Athens, GA vs Murrieta, CA: 83 vs 175

$1,162/mo ↓ 50%

Median Rent

$2,330/mo ↑ 101%

$51,655/yr ↓ 53%

Median Income

$109,780/yr ↑ 113%

$271,800 ↓ 55%

Home Value

$606,900 ↑ 123%

$1,163/mo ↓ 51%

Owner Costs

$2,380/mo ↑ 105%

126,987

Population

111,621

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Athens, GA and Murrieta, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 175 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,168/month cheaper in Athens, saving renters about $14,016/year.

Median household income is $58,125/year higher in Murrieta. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Athens is $271,800 compared to $606,900 in Murrieta.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Athens vs Murrieta — common questions

Is Athens or Murrieta cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Athens is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 175 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Athens and Murrieta?

Median rent in Athens is $1,162/month and in Murrieta it's $2,330/month — a difference of $1,168/month.

Which city has higher income, Athens or Murrieta?

Median household income is $51,655 in Athens and $109,780 in Murrieta. Median household income is $58,125/year higher in Murrieta.

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 Murrieta?

It depends on your priorities. Athens has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,162/mo, while Murrieta has a cost index of 175 with rent of $2,330/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Athens

Murrieta

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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