The cost of living in Atlanta might not be cheap, but it's far lower than that of many other major American cities. The biggest living expense in Atlanta will likely be accommodation, but for those willing to commute, cheaper alternatives can be found in the outlying suburbs of the city.
Mercer's Cost of Living Survey for 2020 ranked Atlanta 60th out of 209 cities, which makes it considerably cheaper than New York City (6th), San Francisco (16th), Los Angeles (17th) and a number of other major US cities.
Cost of accommodation in Atlanta
Housing will likely be the largest expense for expats living in Atlanta. There's a range of options for accommodation to suit all tastes and needs, from houses to apartments and everything in between.
Demand for accommodation in Atlanta is high with new developments constantly springing up, so rental and purchasing costs in some areas can be pricey. Budget-friendly options are available but can be difficult to find, so if house hunters are lucky enough to find a good deal they should snap it up before someone else does.
Cost of education in Atlanta
The cost of education in Atlanta varies considerably depending on the school. The city is home to a number of excellent public, private and international schools. Costs for public schools are minimal but private and international schools can be expensive.
Cost of transportation in Atlanta
Most people living in Atlanta tend to own a car. While petrol is affordable, the cost of maintaining a car can quickly add up. Alternatively, Atlanta is well serviced by public transportation, with buses and trains travelling all over the city.
Cost of living in Atlanta chart
Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for December 2020.
Accommodation (monthly rent) |
|
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
USD 2,950 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
USD 2,220 |
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
USD 1,570 |
One-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
USD 1,110 |
Shopping |
|
Eggs (dozen) |
USD 2.27 |
Milk (1 litre) |
USD 0.80 |
Rice (1kg) |
USD 3.70 |
Loaf of white bread |
USD 2.60 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
USD 10.80 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
USD 5.60 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
USD 7 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
USD 1.96 |
Cappuccino |
USD 4.30 |
Bottle of local beer |
USD 5 |
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
USD 50 |
Utilities |
|
Mobile-to-mobile call rate (per minute) |
USD 0.16 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
USD 71 |
Basic utilities (per month for small apartment) |
USD 167 |
Transportation |
|
Taxi rate (per kilometre) |
USD 2.17 |
Bus/train fare in the city centre |
USD 2.50 |
Petrol/gasoline (per litre) |
USD 0.60 |
Further reading
►See Moving to Atlanta for an overview of the city
Are you an expat living in Atlanta?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Atlanta. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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