Athens, GA vs Arvada, CO: 83 vs 152

$1,162/mo ↓ 36%

Median Rent

$1,802/mo ↑ 55%

$51,655/yr ↓ 54%

Median Income

$113,396/yr ↑ 120%

$271,800 ↓ 55%

Home Value

$600,800 ↑ 121%

$1,163/mo ↓ 40%

Owner Costs

$1,948/mo ↑ 67%

126,987

Population

122,835

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Athens, GA and Arvada, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 152 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $640/month cheaper in Athens, saving renters about $7,680/year.

Median household income is $61,741/year higher in Arvada. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Athens is $271,800 compared to $600,800 in Arvada.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Arvada slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Athens vs Arvada — common questions

Is Athens or Arvada cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Athens is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 152 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Athens and Arvada?

Median rent in Athens is $1,162/month and in Arvada it's $1,802/month — a difference of $640/month.

Which city has higher income, Athens or Arvada?

Median household income is $51,655 in Athens and $113,396 in Arvada. Median household income is $61,741/year higher in Arvada.

How do taxes compare between Georgia and Colorado?

Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Athens or Arvada?

It depends on your priorities. Athens has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,162/mo, while Arvada has a cost index of 152 with rent of $1,802/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Athens, GA vs Arvada, CO (2026)

Athens

Arvada

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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