Cost Comparison 2025

AtlantavsAmsterdam

United States
Netherlands

Overall

💰

+6.7%

Atlanta is 6.7%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+25.0%

Housing is 25.0% higher

Dining

🍽️

+14.3%

Restaurants 14.3% pricier

Groceries

🛒

-6.7%

Food shopping 6.7% less

Comparing the cost of living between Atlanta, United States and Amsterdam, Netherlands reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Atlanta is more expensive than Amsterdam by approximately 6.7%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.

Key Cost Differences

Housing costs in Atlanta are lower than in Amsterdam by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in Atlanta's city center costs around $1,900, while the same in Amsterdam is approximately €1,900.

Dining out in Atlanta offers significant savings compared to Amsterdam. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $16 in Atlanta versus €15 in Amsterdam.

Public transportation in Atlanta is more affordable, with monthly passes at $95 compared to €100 in Amsterdam.

Purchasing power in Atlanta is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Amsterdam.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Atlanta can expect to spend approximately $572 per month (excluding rent), while in Amsterdam, the same lifestyle would cost around €586. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,003 monthly in Atlanta versus €2,050 in Amsterdam. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.

Detailed Cost Comparison

Item
Atlanta, United States
Amsterdam, Netherlands

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
$1,900
€1,900
1BR Outside Center
$1,400
€1,500
3BR City Center
$3,500
€3,500

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
$16
€15
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
$80
€80
Cappuccino
$5
€4
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
$6
€5

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
$1
€1
Bread (500g)
$3
€2
Eggs (12)
$4
€3
Cheese (1kg)
$12
€13

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
$3
€3
Monthly Pass
$95
€100
Taxi Start
$4
€4
Gasoline (1L)
$1
€2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
$130
€180
Internet (60 Mbps)
$60
€40
Mobile Minute
$0
€0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Atlanta to Amsterdam, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Amsterdam to Atlanta requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.

Quality of Life Indices

Atlanta

Cost of Living Index75
Rent Index60
Purchasing Power Index108

Amsterdam

Cost of Living Index80
Rent Index75
Purchasing Power Index90

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Atlanta more expensive than Amsterdam?

Yes, Atlanta is approximately 6.7% more expensive than Amsterdam overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Atlanta compared to Amsterdam?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Amsterdam salary when living in Atlanta. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Amsterdam, you'd need about $53,333 in Atlanta for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Atlanta and Amsterdam?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 20%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Atlanta offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Amsterdam provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Atlanta if you prioritize earning potential, or Amsterdam for affordability.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Atlanta vs Amsterdam?

In Atlanta, a single person needs approximately $1,972 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $4,503. In Amsterdam, these figures are €2,086 for singles and €4,550 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Atlanta and Amsterdam in 2025 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in Amsterdam to maintain your lifestyle from Atlanta

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers