Athens, GA vs Sparks, NV: 83 vs 126

$1,162/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$1,651/mo ↑ 42%

$51,655/yr ↓ 41%

Median Income

$86,979/yr ↑ 68%

$271,800 ↓ 40%

Home Value

$455,900 ↑ 68%

$1,163/mo ↓ 28%

Owner Costs

$1,610/mo ↑ 38%

126,987

Population

109,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Athens, GA and Sparks, NV, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $489/month cheaper in Athens, saving renters about $5,868/year.

Median household income is $35,324/year higher in Sparks. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Athens is $271,800 compared to $455,900 in Sparks.

Nevada has no state income tax, giving Sparks residents a significant tax advantage over Georgia's 5.49% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Athens vs Sparks — common questions

Is Athens or Sparks cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Athens is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Athens and Sparks?

Median rent in Athens is $1,162/month and in Sparks it's $1,651/month — a difference of $489/month.

Which city has higher income, Athens or Sparks?

Median household income is $51,655 in Athens and $86,979 in Sparks. Median household income is $35,324/year higher in Sparks.

How do taxes compare between Georgia and Nevada?

Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Nevada has 0% income tax, 6.85% sales tax, and 0.53% property tax.

Should I move to Athens or Sparks?

It depends on your priorities. Athens has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,162/mo, while Sparks has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,651/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Athens, GA vs Sparks, NV (2026)

Athens

Sparks

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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