Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
Atlanta is 9% more affordable than Tacoma. A $75,000 salary in Tacoma is equivalent to $68,590 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 · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Atlanta has a housing index of 113 while Tacoma sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Atlanta costs $350,000 compared to $400,000 in Tacoma, a difference of $50,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Atlanta versus $1,600 in Tacoma.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Atlanta scores 104 while Tacoma scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Atlanta (101) are lower than Tacoma (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Atlanta is $59,948 compared to $58,974 in Tacoma. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Atlanta.
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