Cost of Living in Atlanta

Georgia · Population: 505,268 · Updated 2026

Average
Cost Index
100.1
100 = US avg
Median Income
$86K
Annual household
Median Rent
$1,711/mo
2-bedroom unit
Rent Burden
24%
Income to rent ratio
Cost Category Breakdown

Indexed to national average (100)

Housing100.6
Groceries310.3
Utilities100.0
Transportation267.5
Healthcare100.0
Economic Details
Median Home Value$440K
State Income Tax5.39%
Unemployment Rate3.3%
Est. Net Income$81K/yr
Affordability Score
100
out of 100
Above national average cost
Salary Converter for Atlanta

See what salary you'd need in another city to match your purchasing power in Atlanta.

$75,000

About Atlanta

Atlanta is the economic engine of the Southeast, home to major corporations like Delta, Coca-Cola, and CNN. The city offers diverse career opportunities and a lower cost of living compared to similar-sized northern cities.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Atlanta expensive?

Atlanta has a cost of living index of 100.1, where 100 represents the national average. This is close to the national average.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Atlanta?

Based on a rent-to-income ratio of 30%, you'd need at least $68,440 to afford the median 2-bedroom apartment in Atlanta and maintain basic expenses.

What is the median rent in Atlanta?

The median 2-bedroom rent in Atlanta is $1,711 per month, according to HUD Fair Market Rent data.