Nestled among the picturesque rolling hills of North Georgia, Acworth offers a distinctive combination of small-town charm and suburban convenience. While it may sometimes be overshadowed by its bustling neighbour, Atlanta, Acworth possesses a character all its own. In this article, we will explore the expenses associated with residing in this charming city, providing an in-depth perspective on the cost of living in Acworth, GA.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Acworth, GA, offers a mix of affordability and slightly above-average expenses compared to both the national and state averages. According to BestPlaces, Acworth’s overall cost of living index is 109.8, indicating that it is 9.8% higher than the U.S. average and 16.2% higher than Georgia’s average.
Housing plays a significant role in this, with the median home price in Acworth being around $389,000, which is more expensive than both the national and state averages. Rent for a two-bedroom unit is approximately $1,770 per month, also higher than the national and state averages. To live comfortably in Acworth, a minimum annual income of $74,520 for a family and $62,800 for a single person is recommended.
However, it’s interesting to note that PayScale reports Acworth’s cost of living as 4% lower than the national average. This discrepancy might be due to different methodologies used in calculating the cost of living. In PayScale’s analysis, housing expenses in Acworth are 12% lower than the national average, and utility prices are 16% lower. Transportation expenses, such as bus fares and gas prices, are 8% lower than the national average. The median home price is noted as $396,803, with a median rent of $1,206 per month. Grocery prices in Acworth are slightly higher, at about 1% above the national average.
Home Value
The real estate market in Acworth, GA, presents a varied landscape with a range of prices to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Recently, there has been a notable trend in the home values in this area. According to Redfin, the median sale price of a home in Acworth was around $378,000, which has seen an increase of 6.3% since last year. The median sale price per square foot stands at $189, up by 8.0% compared to the previous year. These figures indicate a steady rise in property values, reflecting the growing demand for homes in the Acworth area.
Delving into specific examples, a recently sold property on Lake Park Rdg was listed at $395,000. This home featured modern upgrades and a spacious floor plan. Another property on Haydenbrook Dr NW sold for approximately $584,900, offering a blend of style and charm with its renovated kitchen and spacious bedrooms. These examples showcase the variety of homes available in Acworth, ranging from more affordable options to higher-end properties. The diversity in pricing and home styles makes Acworth an attractive location for a wide range of potential homebuyers.
Renting
Renting a home in Acworth, GA, offers a range of prices and options suitable for different needs and budgets. For instance, a 3-bedroom home with 2.5 bathrooms and a floor space of 1,626 square feet was recently listed for rent at $1,895 per month. Another option available is a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, priced at $2,130 per month. For those seeking more space, a 4-bedroom home with 2 bathrooms was listed for $2,750 per month. These examples illustrate the variety in rental properties in Acworth, providing options from moderately priced homes to more spacious, higher-priced rentals.
Utilities and Internet
Regarding internet services, Acworth residents have access to several providers. High-speed internet options include AT&T, offering fiber connections with speeds up to 1 Gbps, and Xfinity, with cable connections providing speeds up to 987 Mbps. Other providers like Viasat and HughesNet are also available, offering various plans to cater to different usage needs and preferences.
Utility costs in Acworth can vary. The average monthly electricity bill is around $107.26, which is lower than the national average. This cost can fluctuate based on the amount of electricity used and the time of the year. When selecting internet services, prices and speeds can vary greatly depending on the provider and plan chosen, so it’s beneficial to research and compare the options available in your specific area.
Transportation
Navigating through Acworth, GA, is relatively straightforward and cost-effective, especially when comparing it to larger cities like Atlanta. The transportation cost in Acworth is marginally higher than in Atlanta, with a difference of about 2.5%. The Cost of Living Index for transportation in Acworth is 125.8 compared to Atlanta’s 122.7, where a score of 100 represents the US average. This indicates that transportation costs in Acworth are slightly above the national average, but still manageable.
For those planning to move to Acworth or commute regularly, there are efficient public transportation options available. Route 480, operated by Xpress, connects Acworth and Town Center Park-and-Rides to Downtown Atlanta, offering a convenient commute option for residents. The fare for this route is classified as either Green or Blue Zone, depending on the park-and-ride location. For example, a one-way ticket in the Blue Zone costs $4, while a 31-day pass is priced at $125. This service provides an affordable and reliable way to travel, especially for those commuting to Atlanta for work.
Education and Childcare
When it comes to the cost of education and childcare in Acworth, GA, several factors influence expenses. Daycare costs in Georgia vary depending on the child’s age and the type of care needed. On average, parents of infants can expect to pay around $711 per month, while parents of four-year-olds pay an average of $609 per month. These costs can add up over the course of a year, so it’s essential for parents to budget accordingly to ensure their child receives quality care.
For those seeking quality childcare and early education programs, options like Childcare Network are available in Acworth. Childcare Network offers various programs catering to different age groups, including infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children up to 12 years old.
These programs are designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children’s development. While specific tuition rates may vary depending on the program and age group, it’s clear that investing in early childhood education and childcare is essential for children’s growth and learning. Parents in Acworth can explore these options to find the best fit for their family’s needs.
Insurance
The average cost of auto insurance in Acworth, GA, is approximately $426 per month for coverage. This cost is influenced by various factors, including the type of coverage, driving record, and other individual factors. In Acworth, the minimum auto insurance coverage required is at least 25/50/25 to comply with Georgia auto insurance laws. To find the best and most affordable auto insurance rates in Acworth, it’s recommended to compare quotes from multiple insurance companies.
One insurance agency in Acworth that offers car insurance coverage is The Upton Agency. The Upton Agency is an authorized, independent Mercury Insurance Agency located at 2487 Cedarcrest Rd Ste 211, Acworth, GA 30101. They are dedicated to offering low rates and providing dedicated service for car insurance in ACWORTH, Georgia. They can assist you in finding the right insurance coverage and ensuring that you get every discount possible. The agency emphasizes personalized local coverage to meet your specific needs while complying with Georgia’s mandatory auto insurance laws.
The Affordability of Acworth Living
In conclusion, Acworth, GA, offers a cost of living that balances southern charm with suburban convenience. While some expenses, like housing and transportation, might be creeping up, the city still provides a more affordable alternative to the high costs of living in a major metropolitan area. Its community-centric approach, combined with the availability of affordable entertainment, education, and healthcare, makes Acworth an attractive destination for those seeking a balance between cost and quality of life.
Acworth, with its unique blend of affordability and charm, exemplifies the best of Southern living. Whether you’re considering a move or just curious about life in this Georgia gem, it’s clear that Acworth offers a lifestyle that’s both enriching and economical.
