Roswell is one of North Atlanta’s most beloved suburbs — and it’s easy to see why. From its walkable downtown and incredible restaurants to its award-winning parks and proximity to the Chattahoochee River, it’s the kind of place that feels both vibrant and grounded.
Jen actually lives right in Roswell, and I (Alison) live just on the border — so we spend most of our days here working, meeting clients, grabbing coffee on Canton Street, or exploring the trails along the river. We love the balance Roswell offers: small-town charm with access to everything Atlanta has to offer.
But one of the biggest questions we get from clients is, “What’s the real cost of living in Roswell?” Whether you’re relocating from out of state or considering a move within the Atlanta suburbs, it’s important to know how much everyday life really costs — from utilities and insurance to taxes and home upkeep.
🔌 Utilities in Roswell, GA
💡 Electricity
The average household in Roswell spends about $219 per month on electricity, or roughly $2,628 per year — about 12% less than the national average. Electricity rates hover around 14 cents per kilowatt-hour, and the typical home uses about 1,570 kWh monthly.
We’ve found that homes with mature trees — which are everywhere in Roswell’s established neighborhoods — tend to stay cooler in summer, which helps keep bills down.
🔥 Natural Gas
Roswell benefits from Georgia’s deregulated natural gas market, meaning you can shop around for the best rate. Expect to pay between $100–$180 per month, depending on the season. That’s a bit higher than the national average, but the flexibility is a big plus.
If you’re buying, check whether the water heater, dryer, and stove are gas-powered. Homes with multiple gas appliances can save over $500 a year compared to all-electric setups.
🚿 Water & Sewer
Water and sewer services typically run $100–$120 per month. Roswell uses a tiered pricing system, so costs rise in summer when outdoor watering or pool refills increase.
Pro tip: if you have irrigation or a pool, consider adding a second meter. It prevents you from being charged sewer fees on water that doesn’t flow back into the system.
Given our proximity to the Chattahoochee River, outdoor living is a big part of Roswell life — so water usage really depends on your lifestyle.
♻️ Garbage & Recycling
Roswell’s sanitation isn’t rolled into property taxes. Instead, residents pay a flat fee of about $30 per month — which is about half the national average.
🏠 Homeowners Insurance in Roswell
As of late 2025, the average homeowners insurance premium in Roswell is about $1,980 per year, roughly 24% less than the national average.
That said, rates across Georgia have been climbing — up nearly 9% year-over-year — because of storm damage, higher construction costs, and stricter underwriting.
One thing we always tell buyers: roof age matters. Many insurers are switching to Actual Cash Value (ACV) payouts or using Roof Surfacing Payment Schedules that cap what they’ll reimburse for older roofs.
➡️ Buyer Tip:Confirm the roof’s age during due diligence. We’ve seen buyers struggle to get coverage on older roofs, which can delay closings or create unexpected costs.
➡️ Seller Tip:If your roof is aging, consider a pre-listing inspection or offering a credit toward replacement. It makes your home more insurable — and more appealing to buyers.
You can also ask your insurer about discounts for impact-resistant shingles, FORTIFIED™ roofing systems, or bundling home and auto coverage. And don’t underestimate the value of keeping maintenance records — they help prove your home is low-risk.
💰 Taxes in Georgia (and Roswell)
Georgia’s overall tax structure is one reason so many families relocate here from high-tax states like Illinois, California, and New York.
State Income Tax
As of 2025, Georgia has a flat income tax rate of 5.19%, scheduled to drop to 4.99% by 2027.
Sales Tax
The base state rate is 4%, but with county and local additions, Roswell’s total comes to about 7.42%, right around the national average.
Property Taxes
Homeowners in Roswell pay taxes to both the City of Roswell and Fulton County. With a median home value of around $452,000, the average annual property tax is roughly $3,573 — comfortably below the national average of $4,600.
Roswell’s effective property tax rate is about 0.79%, compared to the U.S. average of 1.02%.
Exemptions You Should Know About:
Homestead Exemption: Lowers the taxable value of your primary home.
Senior Exemption: Extra savings for homeowners 65+ who meet income limits.
*Veterans Exemption: Available for eligible service members and disabled veterans.
These exemptions can save you hundreds — sometimes thousands — each year.
📋 Quick Playbook: How to Keep Costs in Check
Here’s what we’ve found helps our clients save the most:
✅ Electricity: Take advantage of Roswell’s lower-than-average rates with smart thermostats and energy-efficient upgrades.
✅ Natural Gas:Compare suppliers each year since rates vary in the deregulated market.
✅ Water/Sewer: Fix small leaks early and add a second meter for outdoor use.
✅ Insurance: Maintain your roof, consider higher deductibles, and document maintenance.
✅ Taxes: File for every exemption you qualify for — don’t leave money on the table!
Even small adjustments can free up hundreds of dollars a month — money you can put toward enjoying Roswell’s lifestyle instead of covering higher bills.
🌳 Why We Love Living in Roswell
Roswell has this perfect mix of suburban comfort and outdoor adventure. Weekends often mean morning walks on the boardwalk along the Chattahoochee River, dinner at one of Canton Street's local spots, or taking the kids to Roswell Area Park. And with Alpharetta, East Cobb, and Sandy Springs just minutes away, it’s so easy to enjoy the best of North Atlanta without sacrificing that small-town community feel.
Our clients are often surprised by how much value they get here — not just in housing, but in the overall lifestyle. It’s why Roswell consistently ranks among the best suburbs for schools, home values, and quality of life.
🤝 Ready to Plan Your Move?
If you’re thinking about relocating to Roswell — or anywhere across North Atlanta — we’d love to help you break down the true cost of living and find a neighborhood that fits your budget and your lifestyle.
📞 Call or text:(770) 765-5463
📧 Email: [email protected]
We can even send you a custom cost-of-living worksheet for Roswell, Alpharetta, East Cobb, Woodstock, or Johns Creek — just reach out and we’ll tailor it to you.
Turnkey Collective | North Atlanta Realtors & Moms Who Know the Market
Smart Moves. Simplified Living.
