Canton, Georgia, has a rich history and a strong sense of community. Major employers such as Northside Hospital-Cherokee and the Cherokee County School District provide a thriving job market. With parks, trails, and access to the Etowah River for water activities, Canton offers a balance of urban and outdoor living.
The cost of living in Canton, Georgia, is 4% lower than the national average. Housing costs are 5% higher, but utilities are about 16% lower. While rent or mortgage payments may stretch your budget, you could save on your monthly electricity and water bills.
Let’s look at the cost of living in Canton, Georgia, in 2024.
What Is the Cost Of Living Index?
A cost of living index compares the prices of essential goods and services across different locations. It considers housing, food, utilities, transportation, and healthcare expenses. A higher index indicates that a city is more expensive, so you need a higher income to maintain a comfortable standard of living.
The cost of living in Canton, GA, is 4% lower than the national average. This implies that you should budget more for groceries, utilities, entertainment, and rent.
5 Major Living Expenses In Canton, GA
If you’re planning to move to Canton, GA, it’s important to understand the key living expenses you’ll encounter. Let’s break them down:
Housing
Canton housing prices average around $505,512. This is 40% higher than the national average but significantly lower than many other metropolitan areas in Georgia. The average rent in Canton is $1,687 per month.
If you have a tight budget, you can also find homes for sale in Canton, GA under $ 200,000.
Utilities
Utility costs in Canton are about 16% lower than the national average. Basic utilities, such as heating, water, and electricity, can run up to $124 for an individual and $184 for a family in Canton.
Transportation
Transportation expenses in Canton are 8% lower than the national average. Here’s a breakdown of costs:
- Local transport ticket: $2.13
- Monthly ticket for local transport: $58.7
- Taxi ride (8 km or 5 miles): $18
- Gas: As of July 2024, it’s $3.38 per gallon.
Food And Groceries
The cost of groceries in Canton is about 1% higher than the national average. Here are some prices:
Groceries
- Milk: $0.95 for a quart
- Bread: $3.25 for 0.5 kg (about 1.1 lb)
- Rice: $2.00 for 1 kg (about 2.2 lb)
- Eggs: $3.23 per dozen
For Dining Out
- A lunch menu will cost you around $16.9.
- A dinner for two in a restaurant is approximately $70.1.
- A fast food meal (equivalent to McDonald’s) costs about $9.44.
Other Expenses
Healthcare in Canton is at par with the national average of $584 per month. A routine doctor’s visit can cost up to $125.28. For entertainment, a cinema ticket for one person costs around $12.9.
Also, Check – How to Get a Great Vacation Deal?
4 Tips To Save Money On Living Expenses In Canton, GA
Utilize Public Transportation
Canton has a local bus system, the Cherokee Area Transportation System (CATS), that can help reduce transportation costs. They offer affordable and convenient commuter services in and around Downtown Canton.
Consider Affordable Housing Options
If you’re looking for cheap housing in Canton, Georgia, consider budget-friendly neighborhoods like Bridgemill or Harmony on the Lakes. Compared to central Canton, these neighborhoods’ median home prices can be up to 15% less expensive.
Shop Smart For Groceries
You can reduce your food expenses by shopping at discount grocery stores like Aldi or Publix Supermarket. These stores often offer prices up to 20% lower than traditional supermarkets. In addition, you can shop for groceries during sales to maximize savings.
Enjoy Free Local Activities
Canton offers many free activities. Visit the Cherokee County History Museum for free admission, or explore the natural beauty of Boling Park. You can also attend community events at Cannon Park, many of which are accessible to the public.
Bottom Line
Canton’s cost of living is 4% lower than the national average, with housing, utilities, and transportation being the major expenses. While the median home price is $505.5K, certain neighborhoods like Bridgemill are more affordable. To find homes in these areas, you can use real estate websites like Houzeo, Zillow, or Redfin.
Despite the higher cost of living, there are ways to manage expenses. Utilize public transportation, shop smart for groceries, and take advantage of free local activities. With careful planning and budgeting, you can live comfortably in Canton.