Atlanta vs Nashville: cost of living compared
Nashville is about the same as Atlanta overall. Nashville (TN) has no state income tax; GA tops out around 5.49%.
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
Comparing Atlanta and Nashville reveals that the overall cost of living is roughly similar between the two metros. However, a deeper look shows that housing costs are a significant differentiator, with Atlanta offering more affordable options. While other categories like transportation and healthcare show some differences, the impact of housing prices stands out as the primary factor influencing the overall financial picture when considering a move between these two vibrant cities.
Housing
Housing costs present a noticeable difference, with Atlanta generally offering more affordable options for both homeownership and renting. Median home prices in Atlanta are significantly lower than in Nashville, and one-bedroom apartment rents also tend to be somewhat less expensive. Both cities feature a mix of housing types, from historic homes to newer developments, but the entry point for purchasing property is distinctly higher in Nashville.
Taxes and everyday costs
When it comes to daily expenses, Nashville offers a notable advantage with no state income tax, unlike Atlanta which has a state income tax. Transportation costs are noticeably higher in Atlanta, while Nashville's are more moderate. Food and utility expenses are roughly similar in both metros. Healthcare costs are somewhat lower in Nashville, and miscellaneous expenses also lean slightly more affordable there, contributing to a different daily spending pattern.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Both metros share a humid subtropical climate, experiencing warm summers and mild winters, though Atlanta is further inland. Atlanta is a larger, more densely populated urban center with a more extensive public transit system, while Nashville offers a somewhat less congested feel with a greater reliance on personal vehicles. Atlanta is a major hub for business and air travel, while Nashville is widely recognized for its music industry and cultural scene, offering distinct atmospheres and paces of life.
Bottom line
For households considering a move, the absence of a state income tax in Nashville could offer a meaningful financial benefit, potentially offsetting some of its higher housing costs. While Atlanta provides more affordable housing, its higher transportation expenses and state income tax mean that the overall household budget impact could be quite comparable, depending on individual spending habits and priorities. The choice often comes down to balancing housing affordability against other everyday costs and lifestyle preferences.
| Measure | Atlanta, GA | Nashville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 108 | 108 |
| Housing index | 105 | 119 |
| Transportation index | 116 | 104 |
| Food index | 98 | 98 |
| Healthcare index | 102 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 98 |
| Misc index | 98 | 95 |
| Median home price | $378,000 | $438,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,550/mo | $1,650/mo |
| Average commute | 33 min | 29 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Nashville home with the True Cost Calculator.