Athens-Clarke County vs Columbus
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Athens-Clarke County is 7% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $891/mo vs $951/mo in Columbus — saving $720/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Athens-Clarke County | Columbus | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $596 | $608 | $12 |
| 1 Bedroom | $714 | $764 | $50 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $891 | $951 | $60 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,137 | $1,108 | $29 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,198 | $1,375 | $177 |
| Median Income | $52,645 | $63,239 | $10,594 |
Athens-Clarke County
- Studio
- $596/mo
- 1 BR
- $714/mo
- 2 BR
- $891/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,137/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,198/mo
- Median Income
- $52,645/yr
Columbus
- Studio
- $608/mo
- 1 BR
- $764/mo
- 2 BR
- $951/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,108/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,375/mo
- Median Income
- $63,239/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Athens-Clarke County or Columbus cheaper to rent in?
Athens-Clarke County is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $891/mo vs $951/mo in Columbus. That's $60/mo or $720/year more expensive in Columbus (7% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Athens-Clarke County vs Columbus?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Athens-Clarke County is $891/month. In Columbus, a 2-bedroom FMR is $951/month.
How do incomes compare between Athens-Clarke County and Columbus?
The median household income in Athens-Clarke County is $52,645/year. In Columbus it is $63,239/year. Columbus has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Athens-Clarke County vs Columbus?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Athens-Clarke County is $596/mo. In Columbus it is $608/mo.