Atlanta vs Phoenix: cost of living compared
Phoenix is 6% cheaper than Atlanta overall. State income tax tops out around 2.5% in AZ 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
Comparing overall expenses, Atlanta generally presents a slightly higher cost of living than Phoenix. This difference is largely driven by higher transportation costs in Atlanta, even though housing expenses are quite similar in both metros. Other categories like food and utilities also contribute to the overall picture, with Phoenix often showing slightly lower costs in several everyday spending areas, making it the more budget-friendly option overall.
Housing
Housing costs, whether buying or renting, are quite comparable between Atlanta and Phoenix. While median home prices show a slight difference, and median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is a little lower in Phoenix, the overall housing index is identical for both cities. Both metros feature a mix of housing types, from single-family homes to apartments, reflecting their status as major urban centers with growing populations.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses show some notable differences. Phoenix residents benefit from a significantly lower state income tax rate compared to Atlanta. Transportation costs are noticeably higher in Atlanta, while Phoenix has higher utility expenses. Food costs are slightly lower in Phoenix, and healthcare is also a bit more affordable there. These factors combine to make everyday spending generally more economical in Phoenix.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, lifestyle offers distinct experiences. Atlanta is known for its lush, green landscape and humid subtropical climate, often experiencing four distinct seasons. Phoenix, conversely, is characterized by its desert environment, abundant sunshine, and hot, dry summers. Commute times are generally shorter in Phoenix, suggesting a potentially quicker daily travel experience, while Atlanta's commutes are a bit longer.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, Phoenix generally offers a more favorable financial outlook due to its lower overall cost of living. While housing costs are roughly similar, the significant difference in state income tax and lower transportation expenses in Phoenix can lead to meaningful savings over time. Atlanta's higher everyday costs, particularly for getting around, mean a larger portion of income may be allocated to those necessities.
| Measure | Atlanta, GA | Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 108 | 102 |
| Housing index | 105 | 105 |
| Transportation index | 116 | 100 |
| Food index | 98 | 96 |
| Healthcare index | 102 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 112 |
| Misc index | 98 | 92 |
| Median home price | $378,000 | $388,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,550/mo | $1,450/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 Phoenix home with the True Cost Calculator.