Georgia, known as the "Peach State", is an affordable Southeast state anchored by the Atlanta metro economy. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Peach State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Georgia for a single person earning the median income of $63,400/year:
Each category shows how Georgia compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Georgia.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Georgia.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Georgia:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Georgia, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Georgia is $335,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,250/month. With a housing cost index of 82, Georgia housing is 18% cheaper than the national average.
Housing in Georgia is a genuine advantage. The low cost of housing frees up income for savings, investments, and discretionary spending that residents of expensive states simply cannot afford.
Georgia has a state income tax rate of 5.49%. On the median household income of $63,400, you will pay approximately $3,481/year in state income tax ($290/month). This is a moderate rate that most households can absorb.
The average single person in Georgia spends approximately $400/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,000-$1,200/month. The food cost index of 96 means groceries in Georgia are 4% below the national average.
Gas prices in Georgia average $3.1/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $1,860/year in fuel costs.
Georgia healthcare costs are 5% below the national average (index: 95). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Georgia is approximately $5,700 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Georgia averages $850/month ($10,200/year). This is below the national average, making Georgia more family-friendly from a financial perspective. Many families in Georgia find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Georgia offers a solid balance of cost, opportunity, and quality of life. With costs near the national average, you get access to growing job markets in Atlanta and Augusta, and a cost of living that leaves room for saving and investing.
See all Georgia financial calculators:
Georgia (GA) has a cost of living index of 93, meaning it is 7% cheaper than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 82. The median rent is $1,250/month and the median home price is $335,000. Georgia ranks #19 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Georgia is approximately $82,420/year ($6,868/month). For a family of four, aim for $139,480/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($400/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Georgia is $63,400.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Georgia is approximately $1,250/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,688/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Atlanta, Augusta, Savannah are the most popular metro areas. Housing in Georgia is affordable compared to the national average.
Georgia is an excellent choice for affordability. With a cost of living 7% below the national average and median rent of just $1,250/month, your money goes significantly further here. Top cities include Atlanta, Augusta, Savannah.
The most affordable areas in Georgia are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Georgia, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Atlanta metro) and more affordable areas. Columbus and Athens tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Georgia for a single person is approximately $400 ($1,000 for a family of four). Georgia food costs are 4% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Georgia is approximately $145. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $319/month. Georgia utilities are 3% below the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Georgia has a state income tax rate of 5.49%. On the median household income of $63,400, that is approximately $3,481/year in state income tax. This is a moderate rate near the national average.