What is the cost of living in Flowery Branch, GA?
What is the cost of living in Flowery Branch, GA?
Flowery Branch, Georgia, a vibrant community nestled in Hall County, offers an appealing blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences, making it a desirable location for many.
For those considering making Flowery Branch their home, understanding the cost of living is a crucial step. While analyses can vary, this guide provides a comprehensive look at what to expect financially in this growing North Georgia city.
Overall Cost of Living in Flowery Branch
Generally, Flowery Branch presents a cost of living that is often cited as being more affordable than the national average. Some reports suggest it's approximately 4.9% to 8% lower than the national average. However, it’s worth noting that certain categories, particularly housing, can sometimes push the overall cost slightly above the state or national average, depending on the specific metrics and timeframe. For example, while the Cost of Living Index on BestPlaces.net is 95.1 (lower than the national average of 100), other data from AreaVibes might place it 12% higher than the national average. This indicates a nuanced picture where overall value is good, but specific expenses require a closer look.
Housing Costs: A Major Factor
Housing is undoubtedly the most significant component of the cost of living in Flowery Branch. The real estate market here has seen consistent growth, attracting strong interest from homebuyers.
* **Home Prices:** As of July 2025, the median sale price for homes in Flowery Branch was around $474,000, reflecting an 11.4% increase year-over-year. The median listing home price was slightly higher at $478,900, though this figure showed a 10.1% decrease year-over-year according to some sources, indicating market adjustments. The average home value in Flowery Branch hovered around $430,054, with a slight 1.2% decrease over the past year. Earlier in late 2023/early 2024, median home prices were closer to $414,385, often less than or close to the national average at that time. While some sources might label Flowery Branch housing as more expensive than national or state averages (e.g., $387,300 being 14.6% more than the national average of $338,100), this often reflects the strong demand for properties in this desirable area.
* **Rental Market:** For renters, the average rent in Flowery Branch as of September 2025 was about $1,329 per month for apartments, which is approximately 19% lower than the national average. A two-bedroom unit could average around $1,631 per month, though some reports indicate it could be around $1,440, slightly above the national average. Prices for three-bedroom apartments or homes for rent typically start at $2,400 or more.
* **Property Taxes:** Georgia generally has lower property taxes compared to many other states, which is a significant advantage for homeowners. In Flowery Branch, the median effective property tax rate is around 1.09%, comparable to the state average. Hall County homeowners also benefit from new "floating" exemptions for homesteaded properties effective January 1, 2025, and senior tax exemptions may be available for those over 60, exempting them from school taxes.
* **HOA Fees:** Homeowners' Association (HOA) fees are common in many Flowery Branch neighborhoods but are generally considered low, often a few hundred dollars annually. Options for homes without an HOA also exist.
Utilities
Utility costs in Flowery Branch are generally reported to be less than the national average. Water and sewer services are managed by the City of Flowery Branch. Electricity is primarily provided by Jackson EMC. Which is great, as they are cheaper/priced way better than GA Power!
Groceries and Food
Grocery costs in Flowery Branch are quite reasonable, often falling below the national average. Local grocery stores like Publix and Kroger serve the community, providing convenient options for daily needs.
Transportation
Transportation expenses in Flowery Branch show some variability across reports, with some indicating they are less affordable than the national average, while others state they are very reasonably priced. One key factor is the necessity of owning a car, as there isn't an extensive public transportation system.
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