Douglasville, GA vs. Stonecrest, GA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Moving from Stonecrest to Douglasville could save a household over $300 per month on core living expenses. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Douglasville and nearby Stonecrest, perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two Atlanta suburbs in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Douglasville and Stonecrest. Here’s how typical rental and purchase prices compare:
| Housing Type | Douglasville | Stonecrest |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,250 | $1,450 |
| 3BR House Mortgage | $1,600 | $1,850 |
🏆 Winner: Douglasville. Housing costs are about 15-20% lower in Douglasville compared to Stonecrest.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, with Douglasville coming out slightly ahead:
- In Douglasville, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, water, gas, and trash.
- In Stonecrest, similar utility bills average closer to $200/month.
Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters, so seasonal cost fluctuations are comparable. Douglasville offers slightly lower utility rates overall.
🏆 Winner: Douglasville, but only by a small margin. Utility costs are about 10% lower than in Stonecrest.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
The cost of groceries, dining out, and everyday purchases are nearly identical in Douglasville and Stonecrest. Expect to budget around $350-$500 per person monthly for food and incidentals in either city, depending on your lifestyle. Restaurant prices are reasonable, with a nice meal for two averaging $50-60 in both cities.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are extremely similar.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both Douglasville and Stonecrest have a 7% sales tax rate. However, property taxes and certain local fees give Stonecrest a slight edge:
- Douglasville’s property tax rate is 0.62%, while Stonecrest’s is 0.56%
- Many neighborhoods in Douglasville have HOA fees that include lawn care and amenities, adding $100-300/month. HOAs are less common in Stonecrest.
🏆 Winner: Stonecrest. The lower property tax rate and fewer HOAs give Stonecrest a small advantage in this category.
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Douglasville | Stonecrest |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,250 – $1,600 | $1,450 – $1,850 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $350 – $500 | $350 – $500 |
| Transportation | $60 | $60 |
| Taxes & Fees | 0.62% + HOA | 0.56% |
| Misc Expenses | $200 | $200 |
| Est. Monthly Total | $2,040 – $2,540 | $2,260 – $2,810 |
6. Lifestyle Considerations
While Douglasville wins on overall affordability, Stonecrest has some lifestyle advantages:
- Stonecrest is closer to Atlanta, with a 20-30 minute shorter commute on average.
- Stonecrest has more walkable areas and public transit options.
- Douglasville offers more spacious housing, lower noise levels, and abundant nature.
The climate and local geography of the two cities are nearly identical, so consider your ideal mix of suburban comforts vs. city access.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Douglasville more affordable than Stonecrest?
Yes, the cost of living in Douglasville is about 10-15% lower overall, mainly due to cheaper housing.
Which city has lower rent prices?
Douglasville has lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $1,250/month vs. $1,450/month in Stonecrest.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Douglasville has lower home prices. A typical 3BR house mortgage is around $1,600/month compared to $1,850/month in Stonecrest.
8. Conclusion
In summary, Douglasville offers a meaningfully lower cost of living than nearby Stonecrest, driven primarily by more affordable housing. A household moving from Stonecrest to Douglasville might save $300 or more per month on core expenses. However, Stonecrest’s closer proximity to Atlanta and public transit may be worth the premium for some lifestyles.
To dive deeper on budgeting, check out these Monthly Budget Examples for Douglasville Residents. Or for a broader look at expenses, see the full Cost of Living in Douglasville (2025 Guide).