What's the Cost of Living in Marietta, GA?

Is Marietta, GA, an expensive place to live? Let's find out by looking deeper into the cost of living, the average household income, and typical expenses in Marietta.

Located on the outskirts of Atlanta, Marietta, GA, serves as the country seat in the center of Cobb County, GA. As a prominent city suburb, Interstate 75, U.S. Highway 41, and many other state routes make getting in and around the town easy.

The quaint town is home to about 62,626 and mainly comprises young professionals and small families. There are many reasons why Marietta is known as one of the best places to live in Georgia. Marietta boasts its friendly Southern charm, beautiful lake beaches, mouthwatering cuisine, adorable homes, excellent schools, prime real estate, and a low cost of living. 

The cost of living is a combination of expenses, including real estate, transportation, healthcare, and more. Make sure you consider every vital factor before moving to a Georgia area. 

No matter why you're deciding to move to Marietta, it is essential to consider the critical factors about the cost of living. Luckily for you, we have compiled a list of all the necessary information you need to know about the overall cost of living in Marietta. 

Here is everything you need to do about the cost of living in Marietta, GA.

Cost of Living

Marietta is known as a much more affordable town compared to other cities in Georgia. Although, the overall cost of living in Georgia is 6% lower than the national average. Compared to the national average, the cost of living in Marietta is 7% lower, and all of the typical expenses are below. 

Looking a little deeper into the cost of living, the housing prices are 12% lower, utilities are 8% lower, groceries are 8% lower, and transportation is 8% lower. Remember that the cost of living varies greatly depending on your career, average salary, and the real estate market in your area.

Consider your budget, lifestyle, and family size to save more on your daily expenses. Remember that the cost of living in different areas of Marietta may vary, so finding a comfortable place to live is essential. Research the cost of living in your preferred location to ensure you'll be happy with your new home. 

Try comparing the average living costs in Athens, Savannah, and Atlanta to ensure Marietta is the perfect fit for you. 

Here are some typical cost of living aspects according to Payscale.

Real Estate

Overall, the housing prices in Marietta are 12% lower than the national average, meaning you will save tons of money on housing here in Marietta. This is extremely important, as typically, housing costs are the most significant expenses. On top of that, utility prices are 8% lower than the national average.

The average age of residents is about 35.2, and most of the residents are small families who own their homes. Depending on what you are looking for, there are many beautiful and affordable neighborhoods to choose from. If you're a retiree seeking tranquility, a young professional looking for peers, or a small family prioritizing a quality school district, ample options are available. There are many single-family homes and townhomes worth checking out.

The median home price is about $395,451, but this will vary depending on the location, house size, and other factors. Still, you will find a beautiful home in Marietta that meets all your needs. Home styles also vary depending on the neighborhood or area; most are Dutch Colonial Revival, Craftsman, Fold Victorian, Tudor Revival, Colonial Revival, and Neoclassical Revival. 

With tree-lined streets, huge backyards, wrap-around porches, deep history, and so much more, you will find that the homes here are absolutely incredible. Check out the best neighborhoods in other Georgia cities like Atlanta, Savannah, and Athens. 

Income

As one of the oldest communities in the country, Marietta has grown significantly, and so has the job market. Marietta has been named by the National Civic League as one of the ten best communities in the nation and an All-American city, the county's oldest and most-respected community recognition awards. 

As of 2021, the median household income in the U.S. is $62,585, with a poverty rate of 12.9%, lower than Georgia's 14% rate. As a suburb of Atlanta, many residents live in Marietta because they love the small-town charm and commute to the city for employment. This is an excellent option for residents looking for higher-paying jobs who want to live outside the bustling city.

Most jobs in Marietta are manufacturing, education, the National Guard, healthcare, and service and entertainment. There are 17 Fortune 500 companies with headquarters in Atlanta, including Delta Air Lines Inc., The Home Depot, Aflac, United Parcel Service, and the Coca-Cola Company.

Whether you work in Marietta or commute outside of town for your job, you can guarantee to love where you live. 

Food and Grocery

People often forget how food and grocery prices can impact the cost of living, but high grocery prices can really take a toll on your monthly expenses. Luckily, grocery costs in Marietta are 8% lower than the national average. 

Remember that grocery prices are not the same; it entirely depends on where you shop. Costs can vary even more depending on your preferences, family size, and other factors. 

To give you a better idea of the grocery prices, here are the average prices of everyday grocery items according to Payscale. 

The charming town has many dining choices, from classic diners to elegant steak houses to delicious farm-to-table cuisine. You can have any food you're in the mood for in Marietta. Check out the list below if you want some of the best local spots to eat in Marietta.

• Catfish Hox: No matter if you're a seafood lover, you won't want to miss out on the delicious restaurant featuring the best Southern seafood in town. 
• Jerusalem Bakery & Market: This family-owned spot is the perfect place to get the best Middle Eastern treats. 
• Mac's Chophouse: This upscale steakhouse is the place for an elegant night out. Don't forget to try the fantastic pimento cheese fritters and crab cakes. 

Taxes

Besides grocery costs, many people moving to a new area don't consider how taxes will change in their new home. Luckily, taxes in Georgia are relatively low. The minimum combined 2023 sales tax rate in Marietta is 6%, a total of state, county, and city sales tax rates. The state of Georgia has a sales tax rate of 4%, and the county's rate is 3%. 

Along with the rest of Georgia, Marietta's taxes are billed against the property's assessed value, which is 40% of the market value. The town's 2023 millage rate was about 31.122, the total county and city rate. Property owners will pay $31.12 per $1,000 of taxable value. This is a bit higher than some other areas, but the housing and utility costs in Marietta are much lower.

The income tax rate varies greatly depending on income, ranging from 1.00% to 5.75%. The state of Georgia's tax system ranks 32nd overall on the 2023 State Business Tax Climate Index, meaning it is average compared to other states nationwide.

Transportation

Transportation costs in Marietta are 8% lower than the national average. This is a combination of public transportation fares and gas prices. Cobb County has a transit system, CobbLinc, with two transfer centers. One is in Marietta, and another 20 minutes away in Cumberland. 

The transit system also offers three express routes, nine local routes, two accessible Circulator routes, and three FLEX zones. The small town isn't known to have the best public transportation options, although the gas prices are relatively affordable.

Most residents choose to own a car, as the town is relatively spread out. If you value easy access to an airport, you're in luck because the Cobb County International Airport is just 20 minutes down the road in Kennesaw, GA. You may also hop on the bus directly to Atlanta from Marietta, making your morning commute much more affordable.

Marietta Square is known to be highly walkable, which you are guaranteed to enjoy as you pass through all the adorable shops, breweries, restaurants, and bars. 

Healthcare

Healthcare expenses in Marietta are about 8% lower than the national average. Marietta has many highly rated and affordable healthcare options. Starting with the Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, which is just down the road from the center of town. This means that not only will you have easy access to premier healthcare, but you'll find it at an affordable price.

Luckily, Emory University Hospital Midtown is located in Atlanta and is named the best hospital in all of Georgia. You are guaranteed to find the best healthcare here in Marietta. 

Remember that average healthcare costs may not equate to exactly how much you will be spending. Personal healthcare costs vary greatly depending on where you go, the specialized service you need, and your type of healthcare. This is why it is so important to consider how the average compares to your current area. 

For a deeper understanding of the average healthcare in Marrietta, check out the average prices for standard doctor visits according to Payscale. 

FAQ: Cost of Living in Marietta, GA

Here are some commonly asked questions about the cost of living in Marietta, GA.

Is Marietta, Georgia, expensive to live in?

Compared to the national average, Marietta is 7% lower, meaning the town is much more affordable than other cities around the country.

What is the minimum wage in Marietta, GA?

Similar to many states, the minimum wage rate is $7.25 per hour; however, many jobs pay higher than the minimum wage.

Is Marietta, GA, a good place to live?

Marietta offers peaceful vibes, a rich history, delicious food, outstanding schools, and beautiful neighborhoods. You can't go wrong with moving here. 

What's it like living in Marietta, GA?

Marietta is one of the smaller suburbs of Atlanta, and it is mainly known for its historic square and beautiful homes. The town is owner-occupied chiefly and is just a short commute to the city. 

What is the highest-paid job in Georgia?

Georgia has many high-paying jobs to choose from; some top ones are Finance Services Director, Primary Care Pediatrician, Medical Director, and Board Certified Orthodontist.

Moving to Marietta - Final Thoughts

Marietta is the premier place to move to if you are looking for an adorable little town with great schools, amazing food, deep history, fun activities, and stunning architecture. As one of the most affordable towns in Georgia, you can't go wrong with moving to Marietta. 

Whether you move to Marietta for its small-town charm, a new job opportunity, or just for a fresh start, you can guarantee to love it. One of the most important things to do before moving to a new area is to research everything possible.

If Marietta doesn't seem like the right fit for you, take a look at Athens, Savannah, or Atlanta. These cities are also stunning and reasonably priced in Georgia. Be sure to compare the cost of living in Athens, Savannah, and Atlanta, as prices can differ significantly. 

Feel free to contact one of our highly qualified Realty Specialists to help you along the process. Our team at UpHomes is dedicated to helping you find the home of your dreams. Don't forget to check out the beautiful homes for sale in Georgia.