Housing Costs in Marietta
Housing is typically the largest expense for Marietta residents. As of 2025, the median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Marietta is approximately $1,850 per month. For those looking to purchase a home, a typical mortgage payment for a 3-bedroom house falls in the range of $1,900 to $2,400 monthly, depending on the neighborhood and home condition.
Many newer housing developments in Marietta have Homeowners Associations (HOAs), which can add $200 to $400 to the monthly housing cost. While HOA fees are common, there are still many neighborhoods where they are optional or not required.
| Housing Type | Typical Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,850 |
| 3BR House Mortgage | $1,900 – $2,400 |
| HOA Fees (if applicable) | $200 – $400 |
Utilities and Energy Bills
Utility costs in Marietta are relatively moderate compared to other parts of the country. Residents can expect to pay around $120 per month for electricity, $40 for natural gas, $50 for water, and $30 for trash collection. Keep in mind that electricity costs may spike during the hot summer months due to increased air conditioning use.
Internet and cable packages start at about $70 per month, with many providers offering bundled deals. Cell phone plans vary widely but typically fall between $40 and $80 per line each month.
| Utility | Typical Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $120 |
| Natural Gas | $40 |
| Water | $50 |
| Trash Collection | $30 |
| Internet/Cable | $70+ |
| Cell Phone | $40 – $80 per line |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food costs in Marietta are on par with the national average. A single person can expect to spend around $300 to $400 per month on groceries, while a family of four typically spends $900 to $1,200. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and occasional dining out.
For a more specific example, here’s what a typical grocery basket might cost in Marietta:
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.50
- 1 loaf of bread: $2.75
- 1 dozen eggs: $2.50
- 1 lb of chicken breast: $4.00
- 1 lb of ground beef: $5.50
Dining out can add up quickly. A meal at a casual restaurant averages $12 to $20 per person, while a nicer dinner out for two might cost $60 or more.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Marietta residents pay a property tax rate of around 0.55%. For a home valued at $350,000, that equates to about $1,925 per year or $160 per month.
Sales tax in Marietta is 6%, which is slightly lower than in some nearby cities like Atlanta (8.9%). Vehicle owners must also account for annual registration fees, which are based on the vehicle’s value and age but typically range from $20 to $100 per year for most passenger vehicles.
| Tax/Fee Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Property Tax | 0.55% |
| Sales Tax | 6% |
| Vehicle Registration | $20 – $100 per year |
Summary Monthly Budget
To summarize, here’s a sample monthly budget for three different household types living in Marietta. Note that these are approximate gross income figures (before taxes) and actual budgets can vary significantly based on individual circumstances and lifestyle.
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,400 | $1,850 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $200 | $280 | $400 |
| Groceries | $350 | $600 | $1,050 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $500 |
| Healthcare | $200 | $500 | $800 |
| Personal/Misc | $250 | $400 | $550 |
| Monthly Total | $2,600 | $3,930 | $5,500 |
Lifestyle Considerations
When evaluating the cost of living in Marietta, it’s important to consider lifestyle factors as well. Marietta offers a suburban feel with easy access to parks, good schools, and a variety of housing options. However, commute times can be longer than in some nearby cities, with an average one-way commute of about 30 minutes.
Marietta has a mix of older, established neighborhoods and newer developments. Older homes may have lower prices but higher maintenance costs, while newer construction tends to come with a higher price tag but more modern amenities. Access to public transit is limited compared to Atlanta, so most residents rely on personal vehicles to get around.
Overall, Marietta offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major metro areas, with a tradeoff of longer commute times and less urban density. Families and those seeking a suburban lifestyle may find it an especially appealing option.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Marietta?
A: A gross income of about $4,000 per month for a couple or $5,500 for a family of four can provide a comfortable lifestyle in Marietta, assuming a modest budget. -
Q: Is Marietta cheaper than Atlanta?
A: Yes, the cost of living in Marietta is generally 5-10% lower than in Atlanta proper, especially when it comes to housing. -
Q: Are utilities expensive in Marietta?
A: Utility costs in Marietta are moderate, with a typical household spending $200 to $400 per month on electricity, gas, water, and trash combined. -
Q: How much is the average rent in Marietta?
A: As of 2025, the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Marietta is around $1,850 per month. Prices can be higher or lower depending on the specific location and amenities. -
Q: Is Marietta a good place to buy a home?
A: Marietta can be a good option for homebuyers, with a variety of housing styles and a median home value slightly lower than the Atlanta metro average. However, prices have been rising steadily in recent years. -
Q: How much should I budget for food in Marietta?
A: A single person can expect to spend $300 to $400 per month on groceries in Marietta, while a family of four typically spends $900 to $1,200, assuming a mix of cooking at home and dining out.