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Atlanta is a lively cultural hub and home to several renowned universities and colleges, making it a popular choice for students. However, understanding the cost of living is essential for those in this city. From finding affordable housing and managing transportation expenses to budgeting for groceries and leisure activities, students must balance academics with financial responsibility. This guide will break down the critical aspects of the cost of living in Atlanta, offering insights and tips to help students plan their budget effectively while enjoying all the city offers.
Cost Of Living Calculator
| Description | Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Accommodation | 100 |
| Total Cost of Transport | 50 |
| Total Cost of Utilities | 30 |
| Total Cost of Food | 70 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 250 |
Average Cost Of Living In Atlanta
If you are considering moving to Atlanta, the overall cost of living should be at the top of your list. We have compiled a detailed guide on what you can expect to pay as a resident to assist you. Before moving to Atlanta, learn the fundamentals of city life. If you are in the process of relocating, consider how the average cost of Living in Atlanta fits into your overall financial picture. Here’s the breakdown of living costs in Atlanta-
| Item | Cost (Per Month) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | 800 – 900 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | 1400 – 1600 |
| Transportation | 100- 125 |
| Food | 300 – 400 |
| Entertainment | 60 – 80 |
| Groceries | 40 – 80 |
| Clothes | 80 – 90 |
Cost Of Groceries In Atlanta
The cost of groceries in Atlanta is generally moderate, but it can vary based on your dietary preferences, shopping habits, and the type of stores you visit. Atlanta offers various grocery shopping options, from supermarkets like Kroger and Publix to local farmers’ markets and speciality stores. Below, we have given a breakdown of the average grocery prices in Atlanta.
| Particulars | Prices |
| Apples (1kg) | 5 – 7 |
| Banana (1kg) | 1.20 – 2 |
| Oranges (1kg) | 5 – 7 |
| Tomato (1kg) | 5 – 7 |
| Potato (1kg) | 3.50 – 5 |
| Onion (1kg) | 3 – 4 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 1.60 – 3.00 |
| Water (1.5 litre bottle) | 2 – 3 |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | 10 – 15 |
| Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro) | 7 -10 |
| Milk (regular), (1 litre) | 0.70 – 1.50 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 3 – 4 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | 4 – 6 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | 3 – 5 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 10 – 15 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 14 – 16 |
| Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) | 15 – 17 |
Cost Of Transportation In Atlanta
As a student living in Atlanta, managing transportation costs is essential to budgeting. Whether commuting to campus, exploring the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods, or getting part-time jobs, you’ll find various transportation options.
| Item | Price |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 2.50 – 3.50 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 75 – 100 |
| Taxi (1 hour Waiting – Normal Tariff) | 24 – 27 |
Cost Of Utilities In Atlanta
Utilities are another essential expense in Atlanta, typically covering electricity, water, gas, internet, and garbage services. The city’s hot summers and cool winters can cause fluctuations in energy bills, especially with air conditioning during peak summer months. However, when you book with UniAcco, you don’t need to worry about paying utility bills separately, as they are all included in the rent. This ensures you manage your expenses without the stress of additional costs.
| Particulars | Prices |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment | 200 – 300 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | 50 – 80 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 50 – 70 |
Cost Of Entertainment, Fitness & Leisure
Atlanta offers various entertainment, fitness, and leisure options that cater to different lifestyles and budgets. Overall, the cost of entertainment and fitness will depend on how often you engage in activities and whether you prefer budget-friendly or premium options. Below is an approximate breakdown of the expenses you could incur here.
| Particulars | Prices |
| Monthly membership fee at a fitness club for one adult | 50 -100 |
| Hourly rental of a tennis court (weekend rate) | 10 -15 |
| Movie ticket for an international release, single-seat | 12 – 20.00 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | 90 -125 |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | 10 -12 |
Cost Of Utilities In Atlanta
Utilities are another essential expense in Atlanta, typically covering electricity, water, gas, internet, and garbage services. The city’s hot summers and cool winters can cause fluctuations in energy bills, especially with air conditioning during peak summer months. However, when you book with UniAcco, you don’t need to worry about paying utility bills separately, as they are all included in the rent. This ensures you can manage your expenses without the stress of additional costs.
| Particulars | Prices |
| Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment | 200 – 250 |
| Monthly mobile plan with calls and 10GB+ of data | 50 -80 |
| High-speed internet plan (60 Mbps or more) with unlimited data via cable or ADSL | 60 -80 |
Cost Of Studying In Atlanta
The overall cost of studying in Atlanta can vary widely depending on the institution, with public universities generally being more affordable than private ones. However, many schools offer scholarships, financial aid, and work-study programmes to help offset the cost of tuition. Below is a list of universities, top courses and fees.
| University | Top Courses | Tuition Fees |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | – Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Bachelor of Science in Engineering (various disciplines) – Master of Science in Computer Science – Master of Business Administration (MBA) | – Undergraduate: $31,370 per year (out-of-state) – Graduate: $29,370 per year (out-of-state) |
| Emory University | – Bachelor of Arts/Science (various majors) – Master of Public Health (MPH) – Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Doctor of Medicine (MD) | – Undergraduate: $56,000 per year – Graduate: Varies; MBA programne around $60,000 per year |
| University of Georgia | – Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) – Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Master of Science in Computer Science – Bachelor of Science in Biology | – Undergraduate: $32,606 per year (out-of-state) – Graduate: $14,500–$32,200 depending on the programme |
| Spelman College | – Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Bachelor of Arts in Sociology – Bachelor of Science in Biology – Bachelor of Arts in Political Science | – Approximately $30,000 per year |
| Morehouse College | – Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration – Bachelor of Arts in Political Science – Bachelor of Arts in Psychology | – Approximately $29,000 per year |
Visa Requirements And Associated Costs
Understanding visa requirements and the associated costs is crucial for a smooth application process when planning to study in Atlanta, United States. The student visa, particularly the F-1 visa, requires careful preparation, including payment of mandatory fees and submission of critical documents like financial proof, passport, and admission forms. This process ensures eligibility and helps students meet U.S. regulations, allowing them to focus on their academic journey without legal complications.
| Visa Component | Cost | Purpose |
| SEVIS Fee | USD 350 | This fee is required for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and must be paid before applying for a student visa. |
| Visa Application Fee (DS-160) | USD 185 | This is the application fee for the F-1 student visa, which is necessary for students planning to study in the U.S. It is non-refundable and must be paid when submitting the visa application. |
When applying for your student visa, gathering all necessary documents well in advance is essential to avoid delays or complications. Below, we have provided a comprehensive list of essential documents for submitting your student visa application.
| Required Document | Description |
| Form I-20 | Issued by the university after admission, certifies your acceptance into a programme and provides details about your course of study and financial requirements. |
| Passport | A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay in the U.S. |
| Financial Documentation | Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses (bank statements, scholarship letters, sponsor letters). Additional evidence is required for dependents. |
| Visa Application Confirmation | The confirmation page of the DS-160 form was submitted online. |
| Language Proficiency Certification | Proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS if required by the university. |
| Educational Transcripts | Official transcripts from previous educational institutions are evaluated if necessary. |
| Passport-sized Photos | Recent photographs that meet U.S. visa photo requirements. |
| Proof of Health Insurance | Proof of health insurance coverage, if required by the university. |
Top Jobs In Atlanta For Students
As an international student in Atlanta, you are not just stepping into a lively cultural hub but also a city brimming with job opportunities tailored to diverse skills and interests. From tech startups and corporate giants to creative industries and hospitality, Atlanta’s dynamic job market makes it an exciting place for international students to thrive academically and professionally. Below, we have provided a list of top career prospects and salaries.
| Sector | Job Title | Average Salary Range |
| Information Technology | Software Developer | $85K-$110K |
| Data Analyst | $70K-$90K | |
| IT Support Specialist | $45K-$60K | |
| Engineering | Mechanical Engineer | $80K-$100K |
| Civil Engineer | $75K-$95K | |
| Electrical Engineer | $85K-$105K | |
| Healthcare | Medical Assistant | $35K-$45K |
| Health Services Manager | $90K-$120K | |
| Research Assistant | $40K-$60K | |
| Finance and Accounting | Financial Analyst | $70K-$90K |
| Accountant | $60K-$80K | |
| Tax Consultant | $65K-$85K | |
| Marketing and Advertising | Marketing Coordinator | $50K-$70K |
| Social Media Manager | $55K-$75K | |
| Brand Strategist | $70K-$90K | |
| Hospitality and Tourism | Hotel Manager | $60K-$80K |
| Event Coordinator | $45K-$65K | |
| Public Service | Public Health Intern | Stipend of ~$5.1k for 15 weeks or ~$3.4k for summer |
| Community Outreach Coordinator | $50K-$70K |
Living in Atlanta as an international student offers a unique blend of educational and cultural experiences, but managing the cost of living is critical to making the most of your time in the city. While Atlanta is generally more affordable than other major U.S. cities, expenses like housing, transportation, and daily necessities can add up. By taking advantage of student discounts, budgeting wisely, and exploring cost-effective options for housing and entertainment, international students can comfortably balance their academic and social lives. With proper financial planning, Atlanta can be a rewarding and affordable place to call home during your studies.
FAQs
1. What salary do you need to live comfortably in Atlanta?
A single adult would need to earn over $100,000 to live comfortably in Atlanta. This amount covers essential expenses while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle in Georgia’s capital city.
2. Is Atlanta worth moving to?
Yes, Atlanta is worth moving to! Georgia’s capital city offers many professional sports teams, job opportunities, diverse food, a thriving arts scene, and endless fun things to do.
3. Is Atlanta a friendly city?
Yes, Atlanta is a friendly city. Despite being a big city, it has a small-town heart where everyone knows each other, and you will quickly get introduced to people wherever you go.
4. Is Atlanta expensive for Indian students?
The cost of living in Atlanta for students is generally affordable compared to other US states, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and essentials.
5. What is an excellent entry-level salary in Atlanta?
An excellent entry-level salary in Atlanta is around $50,000 annually or $24.04 per hour.
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