Cost of Living in Atlantic City, NJ - Updated Prices & Insights

Monthly Cost of Living

Living costs for one person come to about $2,352 monthly including rent, or $1,149 excluding housing.

Estimated monthly costs for a couple: $3,583 with rent, or $1,787 without housing.

Monthly costs for a family of three come to about $4,814 including rent, or $2,425 for daily expenses alone.

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🍽 Eating Out
Cost
Range
Meal at Budget Restaurant
$25.46 $25.46
$15.28 $15.28
$53.8 $53.8
Three-Course Dinner for Two, Mid-Range
$58.8 $58.8
$49.00 $49.00
$245 $245
Fast Food Meal (McDonalds, etc)
$12.09 $12.09
$10.36 $10.36
$17.27 $17.27
Cappuccino
$5.38 $5.38
$3.96 $3.96
$8.90 $8.90
Coke/Pepsi/Fanta/Sprite (0.33 liter bottle)
$2.70 $2.70
$1.97 $1.97
$4.91 $4.91
Water (0.33 liter bottle)
$2.55 $2.55
$2.04 $2.04
$4.07 $4.07
Local Beer (0.5 liter draught)
$7.07 $7.07
$5.05 $5.05
$16.17 $16.17
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$9.15 $9.15
$8.13 $8.13
$15.25 $15.25
🛒 Groceries & Markets
Cost
Range
Milk (1 liter)
$1.22 $1.22
$1.02 $1.02
$2.71 $2.71
White Bread (500g)
$4.21 $4.21
$2.25 $2.25
$10.14 $10.14
Rice (white) (1kg)
$8.16 $8.16
$3.93 $3.93
$13.15 $13.15
Eggs
$6.41 $6.41
$3.01 $3.01
$10.53 $10.53
Local Cheese (1kg)
$17.21 $17.21
$9.12 $9.12
$43.62 $43.62
Chicken Fillets (1kg)
$16.81 $16.81
$7.31 $7.31
$24.70 $24.70
Beef Round Steak (1kg)
$20.42 $20.42
$13.38 $13.38
$33.46 $33.46
Apples (1kg)
$4.31 $4.31
$2.15 $2.15
$10.84 $10.84
Banana (1kg)
$2.55 $2.55
$1.35 $1.35
$6.78 $6.78
Oranges (1kg)
$5.86 $5.86
$2.23 $2.23
$11.17 $11.17
Tomato (1kg)
$6.36 $6.36
$2.20 $2.20
$11.00 $11.00
Potato (1kg)
$3.66 $3.66
$1.49 $1.49
$8.54 $8.54
Onion (1kg)
$4.01 $4.01
$2.17 $2.17
$6.59 $6.59
Lettuce (1 head)
$1.94 $1.94
$0.97 $0.97
$5.15 $5.15
Water (1.5 liter bottle)
$1.95 $1.95
$1.35 $1.35
$3.41 $3.41
Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro, Camel)
$18.64 $18.64
$15.69 $15.69
$20.60 $20.60
Wine (Bottle)
$13.27 $13.27
$9.83 $9.83
$24.58 $24.58
Local Beer (0.5 liter bottle)
$3.04 $3.04
$1.77 $1.77
$4.40 $4.40
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$3.86 $3.86
$2.04 $2.04
$7.13 $7.13
🚌 Getting Around
Cost
Range
One-way Ticket (Public Transport)
$1.95 $1.95
$1.22 $1.22
$1.95 $1.95
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)
$5.03 $5.03
$3.03 $3.03
$8.07 $8.07
Taxi (Normal Tariff) (1km)
$2.14 $2.14
$2.14 $2.14
$3.07 $3.07
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)
$42.49 $42.49
$30.35 $30.35
$45.52 $45.52
Gasoline (1 liter)
$0.86 $0.86
$0.79 $0.79
$1.22 $1.22
Midsize Hatchback 1.4l (Volkswagen Golf, Toyota Prius, Honda Civic, etc)
$34.5K $34.5K
$24.6K $24.6K
$35.8K $35.8K
Compact Sedan 1.6l (Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Kia K4, Hyundai Elantra, etc)
$27.8K $27.8K
$25.2K $25.2K
$38.8K $38.8K
🧾 Monthly Utilities & Internet
Cost
Range
Utilities for 2 People in 2-bedroom Apartment (Heating, Electricity, Gas, Water, Garbage) (85m2)
$184 $184
$112 $112
$305 $305
SIM Card Monthly Plan (Calls and 10GB+ Data)
$58.9 $58.9
$29.53 $29.53
$148 $148
Internet (50+ Mbps, Unlimited Data)
$55.0 $55.0
$49.97 $49.97
$99.9 $99.9
🎉 Sport & Entertainment
Cost
Range
Gym Membership (Monthly)
$42.71 $42.71
$17.38 $17.38
$49.66 $49.66
Cinema Ticket
$14.50 $14.50
$13.87 $13.87
$25.21 $25.21
🧸 Childcare & Education
Cost
Range
Preschool or Kindergarten, Full Day, Private, 1 Child (Monthly)
$3,173 $3,173
$2,507 $2,507
$4,179 $4,179
International Primary School, 1 Child (Yearly)
$23.8K $23.8K
$17.0K $17.0K
$27.6K $27.6K
👕👟 Clothing & Footwear
Cost
Range
Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar)
$43.04 $43.04
$35.44 $35.44
$91.1 $91.1
Summer Dress (H&M, Zara, etc)
$39.77 $39.77
$24.85 $24.85
$74.6 $74.6
Sport Shoes (Adidas, Nike)
$61.2 $61.2
$61.2 $61.2
$153 $153
Men's Leather Business Shoes
$76.0 $76.0
$76.0 $76.0
$253 $253
🏠 Accommodation & Living
Cost
Range
1-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)
$1,376 $1,376
$1,180 $1,180
$1,573 $1,573
1-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)
$993 $993
$894 $894
$1,092 $1,092
3-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)
$1,962 $1,962
$1,962 $1,962
$1,962 $1,962
3-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)
$1,836 $1,836
$1,799 $1,799
$1,874 $1,874
Buy Apartment in City Center (m2)
$3,661 $3,661
$2,787 $2,787
$4,207 $4,207
Buy Apartment Outside City Center (m2)
$3,605 $3,605
$2,745 $2,745
$4,143 $4,143
💵 Salaries & Financials
Cost
Range
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)
$4,759 $4,759
-
20-Year Fixed Mortgage Interest Rate (Annual %)
6.44
6
7

CityCost data is based on AI and user input – minor inaccuracies may occur.

Last update: May 10, 2026

Cost Breakdown

Expect to pay about $1,376 for a central one-bedroom, or $993 outside the center. At 29% of the average salary ($4,759), housing is the biggest financial pressure.

Average take-home pay sits at $4,759, while typical expenses reach $2,352. This leaves solid room for saving and lifestyle spending.

Expect to spend about $501 monthly on groceries. Dining out at a mid-range restaurant costs roughly $59.0 for two.

Cost Highlights

Atlantic City, NJ has the 9th most expensive preschool or kindergarten, full day, private, 1 child in North America

Rice is more expensive than 98% of cities in North America

Chicken fillets is more expensive than 97% of cities in North America

Atlantic City, NJ Median Internet Speeds (Updated April 2026)

Mobile

Download
Mbps
Upload
Mbps
Latency
ms

Fixed Broadband

Download
Mbps
Upload
Mbps
Latency
ms
The chart highlights the Precision Threshold for mobile and fixed broadband internet speeds, updated quarterly.
Digital Nomad Cost of Living Index
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Cost of Living in Atlantic City, NJ - Frequently Asked Questions
Is Atlantic City generally a good value for travelers, expats, and digital nomads, and how does it compare to other coastal destinations?
Atlantic City blends casino-era convenience with coastline charm, offering solid value for travelers, expats, and digital nomads who don’t need a city-center salary. Overall, the Cost of Living in Atlantic City, NJ, United States tends to be moderate relative to larger metro hubs, with value shaped by neighborhood choice and season. Seasonal swings can push costs up during events, while off-peak periods offer quieter streets and better lodging deals. You’ll find a mix of budget rooms, longer-term rentals, and diverse dining that fits many budgets. Tip: Plan ahead with a flexible stay window to lock lower rates and test neighborhoods.
What does daily life look like here in terms of housing search, dining options, and getting around?
Daily life in Atlantic City blends walkability with occasional tourist crowds. Housing options range from near-boardwalk apartments with ocean views to quieter inland studios and shared living setups – look for month-to-month leases if you’re experimenting. Food choices span casual diners, markets, and affordable ethnic spots, plus seasonal farmers’ markets. Transport is practical: buses reach surrounding towns, and rideshares are common; biking can work in milder months. For context, Atlantic City, NJ, United States living cost varies by neighborhood and season, so budget for spikes when events draw visitors. Tip: test neighborhoods with short visits before committing.
What should you consider about quality of life, budgeting, and choosing a neighborhood in Atlantic City?
Quality of life in Atlantic City tends to reward those who balance planning with flexibility. Build a simple budgeting framework: fixed costs (housing, utilities) plus flexible categories (food, entertainment, transit) to track monthly. Take advantage of shoulder seasons for better rates and fewer crowds, and explore neighborhoods like the marina, midtown, or historic districts for different vibes and commuting times. Social life can be vibrant without breaking the bank if you mix low-cost eateries, parks, and occasional experiences. Tip: use a trial month to compare neighborhoods, then choose a base that minimizes commute and maximizes work-life balance.
Why is Atlantic City, NJ so expensive compared to other cities?
Budget at least $2,352 per month to live in Atlantic City, NJ once rent is factored in. The high price tag reflects quality infrastructure and a strong economy, but it does mean you need a decent income to live comfortably here.
Is rent in Atlantic City, NJ too high relative to local incomes?
With 29% of the average paycheck going to rent, Atlantic City, NJ is on the expensive side for housing. Many locals cope by sharing apartments, moving to outer neighborhoods, or downsizing to keep things manageable.
How does the average salary in Atlantic City, NJ compare to the cost of living?
At $4,759 take-home, most residents in Atlantic City, NJ can cover the $2,352 monthly cost of living. Those earning $3,528 or more have room to save; below-average earners will find things noticeably tighter.
What does a one-bedroom apartment cost in Atlantic City, NJ per month?
Where you live in Atlantic City, NJ makes all the difference. Central one-bedrooms cost about $1,376; commute-friendly outer districts come in around $993. Overall, the market runs from $993 to $1,376 depending on size, location, and apartment condition.
What should I budget for food in Atlantic City, NJ?
Atlantic City, NJ isn't cheap for groceries. Monthly bills reach $501 for a single person, and even basic items cost more than in most comparable cities. Cooking at home is still the most economical approach.
How much is a monthly gym pass in Atlantic City, NJ?
At around $42.71 monthly, gym costs in Atlantic City, NJ are on the steep side. The price tracks with the city's overall high cost of services, though annual contracts and promotional deals can cut the bill.
Is $1,500 enough to cover living costs in Atlantic City, NJ?
At $2,352 in typical monthly expenses, a $1,500 budget barely covers Atlantic City, NJ. You'd need a shared flat in an outer area, home-cooked meals, and serious discipline with discretionary spending to make it work.
What are the pros and cons of living in Atlantic City, NJ?
Living in Atlantic City, NJ means access to fast internet, vibrant nightlife, family-friendly facilities at about $2,352 per month including rent. It works for a wide range of budgets, and most residents find the lifestyle-to-cost balance appealing. Your experience will depend on priorities like climate, culture, and career.

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