Factors influencing moving costs from Ann Arbor to Atlanta
What to know before moving from Ann Arbor to Atlanta
Moving from Ann Arbor to Atlanta comes with exciting new opportunities โ but also higher living costs. Since Atlanta is generally more expensive than Ann Arbor, itโs important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Ann Arbor | Atlanta | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $2,260 | $1,900 |
Average home value | $474,909 | $388,167 |
Average income (per capita) | $66,964 | $66,107 |
Cost of living (single person) | $2,176 | $3,134 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $5,344 | $7,822 |
Unemployment rate | 3.5% | 6.0% |
Sales tax | 6.0% | 8.9% |
State income tax | 4.25% | 5.49% |
- Rent prices in Atlanta are 16% lower than in Ann Arbor, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
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In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Atlanta.
Home prices in Atlanta are 18.3% lower than in Ann Arbor. - Income in Atlanta is 1.3% lower than in Ann Arbor, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Atlanta include Delta Air Lines, Emory University / Emory Healthcare, and The Home Depot.
- Be sure to budget for higher bills in Atlanta, since the cost of living for a single person in Atlanta is 44.0% higher than in Ann Arbor. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- If youโre moving your family to Atlanta, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Atlanta is 46.4% higher than in Ann Arbor.
- The unemployment rate in Atlanta is 71.43% higher than in Ann Arbor.
- Youโll spend more on retail and restaurants in Atlanta, since the cityโs sales taxes in Atlanta are 48.33% higher than in Ann Arbor.
- State income taxes in Atlanta are 29.18% higher than in Ann Arbor.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,320.77 in Atlanta to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Ann Arbor.
How life is different in Ann Arbor vs. Atlanta
Atlanta | Ann Arbor | |
---|---|---|
Population | 498,715 | 123,851 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 8 | 7 |
Walkability score | 48 | 52 |
Bike friendliness score | 42 | 71 |
Crime Index | 64.23 | 31.0 |
Safety Index | 35.77 | 79.18 |
Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
- Atlanta's population is about 303% greater than Ann Arbor.
- Atlanta's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Ann Arbor's lower score of 7.
- Atlanta is less walkable than Ann Arbor with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Ann Arbor's 52 out of 100.
- Atlanta has a bike-friendliness score 42 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Ann Arbor, which has a score of 71 out of 100.
- Atlanta's crime rate is higher than Ann Arbor with a score of 64.23 compared to Ann Arbor's 31.0. This means that Atlanta neighborhoods are safer than 64.23% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0%.
- Atlanta is considered to be less safe than Ann Arbor with a score of 35.77 vs Ann Arbor's 79.18.
- Air quality in Atlanta is moderate, and in Ann Arbor it's moderate.
Other things to consider for your Ann Arbor vs. Atlanta move
- Weather: Atlanta has hot summers and cool winters. It's unlikely that the weather will delay your move but prepare for the weather ahead of move day since moving typically requires spending many hours outdoors.
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- State licensing: Moving companies in Georgia are regulated by the the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GDPS). Regulations include insurance requirements and the handling of consumer complaints.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Georgia moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: Georgia doesn\โt require moving permits, but it\โs still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Atlanta. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.Opt for Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness, offered by movers at no extra charge. However, it provides minimal coverage, with the mover's responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, explore other options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Atlanta
Ready to relocate to "Atl"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Atlanta.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Cabbagetown
- Inman Park
- Midtown
- Old Fourth Ward
- Virginia-Highland
Best neighborhoods for families
- Avondale Estates
- Candler Park
- Druid Hills
- Poncey-Highland
- Virginia-Highland
Things to do in Atlanta
After settling into your new Georgia home, youโll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Atlanta has lots to offer, no matter what youโre interested in:
- Arts and culture: Atlanta is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park, High Museum of Art, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Hammonds House Museum, and Atlanta History Center.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Sweetwater Creek State Park, Freedom Park, Stone Mountain Park, and Grant Park โ among other sites โ are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Atlanta Braves (MLB), Atlanta Falcons (NFL), Atlanta Hawks (NBA), or Atlanta United (MLS) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Ann Arbor to Atlanta?
The best time to move from Ann Arbor to Atlanta is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Ann Arbor.
When is the cheapest time to move from Ann Arbor to Atlanta?
Because most people are moving from Ann Arbor to Atlanta in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Ann Arbor to Atlanta take?
The 708-mile move from Ann Arbor, MI, to Atlanta, GA, takes one to six days. Some Ann Arbor movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Atlanta.