Forest Park, GA Utility & Living Guide

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Forest Park, GA Utility & Living Guide

Forest Park is a city in Clayton County, Georgia, United States. It is located approximately nine miles (14 km) south of Atlanta and is part of the Atlanta metropolitan area. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 19,932.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$350/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax8%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Georgia Power
🔥 Gas

$60/mo

Atlanta Gas Light
💧 Water

$50/mo

City of Forest Park Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.25%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Forest Park is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are also plentiful, ranging from apartments to single-family homes. However, prices are rising due to the city’s growing popularity

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

103

Transportation

99

Healthcare

101

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax8%
Property Tax Rate1.25%
<p>State 4% + County 3% + City 1%</p>

Georgia has a progressive state income tax with rates ranging from 1% to 5.99%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+10% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of Democratic and Republican voters
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, public safety, affordable housing
🚌 Transit for Families

Forest Park has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with accessible sidewalks and some bike lanes

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Zoo Atlanta
  • 🎯
    Children's Museum of Atlanta
  • 🎯
    Centennial Olympic Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Forest Park include the historic district, which features older homes and a strong sense of community, as well as the newer developments near the airport, which offer more modern amenities. The city is also investing in revitalizing its downtown area, making it a more attractive option for families

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📊 Forest Park — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In the summer, utility costs in Forest Park tend to increase due to the high demand for air conditioning, while in the winter, costs decrease as the need for heating is lower. However, the mild winters in Forest Park mean that heating costs are generally lower than in other parts of the country

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 30297 has a property tax millage rate of 25.5 mills, with an additional 1% local surtax

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with explanation: Forest Park has decent sidewalk quality and some park access, but elevator access in transit is limited, and family infrastructure is still developing

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