An Overview To Cost Of Living In Atlanta

Atlanta combines small-town charm with the hustle and bustle of a big city. The city of Atlanta is home to just 500,000 people, but the Atlanta Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) is home to 5.8 million Americans, and that number is growing. Although the average cost of living in Atlanta is higher than in many other major American cities, it is still considerably lower. The most expensive part of living in Atlanta will be the housing, but for those willing to commute, cheaper options can be found on the city’s outskirts. Let’s take a look at the breakdown of the cost of living in Atlanta, Georgia in case you’re thinking to relocate there. 

Overview To The Cost Of Living In Atlanta 

If you’re thinking about moving to Atlanta, the overall cost of living should be at the top of your list. To assist you, we’ve compiled a detailed guide on what you can expect to pay as a local resident. Before moving to Atlanta, learn the fundamentals of city life.  If you are in the process of relocating, you should think about 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	$734
On-Campus Accommodation	$700
Transportation	$95
Food	$270
Utility	$203
Entertainment	$60
Groceries	$40
Clothes	$89
Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation (Per Month)	$757
Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation (Per Month)	$757
Annual Cost of Living	$9,080

Accommodation Costs In Atlanta

Housing will most likely be the most expensive expense for ex-pats living in Atlanta. There are a variety of accommodations available to suit all tastes and needs, ranging from houses to apartments and everything in between. The city has a high demand for housing, and new developments are constantly springing up, so rental and purchasing costs can be high in some areas. Budget-friendly options are available but can be difficult to find, so if a good deal is found, house hunters should seize it before someone else does.

Transportation Costs In Atlanta

The majority of Atlanta residents own a car. While gasoline is inexpensive, the cost of car maintenance can quickly add up. Alternatively, the city is well served by public transportation, with buses and trains running throughout the city. The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) runs Atlanta’s bus system, which is linked to a light rail system. MARTA’s rail system provides adequate coverage, but in some areas, such as Emory and Cumberland, you may need to rely on buses. If you plan on using the light rail or bus system frequently, get a Breeze Card; it will save you the hassle of getting a Breeze ticket every time you ride. 

Healthcare Costs In Atlanta 

Atlanta has an excellent healthcare system, with Emory University Hospital and Northside Hospital Atlanta receiving national recognition. There is no shortage of specialists for complex medical care in the city. However, your treatments will cost about 6% more than the national average. A doctor’s visit should cost around $125 and a trip to the dentist should cost around $107. A typical vet visit costs around $60.

Education Costs In Atlanta

The cost of Education in Atlanta varies greatly depending on the school. There are numerous excellent public, private, and international schools in the city. Public schools are inexpensive, but private and international schools in Atlanta can be costly.

Fitness And Entertainment Costs In Atlanta

Atlanta has plenty of fitness and entertainment options, but if you want to take advantage of them, you’ll need to factor them into your budget. A fitness club membership costs an average of $38.75 per month. Atlanta, the City of Trees is endowed with a plethora of outdoor spaces, allowing residents to enjoy an outdoor Lifestyle. This transportation hub also has a thriving nightlife and restaurant scene, as well as plenty of shopping options. Jogging, rollerblading, and walking around green spaces like Piedmont Park, Brookhaven Park, and Lullwater Park can also raise your heart rate without costing you a cent. 

Food Costs In Atlanta 

Atlanta has all of the delectable treats that you’d expect from a Southern city. Waffle House and Chick-Fil-A are popular chains. Still, there is also a thriving independent restaurant scene. You can sample the city’s offerings by attending the annual Atlanta Food and Wine Festival. The city has the highest cost of living in the state, and groceries are roughly on par with the national average. Buyers on a tight budget will go to a big-box store like Costco for bulk deals and farmer’s markets for fresh produce.

The Bottom Line

Any move can be a significant change in your life, which is why it’s critical to consider the costs of living in your new area before making the leap. Atlanta can be a wonderful place to live, and millions already do. Only you can determine whether the cost of living in Atlanta per month is appropriate for your personal financial situation.

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