Is $85k a good salary in Georgia?

For Georgia, $85k is generally a very strong salary, especially outside of the most expensive metro areas. In Atlanta, it's a good salary, but the high cost of living, particularly rent and home prices, will significantly impact how far it stretches. You'll likely live comfortably, but might not be saving aggressively unless you're very budget-conscious or have a lower cost of living expectation for housing. A single person could do very well, while a family might feel the pinch a bit more depending on lifestyle.

That salary in Atlanta should allow for a comfortable lifestyle. Housing will likely be your biggest expense, but it's significantly lower than NYC. After rent/mortgage, utilities, transportation, and groceries, you should still have a decent amount left over for entertainment, savings, and other expenses. Look into neighborhoods with varying price points to maximize your budget. Explore areas outside the city center for more affordable options while still maintaining accessibility.