Atlanta vs Cleveland: cost of living compared
Cleveland is 24% cheaper than Atlanta overall. State income tax tops out around 3.5% in OH vs 5.49% in GA.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Overall, the cost of living in Atlanta is notably higher than in Cleveland. This difference is primarily driven by housing expenses, which are significantly more affordable in Cleveland. Other categories like transportation, food, and healthcare also contribute to Atlanta's higher overall cost, making Cleveland a much more budget-friendly option across most spending areas.
Housing
Housing costs present a substantial difference between the two metros. Both median home prices and typical rental rates for a one-bedroom are considerably lower in Cleveland. Atlanta's housing market is more expensive for both buyers and renters. Cleveland offers a mix of older, established housing stock, while Atlanta features a broader range of newer developments and more competitive pricing.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses also vary. Cleveland generally offers lower costs for food and healthcare compared to Atlanta. Transportation costs are also more affordable in Cleveland, and commutes are typically shorter. Additionally, Ohio's state income tax is lower than Georgia's, which can impact take-home pay. Utility costs are roughly comparable between the two cities.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move involves lifestyle changes. Atlanta offers a humid subtropical climate with hot summers, while Cleveland experiences a humid continental climate with distinct four seasons, including cold, snowy winters. Atlanta is a large, sprawling southern metropolis with significant traffic, while Cleveland is a more compact city with a strong cultural scene and easier navigation. Both offer major league sports and diverse entertainment.
Bottom line
For those considering a move, Cleveland presents a much more economical choice across nearly all spending categories, especially housing. A household budget will stretch considerably further in Cleveland, allowing for potentially greater savings or discretionary spending. Atlanta, while offering a different urban experience, comes with a noticeably higher price tag for everyday living and homeownership.
| Measure | Atlanta, GA | Cleveland, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 108 | 82 |
| Housing index | 105 | 57 |
| Transportation index | 116 | 91 |
| Food index | 98 | 90 |
| Healthcare index | 102 | 92 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 98 |
| Misc index | 98 | 82 |
| Median home price | $378,000 | $188,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,550/mo | $950/mo |
| Average commute | 33 min | 26 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Cleveland home with the True Cost Calculator.