Cost of Living in Dalton, GA
Population 34,402 · Georgia · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The Dalton cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $203,000, rents near $924 a month.
Dalton is about 25 miles southeast of Chattanooga, the nearest large metro — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 22% lower than Chattanooga's $259,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Dalton
The median home value in Dalton is $203,100 — 33% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $924/month, 30% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $61,236/year is 18% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.3%, below the national average of 4.8%. Georgia's top state income tax rate is 5.5% and the combined sales tax is 7.3%. Overall, Dalton has a cost of living index of 68 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 32% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Dalton, GA?
Dalton has a cost index of 68 (100 = national average). It is 32% below the national average.
What is average rent in Dalton, GA?
The median gross rent in Dalton is $924 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Dalton?
The median home value in Dalton is $203,100 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Dalton?
The median household income in Dalton is $61,236 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Dalton, GA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Dalton is 7.3%. The Georgia state income tax top rate is 5.5%.
Is Dalton, GA affordable?
Yes, Dalton is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 68 — about 32% below the US national average of 100.
Dalton at a Glance
- Population
- 34,402
- Median Income
- $61,236
- Home Value
- $203,100
- Median Rent
- $924/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.3%
- Sales Tax
- 7.3%
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Georgia Rankings
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