Factors influencing moving costs from New York City to Atlantatoggle

The cost of New York City movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from New York City to Atlanta can be as low as $1,252 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $ 7,004.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in New York City, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $728 to $1,764. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from New York City to Atlanta

Moving from New York City to Atlanta means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in New York City than in Atlanta, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how New York City compares to Atlanta so you know what to expect before you relocate:

New York City Atlanta
Average rent cost $4,340 $1,900
Average home value $752,778 $388,167
Average income (per capita) $78,058 $66,107
Cost of living (single person) $5,683 $3,134
Cost of living (family of 4) $15,081 $7,822
Unemployment rate 11.2% 6.0%
Sales tax 8.0% 8.9%
State income tax 10.9% 5.49%
  • Rent prices in Atlanta are 56% lower than in New York City, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Atlanta.
    Home prices in Atlanta are 48.4% lower than in New York City.
  • Income in Atlanta is 15.3% lower than in New York City, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Atlanta include Delta Air Lines, Emory University / Emory Healthcare, and The Home Depot.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Atlanta is 44.9% lower than in New York City. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Atlanta is 48.1% lower than in New York City.
  • The unemployment rate in Atlanta is 46.43% lower than in New York City.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Atlanta, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Atlanta are 11.25% higher than in New York City.
  • One perk of moving to Atlanta is paying less in state income taxes, which are 49.63% lower than in New York City.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,654.41 in Atlanta to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in New York City.

How life is different in New York City vs. Atlanta

Atlanta New York City
Population 498,715 8,258,035
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 8 10
Walkability score 48 88
Bike friendliness score 42 69
Crime Index 64.23 50.83
Safety Index 35.77 49.17
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • Atlanta's population is about 94% less than New York City.
  • Atlanta's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus New York City's higher score of 10.
  • Atlanta is less walkable than New York City with a score of 48 out of 100 vs New York City's 88 out of 100.
  • Atlanta has a bike-friendliness score 42 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as New York City, which has a score of 69 out of 100.
  • Atlanta's crime rate is higher than New York City with a score of 64.23 compared to New York City's 50.83. This means that Atlanta neighborhoods are safer than 64.23% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and New York City neighborhoods are safer than 50.83%.
  • Atlanta is considered to be less safe than New York City with a score of 35.77 vs New York City's 49.17.
  • Air quality in Atlanta is moderate, and in New York City it's good.

Other things to consider for your New York City vs. Atlanta move

  • Weather: Atlanta has hot summers and cool winters. It's unlikely that the weather will delay your move but prepare for the weather ahead of move day since moving typically requires spending many hours outdoors.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโ€”some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: Moving companies in Georgia are regulated by the the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GDPS). Regulations include insurance requirements and the handling of consumer complaints. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Georgia moving company\โ€™s license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
  • Moving permits: You wonโ€™t need a moving permit in Georgia, though it\โ€™s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toAtlanta Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations.Opt for Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness, offered by movers at no extra charge. However, it provides minimal coverage, with the mover's responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, explore other options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Atlanta

Now that youโ€™ve chosen "Atl" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cabbagetown
  • Inman Park
  • Midtown
  • Old Fourth Ward
  • Virginia-Highland

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Candler Park
  • Inman Park
  • North Decatur
  • Poncey-Highland
  • Virginia-Highland

Things to do in Atlanta

Now that you've made the move to Georgia, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Atlanta. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Atlanta, such as the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park, High Museum of Art, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Hammonds House Museum, and Atlanta History Center.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Sweetwater Creek State Park, Freedom Park, Stone Mountain Park, and Grant Park โ€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Atlanta Braves (MLB), Atlanta Falcons (NFL), Atlanta Hawks (NBA), or Atlanta United (MLS) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from New York City to Atlanta?

The best time to move from New York City to Atlanta is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in New York City.

When is the cheapest time to move from New York City to Atlanta?

Because most people are moving from New York City to Atlanta in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from New York City to Atlanta take?

The 867-mile move from New York City, NY, to Atlanta, GA, takes two to seven days. Some New York City movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Atlanta.

Helpful moving resources