Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
4% cheaper
Richmond is 4% more affordable than Atlanta. A $75,000 salary in Atlanta is equivalent to $72,196 in Richmond.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Georgia salaries · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Atlanta has a housing index of 113 while Richmond sits at 108 (national average = 100). The median home in Atlanta costs $350,000 compared to $300,000 in Richmond, a difference of $50,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Atlanta versus $1,400 in Richmond.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Atlanta scores 104 while Richmond scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Atlanta (101) are higher than Richmond (100). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Atlanta is $59,948 compared to $50,120 in Richmond. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Richmond.
Amazon affiliate links