Are you thinking of a move to Atlanta? We don’t blame you. The Big Peach has a long list of reasons to live there, backed by compelling stats.
For example, EUI’s 2024 Global Liveability Index scored Atlanta #29. It ranked among the most liveable cities in the world and the second most liveable city in the United States.
And what’s not to like? The reasonable cost of living in Atlanta, the amazing food scene, and the mild winters are all reasons for ATL to make it onto your next city shortlist.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about living in Atlanta. We’ve got you covered from housing to jobs to education and lifestyle. Let’s dive in.
Cost of Living in Atlanta
Everyday living costs in Atlanta are firmly in the middle ground. The cost of living in Atlanta, GA ranks 9% higher than the state average and 2% lower than the national average.
So, no, you won’t see prices like you’d find in NYC or LA, but Atlanta is still not as low as some of the other Southern States. Georgia ranks at #26 overall for affordability, according to U.S. News.
Comparison to Other Major Cities
The differences are stark when comparing the cost of living in Atlanta to NYC and LA. Overall, you’ll likely pay:
- 30% less compared to NYC
- 20% less compared to LA
Georgia also does not have the state income tax break like Florida or Texas, but lower housing costs help balance that out
Essentially, you get the perks of living in a big, vibrant city with more financial wiggle room.
Housing Costs in Atlanta
As of early 2025:
- The median home price is: $392,471
- Housing costs shift significantly from one neighborhood to another, with prices peaking at around $800,000.
- Moderate growth is anticipated into 2025 and 2026, with Atlanta ranked at number seven for markets to watch
Utility and Grocery Expenses
How much are utilities in Atlanta? Utility costs can vary based on practical considerations like the age of your home or apartment building, how much natural light you get, and personal habits. As of early 2025, the average monthly utility bill for a typical apartment—including electricity, water, gas, and trash services—is approximately $204.89, slightly below the national average of $253.14.
Groceries are similar to the national average. Monthly grocery expenses for a typical household range between $300 and $500, depending on family size and shopping habits. There are plenty of shopping options to explore, from staples like Publix and Kroger to a wide selection of farmers’ markets.
Atlanta Housing and Neighborhoods
We’ve covered the cost of living, so let’s dive into where to live. Atlanta, GA has some of the best suburbs to move to and is also home to over 242 neighborhoods, so there are plenty of options.
Popular Neighborhoods in Atlanta
Regarding the best neighborhoods in Atlanta, Buckhead, Little Five Points, Virginia-Highland, and Grant Park consistently rank as TripAdvisor’s top three.
- Buckhead, best districts for shopping in Atlanta, GA affectionately known as the “Beverly Hills of the South,” is home to theatres, high-end shopping, and upscale living. Buckhead is also one of Atlanta’s safest neighborhoods making it one of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta for families.
- Little Five Points is a very walkable and bohemian neighborhood just east of downtown. It’s filled with shops, music, restaurants, and cool murals. This neighborhood is a top choice for those looking to live amidst other creatives.
- Virginia-Highland is widely known as one of the Big Peach’s most beloved neighborhoods. Full of parks to explore and very walkable, VaHi also offers renowned schooling and is considered quite safe.
Renting vs. Buying in Atlanta
The choice to rent or buy when moving to Atlanta is entirely personal and depends on your financial situation and how long you intend to live there.
Atlanta real estate, as noted, is anticipated to see moderate growth between 2025 and 2026. The average home price of around $392,000 has remained consistent within the last two to three years.
NerdWallet reports that the average median rent for a two-bedroom apartment sits at around $1,575 per month.
Conversely, Apartments.com reports that the average monthly rent for a 1,108 sq. ft. two-bedroom apartment in Atlanta costs $1,911.
As far as apartment living is concerned, you will undoubtedly see fluctuations in rent based on where you’re looking in Atlanta.
Atlanta Job Market and Economy
The job market in Atlanta is doing well. From the thriving restaurant industry to IT, healthcare, and service-based careers. There’s a little something for everyone.
Interestingly, Atlanta is home to big names like Coca-Cola, Delta, and Home Depot. There’s also a thriving startup scene and many film, music, and tech opportunities.
Average Salary Expectations
The average salary in Atlanta is $59,160, which is quite close to the national average of $66,662.
There’s a fairly wide range of earning potential, with 80% of salaries landing between $27,144 and $130,500.
Roles in tech, engineering, and healthcare will tend to pay more. Opportunities in hospitality and creative industries are a mixed bag of entry-level and intermediate earning opportunities.
Job Search Resources and Networking
Networking and community are huge in Atlanta. Coworking spaces, job boards, and networking events will play a large role in helping you land your next role.
We recommend starting with:
- Networking meetups: Eventbrite is a great resource to find your next event
- WorkSource Georgia: Find jobs, build a resume, and participate in education or training opportunities
- Creative Mornings ATL: A free monthly breakfast event for creatives. It regularly features poets, writers, authors, and more
Transportation in Atlanta
How you use transportation in Atlanta depends on your lifestyle and where you live. Some areas of Atlanta are much more walkable than others. They also have closer proximity to Atlanta’s public transit system, MARTA.
Established in the 1970s, MARTA stands for Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority. It’s a rail and bus transportation system connecting the entire Atlanta metropolitan area.
Driving/Car Alternatives
Many ATL residents successfully live the no-car life, with many taking advantage of ride-share apps, e-scooters, and cycling or walking the Atlanta Beltline.
Climate and Weather
You might say that the climate in Atlanta is peachy keen. Classified as ‘humid subtropical,’ the city enjoys hot, humid summers and wet, short winters.
Temperatures in Atlanta range from 86°F to 95°F in the summer and 38°F to 56°F in the winter.
Tips for Preparing for Atlanta’s Weather
While Atlanta does get snow, the accumulation of snow is pretty rare. However, rain is plentiful in winter, so plan to have waterproof boots, a jacket, and plenty of umbrellas stashed.
Hotlanta is one of ATL’s beloved nicknames for a reason. Summers are hot. If you’re moving to Atlanta, you’ll want to ensure you wear light, breathable clothing, and layer up on sun protection. Drink plenty of water and wear a hat.
Education and Schools
Atlanta is well known for their excellent schooling, so much so that Forbes named Atlanta the most educated city in the United States in 2024.
Georgia also ranks 1st in the nation for ensuring K-12 students have a clear path to learning and the workforce. Essentially, children are better prepared for the real world.
Public vs. Private Schools in Atlanta
The choice between public and private schooling ultimately depends on your child’s academic needs and whether the tuition investment suits your financial situation.
The Atlanta Public School (APS) system serves the entirety of the city with 87 schools. Of course, quality and curriculum can vary, so we recommend choosing your school first and then planning your living situation.
On the private side of things, Atlanta has over 50 private schools to choose from. Options include both faith-based and renowned prep academies. Choosing between them will depend on your values and future educational goals.
Most schools offer tours and information sessions to help you decide which school is right for you.
Higher Education Institutions
Atlanta has a wide range of highly ranked secondary schools to choose from. Emory, Spelman College, and Georgia Institute of Technology are just a few notable examples of prestigious higher education options.
For the full list, including rankings, we recommend looking at Best Colleges in Atlanta by U.S. News.
Lifestyle and Culture
Atlanta is a city that thrives on experiences. Considered a melting pot of diverse cultures, the restaurants, art exhibits, sports, and entertainment are completely unique.
Our article, ‘Things to Do in Atlanta: Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring & Living in the City,‘ is another great resource to help you map out the perfect day.
Food and Dining in Atlanta
Our recent best restaurants in Atlanta roundup shows that the city is a mosaic of eateries and fine dining options.
Entertainment and Recreational Activities
You’ll never be bored in ATL.
Take a walk (or rent a bike) along the Atlanta BeltLine, visit the several parks, or check out Zoo Atlanta or the Georgia Aquarium. Sports fans can catch their favorite games from iconic teams like the Braves, Falcons, and Hawks throughout the year.
You’ll also find pop-ups, outdoor concerts, and seasonal festivals, especially once the weather warms up.
Safety and Healthcare
As with any move, safety and healthcare access are important in deciding where to live.
Atlanta is a large, diverse city. With over 240 neighborhoods, you can imagine that there are variances in crime rates from area to area. Most crime is concentrated in the core of the city, with the crime rate decreasing in the suburbs.
See: CrimeGrade.org
Access to Healthcare in Atlanta
As with schooling, healthcare is widely renowned in Atlanta. The city offers major hospital systems like Emory Healthcare, Piedmont Healthcare, and Grady Memorial Hospital. There are also several specialized treatment centers and clinics available.
Research and academic healthcare are especially emphasized in this city, with the CDC based there.
Insurance and Healthcare Costs
With prestigious hospitals can sometimes come higher healthcare prices, especially given the abundance of learning and research hospitals in the area.
Forbes reports that the average monthly insurance premium cost starts at $590 for a single person through the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Costs also depend on your insurance provider, age, number of dependents, and overall health.
We recommend speaking with a health insurance broker to find the best coverage for your needs.
Final Tips for Moving to Atlanta
Now that you have the basics, it’s time to start planning your move. Here are a few tips to help make the transition go smoothly:
Preparing for the Move
- Research neighborhoods based on your lifestyle. Consider the commute to work, schools in the area, and transportation ease.
- Plan to install utilities ahead of time. Water, gas, power, and internet can take time to set up.
- If you’re looking for work, leverage virtual networking opportunities and Atlanta job boards to find your next role.
Building a Support System
Moving to a new city can sometimes feel overwhelming, even in the best-case scenario. However, Atlanta is full of things to do and amazing people to meet.
There are many ways to meet new people in Atlanta, but a few of the best options include joining local meetup groups or browsing Atlanta-based subreddits to find activities and folks who share your interests.
Making the Most of Living in Atlanta
Atlanta is a kaleidoscope. You’ve got that big city electricity mixed with Southern hospitality.
Still asking yourself, “should I move to Atlanta, GA?” There’s no need to rush to figure it all out at once. Take your time to explore the city, find your go-to spots, and let yourself settle in.
