Tybee Island, GA Cost of Living & Utility Guide 2026

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Tybee Island, GA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Tybee Island offers a unique blend of small-town charm and coastal beauty, with a strong sense of community and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Last updated: September 30, 2026

Total Utilities$290/mo

1BR Rent$1100/mo

Sales Tax8%

COL Index110 (+10% above national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$380,000

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Tybee Island is experiencing a surge in tourism, with a growing number of visitors drawn to its beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational opportunities. However, this influx of tourists is also driving up housing costs and putting pressure on the island's infrastructure.

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🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Georgia Power

🔥 Gas

—

N/A - Electric only

💧 Water

$50/mo

City of Tybee Island

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management

📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms	$2000/mo
Median Home Price	$380,000
Property Tax Rate	1.15%
Avg Childcare/mo	$1200

The housing market in Tybee Island is highly competitive, with a limited supply of homes and a high demand from tourists and full-time residents. The island’s small size and limited land availability contribute to the high cost of living. However, the city is working to develop new affordable housing options and revitalize existing neighborhoods.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	8%
Property Tax Rate	1.15%
<p>State 4% + County 3% + City 1%</p>

Georgia has a progressive state income tax with six brackets, ranging from 1% to 5.99%. Tybee Island residents are also subject to federal income tax.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score

7/10

Safety Index

Higher = safer

School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend

+2% (growing)

Political Climate

Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal views

Business Momentum

Moderate, with key industries including tourism, hospitality, and small business

Top Local Concerns

Traffic, affordable housing, environmental protection

🚌 Transit for Families

The island has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with wide sidewalks and accessible parks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Tybee Island Lighthouse
🎯
Tybee Island Marine Science Center
🎯
North Beach Bar and Grill

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The island's best neighborhoods for families include the historic district, with its charming homes and tree-lined streets, and the north beach area, with its wide beaches and outdoor recreational opportunities. The south beach area is also popular, with its mix of old and new homes and its proximity to the island's shops and restaurants.

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Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Tybee Island based on your household profile.

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The city has strict zoning laws and regulations to preserve the island’s historic character and natural environment. Residents are also required to obtain permits for certain activities, such as construction and outdoor events.

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📊 Tybee Island — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Tybee Island tend to be higher in the summer months, when air conditioning is in high demand, and lower in the winter months, when heating is less necessary. However, the island's mild climate means that utility costs remain relatively stable throughout the year, with only a slight increase in the summer and a slight decrease in the winter.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 31328 has a property tax millage rate of 12.5 mills, with an additional 1 mill for the city's special tax district. There are also local surtaxes on certain goods and services, including a 2% surtax on hotel rooms and a 1% surtax on food and beverages.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and a relatively flat terrain, making it easy to navigate with a stroller. However, some areas of the island have limited elevator access and narrow streets, which can make it difficult to maneuver with a stroller.

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