost 10-15% more.
🏆 Winner: Douglasville. Lower property taxes and fees add up to hundreds in savings per year.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Douglasville | Smyrna |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450 | $1,650 |
| Utilities | $180 | $190 |
| Groceries | $900 | $950 |
| Transportation | $60 | $75 |
| Taxes | 0.92% | 1.05% |
| Misc | $400 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,990 | $3,315 |
These figures are based on gross monthly income (pre-tax). A household moving from Smyrna to Douglasville might save $325 per month on living costs.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Douglasville offers more space for the money, with larger apartments and homes on average. However, Smyrna is more walkable and has better public transit.
Douglasville is about 5°F cooler than Smyrna in the summer. Both cities are relatively quiet, with suburban atmospheres.
7. FAQ
- Is Douglasville more affordable than Smyrna? Yes, Douglasville has a lower cost of living across major categories like housing, food, and utilities.
- Which city has lower rent? Douglasville rent is around 12% cheaper than Smyrna for a comparable apartment.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Douglasville home prices are roughly 24% lower than in Smyrna.
8. Conclusion
Douglasville is the clear winner for affordability, with lower costs for housing, groceries, utilities, and taxes. It’s ideal for families who want more space on a budget.
However, Smyrna can be worth the premium for those who value walkability and public transit. It’s also a bit warmer year-round.
Carefully weigh each factor for your lifestyle. For more insights, read our guides on Monthly Budget Examples for Douglasville Residents and Cost of Living in Douglasville (2025 Guide).