Athens, GA vs Downey, CA: 83 vs 169

$1,162/mo ↓ 39%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 63%

$51,655/yr ↓ 41%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 69%

$271,800 ↓ 63%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 168%

$1,163/mo ↓ 42%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 72%

126,987

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Athens, GA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $730/month cheaper in Athens, saving renters about $8,760/year.

Median household income is $35,745/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Athens is $271,800 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

Georgia has a lower income tax rate, making Athens slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Athens vs Downey — common questions

Is Athens or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Athens is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Athens and Downey?

Median rent in Athens is $1,162/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $730/month.

Which city has higher income, Athens or Downey?

Median household income is $51,655 in Athens and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $35,745/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Georgia and California?

Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Athens or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Athens has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,162/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Athens, GA vs Downey, CA (2026)

Athens

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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