Cost of living · Atlanta, GA · 2026
What salary do you need to live in Atlanta, GA?
What salary do you need to live in Atlanta, GA?
To cover the essentials living alone in Atlanta, GA — about $2,515 a month — you need to earn roughly $37,000 a year before tax (accounting for GA state tax). To live comfortably, with money left for savings, closer to $51,000. Rent alone is $1,650 a month.
Verified 12 August 2026
To get by $37,000 Covers rent and essentials with little spare
To be comfortable $51,000 Essentials plus room to save and enjoy the city
What it costs to live in Atlanta, GA
| Monthly cost | |
|---|---|
| Rent (one-bed) | $1,650 |
| Utilities | $165 |
| Transport | $110 |
| Food | $460 |
| Health | $130 |
| Total | $2,515 |
On the $37,000 "get by" salary, your take-home is about $2,499 a month — just covering the $2,515 of essentials.
Roommates change everything. Splitting rent and utilities can cut the salary you need by tens of thousands. Run your own numbers →