If you’re looking at the Atlanta area, Marietta, Georgia, delivers a rare combination: you get the real sense of history centered around that iconic Marietta Square, suburban convenience that actually works, and Kennesaw Mountain right there for your weekend escape.
Crucially, it sits only 19 miles from Atlanta’s core business district.
Whether you’re part of a family, a professional, or a retiree seeking a manageable lifestyle, understanding the Marietta budget is crucial.
This guide cuts through the usual generalities and provides the real numbers for 2025 living expenses in Marietta, helping ensure your move is practical and financially sensible.
Comprehensive Cost of Living Analysis: Marietta, GA
Marietta, Georgia, located in Cobb County, is ideal for individuals who appreciate both historic preservation and modern suburban development, all within easy commuting distance of Downtown Atlanta (approximately 19 miles).
For those planning a move and seeking the best areas near Atlanta, understanding the specific financial profile of Marietta is crucial.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of 2025 living expenses, grounded in local market data.
Cost of Living Index and Comparative Overview
Marietta offers a strategically balanced cost of living.
While it generally exceeds the statewide average for Georgia, it remains notably more affordable than major national markets.
One primary reason to move to Marietta is its closeness to Atlanta, allowing residents to enjoy a strong regional economy without the steep housing prices of the city center.
When compared to other major metro areas, Marietta’s cost structure demonstrates competitive value, particularly in housing and transportation:
| Feature | Cost of Living in Marietta, GA (USD) | Cost of living in Houston, TX (USD) | Cost of living in New York, NY (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average 1-BR Rent (Outside Centre) | $1,200-$1,600 | $900 – $1,600 | $1,900-$4000 |
| Basic Utilities (Monthly) | $130-$299 | $130 – $370 | $115-$350 |
| Local Monthly Transit Pass | $85 | $77.50 | $133 |
1. Housing and Property Costs in Marietta, GA
Marietta’s housing market is diverse, catering to various financial strategies, from buying a single-family home in a top school district to renting near the Historic Marietta Square.
| Housing Expense | Average Monthly Rent (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre) | $1,300-$2,100 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment (Outside Centre) | $1,200-$1,600 |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment (Outside Centre) | $2,200-$3,100 |
While many good places in Marietta are worth exploring, the East Cobb area is particularly popular, known for its consistently excellent school district.
Conversely, properties located closer to the historic district and the Big Chicken landmark offer walkable access to local dining and cultural amenities, commanding slightly higher rental premiums due to their central convenience.
2. Food, Groceries, and Utilities in Marietta, GA
Routine living costs in Marietta are moderate.
Utilities are influenced by Georgia’s warm climate, making cooling a dominant factor in summer bills.
The average total for essential utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for a 915 sq. ft. apartment averages $211.89 per month.
High-speed internet (60 Mbps or more) adds an average of $74.19 to the cost.
Grocery costs are manageable, with many residents utilizing local markets alongside national chains.
Below is a sample of current average prices:
| Grocery Item | Average Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Milk (1 gallon, regular) | $4.01 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (1 lb) | $3.36 |
| Eggs (1 dozen) | $4.25 |
| Chicken Fillets (1 lb) | $6.36 |
| Local Cheese (1 lb) | $6.13 |
Source: Numbeo.com
3. Transit Cost in Marietta, GA
Marietta is car-dependent mainly; however, local public transit via CobbLinc and access to the regional MARTA system offer alternatives.
This bus system operates local routes throughout Marietta and key commuter express routes that connect directly to Downtown and Midtown Atlanta.
You can expect to pay around $2.98 for Gasoline (1 gallon).
While many residents choose to drive, CobbLinc is the primary mode of transportation for local commuters and students.
Fares and passes for CobbLinc and the regional MARTA system are managed using a reloadable smart card called the Breeze Card.
| Fare Type | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Adult Local One-way | $2.50 |
| Youth Under 18 (Local Fixed Route) | $1.50 |
| Senior Citizen (Local Fixed Route) | $1.00 |
| 10-Ride Local Pass | $18.00 |
| 31-Day Local Pass | $72.00 |
Source: MARTA
4. Childcare and Leisure
Childcare is a significant factor for families in the area, but costs are generally lower than those found in larger, high-density metro hubs like San Francisco or New York.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Preschool/Daycare (Full Day, Private, 1 Child) | $740-$1,800 |
| Fitness Club Membership (1 Adult, Monthly) | $115-$200 |
| Cinema Ticket (1 Seat) | $10-$20 |
Source: Numbeo
5. Healthcare Cost in Marietta
Healthcare and childcare are essential considerations for Marietta residents, offering generally affordable options compared to the national average.
Marietta is served by a robust network of healthcare facilities, offering accessible and high-quality care.
Routine medical costs are competitive. A standard visit to the optometrist typically costs around $120. A basic dentist visit averages $150.
Final Note
Marietta, GA, offers a financially balanced and strategically advantageous cost of living for those targeting the Atlanta metropolitan area. The city’s main advantage is its competitive housing market, which is significantly more affordable than Atlanta’s core, with average 1-bedroom rents outside the downtown between $1,200 and $1,600. While routine expenses like groceries and utilities are moderate, transportation is mainly car-dependent; however, the CobbLinc system provides affordable transit options. Overall, Marietta combines suburban convenience, historical charm, and proximity to a significant economic hub at a more accessible price, making it a wise financial choice for professionals, families, and retirees.
FAQs
1. Is Marietta Your Ideal Destination City?
Marietta, GA, offers the best of both worlds: a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to central Atlanta. It features a rich community centered on the historic Marietta Square and offers outdoor recreation at Kennesaw Mountain State Park. Ideal for families and professionals, the city provides excellent schools and convenient access to the Atlanta job market.
2. What is the income and lifestyle like in Marietta?
Marietta is a financially robust and appealing suburb of Atlanta. Anchored by a strong economic base in manufacturing and retail, and bolstered by major employers such as Lockheed Martin and Dobbins Air Reserve Base, the city offers a comfortable living environment.
An average monthly net salary of $4,014.33 allows families and professionals to pursue career growth without the excessive financial burden found in central Atlanta. The community’s appeal is enhanced by its historic core at Marietta Square and the natural beauty of Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.
3. How much do movers cost in Marietta, GA?
The average cost for professional movers in Marietta typically falls between $417 and $3,626 per job, based on an hourly rate ranging from $129 to $259 per hour.
Please note that this is an estimated range, and the final moving cost may vary depending on factors such as the size of your home, the distance of the move, the season, and any specific logistical challenges that may arise during the move.
4. How much do movers cost in Atlanta, GA?
The typical cost for a local move in Atlanta generally ranges from $550 to $3,500. However, the actual price is highly variable. It depends on several key factors, including the size of the move, whether it is a local or long-distance move, the total weight of belongings, the time of year (moving seasons), and any additional services or fees.
