Cost of Living in Georgia in 2025

Georgia Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

• Housing Costs: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Georgia is projected to be around $1,150 in 2025.
• Transportation Expenses: Monthly public transit passes average $95.00 and fuel costs stand at approximately $2.77 per gallon.
• Healthcare Costs: Employer-sponsored health insurance averages about $137.22 monthly and a Silver plan costs around $621 monthly.
• Income Levels: Median household income in Georgia is expected to reach $72,000 in 2025.

Georgia's diverse economy and geographic variety make it an appealing place to live, work and raise a family.

Understanding the detailed costs involved in daily life across housing, transportation and other areas helps residents and newcomers make informed financial decisions.

This article provides a thorough breakdown of Georgia's cost of living factors as projected in 2025, covering key expenses like housing, utilities, healthcare, taxes and more.

1. Housing Costs in Georgia

Rent is a major part of living expenses in Georgia. Historical rent prices for a one-bedroom apartment show a steady increase:

• 2010: Approximately $700
• 2015: Around $850
• 2020: Approximately $1,000
• 2024: Reached $1,100
• 2025: Projected at $1,150

This steady upward trend reflects growing demand for rental properties throughout the state.

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2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in Georgia

For those aiming to buy homes, median property values have seen significant growth:

• 2010: Mediam home price was around $150,000
• 2015: Increased to approximately $180,000
• 2020: About $250,000
• 2024: Reached $306,000
• 2025: Projected at $310,000

These figures highlight appreciation in real estate, making homeownership increasingly valuable but also more costly.

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3. Transportation Expenses in Georgia

Transportation costs in Georgia include public transit and vehicle expenses:

• Public Transit One-Way Fare: Approximately $1.75
• Monthly Public Transit Pass: About $95.00
• Fuel Cost: Around $2.77 per gallon in 2025
• Annual Vehicle Maintenance: Estimated at $1,200

These costs vary based on commuting distances and vehicle types.

4. Utility Costs in Georgia

Typical monthly utility expenses for a standard household are:

• Electricity: $134.11
• Internet Service: $30.00
• Total Utilities: Approximately $164.11

Utility charges depend on usage and providers but generally fall below national averages.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in Georgia

Grocery shopping costs for one person average around $308.00 monthly in Georgia.

Dining out varies, with casual meals costing roughly $9.86 and mid-range restaurant meals approximately $36.52.

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6. Healthcare Costs in Georgia

Healthcare expenses include insurance premiums and out-of-pocket payments.

The average monthly cost for employer-sponsored health insurance is about $137.22. For those seeking individual coverage, a Silver health plan costs around $621 monthly.

7. Educational Expenses in Georgia

Educational costs vary by institution type:

• Public Schools: Free and funded through taxes
• Private Schools: Average tuition of $10,000 annually
• In-State University: Average tuition approximately $6,381 per year

Costs may differ based on school and program.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in Georgia

Typical entertainment costs include:

• Movie Ticket: Around $14
• Gym Membership: Approximately $28.66 per month
• Mid-Range Restaurant Meal: About $40

Annual spending on entertainment averages around $2,482 with personal care services costing approximately $768.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in Georgia

Georgia's tax structure includes:

• State Income Tax: Ranges between 1% and 5.75%
• Sales Tax: Total rate between 4% and 8.9%
• Property Tax: Approximate rate of 0.92%

These taxes impact residents' overall cost of living.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in Georgia

Parents typically encounter the following monthly costs:

• Daycare Services: About $621
• After-School Programs: Approximately $300
• Extracurricular Activities: Around $100

These are important considerations for family budgeting.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in Georgia

Monthly expenses include approximately $115 on clothing and about $54 on personal care products and services.

These amounts vary with lifestyle and preferences.

12. Insurance Costs in Georgia

Insurance premiums for residents are approximately:

• Health Insurance: $621 monthly for a Silver plan
• Auto Insurance: Around $2,009 annually
• Homeowners Insurance: Estimated $1,500 per year
• Renters Insurance: Approximately $180 annually

These cover essential protections for health, vehicles and homes.

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13. Miscellaneous Expenses in Georgia

Additional yearly costs for residents include:

• Entertainment: $2,482 annually
• Personal Care Services: $768 annually
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: $707 annually

These affect overall budgets based on personal lifestyle choices.

14. Income and Salaries in Georgia

Median household incomes have increased over time:

• 2010: Around $46,000
• 2015: About $50,000
• 2020: Approximately $57,760
• 2023: Reached $71,355
• 2025: Projected $72,000

Steady growth in income reflects economic progress across the state.

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15. Comparison with National Averages in Georgia

Georgia's cost of living compared to national averages shows:

• Overall Cost of Living: About 4% lower
• Housing: Roughly 22% lower
• Utilities: About 5% lower
• Food: Approximately 2% lower
• Healthcare: Around 5% higher
• Transportation: Nearly 4% lower
• Goods and Services: Approximately 32% higher

These insights help identify affordability strengths and challenges.

Our Methodology for Georgia Cost of Living Figures

To compile these figures, we aggregate data from sources such as Numbeo, BLS, Zillow, government databases and reputable industry reports. When exact data is unavailable, we use informed estimates to provide an accurate overview.

Georgia Cost of Living: Conclusion

Georgia's projected 2025 cost of living reflects its mix of affordable housing, competitive transportation costs and moderate utility expenses.

Healthcare costs are slightly higher than average but balanced by lower costs in housing and food.

Understanding these various factors empowers residents and prospective movers to plan financially and enjoy the diverse opportunities Georgia offers.

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