Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
40% cheaper
Atlanta is 40% more affordable than Irvine. A $75,000 salary in Irvine is equivalent to $45,084 in Atlanta.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Georgia salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Atlanta has a housing index of 113 while Irvine sits at 294 (national average = 100). The median home in Atlanta costs $350,000 compared to $1,050,000 in Irvine, a difference of $700,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Atlanta versus $3,000 in Irvine.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Atlanta scores 104 while Irvine scores 108.
Healthcare costs in Atlanta (101) are lower than Irvine (109).
Median household income in Atlanta is $59,948 compared to $108,038 in Irvine. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Atlanta.
Amazon affiliate links