Georgia Cost of Living
Can you afford to live in the Peach State?
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Relocating to Georgia comes with many advantages — from a diverse culture to a growing job market and welcoming communities. However, making the move also means learning how your new day-to-day expenses will stack up. For many, understanding these costs is an essential part of choosing whether Georgia is right for them.
To determine the cost of living in Georgia, our team reviewed data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis to understand average spending. We also used recent sources to gather housing, food, transportation, health care and utility costs for a full picture of everyday expenses.
People in Georgia spend $50,282 each year on goods and services, on average.
Jump to insightThe median rent in Georgia is $1,434, versus the national median rent of $1,639.
Jump to insightResidents in Georgia spend $278.32 weekly on food at home.
Jump to insightAs of August 2025, the average price per gallon of regular gas is $2.91 in Georgia.
Jump to insightRecent data shows that employees in Georgia pay $1,834 annually for employee-sponsored health insurance coverage.
Jump to insightThe average cost of living in Georgia
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the average annual per-person spending in Georgia was $50,282 in 2023. This reflects the typical amount residents pay across key categories like housing, health care, groceries, energy and other personal expenses.
Here’s a breakdown of the largest spending categories in Georgia:
| Category | Annual per-capita cost in Georgia |
|---|---|
| Housing and utilities | $8,726 |
| Health care | $8,008 |
| Food and beverages for off-premises consumption | $4,444 |
| Gasoline and other energy goods | $1,506 |
| All other personal consumption expenditures | $27,598 |
| Total cost | $50,282 |
Housing costs in Georgia
For most Georgia residents, housing makes up the biggest share of monthly spending. According to 2025 figures from Apartments.com, the average rent in Georgia is $1,434, which is less than the national average of $1,639. Rent prices can differ greatly depending on location, the age of the property and local amenities. The U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey reports the following average monthly rents in Georgia:
- One-bedroom rent: $1,329
- Two-bedroom rent: $1,331
- Three-bedroom rent: $1,400
- Four-bedroom rent: $1,831
For those interested in buying, the median home price in Georgia is $381,500, which is also less than the U.S. median home price of $446,638.
Don’t forget property taxes when estimating your budget. Georgia’s effective property tax rate is 0.77%, which places it at No. 26 nationally for property tax rates.
» COMPARE: Best moving companies in Georgia
Food costs in Georgia
The amount you spend on groceries and dining in Georgia depends on your shopping habits and personal preferences. According to the latest U.S. Census data, the average household in Georgia spends $278.32 per week on food at home, while the national average is $270.21.
Food expenses can shift depending on whether you stick to home-cooked meals, buy in bulk or frequently visit restaurants. Major cities and tourist spots in Georgia tend to have higher prices for dining out, while shopping for groceries in rural areas or smaller towns often means lower costs. Families who plan carefully and shop sales may notice savings versus shopping in busier metro areas.
Transportation costs in Georgia
Transportation in Georgia comes with its own set of expenses. The average cost for a gallon of regular gas is $2.91, versus the U.S. average of $3.13.
If you drive, keep in mind that the average auto insurance premium in Georgia is $1,509.78, compared with the national average of $1,258. Insurance rates can vary based on driving history, location and vehicle type.
Health care costs in Georgia
The average annual employee contribution for health insurance in Georgia is $1,834. Employers cover the balance of the total annual premium, which is $7,955. By comparison, the national average employee contribution stands at $1,640, with a total premium of $8,182.
Utility costs in Georgia
Utility bills are a key part of living expenses in Georgia. The average monthly electric bill in Georgia is $141.67, which is higher than the national average of $136.84.
Natural gas in Georgia is priced at $13.57 per thousand cubic feet, versus $12.92 for the U.S. average.
FAQ
Does Georgia have a high cost of living?
No, Georgia doesn’t have a high cost of living compared with the national average. In particular, rent and home prices are lower in Georgia than in many other parts of the country.
Is Georgia a good place to live?
Yes, Georgia is a good place to live if you are looking for growth, variety and affordability. Many people have moved to Georgia in recent years, drawn by its lower cost of living and good quality of life. The combination of economic opportunity and affordable housing makes it a popular choice for newcomers.
Is Georgia good for renters?
Yes, Georgia is good for renters. Renters in Georgia benefit from affordable rent and a high quality of life. The state stands out for its housing affordability and renter satisfaction, though tenant protections aren’t as strong as in some other states.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Apartments.com, “Rent Trends.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Redfin, “Redfin Data Center.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Tax Foundation, “Where Do People Pay the Most in Property Taxes?” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- United States Census Bureau, “Week 63 Household Pulse Survey: October 18 - October 30.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- AAA Gas Prices, “State Gas Price Averages.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners, “2021/2022 Auto Insurance Database Report.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- KFF, “Average Annual Single Premium per Enrolled Employee For Employer-Based Health Insurance.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- U.S. Energy Information Administration, “2023 Average Monthly Bill- Residential.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
