Smyrna, GA vs. Douglasville, GA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Smyrna vs Douglasville. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Smyrna vs Douglasville in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Smyrna and Douglasville:
| Housing Type | Smyrna | Douglasville |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,200 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $350,000 |
🏆 Winner: Douglasville. Housing costs an estimated 15-20% less in Douglasville compared to Smyrna.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills can add up fast. Here’s what you might expect to pay monthly in Smyrna vs Douglasville:
- Smyrna: $180-$220 (higher in summer for A/C)
- Douglasville: $150-$200 (more stable year-round)
🏆 Winner: Douglasville. The typical household saves around $30/month on utilities in Douglasville.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
The cost of groceries, dining out, and everyday items is fairly similar between Smyrna and Douglasville. Expect to spend around $400-$600 per person monthly in either city.
However, Douglasville residents save about 5% on average for groceries and household goods. Eating out also tends to be slightly cheaper.
🏆 Winner: Douglasville, but only by a small margin. Your grocery and dining budget will go a bit further in Douglasville.
4. Taxes and Fees
Don’t overlook taxes and city fees when comparing costs. A few key differences:
- Smyrna has a slightly higher property tax rate of 0.94% vs 0.88% in Douglasville
- Many Smyrna neighborhoods have HOA fees from $200-$400/month that often include landscaping, trash, and amenities
- Douglasville has lower permit fees and city service charges overall
🏆 Winner: Douglasville. The lower property taxes and fees can save homeowners hundreds per year.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Smyrna | Douglasville |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450+ | $1,200+ |
| Utilities | $180-$220 | $150-$200 |
| Groceries | $400-$600 | $380-$570 |
| Transportation | $60-$100 | $50-$90 |
| Taxes & Fees | 0.94% + HOA | 0.88% |
| Misc Expenses | $200-$400 | $200-$400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,290-$2,770 | $1,980-$2,460 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Douglasville offers a lower cost of living overall, Smyrna has some lifestyle advantages:
- Smyrna is more walkable and bike-friendly
- Smyrna offers an easier commute to Atlanta job centers
- Smyrna has more urban amenities like dining and shopping
However, Douglasville provides:
- More affordable housing, especially for families
- A quieter, small-town feel
- Closer access to nature and outdoor recreation
Smyrna averages 5°F cooler than Douglasville in the summer. So if you prefer milder weather, Smyrna may be more comfortable.
7. FAQ
- Is Smyrna more affordable than Douglasville?
No, Douglasville has a lower overall cost of living, especially for housing, utilities, and taxes. - Which city has lower rent?
Douglasville rent is around 15% cheaper than Smyrna. The median rent for a 2BR apartment is $1,200 in Douglasville vs $1,450 in Smyrna. - Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Douglasville home prices are significantly lower. The median price for a 3BR house is around $350,000 in Douglasville compared to $450,000 in Smyrna.
8. Conclusion
While both Smyrna and Douglasville offer a high quality of life, Douglasville is the clear winner for affordability. A household moving from Smyrna to Douglasville could easily save $400 per month on living costs.
Douglasville is an excellent fit for:
- Families looking for affordable housing
- Remote workers who don’t need to commute
- Anyone who prefers a slower pace and easy access to nature
However, Smyrna remains appealing for walkability, milder weather, and an easier commute to Atlanta. It’s a great choice for young professionals and those who value urban amenities.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and priorities. Be sure to check out our other resources to help with your decision: