Atlanta vs. Denver: Which City Offers the Best Cost of Living in 2025?
Atlanta vs. Denver: Cost of Living Showdown 2025
Table of Contents
- Introduction: Why Compare Atlanta and Denver?
- Housing Costs
- Groceries & Dining
- Utilities
- Transportation
- Healthcare
- Taxes & Local Fees
- Lifestyle Costs
- Monthly Budget Comparison: Single Person vs. Family of Four
- Why These Cities Are Trending in 2025
- Zip Code Spotlight: Where to Live Smart in Atlanta and Denver
- Conclusion & What’s Next
1. Introduction: Why Compare Atlanta and Denver?
Atlanta, GA and Denver, CO have gained significant traction over the past few years as top destinations for tech workers, young professionals, and families seeking alternative metropolitan lifestyles outside of places like New York or Los Angeles. Both cities boast proximity to nature, expanding economies, and strong relocation momentum.
Atlanta has transformed into a booming hub for media, tech startups, and film production, while Denver continues to ride the wave of outdoor lifestyle appeal, cannabis economy growth, and a well-educated workforce. They both offer thriving arts scenes, vibrant neighborhoods, and diverse job markets—but how do they stack up when it comes to cost of living?
2. Housing Costs
Atlanta, GA
- Median Home Price (2025): $410,000
- Average Monthly Rent (1-bedroom near downtown): $1,665
- Popular Affordable Zip Codes: 30310 (West End), 30331 (Cascade), 30315 (Lakewood Heights)
Denver, CO
- Median Home Price (2025): $535,000
- Average Monthly Rent (1-bedroom near downtown): $2,000
- Popular Affordable Zip Codes: 80239 (Montbello), 80249 (Green Valley Ranch), 80223 (Athmar Park)
Verdict: While both cities exhibit above-average prices compared to national median home values, Atlanta offers significantly more affordability in both rental and home buying markets.
3. Groceries & Dining
| Item | Atlanta (avg.) | Denver (avg.) |
|---|---|---|
| Gallon of Milk | $3.17 | $3.56 |
| Dozen Eggs | $3.25 | $3.80 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range) | $65 | $75 |
| Monthly Grocery Cost | $380 (single) / $920 (family) | $420 (single) / $980 (family) |
Verdict: Denver is slightly more expensive across food categories, from groceries to casual dining. Atlanta takes the edge for affordability in food.
4. Utilities
| Utility Type | Atlanta | Denver |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity (monthly avg.) | $135 | $120 |
| Internet (high-speed) | $70 | $64 |
| Water & Trash | $45 | $55 |
| Total Monthly Utilities | ~$250 (single/family) | ~$240 (single/family) |
Verdict: Denver saves slightly on utilities, though the difference is marginal.
5. Transportation
Atlanta, GA
- Public Transit (MARTA Monthly Pass): $95
- Average Gas Price: $3.25/gallon
- Commute Mode Split: 76% drive, 15% public transit, 9% others
- Growing congestion issues, but low public transport accessibility outside MARTA core
Denver, CO
- Public Transit (RTD Monthly Pass): $114
- Average Gas Price: $3.50/gallon
- Commute Mode Split: 72% drive, 20% public transit, 8% others
- Better cycling infrastructure and light-rail coverage
Verdict: Both cities lean toward car travel, but Denver’s improved transit options may justify the slightly higher cost for those committed to reduced car usage.
6. Healthcare
| Metric | Atlanta | Denver |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium (Individual) | $520 | $580 |
| Routine Visit (Out-of-pocket) | $125 | $135 |
| Health Facilities per 100K population | 24 | 22 |
Verdict: Health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs are more affordable in Atlanta, making it a better pick for healthcare-conscious individuals and families.
7. Taxes & Local Fees
Atlanta
- State Income Tax: 5.75%
- Property Tax (effective rate): 0.91%
- Sales Tax: 8.9%
Denver
- State Income Tax: 4.4% (flat)
- Property Tax (effective rate): 0.49%
- Sales Tax: 8.81%
Verdict: Denver’s lower income and property taxes give it the edge here, but Atlanta’s only slightly higher totals keep it fairly competitive.
8. Lifestyle Costs
| Lifestyle Category | Atlanta | Denver |
|---|---|---|
| Gym Membership (monthly) | $50 | $65 |
| Movie Ticket | $12 | $15 |
| Childcare (monthly, full-time) | $1,150 | $1,350 |
| Entertainment Budget | ~$250 (single) / ~$600 (family) | ~$300 (single) / ~$700 (family) |
Verdict: Atlanta offers a more budget-friendly lifestyle, especially for families navigating childcare costs.
9. Monthly Budget Comparison: Single Person vs. Family of Four
| Expense Category | Atlanta (Single) | Denver (Single) | Atlanta (Family of 4) | Denver (Family of 4) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | $1,665 | $2,000 | $2,400 | $2,800 |
| Utilities | $250 | $240 | $300 | $290 |
| Groceries + Dining | $500 | $565 | $1,100 | $1,250 |
| Transportation | $300 | $320 | $800 | $850 |
| Healthcare | $520 | $580 | $1,250 | $1,400 |
| Lifestyle/Entertainment | $250 | $300 | $600 | $700 |
| TOTAL | $3,485 | $4,005 | $6,450 | $7,290 |
Verdict: Across the board, Atlanta stays more affordable by roughly 10–15%, a significant cut for both individuals and families.
10. Why These Cities Are Trending in 2025
Atlanta’s Momentum:
- Rapid growth in tech startups, particularly in fintech and health tech
- Major media and film production scene (a.k.a. Hollywood of the South)
- Airport accessibility (world’s busiest international hub at ATL)
Denver’s Draw:
- Attracting remote workers and digital nomads seeking a work/life/outdoor balance
- Legal cannabis industry and strong recreational economy
- High concentration of young professionals and post-grads
11. Zip Code Spotlight: Where to Live Smart in Atlanta and Denver
Atlanta’s Emerging Zip Code: 30315
Fast becoming a hotspot due to affordability and accessibility to the central business district. Median home prices under $300K.
Denver’s Underrated Pick: 80239
Offers below-average rental rates with easier access to RTD light-rail and increasing mixed-use developments.
Explore Zip Code Level Info: Visit CompaniesByZipcode.com to explore average rent, economic stats, and real-time trends by zip code.
12. Conclusion & What’s Next
In the cost-of-living battle between Atlanta and Denver, Atlanta comes out ahead for affordability, especially across categories like housing, childcare, and healthcare. It’s a great choice for families and professionals who want big-city energy without big-city prices. Denver, while more expensive, delivers in lifestyle and transit innovation, making it appealing for younger remote workers and fitness aficionados.
Want to dig deeper? Explore average housing and utility costs by zip code now at CompaniesByZipcode.com to plan your next move the smart way.
Next Week: Coastal Living Showdown—San Diego vs. Miami
Which beach city offers better value for digital nomads, retirees, and sunshine lovers? Don’t miss it!
