Cost of living in Dalton

Dalton, Georgia, known for its rich history and vibrant community, offers a unique living experience in the United States. Understanding the cost of living in Dalton is crucial for both current residents and those considering a move to this charming city.

This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in Dalton, covering essential categories such as dining, groceries, transportation, housing, and utilities. Whether you're planning to relocate or simply budgeting for the future, these insights will help you make informed financial decisions.

An image showcasing the beauty of Dalton

People enjoying the surroundings of Dalton

Cost of Living Summary

Dining and Restaurants

Inexpensive Restaurant MealA meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $17 on average, with a range between $10 and $50.
Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two)For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $47.5, with prices ranging from $30 to $130.
Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's)A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $6, with a range between $6 and $11.
Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi)Domestic beer ranges from $4 to $8, imported beer $4 to $9, cappuccino $3 to $7.5, and Coke/Pepsi $1.25 to $3.

Grocery Prices

MilkMilk is priced between $0.74 and $3.19 per liter, averaging $0.95.
Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread)A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $2.41 and $4.5, with an average price of $3.4.
Eggs (Dozen)A dozen eggs range from $1.79 to $4, averaging $3.31.
Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges)Apples cost $1.85 to $15.43 per kg, while oranges range from $2.16 to $6.61 per kg.
Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce)Potatoes are priced between $1.32 and $4.74 per kg, and lettuce costs $1 to $4 per head.

Transportation

Fuel (Gasoline)Gasoline is priced between $0.72 and $0.83 per liter.
Taxi FaresTaxi fares start at $4, with a cost of $1.24 per km and $18 per hour of waiting.

Housing Costs

1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre)Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $950 to $1010, averaging $980.
1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre)Outside the centre, rent ranges from $700 to $890, averaging $795.
3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre)Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1350 to $1600, averaging $1475.
3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre)Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1000 to $1250, averaging $1125.
Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre)The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre ranges from $1841 to $3767.37, averaging $2804.18.
Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre)Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $1841 to $3229.17, averaging $2535.09.

Utilities

Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.)Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $130 and $400, averaging $180.88.
InternetInternet services range from $45 to $90, with an average cost of $63.

Cost of Living Data

The following pricing data has been gathered from 9 user contributions, as of the most recent update in November, 2024.

Restaurants

Avg / Range

Restaurants

Avg

Range

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant

$17.00

Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course

$47.50

McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)

$6.00

Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught)

$5.00

Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)

$4.00

Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle)

$1.88

Water (0.33 liter bottle)

$0.95

Cappuccino (regular)

$5.00

Markets

Avg / Range

Markets

Avg

Range

Milk (regular), (1 liter)

$0.95

Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)

$3.40

Eggs (regular) (12)

$3.31

Local Cheese (1kg)

$12.10

Water (1.5 liter bottle)

$1.56

Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range)

$10.50

Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle)

$1.29

Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)

$1.27

Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro)

$4.29

Chicken Fillets (1kg)

$10.98

Apples (1kg)

$3.66

Oranges (1kg)

$3.63

Potato (1kg)

$1.91

Lettuce (1 head)

$1.72

Rice (white), (1kg)

$3.29

Tomato (1kg)

$2.57

Banana (1kg)

$1.76

Onion (1kg)

$2.71

Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat)

$8.29

Transportation

Avg / Range

Transportation

Avg

Range

Gasoline (1 liter)

$0.80

Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (Or Equivalent New Car)

$17,000.00

Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)

$7.00

Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)

$1.24

Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)

$18.00

Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort (Or Equivalent New Car)

$25,514.56

Rent Per Month

Avg / Range

Rent Per Month

Avg

Range

Avg

Range

Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)

$3,079.78

Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages (%), Yearly, for 20 Years Fixed-Rate

6.61%

Childcare

Avg / Range

Childcare

Avg

Range

Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day, Private, Monthly for 1 Child

$891.89

International Primary School, Yearly for 1 Child

$8,758.00

Worldwide

United States

Cost of Living Rankings

The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.

Highest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025

Full Cost of Living Rankings

Overview Job Market

Affordability

Very Affordable

About this index

Georgia Cost of Living

"Key Takeaways"

Dalton, GA, offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas. Housing costs are moderate, especially outside the city centre, making it an attractive option for families and individuals looking for budget-friendly living.
Dining out in Dalton can be economical, with a variety of options ranging from inexpensive meals to more upscale dining experiences. Grocery prices are generally reasonable, though some items like fruits and vegetables can vary widely in price.
Transportation costs are manageable, with affordable gasoline prices and taxi fares. Utilities and internet services are also reasonably priced, contributing to the overall affordability of living in Dalton.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dalton, GA, presents a cost-effective living environment with a balanced mix of affordable housing, dining, and transportation options. The city's cost of living is well-suited for those seeking a comfortable lifestyle without the high expenses associated with larger cities.

Whether you're planning to move to Dalton or are already a resident, understanding these costs can help you budget effectively and make the most of what this charming city has to offer.

Dalton