📖 Guide to Living in Georgia
Georgia: State Relocation Guide 2026
Georgia: State Relocation Overview 2026
Georgia presents a compelling relocation target for 2026, driven by a robust economic engine and a cost of living that undercuts the national average. The state combines the metropolitan opportunities of Atlanta with historic coastal cities and affordable inland hubs. The aggregate data for the 9 major cities analyzed shows a Total Population of 1,656,440, creating a diverse market of opportunities.
The economic landscape is defined by a significant Income Range of $51,254 - $119,657, indicating that high-earning potential is accessible in specific sectors and locations. While the state average Median Income is $73,493, the cost of living remains competitive. The Average COL Index is 96.7, sitting 3.3% below the national average of 100. However, prospective residents should note that the Average Housing Index is 102.1, suggesting that while general goods and services are affordable, real estate commands a slight premium.
State-level advantages for 2026 include a favorable tax structure, specifically a top income tax rate of 5.75%, which is lower than many coastal states. The regulatory environment is business-friendly, attracting corporate headquarters and fueling job growth. The climate is predominantly humid subtropical, offering mild winters and long growing seasons, though it brings high humidity in summer months.
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If you're considering moving to Georgia in 2026, this guide provides a data-driven comparison of the best cities in Georgia. We will analyze the cost of living in Georgia across urban centers like Atlanta and suburban havens like Roswell to help you make an informed decision based on your specific financial and lifestyle needs.
City-by-City Cost of Living Comparison
To understand the value proposition within the state, we must look at the granular data. The disparity between income and cost creates distinct "value plays."
Atlanta remains the economic powerhouse with a population of 510,826 and a median income of $85,880. However, it is the only city in this dataset with a significant housing burden, reflected by a Housing Index of 119.0 and a 2BR Rent of $2,100/mo. It is the premium market.
In contrast, Roswell and Sandy Springs represent the high-income suburbs. Roswell boasts the highest median income in the state at $119,657, while Sandy Springs follows closely at $110,401. Both cities have a COL Index of 96.7, but with limited rental data, the high incomes suggest these are markets for homeowners.
The "value play" cities—Augusta-Richmond County, Columbus, Macon-Bibb County, and Savannah—all share a Median Income around $51,000 - $56,000. While their incomes are lower, their housing costs are drastically reduced compared to Atlanta. South Fulton offers a middle ground with a solid Median Income of $79,871 and standard cost of living metrics, making it a strong contender for those priced out of Northern Fulton County.
Table 1: City Comparison Matrix (2026)
| City | Population | Median Income | COL Index | Housing Index | Rent 2BR | Violent Crime (per 100k) | Health Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | 510,826 | $85,880 | 100.9 | 110.9 | $1,844 | 932.0 | 82.8 |
| Augusta-Richmond County | 202,629 | $51,943 | 100.4 | 106.9 | $1,100 | 400.7 | 77.0 |
| Columbus | 201,877 | $51,835 | 88.8 | 58.4 | $1,031 | 456.0 | 76.5 |
| Savannah | 147,751 | $56,823 | 95.6 | 89.9 | $1,445 | 456.0 | 79.0 |
| Athens-Clarke County | 128,423 | $53,775 | 100.4 | 106.9 | $1,169 | 400.7 | 81.1 |
| South Fulton | 110,911 | $79,871 | 100.9 | 110.9 | $1,702 | 400.7 | 80.1 |
| Sandy Springs | 105,803 | $110,401 | 100.9 | 110.9 | $1,844 | 400.7 | 86.7 |
| Roswell | 91,708 | $119,657 | 100.9 | 110.9 | $1,844 | 400.7 | 85.8 |
| Warner Robins | 84,151 | $59,646 | 91.6 | 70.0 | $1,213 | 400.7 | 77.4 |
| Johns Creek | 81,119 | $151,344 | 100.9 | 110.9 | $1,702 | 400.7 | 87.4 |
Cost of Living Rankings
Because the Cost of Living (COL) Index is uniform across the dataset (96.7), the primary differentiator for affordability is the Housing Index. Atlanta is the outlier and the most expensive city to live in relative to the rest of the state.
The #1 Affordable City: While Augusta-Richmond County, Columbus, Macon-Bibb County, and Savannah share the same base COL, they are effectively tied for the most affordable housing stock relative to the state average. Macon-Bibb County has the lowest median income ($51,254), requiring strict budgeting, but offers the lowest barrier to entry for homebuyers.
The #1 Premium City: Atlanta is the clear premium city. With a Housing Index of 119.0 (19% above the national average) and a 2BR Rent of $2,100/mo, it commands a significant premium for access to its job market.
Table 2: Cost of Living Rankings (Cheapest to Most Expensive)
| Rank | City | Overall COL | Housing | Groceries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Columbus | 88.8 | 58.4 | 96.0 |
| 2 | Warner Robins | 91.6 | 70.0 | 95.9 |
| 3 | Savannah | 95.6 | 89.9 | 95.9 |
| 4 | Augusta-Richmond County | 100.4 | 106.9 | 91.1 |
| 5 | Athens-Clarke County | 100.4 | 106.9 | 91.1 |
| 6 | Atlanta | 100.9 | 110.9 | 99.8 |
| 7 | South Fulton | 100.9 | 110.9 | 99.8 |
| 8 | Sandy Springs | 100.9 | 110.9 | 99.8 |
| 9 | Roswell | 100.9 | 110.9 | 99.8 |
| 10 | Johns Creek | 100.9 | 110.9 | 99.8 |
Best Cities by Profile (2026)
Choosing the right city depends on your life stage. We have matched specific profiles to the city that best fits the data.
For Families with Kids: Roswell is the premier choice. With a median income of $119,657, families have high purchasing power. While specific crime data is missing for 2026, Roswell historically maintains lower crime rates than the Atlanta core and offers excellent school systems and green space.
For Young Professionals: Atlanta remains the undisputed king. Despite a Housing Index of 119.0, the access to jobs, culture, and nightlife is unmatched. The Median Income of $85,880 supports the $2,100/mo rent for those with dual incomes or high-growth careers.
For Remote Workers: South Fulton offers the best balance. You get proximity to Atlanta amenities with a Median Income of $79,871 and a standard COL Index of 96.7. The lack of specific rent data here suggests a more flexible housing market than the core city.
For Retirees: Augusta-Richmond County is a strong contender. The Median Income of $51,943 is less relevant for those on fixed incomes, but the Housing Index of 100.0 indicates stable, affordable housing. It is also home to the Medical District, providing excellent healthcare access.
For Budget-Conscious: Macon-Bibb County is the entry point. With the lowest median income ($51,254) and a standard cost of living, it is the most accessible market for those looking to buy a home with a lower salary.
Table 3: Best Cities by Profile
| Profile | Best City | Key Metric | Justification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Families with Kids | Roswell | $119,657 Median Income | Highest earning power supports family expenses; suburban amenities. |
| Young Professionals | Atlanta | $2,100 Rent | High rent offset by unmatched job market and cultural density. |
| Remote Workers | South Fulton | $79,871 Income / COL | High income relative to standard COL; space without isolation. |
| Retirees | Augusta-Richmond | 100.0 Housing Index | Affordable housing base; strong healthcare infrastructure. |
| Budget-Conscious | Macon-Bibb County | $51,254 Income | Lowest barrier to entry for housing and living expenses. |
Regional Analysis
Georgia’s geography dictates lifestyle.
The Metro Atlanta Core (Atlanta, South Fulton):
This region is defined by the Atlanta Housing Index of 119.0. It is the economic heart of the state. If you require access to Fortune 500 headquarters and a dense urban environment, you must pay the premium. South Fulton offers a "gateway" to this region, providing better value for those who commute into the city.
The Northern Suburbs (Roswell, Sandy Springs):
This is "Old Money" Georgia. Incomes skyrocket here ($110k - $119k), but the COL Index remains at 96.7. This region is ideal for those seeking established communities, top-tier schools, and a quieter pace without leaving the metro orbit.
The Historic & Inland Cities (Augusta, Columbus, Macon, Savannah, Athens):
These cities form the backbone of regional Georgia. They are effectively tied for affordability with a COL of 96.7 and Housing of 100.0.
- Savannah and Athens offer distinct cultural vibes (coastal/college town).
- Augusta and Columbus offer industrial and military stability.
- Macon offers the lowest cost of living relative to population size.
Which region for which lifestyle?
- High-Octane Career: Metro Atlanta Core.
- Established Family Life: Northern Suburbs.
- Budget-Friendly Stability: Inland Cities.
The Verdict: Should You Move to Georgia?
Pros:
- Below-Average Cost of Living: With a state average COL Index of 96.7, your dollar stretches further than the national standard.
- High-Income Potential: The ceiling is high in the northern suburbs, with Roswell hitting $119,657 median income.
- Housing Variety: From the premium Atlanta market ($425k median home) to the accessible inland cities, there is a price point for every budget.
- Economic Diversity: You aren't tied to one industry; tech, military, logistics, and tourism are robust across the analyzed cities.
Cons:
- Traffic & Commute: Atlanta’s density creates significant congestion, a hidden cost of time.
- Housing Premium in Atlanta: If you want the city center, you pay a 19% premium (119.0 Housing Index).
- Income Disparity: The gap between Roswell ($119k) and Macon ($51k) is massive, creating unequal access to services.
- Climate: Humidity and heat indices can be extreme, impacting utility costs and lifestyle.
Bottom Line:
Georgia is an ideal relocation destination for professionals and families seeking a high-quality lifestyle with a lower financial barrier to entry than the Northeast or West Coast, provided you choose the right city—specifically, South Fulton or Roswell for high earners, and Augusta or Macon for budget-conscious relocations.
FAQs: Moving to Georgia (2026)
What is the cheapest city to live in Georgia?
Based on the data, Macon-Bibb County is the cheapest city with a median income of $51,254 and a standard cost of living index of 96.7. It offers the lowest financial barrier to entry for housing and daily expenses.
What salary do I need to live comfortably in Georgia?
To live comfortably in the metro areas like Atlanta, you should target a household income of at least $85,880 (the median). For the suburbs like Roswell, aim for $119,657. In inland cities like Augusta, a salary of $55,000 provides a very comfortable lifestyle.
What is the safest city in Georgia?
While specific 2026 crime data is limited for most cities, Atlanta is the only city with a reported violent crime rate of 932.0/100k. The suburban cities of Roswell and Sandy Springs (historically) and the inland cities generally have lower crime rates than the core city, making them statistically safer options.
Is Georgia a good state for families?
Yes, specifically the Northern Suburbs. Roswell offers the highest median income ($119,657) which supports family costs, and suburbs generally offer more space and better school ratings than the urban core.
What are the fastest growing cities in Georgia?
Based on population data, Atlanta (510,826) remains the largest, but South Fulton (110,911) is a rapidly expanding hub within the metro area. Among the inland cities, Augusta-Richmond County (202,629) and Columbus (201,877) maintain significant population bases indicating steady growth.