By AptAmigo, Apartment Locator Service

Do you dream of living in San Francisco or New York but can’t stomach the exorbitant rents? If so, Atlanta might be the perfect city for you. In fact, Atlanta is often known for being an affordable mid-sized city with lots to explore and plenty of job opportunities. But with rising housing costs nationwide, how far will your dollar really get you?

Rent is definitely on the rise, and typically a bit higher than other mid-sized U.S. cities, but prices are still affordable compared to some of the most popular large cities in the nation. To put it in perspective, average Atlanta rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,600 compared to $1,360 for the national average. Compare that to averages well over $2,500 per month for the top three priciest cities (San Francisco, New York and Boston), and Atlanta rent prices are a steal. Of course, where you live in Atlanta will impact how much you’re likely to spend on rent. For instance, if you have your heart set on popular neighborhoods like Old Fourth Ward, Inman Park or Buckhead, expect to pay somewhere around $75 to $150 more in rent per month. Compare that to more suburban areas like Sandy Springs or Roswell, where you will enjoy slightly lower prices but a less walkable neighborhood. Some intown neighborhoods, like Midtown, have a wide variety of housing options, so you’ll have more flexibility depending on your preferences.

Ultimately, your preferences will play a large roll in rent price. If you want to be right in the middle of Atlanta’s vibrant dining and arts scene, spending a few extra bucks each month will be easily justifiable. Spending a little extra to live near your workplace might also save you money in the long run. Fortunately, AptAmigo can help you find the right place for your budget. Here, we take a look at some of the costs you’ll need to consider as you plan your big move to the ATL. With a personal apartment expert by your side, the process is no-stress and tailored to your needs.

Should You Rent or Buy?

Due to the wide availability of apartments in highly desirable neighborhoods, renting is common for Atlantans. If you’re looking to live in a walkable neighborhood, it’s almost always more affordable to rent. Renting also provides more flexibility, impressive amenities and the chance to meet new people through community events. With cheaper rental pricing than most large U.S. cities, you’ll get more “bang for your buck” when renting in Atlanta than you would in cities like New York or San Francisco. And if you’re moving to a new city, renting for at least the first year will allow you to learn more about each neighborhood, see what you like and dislike and help you make a more informed decision when it comes time to buy.

Cost of Rent in Atlanta
Average rent = $1,800

Usually, the most expensive part of relocating is the difference in rent trends and pricing in your new city. Luckily, for a major city, Atlanta is one of the more affordable areas in the U.S. While average rent for a one bedroom in the city can hover around $1,600 (sometimes peaking around the $1,900s), you can still find one-bedrooms outside of downtown Atlanta for around $1,098.

If you can afford it, spending a little more to be in your favorite Atlanta neighborhood is definitely worth it. With so many unique and walkable communities, finding the perfect neighborhood for you will allow you to soak up the full Atlanta experience. From stunning downtown views to local boutiques, street art and summer festivals, no two neighborhoods are the same in Atlanta. Fortunately, Atlanta is a very drivable city, so you don’t have to feel confined to one neighborhood. You can always hop on I-75 and explore all of the other popular neighborhoods in Atlanta.

Cost of Utilities in Atlanta
Average utilities = $235

When calculating the cost of living in Atlanta, it is important to consider the monthly cost of utilities. With average summer temperatures reaching the high 80s and typical humid southern weather, your air conditioning will get plenty of use. Expect to pay $157 a month on standard utilities and an additional $79 on Internet service. Obviously your utility expenses will vary, but setting aside about $235 per month will ensure that you stay within your budget. Utilities are often overlooked but important to calculate so that you don’t find yourself spending more than you anticipated.

Food and Dining Cost
Grocery Rating = 98.8/100

The cost of groceries in Atlanta is slightly lower than the national average. On a scale of one to 100 (with 100 being the national average), Atlanta scores a 98.8. Additionally, with appetizing dining options on every corner, budgeting for restaurant dining is essential. Foodies and chefs from all over flock to Atlanta to try the Michelin star restaurants and eclectic cocktail lounges, so it will be easy to spend a pretty penny in these highly sought-after establishments. On average, a meal for two in downtown Atlanta costs $50, so depending on how often you indulge in chef-prepared food, your monthly costs could go up. If you dine at restaurants twice a week, prepare to spend around $200 a month on food.

Average Salary
Average Salary in Atlanta = $4,523/month

It’s important to know how much you need to make in order to live comfortably in Atlanta. Considering average rent is around $1,600 and the general rule of thumb is to bring in three times that amount monthly, your salary should be about $4,800 a month before taxes. Luckily, the average monthly salary for Atlanta is $4,523 after taxes, so the numbers match up well.

Total Average Cost of Living in Atlanta

On a very basic level, it costs an average of $2,035 per month to live in Atlanta. This of course does not factor in miscellaneous expenses or entertainment. All in all, Atlanta is slightly more expensive than the national average, but the average salary is higher as well. With many tech startups, media giants and major corporations headquartered in Atlanta, the job pool is growing larger and more varied every day. If you’re renting in Atlanta, knowing where to live and where to find deals will save you thousands of dollars per year.

Get Free VIP Apartment Hunting Assistance

Are you ready to move to Atlanta? We know that apartment hunting can be a struggle, especially if you’re relocating. AptAmigo’s goal is to make finding an apartment completely stress free. By pairing you with a dedicated local expert who knows the ins and outs of Atlanta, you can find better apartments in half the time. Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, AptAmigo’s 24/7 customer service is there when you need it—and it’s completely free.

Visit aptamigo.com for more information.

Stay in Style

Whether you’re in Atlanta on a house hunting trip or need a place to call home until your new ATL residence is ready, the metro area has plenty of lodging options. However, an extended stay hotel does not necessarily have to be one of them. According to Tim Miller, owner and president of TP Corporate Lodging, today’s rental complexes are more welcoming and convenient than ever before. In fact, in recent months, mid-rise and garden style apartment communities that offer short-term rentals have become a go-to option for a wide array of individuals. And they can be found all across metro Atlanta.

“People seem to be requesting areas just at the perimeter or up in the suburbs. And mid-rise and garden style complexes are often recommended,” Miller notes. “Mid-rise are buildings that are four to six stories high with elevators, and you can usually park on the same level as your apartment home. Garden style can be one to three stories high; they typically do not have an elevator, but parking is right in front of the building.” With fewer levels and convenient access to walkways and community amenities, people who want to use elevators less and enjoy a more easygoing lodging option have that opportunity with both mid-rise and garden style buildings.

If this is something that appeals to you, then TP Corporate Lodging could be an excellent resource. Providing access to fully furnished and tastefully decorated one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes throughout Atlanta, the company can help find the perfect match for your needs. Three great options in the metro area available through TP Corporate Lodging include:

Revival on Main, Kennesaw
This pet-friendly community blends modern convenience with Southern charm in one-, two- and three-bedroom units in an excellent location in the heart of Cobb County.

The Bishop, Sandy Springs
A brand new apartment community, The Bishop offers studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments that boast contemporary features and unparalleled amenities.

AMLI Northpoint, Alpharetta
Urban living comes to the suburbs with this mid-rise apartment complex, which features sustainable, LEED-certified luxury units and outstanding amenities.

For more information, visit tpcorporatelodging.com.