Irvine, CA vs Athens, GA: 256 vs 83

$2,893/mo ↑ 149%

Median Rent

$1,162/mo ↓ 60%

$129,647/yr ↑ 151%

Median Income

$51,655/yr ↓ 60%

$1,115,400 ↑ 310%

Home Value

$271,800 ↓ 76%

$2,904/mo ↑ 150%

Owner Costs

$1,163/mo ↓ 60%

308,160

Population

126,987

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Irvine, CA and Athens, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 256 and 83 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,731/month cheaper in Athens, saving renters about $20,772/year.

Median household income is $77,992/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Irvine is $1,115,400 compared to $271,800 in Athens.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Irvine vs Athens — common questions

Is Irvine or Athens cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Athens is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Irvine and Athens?

Median rent in Irvine is $2,893/month and in Athens it's $1,162/month — a difference of $1,731/month.

Which city has higher income, Irvine or Athens?

Median household income is $129,647 in Irvine and $51,655 in Athens. Median household income is $77,992/year higher in Irvine.

How do taxes compare between California and Georgia?

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

Should I move to Irvine or Athens?

It depends on your priorities. Irvine has a cost index of 256 with median rent of $2,893/mo, while Athens has a cost index of 83 with rent of $1,162/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Irvine

Athens

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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