The Cost of Living in Georgia

There are plenty of reasons to move to Georgia. The streets of Atlanta and Savannah have metropolitan appeal, while the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains offer stunning scenery and a deep rural charm. 

However, before you move to the Peach State, you should understand what living here will cost you. From housing and utilities to taxes and transportation, let’s take a look at the expenses that come with calling Georgia—and particularly the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA)—home.

 

Cost of living in Georgia

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, total living costs in Georgia are $43,482 per person per year. 

This means that the cost of living in Georgia is 11% lower than the national average, with housing coming in at 21% less than the U.S. standard. And your dollar could stretch further depending on where in Georgia you choose to live. 

Cities like Augusta and Athens are generally more affordable, while large metro areas like Atlanta often come with a higher price tag. (The cost of living in the state capital is still 3% lower than the national average.)

 

Housing costs in Georgia

Housing is one of the greatest expenses Georgia residents face. The average home value in the state was $326,280 in December 2024, compared to $357,469 in the U.S. Housing is often more affordable in rural and suburban areas, while urban centers, especially in Atlanta and the surrounding area, demand higher prices.

Here are some considerations for housing in Georgia:

 

• Median home sale price: $323,333 (based on data from December 2024)
• Average one-bedroom rent: $933 per month 
• Urban vs. rural: Housing in cities like Atlanta and Savannah is usually more expensive. Conversely, the average home value in Augusta is significantly lower. 
•  

The CSRA typically falls within the lower-to-moderate range for housing costs in Georgia, making the area a safe, budget-friendly option for families and retirees alike. Take a look at the home values for 20 Georgia cities, based on Zillow estimates from December 2024.

 

Median home sale prices and rental rates in the CSRA offer more accessibility than urban hubs, yet they’re still near essential services and engaging recreation. Plus, there’s a great range in the area. Housing in Evans costs more on average than in Waynesboro, yet it offers wonderful amenities and options that suit most budgets.

 

Utility costs in Georgia

Utility bills in Georgia tend to fluctuate depending on the time of year. On average, households spend approximately $411 monthly for electricity, water, gas, and internet, and the CSRA reflects these statewide figures.

Here is a breakdown of average monthly utility costs in Georgia:

 

Electricity: $134 

Gas: $141 

Water: $28 

Cable and internet: $108 

 

For instance, with the relatively mild winters in Augusta-Richmond and Columbia counties, and with air conditioning systems being more energy-efficient than ever, CSRA residents benefit from manageable heating and cooling costs. This makes the area especially attractive for residents seeking a comfortable yet affordable lifestyle.

 

Transportation costs in Georgia

Transportation costs in Georgia tend to vary based on how you get around. Gas prices fall below the national average, while auto insurance costs approximately $2,876 annually for full coverage, which includes both collision and comprehensive insurance. 

Generally speaking, here is what you should budget for transportation in Georgia:

 

• Gas prices: $2.91 per gallon 
• Auto insurance: $2,876 per year for full coverage or $1,029 for minimum coverage

 

In the CSRA, transportation costs are comparable to the state average. While public transit options in Augusta may not match Atlanta’s MARTA system, the region offers reliable commuting routes and carpooling programs.

 

Other living costs in Georgia

Groceries, healthcare, and childcare play a big role in the cost of living in Georgia. And the Peach State’s entertainment options—like visiting Tallulah Gorge State Park or taking in an Atlanta Braves game—appeal to all budgets and preferences.

Here are the top miscellaneous expenses in Georgia:

 

• Groceries: $308 per person, per month
• Healthcare: $6,595 per person, per year (including both insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs). This is well below the national average.
• Childcare: $8,500 per child, per year 
• Entertainment: Expenses vary widely, with plenty of options for free and low-cost activities.

 

Many of Georgia’s most popular attractions are free. Residents can take in the sunrise on Tybee Island, experience Savannah’s art galleries, and walk or bike the famous Beltline in Atlanta. In the CSRA, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is home to meandering trails and ample birdwatching, and the International Disc Golf Center offers competitive rates for the whole family.

 

Taxes in Georgia

Georgia’s tax structure includes a state income tax that transitioned to a flat rate of 5.39% in 2024, replacing the previous graduated rates that ranged from 1% to 5.75%. 

Meanwhile, property taxes in Georgia are moderate, with an average effective property tax rate of 0.81%. 

And sales tax varies by county. The state imposes a base sales tax rate of 4%, while local jurisdictions can levy additional taxes. This leads to combined rates ranging from 6% to 9% across different areas. 

These taxes can significantly impact your living costs, so it’s important to understand how they apply to you here in Georgia, and in the CSRA in particular. 

 

The bottom line

Georgia’s cost of living offers an excellent combination of affordability and opportunity, with a range of lifestyles that suit different budgets. By understanding the financial landscape here in the CSRA, and by embracing the fact that housing costs come in well below the national average, you can find a community that perfectly captures your needs.