Atlanta, Georgia, is a city that offers a dynamic lifestyle without breaking the bank. If you’re considering a move to this vibrant metropolis, it’s essential to understand the cost of living to plan your budget effectively. In this guide, we’ll delve into the various factors that contribute to the cost of living in Atlanta, helping you make informed financial decisions.
Housing: One of the most significant components of the cost of living is housing. According to Numbeo, rental apartments typically range from $1,400 to $2,000 per month in Atlanta, depending on factors such as location and size. If you’re considering homeownership, the median monthly mortgage in Atlanta is approximately $1,630.
Transportation: Budgeting for transportation in Atlanta is essential. The city offers public transit options like buses and a subway system, which can be economical. Here are some cost estimates:
- One-way Ticket (Local Transport): $2.50 to $3.50
- Monthly Public Transportation Pass (Regular Price): $75.00 to $125.00
- Taxi Start (Normal Tariff): $3.50, with fares ranging from $2.50 to $5.00
- Taxi 3 miles (Normal Tariff): 14.75 $
- Taxi 1-hour Waiting (Normal Tariff): $27.25, with potential fares from $21.00 to $55.00 per hour
- Gasoline (1 gallon): Approximately $3.76 per gallon, with variations between $3.16 and $4.24.
Food & Grocery: Atlanta boasts a diverse culinary scene, but dining out frequently can impact your budget. On average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant may cost around $20 per person. However, groceries in Atlanta are relatively affordable, allowing you to save money by preparing meals at home.
Healthcare: Access to healthcare is crucial, and Atlanta provides top-notch medical facilities. While healthcare costs can vary, it’s wise to allocate a portion of your budget to health insurance and medical expenses. Here are some out-of-pocket cost estimates:
- Doctor’s Visit: Approximately $133.65
- Dentist Visit: Around $115.31
- Optometrist Visit: Approximately $125.90
- Prescription Drug: Around $492.45
- Veterinary Visit: Approximately $62.31
Utilities: The climate in Atlanta varies, so your utility bills may fluctuate with the seasons. On average, residents may pay slightly more for utilities compared to the national average, according to Payscale.
Clothes: Atlanta offers a range of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to budget-friendly outlets. Depending on your preferences, you can allocate a portion of your budget to apparel. On average, clothing prices in Atlanta can vary widely, with high-end items costing more and budget-friendly options available.
Personal Care: Personal care expenses include items like toiletries and grooming. These costs in Atlanta are generally in line with the national average. On average, you can expect to pay standard prices for personal care products and services.
Entertainment: Atlanta provides an array of entertainment options, from cultural events to outdoor activities. Budget for leisure and entertainment to make the most of what the city has to offer. Entertainment costs can vary depending on your interests, with ticket prices for events, dining out, and other activities averaging in line with national norms.
Understanding the cost of living in Atlanta is essential for effective budgeting and planning. By considering factors such as housing, transportation, food, healthcare, utilities, clothing, personal care, and entertainment, you can create a realistic budget that allows you to enjoy all that Atlanta has to offer without financial stress.
Exploring Atlanta with Confidence: Ready to explore Atlanta with confidence? Contact Berger Allied, your trusted home movers in Atlanta, GA, and let us assist you in making this vibrant city your new home. Call us at 866-969-5040 for your no obligation in-home or virtual estimate to get started today!
