Johns Creek, GA vs. Alpharetta, GA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Johns Creek or Alpharetta, Georgia? Here’s a rapid-fire cost of living comparison to help you decide:
- 🏠 Median home price: $525,000 in Johns Creek vs $490,000 in Alpharetta
- ⚡ Average utility bill: $180/month in Johns Creek vs $195/month in Alpharetta
- 🍎 Typical grocery costs: 4% lower in Johns Creek
- 🏙️ Property taxes: 0.92% in Johns Creek vs 1.05% in Alpharetta
For families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living between these two Atlanta suburbs, let’s dive deeper into the key factors that impact your monthly budget in Johns Creek vs Alpharetta for 2025.
Housing Costs: Johns Creek vs Alpharetta
Housing is often the biggest line item in your average monthly expenses in Johns Creek, GA or Alpharetta. Here’s how typical costs compare:
| Housing Type | Johns Creek | Alpharetta |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $525,000 | $490,000 |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,800 | $1,950 |
| 3BR House Rent | $2,400 | $2,600 |
🏆 Winner: Johns Creek. Expect around 5-10% lower housing costs in Johns Creek compared to similar homes or apartments in Alpharetta.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are a bit lower in Johns Creek, averaging $180/month vs $195/month in Alpharetta for a typical household. Summers tend to be the peak, with AC running up electric bills. Both cities offer “time of use” programs to save by shifting usage to off-peak hours.
🏆 Winner: Johns Creek, but only by about $15/month on average.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
For groceries, restaurants, and everyday purchases, Johns Creek comes out about 4% cheaper than Alpharetta. A gallon of milk averages $3.60 in Johns Creek compared to $3.75 in Alpharetta, for example. Over a year of grocery runs, that can add up!
🏆 Winner: Johns Creek, but not by a huge margin. Household staples cost slightly less.
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are notably lower in Johns Creek at 0.92% vs 1.05% in Alpharetta. For a $500K home, that’s a difference of $650 per year. Both cities have similar fee structures for utilities and services. Most newer neighborhoods have HOA fees in the $30-100/month range.
🏆 Winner: Johns Creek. The lower property tax rate can mean significant savings for homeowners.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Johns Creek | Alpharetta |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,800 | $1,950 |
| Utilities | $180 | $195 |
| Groceries | $400 | $415 |
| Transportation | $60 | $60 |
| Taxes (1%) | $175 | $163 |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,865 | $3,033 |
Figures based on pre-tax monthly income equivalents for a professional household. Your actual budget may vary.
Lifestyle Fit: Johns Creek or Alpharetta?
Johns Creek offers more space for the money, with larger lots and lower-density development. It’s great for families who value a suburban lifestyle.
Alpharetta has more walkable areas and closer-in amenities, but at a bit of a premium. It’s popular with young professionals.
Johns Creek is about 2°F cooler than Alpharetta in summer thanks to more green space and less density.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Johns Creek more affordable than Alpharetta?
Yes, the cost of living in Johns Creek is about 5% lower on average, mainly due to cheaper housing and lower taxes.
Which city has lower rent?
Johns Creek has lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment renting for around $1,800/month compared to $1,950/month in Alpharetta.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
The median home price in Johns Creek is about $35,000 lower than in Alpharetta, and property taxes are also lower.
Conclusion
While both Johns Creek and Alpharetta offer a high quality of life, Johns Creek comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. Housing, utilities, groceries, and taxes all tend to be a bit cheaper, making it an attractive choice for families and professionals looking to keep their cost of living in Johns Creek manageable.
Of course, the right choice for you depends on your specific priorities and lifestyle. If walkability and urban amenities are a must, Alpharetta may be worth the slightly higher cost. Either way, don’t forget to budget for moving costs – our guide on pods vs trucks can help you find the most affordable way to make the move!