Atlanta vs Denver: cost of living compared
Denver is 19% more expensive than Atlanta overall. State income tax tops out around 4.4% in CO 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
Moving between Atlanta and Denver involves a significant shift in overall expenses. Denver's cost of living is noticeably higher than Atlanta's, driven primarily by a substantial difference in housing costs. While some everyday expenses might be similar or even slightly less in certain categories, the cumulative effect of higher prices in Denver makes it a more expensive place to live overall. This gap is a primary consideration for anyone contemplating a relocation.
Housing
Housing presents the most dramatic cost difference. Both buying a home and renting an apartment are considerably more expensive in Denver than in Atlanta, with a much bigger gap in median home prices. Atlanta offers more affordable options for both homeowners and renters. While the provided data focuses on prices, prospective buyers should also factor in property taxes and insurance, which can vary significantly between the two states, impacting total ownership costs.
Taxes and everyday costs
Beyond housing, daily expenses show a mixed picture. Transportation costs are noticeably higher in Atlanta, while food, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods and services are generally more expensive in Denver. Utilities are roughly similar in both metros. State income tax is lower in Colorado, which can offer some relief for earners compared to Georgia's higher rate, but this often doesn't offset the other elevated costs in Denver.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Lifestyle differences extend beyond cost. Atlanta offers a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, while Denver experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct four seasons, including snowy winters and sunny summers. Atlanta is known for its extensive urban sprawl and reliance on personal vehicles, leading to longer average commute times. Denver, while also car-dependent, has a more compact urban core and generally shorter commutes, with easier access to outdoor recreation in the nearby mountains.
Bottom line
For households considering a move, the financial implications are clear: Atlanta generally offers a more budget-friendly environment, primarily due to its more accessible housing market. While Denver boasts a lower state income tax and shorter commutes, these advantages are typically outweighed by its much higher housing costs and elevated prices for many everyday goods and services. A move to Denver would likely require a larger household budget to maintain a similar standard of living.
| Measure | Atlanta, GA | Denver, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 108 | 128 |
| Housing index | 105 | 146 |
| Transportation index | 116 | 104 |
| Food index | 98 | 105 |
| Healthcare index | 102 | 108 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 98 |
| Misc index | 98 | 108 |
| Median home price | $378,000 | $548,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,550/mo | $1,950/mo |
| Average commute | 33 min | 28 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Denver home with the True Cost Calculator.