Roswell, GA: The 2026 Relocation Deep Dive

Roswell: The Data Profile (2026)

Roswell represents a statistical "sweet spot" for high-earning professionals seeking suburban stability. The city is defined by a population of 91,708, positioning it as a manageable small city rather than a sprawling metro. The primary economic draw is the median household income of $119,657, which stands 60.4% higher than the US average of $74,580. This significant income premium creates a unique financial buffer for residents.

The statistical target demographic is the "suburban optimizer": remote or hybrid professionals aged 30–50 who prioritize disposable income and quality of life metrics over raw urban density. With a Cost of Living Index where housing sits at 95.8 (below the national baseline), the data suggests this demographic can leverage their high income to maximize savings or housing quality, rather than simply covering elevated expenses.

Cost of Living Analysis

The following table breaks down estimated monthly budgets based on the verified Cost of Living Index (COLI) data. "Single" assumes one adult; "Family" assumes two adults and two children.

Disposable Income Analysis:
The critical financial advantage in Roswell is the disparity between income and expenses. A median-income household earning $119,657 annually takes home approximately $8,500/month (after taxes). Against a family budget of $5,755, this leaves a surplus of $2,745/month. This 32.3% savings rate is significantly higher than the US average, driven primarily by housing costs (4.2% below average) and utilities (electricity at 14.08¢/kWh vs 16.0¢ US avg).

Housing Market Deep Dive

Roswell's housing market is characterized by "value retention." While prices are high in absolute terms, they remain below the national premium curve relative to the income levels.

Buying vs. Renting Analysis:
The data favors buying for long-term residents. The median home price of $540,000 is high, but the -4.2% Housing Index indicates you are paying less than the national baseline for real estate. Renters benefit from a -8.8% discount on 1BR units ($1,550), but the gap widens for families ($2,450). Given the $119,657 median income, the debt-to-income ratio for a median mortgage is favorable, making homeownership a primary wealth-building vehicle here.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

RTO (Return to Office) Impact:
Roswell is a prime beneficiary of the post-remote economy. Located 24 miles north of downtown Atlanta, it is a "super-commuter" hub. However, with 3.5% unemployment (vs 4.0% US avg), the local job market is tight. The RTO mandate has not hurt Roswell; it has increased demand for its "bedroom community" status. Professionals commute 2–3 days/week, utilizing the GA-400 corridor.

Commute & Industry:
Average commute times have stabilized at 28 minutes, below the national average of 32 minutes. The local economy is anchored by healthcare, professional services, and logistics. The 3.5% unemployment rate indicates a labor shortage in service sectors, but high stability for white-collar workers.

Quality of Life Audit

Roswell excels in health outcomes and environmental metrics, offsetting average safety statistics.

[TABLE 3: Quality of Life Metrics]

Safety Analysis:
Roswell reports Violent Crime at 401/100k (vs 380/100k US avg) and Property Crime at 2,457/100k (vs 2,000/100k). While these are technically "Average" or slightly elevated, the context is vital: the population density and high property values often correlate with higher property crime reporting. Violent crime remains statistically marginal for a suburban setting.

Air Quality & Weather:
The Air Quality Index (AQI) of 50 is "Good," significantly better than the US average of 58. PM2.5 levels are 6.0 µg/m³, well below the EPA safety threshold. Current weather shows a temperature of 67.0°F with high visibility issues (Patchy Fog), typical for the region's humidity.

Schools:
Roswell is serviced by Fulton County Schools, which holds a 7/10 rating on major aggregators, driving family demand for the $2,450 rental tier.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Income Power: Median income ($119,657) is 60.4% higher than the US average, creating massive disposable income.
• Cost Efficiency: A COLI of 95.8 means you pay less than average while earning significantly more.
• Health & Environment: Health score (85.8) and AQI (50) are top-tier.
• RTO Friendly: Ideal for hybrid workers needing Atlanta access without Atlanta prices.

Cons:

• Housing Entry Cost: Median home price ($540,000) requires significant upfront capital.
• Traffic: The GA-400 corridor is congested during peak commute windows.
• Property Crime: Rate of 2,457/100k is above the national baseline.

Final Recommendation:
RELOCATE. Roswell is a data-backed "value play" for 2026. It offers the financial upside of a high-income area with the cost structure of a mid-tier city. It is best suited for homeowners and hybrid workers.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Roswell?
For a single adult, a salary of $75,000 allows for a comfortable budget including savings. For a family, $120,000 aligns with the median income and provides a $2,745/month surplus.

2. How does Roswell compare to Alpharetta?
Roswell offers slightly older housing stock but better value. Alpharetta typically commands a 10–15% premium on home prices ($600k+) with similar amenities.

3. Are the crime stats a concern?
No. While Violent Crime is 401/100k, this is statistically average for a dense suburb. Property crime is higher (2,457/100k), suggesting the need for standard suburban security measures (alarm systems, locking vehicles).

4. When is the best time to buy or move?
The market is stable. However, moving in Q4 (October–November) often yields rental discounts of 3–5% as demand dips before the winter holidays. Buying in Q1 offers the most inventory, though prices remain flat.