Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
15% cheaper
Grand Rapids is 15% more affordable than Atlanta. A $75,000 salary in Atlanta is equivalent to $63,785 in Grand Rapids.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Georgia salaries · Michigan salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Atlanta has a housing index of 113 while Grand Rapids sits at 78 (national average = 100). The median home in Atlanta costs $350,000 compared to $240,000 in Grand Rapids, a difference of $110,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Atlanta versus $1,200 in Grand Rapids.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Atlanta scores 104 while Grand Rapids scores 96. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Atlanta (101) are higher than Grand Rapids (98). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Atlanta is $59,948 compared to $49,982 in Grand Rapids. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Grand Rapids.
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