Cost of Living Forum
Cost of Living in Abingdon – Seeking Advice from Longtime Residents
Hello fellow Abingdonians! I am a 30-year-old professional considering relocating to Abingdon for work. As someone unfamiliar with the area, I would greatly appreciate insights from locals on what to expect in terms of the overall cost of living.
Specifically, I’m interested in hearing about typical expenses for housing (renting a 1-2 bedroom apartment), groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment. Are there any particularly expensive or affordable aspects of living in Abingdon that I should be aware of?
My annual salary would be around $60,000, and I’m single with no children. I have a moderate lifestyle, enjoy dining out occasionally, and would likely need a car for commuting. Any tips or personal experiences you can share would be invaluable as I weigh my options. Thank you in advance for your help!
10 Replies
As a longtime Abingdon resident, I can say that the cost of living here is relatively affordable compared to some larger cities, but it’s not the cheapest either. Housing is one area where you can find good deals if you look outside the city center. A decent 1-bedroom apartment in a quieter neighborhood could run you $800-$1,000 per month, while something centrally located might be $1,200-$1,500.
Groceries are reasonably priced, especially if you stick to stores like Aldi and shop sales. Utilities like electricity, water, and internet are about average from what I’ve seen. Transportation can be a mixed bag – gas prices are typically lower than in big cities, but you’ll definitely need a car to get around comfortably.
Healthcare is where things can get a bit pricey, with premiums and out-of-pocket costs often higher than average. Entertainment is fairly affordable, though, with plenty of local restaurants, bars, and community events to enjoy without breaking the bank.
Overall, I’d say your $60,000 salary should allow for a comfortable lifestyle in Abingdon, but be prepared to budget carefully, especially for housing and healthcare expenses.
As someone who loves exploring Abingdon’s diverse culinary scene, I can attest that dining out here is quite affordable compared to larger cities. You can easily find delicious meals at local eateries for $10-$15 per person, and there are plenty of options for all budgets. Groceries are also quite reasonable, especially if you frequent farmer’s markets for fresh produce.
Housing is where costs can add up, though. A decent 2-bedroom apartment in a desirable area will likely run you $1,200-$1,500 per month. Utilities like electricity and internet are relatively affordable, but be prepared for higher heating costs in the winter months.
Transportation is manageable if you own a car, but Abingdon’s public transit system leaves something to be desired. Gas prices are usually lower than in major metros, though.
Healthcare costs can be a bit high, especially if you need specialized care or procedures. However, there are some excellent medical facilities in the area.
Overall, I’d say Abingdon offers a good balance of affordability and quality of life, especially for foodies like myself who appreciate diverse dining options without breaking the bank.
As an avid hiker and nature lover, one of the biggest perks of living in Abingdon is the proximity to incredible outdoor recreation opportunities, which can help offset some of the living costs. While housing prices in desirable neighborhoods can be steep (expect to pay $1,200-$1,600 for a decent 2-bedroom apartment), the abundance of nearby state parks, hiking trails, and outdoor activities can provide affordable entertainment.
Grocery costs are reasonable, especially if you stick to stores like Aldi and Kroger. Utilities like electricity and water are about average for the area. Transportation can be a mixed bag – gas prices are lower than in major cities, but you’ll need a reliable vehicle to get around and explore the great outdoors.
Healthcare costs can be a bit high, with premiums and out-of-pocket expenses often exceeding the national average. However, there are some excellent medical facilities in the area.
Overall, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast like me and don’t mind budgeting carefully for housing and healthcare, Abingdon can offer a fantastic quality of life with easy access to nature and outdoor recreation opportunities right in your backyard.
As a parent of two school-age children, my perspective on the cost of living in Abingdon is a bit different. Housing can be a significant expense, especially if you want a 3-bedroom apartment or home in a good school district. Expect to pay $1,500-$2,000 per month for a decent 3-bedroom rental in a family-friendly neighborhood.
Groceries and utilities are relatively affordable, but childcare and education costs can add up quickly. Private preschool or daycare can easily run $800-$1,200 per month per child, while public school fees and extracurricular activities also require budgeting.
Healthcare is another area of concern for families, as premiums and out-of-pocket costs for pediatric care, prescriptions, and family coverage can be quite high.
On the positive side, Abingdon offers plenty of affordable family-friendly entertainment options, from community parks and recreation centers to local festivals and events. And with a combined household income, the overall cost of living is manageable, even if some specific expenses like housing and childcare are on the higher end.
As a recent college graduate just starting my career in Abingdon, I’ve found the cost of living to be quite manageable on an entry-level salary. While housing in the trendiest areas can be pricey (expect to pay $1,200-$1,500 for a decent 1-bedroom apartment downtown), there are plenty of more affordable options in quieter neighborhoods if you’re willing to have a slightly longer commute.
Groceries and utilities are very reasonable, and Abingdon has a great selection of budget-friendly restaurants and bars for nights out with friends. Transportation is also quite affordable if you have a reliable car – gas prices are lower than in bigger cities, and parking is generally easy to find and inexpensive.
Healthcare costs can be a bit high, especially if your employer’s insurance plan has limited coverage or high deductibles. But there are some excellent healthcare facilities in the area.
Overall, Abingdon offers a great balance of affordability and quality of life for young professionals like myself. With smart budgeting and a willingness to compromise on housing location, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
As a retired couple living on a fixed income, we’ve found Abingdon to be a very affordable and comfortable place to call home. Housing costs are quite reasonable if you’re looking for a smaller 1-2 bedroom apartment or condo – expect to pay $800-$1,200 per month in a decent area.
Groceries are also quite affordable, especially if you take advantage of senior discounts and shop sales. Utilities like electricity and water are about average for the area, but healthcare costs can be a bit high, especially for prescription drugs and supplemental Medicare coverage.
On the plus side, Abingdon offers plenty of free or low-cost entertainment options for retirees, from community centers and parks to local museums and cultural events. Transportation is also quite manageable, with lower gas prices and accessible public transit options for those who no longer drive.
Overall, Abingdon provides a high quality of life for retirees on a budget. With careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy a comfortable and active retirement lifestyle without breaking the bank.
As a single mother raising two kids in Abingdon, the cost of living can be a real challenge at times. Housing is one of the biggest expenses, with decent 2-3 bedroom apartments in safe areas typically running $1,200-$1,600 per month. Childcare is also a significant cost, with full-time daycare or after-school programs often costing $500-$800 per child each month.
Groceries and utilities are relatively affordable, but healthcare costs can be quite high, especially with limited insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses for pediatric care and prescriptions.
Transportation is another area of concern – while gas prices are lower than in major cities, the lack of reliable public transit options means I often have to budget for ride-sharing services or car maintenance costs.
On the positive side, Abingdon offers plenty of free or low-cost entertainment options for families, like community parks, libraries, and local festivals. And with careful budgeting and assistance from programs like SNAP and Medicaid, it is possible to make ends meet as a single parent in Abingdon, even if the cost of living can be a struggle at times.
As someone who prioritizes an active, health-conscious lifestyle, I’ve found Abingdon to be a great place to live in terms of balancing costs and amenities. Housing can be relatively affordable if you’re willing to live a bit outside the city center – expect to pay $900-$1,200 for a decent 1-bedroom apartment in a quieter neighborhood.
Groceries, especially for fresh produce and organic options, are quite reasonably priced thanks to the abundance of local farmer’s markets and health food stores in the area. Utilities and transportation costs are about average, but healthcare expenses can be on the higher side, especially for premium insurance plans and specialized care.
Where Abingdon really shines is in the abundance of affordable fitness and outdoor recreation options. There are plenty of budget-friendly gyms and yoga studios, as well as an extensive network of hiking trails, parks, and community sports leagues to take advantage of. Entertainment costs can also be kept low by taking advantage of these outdoor activities and free community events.
Overall, if you’re willing to budget carefully for housing and healthcare, Abingdon can provide an excellent quality of life for health-conscious individuals and fitness enthusiasts without breaking the bank.
As a young tech professional working remotely, I’ve found Abingdon to be a great place to live a comfortable, affordable lifestyle. Housing is quite reasonable compared to major tech hubs – you can find a decent 1-bedroom apartment in a trendy area for around $1,200-$1,500 per month.
Groceries and everyday living expenses like utilities and transportation are also quite affordable. Gas prices are lower than in big cities, and Abingdon has a solid public transit system for getting around without a car if needed.
Healthcare costs can be a bit high, especially for premium insurance plans and specialized care. But there are some excellent medical facilities in the area, which is a plus.
One area where Abingdon really shines is in the abundance of free or low-cost entertainment options. There’s a vibrant local culture scene with art galleries, live music venues, and unique eateries and brewpubs to explore. And with a solid internet infrastructure and coworking spaces available, it’s easy to maintain a productive remote work lifestyle.
Overall, Abingdon offers a great balance of affordability and quality of life for young tech professionals like myself. With smart budgeting and a willingness to embrace the local culture, you can live comfortably without the exorbitant costs of major tech hubs.
As a struggling artist trying to make ends meet in Abingdon, the cost of living can be a real challenge. Housing is one of the biggest expenses, with even modest 1-bedroom apartments in less desirable areas often running $800-$1,000 per month.
Groceries and utilities are relatively affordable, but healthcare costs can be quite high, especially with limited or no insurance coverage. And transportation can also be a significant expense if you need to commute or travel for work or exhibitions.
On the plus side, Abingdon does offer some affordable entertainment and cultural options for those on a tight budget. There’s a vibrant local arts scene with galleries, workshops, and community events that are often free or low-cost to attend. And the abundance of parks and outdoor spaces can provide inspiration and respite without breaking the bank.
Overall, while the cost of living in Abingdon can be a struggle for artists and creatives, it is possible to get by with careful budgeting, resourcefulness, and taking advantage of the city’s more affordable cultural offerings. But it’s certainly not an easy path, and many artists find themselves needing to supplement their income with side gigs or seeking out artist grants and residencies to make ends meet.
Detailed Price Insights of Abilene, TX
- Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant – 16.50 $
- Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course – 60.00 $
- McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) – 8.50 $
- Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) – 3.00 $
- Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) – 4.00 $
- Cappuccino (regular) – 3.50 $
- Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle) – 2.00 $
- Water (0.33 liter bottle) – 2.25 $
- Milk (regular), (1 liter) – 1.19 $
- Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) – 3.31 $
- Rice (white), (1kg) – 3.87 $
- Eggs (regular) (12) – 3.90 $
- Local Cheese (1kg) – 8.76 $
- Chicken Fillets (1kg) – 10.74 $
- Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) – 20.93 $
- Apples (1kg) – 4.58 $
- Banana (1kg) – 1.08 $
- Oranges (1kg) – 4.11 $
- Tomato (1kg) – 4.20 $
- Potato (1kg) – 6.05 $
- Onion (1kg) – 2.69 $
- Lettuce (1 head) – 1.90 $
- Water (1.5 liter bottle) – 2.03 $
- Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) – 12.00 $
- Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) – 1.73 $
- Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) – 2.00 $
- Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro) – 8.00 $
- Monthly Pass (Regular Price) – 50.00 $
- Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) – 5.00 $
- Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) – 3.00 $
- Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) – 20.00 $
- Gasoline (1 liter) – 0.93 $
- Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (Or Equivalent New Car) – 23,000.00 $
- Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort (Or Equivalent New Car) – 25,500.00 $
- Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment – 216.67 $
- Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data – 20.00 $
- Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) – 82.25 $
- Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) – 10.00 $
- Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat – 16.00 $
- Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day, Private, Monthly for 1 Child – 2,400.00 $
- 1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar) – 83.33 $
- 1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, …) – 46.67 $
- 1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range) – 115.00 $
- 1 Pair of Men Leather Business Shoes – 145.00 $
- Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre – 1,950.00 $
- Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre – 900.00 $
- Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment in City Centre – 10,763.91 $
- Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) – 7,600.00 $
- Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages (%), Yearly, for 20 Years Fixed-Rate – 6.73