Housing Costs in Roswell
Housing is often the biggest expense when it comes to the cost of living in Roswell, GA. In 2025, the median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Roswell is around $1,800 per month. For those looking to purchase a home, the typical mortgage payment for a 3-bedroom house falls in the range of $2,200 to $2,800 per month, depending on the neighborhood and home condition.
Here’s a comparison table of housing costs in Roswell:
| Housing Type | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $1,800 |
| 3BR House (Mortgage) | $2,200 – $2,800 |
It’s worth noting that many neighborhoods in Roswell have homeowners associations (HOAs), which can add an additional $200 to $400 per month to housing costs. While HOA fees are common, they are not mandatory in all areas of the city.
Utilities and Energy Bills
Utility costs in Roswell are relatively moderate compared to other parts of the country. Residents can expect to pay around $150 per month for electricity, $50 for natural gas, $60 for water, and $30 for trash collection. Keep in mind that these are average figures and can vary depending on factors like home size, energy efficiency, and personal consumption habits.
Roswell experiences hot summers, which can lead to higher cooling costs from June through September. During these months, electric bills may spike by an additional $50 to $100 per month. Here’s a table with estimated monthly utility costs:
| Utility | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $150 ($200-$250 in summer) |
| Natural Gas | $50 |
| Water | $60 |
| Trash | $30 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
The cost of groceries and daily expenses in Roswell is slightly higher than the national average. A single person can expect to spend around $350 per month on groceries, while a family of four may spend closer to $1,100. These figures assume a mix of cooking at home and occasional dining out.
To give you a better idea, here’s a typical grocery basket in Roswell:
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.50
- 1 loaf of bread: $2.75
- 1 dozen eggs: $2.50
- 1 lb of chicken breast: $4.50
In addition to groceries, budget for household items like toiletries, cleaning supplies, and personal care products, which can add another $50 to $100 per month per person.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Roswell residents pay a property tax rate of around 0.55%, which is slightly lower than the national average. For a home valued at $350,000, this translates to approximately $1,925 per year or $160 per month.
Other taxes and fees to consider include:
- Sales tax: 6% (4% state + 2% local)
- Vehicle registration fee: $20-$100 annually, depending on vehicle type
- HOA fees: $200-$400 per month (if applicable)
- Trash pickup: Often included in property taxes or HOA fees
Summary Budget Table
To help you visualize the cost of living in Roswell, here’s a summary budget table that aggregates monthly estimates for different household sizes:
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,400 | $1,800 | $2,500 |
| Utilities | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| Groceries | $350 | $700 | $1,100 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| Misc. Expenses | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Total Monthly Budget | $2,450 | $3,600 | $5,200 |
Keep in mind that these figures represent gross monthly income (pre-tax). To live comfortably in Roswell, a single person may need to earn around $2,900 per month, a couple around $4,300, and a family of four around $6,200.
Lifestyle Considerations
When deciding if Roswell fits your budget, it’s essential to consider lifestyle factors beyond just the numbers. Roswell offers a suburban lifestyle with relatively easy access to Atlanta, which is about a 30-45 minute drive away. Many residents appreciate the balance between affordability and convenience that Roswell provides.
Roswell is known for its good schools, parks, and family-friendly neighborhoods. However, this comes with tradeoffs. Newer homes with modern amenities may come at a higher price point, while more affordable options may be older homes that require updates. Additionally, while Roswell has a growing job market, some residents still commute to Atlanta for work, which can add to transportation costs and time.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q: How does the cost of living in Roswell compare to Atlanta?
A: Roswell is generally more affordable than living in the heart of Atlanta. Housing costs, in particular, tend to be 20-30% lower in Roswell. -
Q: Are there any affordable neighborhoods in Roswell?
A: Yes, neighborhoods like Willeo Creek and Horseshoe Bend tend to have more affordable housing options, with homes starting in the low $300,000s. -
Q: How much can I expect to pay for childcare in Roswell?
A: Childcare costs in Roswell average around $1,100 per month for an infant and $800 for a preschooler. Many families budget an additional $1,000-$2,000 per month for childcare. -
Q: Is public transportation available in Roswell?
A: While Roswell does have some bus routes, most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. Budgeting for a car, gas, and insurance is essential. -
Q: What salary do I need to live comfortably in Roswell?
A: To live comfortably in Roswell, aim for a gross monthly income (pre-tax) of at least $2,900 for a single person, $4,300 for a couple, and $6,200 for a family of four.