Johns Creek, GA: A 2026 Relocation Deep Dive

Johns Creek: The Data Profile (2026)

Johns Creek represents a distinct statistical outlier in the post-2024 economic landscape. With a population of 81,119, it functions as a high-income bedroom community rather than a sprawling metropolis. The defining characteristic of this city is the massive delta between median income and national averages. The median household income stands at $151,344, which is 102.9% higher than the US median of $74,580. This wealth is underpinned by an exceptionally educated workforce; 74.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, nearly triple the national average of 33.1%.

The statistical target demographic is clear: dual-income, college-educated professionals, typically in the technology, healthcare, or finance sectors, seeking suburban stability with high-end amenities. The cost of living index for housing is 95.8, meaning despite the high incomes, entry costs are slightly below the national curve, allowing for accelerated wealth accumulation.

Cost of Living Analysis

While the cost of living in Johns Creek is generally aligned with national averages, the high median income creates a significant surplus in disposable income. The aggregate COL index sits at roughly 95.5 (weighted average of provided metrics), suggesting a 4.5% savings compared to a generic US basket. However, the "lifestyle inflation" typical of this demographic often negates this statistical advantage.

Disposable Income Analysis:
Based on the median income of $151,344, a household takes home approximately $113,500 annually after taxes ($9,458 monthly). A family of four spending $6,970 monthly retains $2,488 in discretionary income. This is significantly higher than the national average retention rate. The electricity cost of 14.08 cents/kWh (US avg: 16.0 cents) provides a marginal but consistent saving on utilities.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market in Johns Creek is competitive but favors the buyer slightly compared to the overheated national average. The median home price is accessible relative to the high local income, resulting in a lower price-to-income ratio than many coastal markets.

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
The data indicates a strong case for buying. With a Housing Index of 95.8, the market is 4.2% undervalued relative to the national baseline. The rent-to-price ratio favors ownership; renting a 3-bedroom unit at $2,400 costs $28,800 annually, while a mortgage on a comparable home at $475,000 (assuming 20% down) results in a monthly payment that builds equity. For long-term residents, buying is the mathematically superior option to capture the local wealth generation.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The economic stability of Johns Creek is robust, driven by the 3.5% unemployment rate, which sits below the US average of 4.0%. Post-2024 Return-to-Office (RTO) mandates have impacted this area differently than urban centers. Because Johns Creek is a residential hub, RTO has increased commute times for those working in Atlanta proper (approx. 30-45 minutes), but the local economy has pivoted to support the "work-from-home" infrastructure.

Local industry stability is anchored in healthcare and tech. North Fulton Hospital and various tech outposts provide high-paying, localized employment. The high percentage of college graduates (74.8%) insulates the job market from low-wage volatility. For the hybrid worker, the proximity to GA-400 offers a manageable commute to Atlanta's financial district, while the local fiber infrastructure supports high-speed remote work connectivity.

Quality of Life Audit

Johns Creek excels in health outcomes and air quality, significantly outperforming national averages in preventative health metrics.

[TABLE 3: Quality of Life Metrics]

Safety & Environment:
Safety metrics are statistically "Average" but represent a low absolute risk. Violent crime is 401/100k (US: 380/100k), and property crime is 2,457/100k (US: 2,000/100k). While slightly above the national mean, the relative risk remains low for a suburban area of this size.

Air quality is a major asset. An AQI of 50 is considered "Good," and PM2.5 levels are consistently low, contributing to the 87.4 health score. The weather today, with a high of 69°F and low of 38°F, highlights the distinct seasons, though the "Patchy Fog" indicates the humidity typical of the region.

Schools: The school system is highly rated, correlating with the 74.8% college-educated population.

The Verdict

Pros:

• High Disposable Income: Median income ($151,344) significantly outpaces living costs.
• Health & Longevity: Obesity rates (20.8%) and smoking rates (7.1%) are drastically lower than national averages.
• Housing Value: The Housing Index (95.8) offers better value than the US average.
• Air Quality: AQI of 50 provides a clean respiratory environment.

Cons:

• Commute Friction: Proximity to Atlanta means traffic congestion during peak RTO hours.
• Property Crime: Rate of 2,457/100k is higher than the national average.
• Demographic Homogeneity: The high education level (74.8%) may create a competitive social environment.

Final Recommendation:
Johns Creek is a top-tier relocation destination for families and professionals prioritizing health, education, and financial stability over urban density. It is recommended for those seeking to maximize the "post-remote" lifestyle—capitalizing on high salaries while living in a slightly undervalued housing market with excellent environmental conditions.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Johns Creek?
For a single adult, a salary of $75,000 provides a comfortable lifestyle with savings. For a family, $150,000 aligns with the median income and covers the $6,970 monthly budget with ample surplus.

2. How does the value proposition compare to other Atlanta suburbs?
Johns Creek offers a 4.2% discount on housing compared to the US average, whereas many inner-ring Atlanta suburbs are 15-20% above average. You get more square footage for the dollar here, specifically in the $195/sqft range.

3. Are the safety stats a concern?
The violent crime rate of 401/100k is statistically average, not high. However, the property crime rate of 2,457/100k is roughly 22% higher than the national average, suggesting a need for standard suburban home security measures.

4. Is the real estate market going to crash?
With a low unemployment rate of 3.5% and a high-income demographic, demand remains inelastic. The market is stable; a price correction is unlikely, though the rapid appreciation of the 2020s has stabilized into a 13.1% premium over national median prices.