Long Beach, CA vs Athens, GA: 169 vs 83

$1,803/mo ↑ 55%

Median Rent

$1,162/mo ↓ 36%

$83,969/yr ↑ 63%

Median Income

$51,655/yr ↓ 38%

$762,200 ↑ 180%

Home Value

$271,800 ↓ 64%

$1,890/mo ↑ 63%

Owner Costs

$1,163/mo ↓ 38%

458,491

Population

126,987

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Athens, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 83 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $641/month cheaper in Athens, saving renters about $7,692/year.

Median household income is $32,314/year higher in Long Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $271,800 in Athens.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Athens — common questions

Is Long Beach or Athens 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 Long Beach and Athens?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Athens it's $1,162/month — a difference of $641/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Athens?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $51,655 in Athens. Median household income is $32,314/year higher in Long Beach.

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 Long Beach or Athens?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/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: Long Beach, CA vs Athens, GA (2026)

Long Beach

Athens

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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