Cost of Living in Georgia
Things cost about ▼ 4% less in Georgia than the national average.
What Things Cost in Georgia
Compared to the US national average
See raw index numbers
US national average = 100. Source: BEA Regional Price Parities 2023.
Georgia offers a cost of living about 7% below the national average, with the Atlanta metro serving as both the state's economic engine and its most expensive market. Outside of Atlanta, costs drop substantially. The state moved to a flat 5.49% income tax in 2024, simplifying the tax picture. What makes Georgia increasingly competitive is the combination of Atlanta's major-city amenities (international airport hub, Fortune 500 headquarters, diverse job market) with housing costs that are significantly lower than other major metros. You can buy a home in Atlanta's suburbs for what a down payment costs in San Francisco.
Georgia at a Glance
Taxes in Georgia
Georgia's state income tax tops out at Up to 5.39%. The combined sales tax averages 4%, which is relatively low. Property taxes run about 0.83% of home value, which on a $290,200 median home means roughly $2,409/year.
Cities in Georgia
Ranked from least to most expensive. Index 100 = national average.
Explore Georgia
FAQ About Georgia
Georgia is about 7% below the national average for cost of living, making it an affordable choice, especially outside the Atlanta core. Housing is roughly 16% below the national average statewide. The Atlanta suburbs offer a middle ground: more expensive than rural Georgia but far cheaper than comparable suburbs in the Northeast or West Coast. Cities like Augusta, Macon, and Columbus are genuinely inexpensive.
Atlanta's cost of living is slightly above the national average, driven by housing in desirable intown neighborhoods like Buckhead, Midtown, and Virginia-Highland. The metro suburbs (Marietta, Kennesaw, Alpharetta, Lawrenceville) are more affordable. Overall, Atlanta is significantly cheaper than other major metros like New York, San Francisco, LA, or Boston while offering comparable career opportunities and cultural amenities.
Georgia has a flat income tax rate of 5.49% as of 2024, with plans to gradually lower it in coming years. This replaced a graduated system with rates up to 5.75%. The flat rate is straightforward for tax planning. Social Security benefits are not taxed by the state, and there are retirement income exclusions for residents age 62 and older.