Cost of Living in Monroe, GA
Population 15,336 · Georgia · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Monroe run well below national norms — a median of $43,991 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $222,000). At 12.2%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Monroe sits roughly 25 miles southwest of Athens-Clarke County — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 18% lower than Athens-Clarke County's $272,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Monroe
The median home value in Monroe is $222,000 — 27% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,118/month, 15% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $43,991/year is 41% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 12.2%, above 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, Monroe has a cost of living index of 78 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 22% 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 Monroe, GA?
Monroe has a cost index of 78 (100 = national average). It is 22% below the national average.
What is average rent in Monroe, GA?
The median gross rent in Monroe is $1,118 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Monroe?
The median home value in Monroe is $222,000 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Monroe?
The median household income in Monroe is $43,991 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Monroe, GA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Monroe is 7.3%. The Georgia state income tax top rate is 5.5%.
Is Monroe, GA affordable?
Yes, Monroe is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 78 — about 22% below the US national average of 100.
Monroe at a Glance
- Population
- 15,336
- Median Income
- $43,991
- Home Value
- $222,000
- Median Rent
- $1,118/mo
- Unemployment
- 12.2%
- Sales Tax
- 7.3%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Georgia Rankings
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