Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
33% cheaper
Atlanta is 33% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $50,156 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 San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Atlanta costs $350,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $450,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Atlanta versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Atlanta scores 104 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Atlanta (101) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Atlanta is $59,948 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Atlanta.
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