Kennesaw is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,650 and slightly lower utility and grocery costs compared to the national average.
Living in Kennesaw, GA in 2025 costs about $3,800 per month in gross income for a comfortable lifestyle for a couple, factoring in housing, utilities, groceries, and discretionary spending. Let’s break down the numbers to see what it really takes to make ends meet in this growing Atlanta suburb.
Housing Costs in Kennesaw
Kennesaw offers a mix of apartments, townhomes, and single-family houses to fit various budgets and lifestyles. Renting a 2-bedroom apartment typically runs between $1,500-$1,800 per month, with the median hovering around $1,650. Townhomes and condos tend to be slightly pricier, ranging from $1,700-$2,200 monthly.
For those looking to purchase a home, a 3-bedroom house in Kennesaw averages between $350,000-$450,000 as of 2025. This translates to a monthly mortgage payment in the ballpark of $2,100-$2,700, assuming a 30-year fixed loan with 20% down. Keep in mind that some neighborhoods also have HOA fees, typically $200-$400 per month.
Here’s a quick comparison of housing costs across popular Kennesaw neighborhoods:
| Neighborhood | 2-Bed Apartment Rent | 3-Bed House Price |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Kennesaw | $1,500-$1,900 | $375,000-$500,000 |
| Pinetree Country Club | $1,600-$2,000 | $400,000-$550,000 |
| Legacy Park | $1,400-$1,700 | $325,000-$425,000 |
Utility Costs in Kennesaw
Kennesaw residents can expect to pay around $180-$220 per month for basic utilities like electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 1,000 square foot apartment. High-speed internet adds another $60-$80 to the monthly bill.
Summers in Georgia can get quite hot and humid, so many budget an extra $40-$80 per month for higher electricity bills from May through September when the AC is working overtime. All in all, a typical couple should allocate about $300 monthly for utilities.
Groceries and Food Costs
Kennesaw grocery costs are on par with the Atlanta metro average and slightly lower than the national average. Plan on spending around $350-$450 per person each month for a balanced diet with a mix of cooking at home and dining out occasionally.
A gallon of milk runs about $3.50, a dozen eggs cost $2.80, and a pound of chicken breast averages $3.60. Grabbing a quick lunch out typically costs $12-$15 per person, while a nice dinner for two might run $50-$70 with drinks.
Taxes and Other Expenses
Kennesaw’s property tax rate is around 1.2% of assessed home value, so the owner of a $400,000 house would owe approximately $4,800 per year. Georgia also has a 4% state income tax and 4% sales tax, with some counties adding an extra 2-3% in local sales tax.
Car owners should factor in about $35 per month for vehicle registration fees, plus $80-$120 monthly for auto insurance. If your neighborhood has an HOA, dues typically range from $200-$400 per month, covering amenities like pools, fitness centers, and landscaping.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
So what does it all add up to? Here’s a sample monthly budget for a couple living comfortably in Kennesaw:
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Housing (2-bed apartment rent) | $1,650 |
| Utilities | $300 |
| Groceries and dining out | $800 |
| Transportation (car payment, gas, insurance) | $500 |
| Discretionary spending (entertainment, shopping, travel) | $550 |
| Total Monthly Expenses | $3,800 |
Keep in mind, this is a gross monthly income figure, meaning the amount you’d need to earn before taxes. To net $3,800 per month, a household would need to bring in around $4,500-$5,000 per month in gross income, depending on their tax situation.
Lifestyle Considerations
Kennesaw offers a blend of affordability and amenities that appeals to many. Compared to living in the heart of Atlanta, you’ll generally get more square footage and yard space for your dollar in the suburbs. Many neighborhoods feature swimming pools, playgrounds, and walking trails that add to the quality of life.
However, the tradeoff is often a longer commute. Kennesaw is about 30 miles from downtown Atlanta, so residents should anticipate at least a 45-60 minute drive in rush hour traffic. Those working remotely or commuting to nearby Marietta or Smyrna will fare better.
Access to good public schools is another draw for families. Kennesaw is part of the highly-rated Cobb County School District, with many elementary, middle, and high schools earning top marks for academics and extracurriculars.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What salary do you need to live in Kennesaw?
To live comfortably in Kennesaw, a couple should aim to earn at least $4,500-$5,000 per month in gross income, or $54,000-$60,000 per year. This factors in rent, utilities, groceries, and discretionary spending. - Is Kennesaw cheaper than Atlanta?
Yes, the cost of living in Kennesaw is generally 5-10% lower than in Atlanta proper. You’ll get more bang for your buck on housing especially. - Are utilities expensive in Kennesaw?
Kennesaw utility costs are slightly lower than the national average. Expect to pay around $300 per month for electricity, gas, water, and internet for a 2-bedroom apartment. - How much is property tax in Kennesaw?
The property tax rate in Kennesaw is about 1.2% of assessed home value. For a $400,000 house, that equates to $4,800 per year or $400 per month. - What’s the sales tax rate in Kennesaw?
Kennesaw has a 6% sales tax rate, which includes 4% for the state of Georgia and 2% in local taxes for Cobb County. This is on par with the Atlanta metro average. - How much does it cost to hire movers in Kennesaw?
Hiring professional movers for a local move within Kennesaw typically costs $300-$600, depending on the size of your home and amount of stuff you have. For the best deals, compare moving company costs and options in advance. - What’s the job market like in Kennesaw?
Kennesaw has a diverse economy fueled by healthcare, education, retail, and professional services. The unemployment rate is 3.5%, slightly lower than the national average. Job growth is projected to be steady in the coming years.