Georgia · Population 126,987 · Updated March 2026
How far your income goes in Athens
State-level tax rates that affect your costs
Athens is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 83 (where 100 equals the national median), Athens residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,162/month while earning a median household income of $51,655/year.
The median home value in Athens, GA is $271,800, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,163 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 27.0%, Athens falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.
Georgia has a moderate income tax rate of 5.49%. Combined with a 4.0% sales tax rate and 0.92% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Athens.
Common questions about living costs in Athens
Similar-sized cities to compare
Compare the cost of living in Athens, GA with 299 other major U.S. cities