Cost of Living: Athens, GA vs South Fulton, GA (2026)

Athens

Georgia
83
VS

South Fulton

Georgia
103

Athens is 19% cheaper than South Fulton.

$1,162/mo ↓ 28%
Median Rent
$1,607/mo ↑ 38%
$51,655/yr ↓ 37%
Median Income
$81,798/yr ↑ 58%
$271,800 ≈ Same
Home Value
$270,600 ≈ Same
$1,163/mo ↓ 25%
Owner Costs
$1,541/mo ↑ 33%
126,987
Population
109,157

Tax Comparison

5.49%
Income Tax
5.49%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
0.92%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

27.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Athens, GA and South Fulton, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 103 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $445/month cheaper in Athens, saving renters about $5,340/year.

Median household income is $30,143/year higher in South Fulton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Athens is $271,800 compared to $270,600 in South Fulton.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Georgia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Athens vs South Fulton — common questions

Is Athens or South Fulton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Athens is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 103 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Athens and South Fulton?
Median rent in Athens is $1,162/month and in South Fulton it's $1,607/month — a difference of $445/month.
Which city has higher income, Athens or South Fulton?
Median household income is $51,655 in Athens and $81,798 in South Fulton. Median household income is $30,143/year higher in South Fulton.
How do taxes compare between Georgia and Georgia?
Both cities are in Georgia and share the same state tax rates: 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Athens or South Fulton?
It depends on your priorities. Athens has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,162/mo, while South Fulton has a cost index of 103 with rent of $1,607/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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