Cost Comparison 2025

AtlantavsBrisbane

United States
Australia

Overall

💰

+9.3%

Atlanta is 9.3%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+8.3%

Housing is 8.3% higher

Dining

🍽️

+14.3%

Restaurants 14.3% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+4.0%

Food shopping 4.0% more

Comparing the cost of living between Atlanta, United States and Brisbane, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Atlanta is more expensive than Brisbane by approximately 9.3%. 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 Brisbane by 8%. A one-bedroom apartment in Atlanta's city center costs around $1,900, while the same in Brisbane is approximately A$2,200.

Dining out in Atlanta offers significant savings compared to Brisbane. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $16 in Atlanta versus A$20 in Brisbane.

Public transportation in Atlanta is more affordable, with monthly passes at $95 compared to A$175 in Brisbane.

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 Brisbane, the same lifestyle would cost around A$791. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,003 monthly in Atlanta versus A$2,769 in Brisbane. 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
Brisbane, Australia

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
$1,900
A$2,200
1BR Outside Center
$1,400
A$1,700
3BR City Center
$3,500
A$3,800

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
$16
A$20
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
$80
A$100
Cappuccino
$5
A$5
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
$6
A$10

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
$1
A$2
Bread (500g)
$3
A$3
Eggs (12)
$4
A$5
Cheese (1kg)
$12
A$11

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
$3
A$5
Monthly Pass
$95
A$175
Taxi Start
$4
A$5
Gasoline (1L)
$1
A$2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
$130
A$180
Internet (60 Mbps)
$60
A$80
Mobile Minute
$0
A$0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Atlanta to Brisbane, 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 Brisbane 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

Brisbane

Cost of Living Index82
Rent Index65
Purchasing Power Index102

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Atlanta more expensive than Brisbane?

Yes, Atlanta is approximately 9.3% more expensive than Brisbane overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

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

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Brisbane salary when living in Atlanta. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Brisbane, you'd need about $54,667 in Atlanta for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Atlanta and Brisbane?

The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 13%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable 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, Brisbane provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Atlanta if you prioritize earning potential, or Brisbane for affordability.

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

In Atlanta, a single person needs approximately $1,972 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $4,503. In Brisbane, these figures are A$2,491 for singles and A$5,569 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Atlanta and Brisbane 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 Brisbane to maintain your lifestyle from Atlanta

Calculate Salary Equivalence

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