Roswell, GA vs. Marietta, GA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Atlanta suburbs? Housing costs in Marietta are nearly 15% lower than in nearby Roswell. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Roswell and Marietta, perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of these two cities in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Roswell and Marietta. Here’s how typical rent and home prices compare:
| Housing Type | Roswell | Marietta |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,800 | $1,550 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $450,000 | $385,000 |
🏆 Winner: Marietta. Housing costs are about 15% lower in Marietta compared to Roswell.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $200-250 per month for electricity, water, gas, and trash for a typical household. Costs may be slightly higher in the summer due to air conditioning.
Both cities offer “green choice” programs that let you opt for renewable energy for a small premium.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in Roswell and Marietta.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are about 5% lower in Marietta compared to Roswell, based on a standard basket of goods. Eating out is similarly affordable in both cities, with a typical meal for two ranging from $40-60 at a mid-range restaurant.
🏆 Winner: Marietta edges out Roswell on slightly lower grocery and restaurant prices.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both cities have a 7% sales tax rate. Property taxes are also similar:
- Roswell property tax rate: 0.95%
- Marietta property tax rate: 0.91%
In Roswell, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $200-400/month. Marietta HOAs tend to be slightly lower.
🏆 Winner: Marietta has a slight edge on property taxes and HOA fees.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Roswell | Marietta |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Home) | $2,700/mo | $2,300/mo |
| Utilities | $225/mo | $220/mo |
| Groceries | $400/mo | $380/mo |
| Transportation | $75/mo | $60/mo |
| Taxes (Property) | $360/mo | $290/mo |
| Misc | $250/mo | $250/mo |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,010 in Roswell | $3,500 in Marietta |
Figures above are based on gross monthly income (pre-tax) for a typical household.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Marietta is more affordable, Roswell offers more upscale amenities and top-rated schools. Roswell is also more walkable, with a quaint downtown area. Marietta has more of a suburban feel with easier parking and a slightly shorter commute to Atlanta.
Marietta averages 2°F cooler than Roswell in the summer months.
Roswell has 10% more park space per capita compared to Marietta.
7. FAQ
- Is Roswell more affordable than Marietta? No, Marietta is about 15% cheaper than Roswell overall, mainly due to lower housing costs.
- Which city has lower rent? Marietta has lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $1,550/month vs. $1,800/month in Roswell.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Marietta has lower home prices. The median price for a 3BR house is $385,000 in Marietta compared to $450,000 in Roswell.
8. Conclusion
Marietta comes out ahead of Roswell on overall affordability, with lower costs for housing, groceries, taxes, and transportation. However, Roswell may still be worth the premium for families who prioritize schools, walkability, and amenities.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Be sure to check out our other cost of living guides for Roswell and sample monthly budgets to help with your decision.