The Housing Market in Roswell Today
Roswell, Georgia, a northern suburb of Atlanta, has seen its housing market evolve in recent years. The city’s proximity to major employers, excellent schools, and appealing amenities has driven demand for both rental and owner-occupied housing. However, limited inventory and rising prices have made affordability a growing concern for many residents.
As of 2025, the Roswell housing market remains competitive. New apartment complexes and single-family developments are rising to meet the needs of the city’s growing population, but supply still lags behind demand in many neighborhoods. This dynamic has put upward pressure on both rents and home prices, especially in desirable areas close to downtown or with easy access to GA-400.
Despite these challenges, Roswell remains an attractive place to call home for a diverse mix of residents. Young professionals, growing families, and empty-nesters alike are drawn to the city’s high quality of life, vibrant community spirit, and convenient location. As the market continues to evolve, understanding the costs and tradeoffs of renting versus owning is essential for anyone looking to put down roots in Roswell.
Renting in Roswell: What’s Typical?
For renters, Roswell offers a range of options from compact studios to spacious townhomes. As of mid-2025, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Roswell is approximately $1,550 per month. Two-bedroom units command higher prices, with a typical rent of around $1,950 monthly. These figures represent an increase of roughly 4-5% compared to the previous year.
Rental inventory in Roswell is most abundant along the Holcomb Bridge Road corridor and in the neighborhoods surrounding Historic Roswell. Newer apartment complexes often come with amenities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and resident lounges, which can drive up rents. More affordable options can be found in smaller buildings or older garden-style communities, particularly in the city’s eastern and southern reaches.
Roswell’s renter population skews younger than the city as a whole, with many apartments occupied by single professionals or couples without children. However, the city also has a significant number of larger rental homes that cater to families. Proximity to major employers like Kimberly-Clark, Berkshire Hathaway Automotive, and the Roswell City Government is a key factor for many renters.
Owning a Home in Roswell
For those looking to purchase a home, Roswell’s median sale price stood at $535,000 as of May 2025. Assuming a 20% down payment and a 30-year fixed mortgage at 4.5% APR, this translates to a typical monthly payment of around $2,450 before taxes and insurance. However, actual costs can vary widely depending on a home’s size, age, location, and amenities.
In addition to mortgage payments, Roswell homeowners must account for property taxes, homeowners insurance, and any applicable HOA dues. The average effective property tax rate in Fulton County is 0.91%, which would add approximately $405 per month to the cost of a median-priced home. Insurance and HOA fees can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars annually.
Despite these expenses, many Roswell residents see homeownership as a worthwhile investment. The city’s strong job market, excellent schools, and high quality of life have historically supported steady appreciation in home values. Additionally, many neighborhoods offer amenities like parks, playgrounds, and community events that foster a strong sense of belonging.
Renters vs. Homeowners: Who Lives Where?
As of the most recent Census data, Roswell’s homeownership rate stands at around 72%, higher than the national average of 64%. This figure has remained relatively stable over the past decade, even as the city’s population has grown and diversified.
Roswell’s homeowners are typically older and more affluent than its renters, with many living in established neighborhoods like Brookfield Country Club, Horseshoe Bend, and Willow Springs. These areas feature a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and some larger estates, often with mature landscaping and easy access to parks and recreation.
For younger residents and those with more modest incomes, renting is often the more attainable option. Roswell’s rental market has grown in recent years, with new apartments catering to professionals, students, and small families. However, rising rents and limited inventory have made it challenging for some would-be homeowners to save for a down payment, especially as home prices continue to climb.
Typical Monthly Housing Costs in Roswell
Here’s what housing costs might look like each month in Roswell:
| Expense | Renting (1BR) | Owning (Median Home) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent/Mortgage | $1,550 | $2,450 |
| Property Tax | – | $405 |
| Utilities | $150 | $250 |
| Insurance | $15 (renters) | $80 (homeowners) |
| HOA Dues | – | $50 |
| Total | $1,715 | $3,235 |
Estimates reflect mid-range properties and average usage.
What’s Driving Costs Up or Down?
Several factors are influencing housing costs in Roswell. On the demand side, the city’s strong job market and highly rated schools continue to attract new residents, putting pressure on the existing housing stock. This is especially true for families seeking larger homes in desirable school districts like Centennial High School and Roswell High School.
At the same time, Roswell’s supply of new housing has struggled to keep pace with population growth. While several new apartment complexes and single-family developments are underway, many projects were delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent supply chain disruptions. Zoning restrictions and land availability also limit the speed and scale of new construction.
Other market forces, such as rising mortgage rates and inflation, are further complicating the picture for Roswell homebuyers and renters alike. While the long-term impacts remain to be seen, it’s likely that affordability will remain a central concern for residents across the income spectrum in the years to come.
FAQs About Housing in Roswell
- Is Roswell affordable to live in? Roswell’s housing costs are higher than the national average, but are in line with many other desirable suburbs in the Atlanta area. Affordability depends on factors like household income, housing type, and location.
- Why are housing prices changing? Roswell’s housing market is influenced by a combination of supply and demand factors, including population growth, new construction, economic conditions, and buyer preferences.
- How does Roswell compare to nearby cities? Roswell’s housing costs are similar to other northern Atlanta suburbs like Alpharetta and Milton, but are higher than more distant communities like Cumming or Canton. Compared to Atlanta proper, Roswell offers more space and amenities for the price.
Making Smart Housing Decisions in Roswell
For anyone considering a move to Roswell, it’s essential to weigh the costs and benefits of renting versus owning. Renting offers greater flexibility and lower upfront costs, but homeownership can provide long-term stability and wealth-building potential. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your financial situation, life stage, and personal preferences.
Regardless of whether you rent or own, living in Roswell means balancing housing costs with other expenses like food, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment. Creating a realistic monthly budget can help you make informed decisions about what you can afford and where you want to live.
By understanding the key drivers of Roswell’s housing market and planning ahead, you can navigate the city’s changing landscape with confidence. Whether you’re a young professional seeking a stylish apartment or a growing family in search of your dream home, Roswell has options to fit your needs and budget.