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A good salary in Georgia is quite affordable by national standards, though Atlanta has seen significant cost increases in recent years.

Quick Answer

Situation Good Salary Comfortable Salary
Single, GA average $55,000-$75,000 $45,000-$55,000
Single in Atlanta $65,000-$90,000 $55,000-$65,000
Single outside Atlanta $45,000-$60,000 $38,000-$45,000
Family of 4 $85,000-$115,000 $70,000-$85,000

Why Georgia Is Affordable

Georgia benefits from:

  • Lower cost of living (7% below national average)
  • Moderate state income tax (5.49% flat rate)
  • Strong job market in Atlanta (finance, tech, logistics)
  • Affordable housing compared to coastal metros

Good Salary by Georgia City

Atlanta Metro

Atlanta is a major hub with a diverse economy but rising housing costs.

Category Single Person Family of 4
Minimum to survive $42,000 $75,000
Comfortable $60,000 $95,000
Good lifestyle $85,000+ $130,000+

Median home price: ~$400,000
Average rent (1BR): ~$1,700/month

Savannah

Savannah offers coastal living at moderate costs.

Category Single Person Family of 4
Minimum to survive $35,000 $62,000
Comfortable $50,000 $80,000
Good lifestyle $65,000+ $100,000+

Median home price: ~$350,000
Average rent (1BR): ~$1,400/month

Augusta

Augusta is one of the most affordable Georgia metros.

Category Single Person Family of 4
Minimum to survive $32,000 $55,000
Comfortable $42,000 $70,000
Good lifestyle $55,000+ $90,000+

Median home price: ~$260,000
Average rent (1BR): ~$1,100/month

After-Tax Income in Georgia

Georgia has a flat 5.49% state income tax:

Gross Salary GA After Tax TX After Tax (no state tax)
$50,000 $41,800 $43,500
$75,000 $60,900 $63,500
$100,000 $79,500 $83,400

How Much House Can You Afford in Georgia?

Annual Salary Max Home Price (28% rule)
$50,000 $175,000-$195,000
$75,000 $280,000-$310,000
$100,000 $380,000-$420,000

Georgia vs. Neighboring States

State $75K Salary Take-Home Cost of Living Index
Georgia $60,900 93
Florida $63,500 100
North Carolina $60,100 96
Tennessee $63,500 90

Sources

  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.” bls.gov/oes

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