How Much Does It Cost to Live in Georgia?

The cost of living in Georgia encompasses a variety of expenditures, reflecting the state’s diverse economic landscape. Understanding these financial components is important for individuals and families planning their budgets. Many factors influence spending, including housing choices, transportation needs, daily consumption, and other regular services. The overall expense of living is not uniform throughout Georgia, with significant differences observed between metropolitan, suburban, and rural areas.

Housing Expenses

Housing typically represents the largest portion of a budget. In Georgia, the average rent as of August 2025 is approximately $1,434 per month. This average varies significantly by dwelling size, with studios averaging around $1,385, one-bedroom units at $1,434, two-bedroom units at $1,613, and three-bedroom units at about $1,891 monthly. Rental costs in major urban centers often exceed these statewide averages.

For homeownership, the median home price in Georgia was around $379,000 as of recent data. Mortgage payments involve principal and interest, with rates fluctuating based on market conditions. Property taxes are a significant ongoing cost, though Georgia generally has lower property taxes compared to the national average, with a median annual payment of approximately $2,027 and an average effective property tax rate of 0.99%. The taxable value of a property is typically assessed at 40% of its fair market value. Homeowner’s insurance premiums further add to the cost of ownership.

Transportation Expenses

Transportation costs in Georgia include personal vehicle ownership or public transit. For car owners, expenses include fuel, insurance, maintenance, and vehicle payments. As of August 2025, the average price for regular unleaded gasoline in Georgia is about $2.91 per gallon. Annual car insurance premiums vary widely, with full coverage potentially ranging from approximately $1,112 to $3,362 per year. Factors such as driving record, age, and location influence these rates.

Routine vehicle maintenance and repairs are necessary expenditures. Public transportation options are available, primarily in larger metropolitan areas like Atlanta through MARTA. Fares for public transit systems contribute to monthly budgets for those who utilize them regularly.

Daily Living and Essential Services

Daily living expenses cover food, utilities, and household necessities. Average grocery bills for an individual in Georgia are estimated to be around $278.32 weekly for food prepared at home. Dining out also contributes to food budgets, with a budget meal potentially costing $5 to $10 per person and mid-range restaurant meals ranging from $10 to $25.

Utility bills encompass essential services such as electricity, water, natural gas, internet, and trash or sewer services. The average monthly energy bill in Georgia was reported to be around $126.38, which is slightly above the national average. Total average utility costs can be higher, with some estimates placing them at approximately $411 per month. The cost of household supplies and personal care items accumulate over time and must be factored into routine spending.

Healthcare and Other Significant Expenses

Healthcare costs are a significant consideration for budgeting. The average annual per-capita cost for healthcare in Georgia was about $6,595 based on 2021 data. For those with employer-provided plans, employee-sponsored health insurance premiums were approximately $1,714 annually in 2024. Beyond premiums, individuals also face out-of-pocket expenses for doctor visits, prescription medications, and emergency care, which vary based on insurance deductibles and specific medical needs.

Families with children often incur childcare or education expenses. The average cost for infant care in Georgia is roughly $11,066 per year, or about $922 per month. For four-year-olds, the annual cost averages around $9,666, or $805 per month. These costs can fluctuate significantly based on the type of care facility and the child’s age. Discretionary spending on entertainment and leisure activities also forms part of a typical budget.

Georgia imposes a state income tax, which is a flat rate of 5.19% for income earned in 2025. The state sales tax rate is 4%, but local sales taxes can increase the combined rate to as much as 9% depending on the specific municipality. Property taxes are also a component of the overall tax burden, with rates varying by county.

Regional Differences in Living Costs

The cost of living in Georgia is not uniform across its various regions, exhibiting notable disparities between densely populated metropolitan areas and more rural communities. Major urban centers, particularly the Atlanta metropolitan area, generally feature higher expenses across most categories compared to smaller cities or rural parts of the state. This difference is primarily driven by factors such as demand, population density, and the availability of diverse services and employment opportunities.

Housing costs demonstrate this regional variation. While the statewide average rent is around $1,434 per month, rent in Atlanta, for instance, averages about $1,629 per month as of August 2025. More affordable rental options can be found in smaller towns, with some areas offering average rents as low as $352 per month. Property tax rates also reflect these differences, with median payments significantly higher in populous areas like Fulton County compared to less populated counties.

Transportation expenses, including fuel prices and car insurance premiums, also show regional fluctuation. Although the statewide average for gasoline is $2.91 per gallon, prices can be slightly higher in certain metro markets or lower in other regions. Public transportation access and reliance further differentiate costs, as comprehensive transit systems are primarily concentrated in major cities. Overall, budgeting in Georgia requires considering the specific location, as regional economic dynamics play a substantial role in determining actual living expenses.