Moving from Roanoke to Atlanta (2026)

Atlanta has a COL index of 110 vs 87 for Roanoke (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 26% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$772 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
87110
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$1,900
per month
State tax
5.8%5.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,378$4,397
per month

Salary needed in Atlanta to match your Roanoke lifestyle

Based on the 26% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in RoanokeEquivalent in Atlanta
$40K$50,575
$50K$63,218
$60K$75,862
$75K$94,828
$80K$101,149
$100K$126,437
$120K$151,724
$150K$189,655

Monthly budget at $75K — Roanoke vs Atlanta

ExpenseRoanokeAtlanta
Monthly take-home$4,378$4,397
1BR rent$1,200$1,900
Groceries$361$376
Transport$48$95
Utilities$155$165
Internet$60$60
Left after essentials$2,554$1,801

Frequently asked questions

Is Atlanta cheaper than Roanoke?

No. Atlanta has a cost of living index of 110 vs 87 for Roanoke (100 = US average). That's about 26% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Roanoke to Atlanta?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Atlanta run about $772/month more than Roanoke. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Atlanta to match my Roanoke lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Roanoke, you'd need roughly $94,828/year in Atlanta. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only