As the economic engine of the Southeast and home to the world's busiest airport, Atlanta is a top-tier destination for business travel, conventions, and corporate meetings. For any organization with employees traveling to this bustling metropolis, a clear strategy for managing expenses is vital.
Per diem, a daily allowance for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses, offers a streamlined method for reimbursement. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the per diem rates for the Atlanta area, important Georgia laws for employers, and how to automate the entire process for compliance and efficiency.
Atlanta Per Diem Rates
Atlanta and its surrounding counties are designated as a Non-Standard Area (NSA) by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), with specific per diem rates that are higher than the standard U.S. rate. It's important to note that rates can vary between different counties within the Atlanta metro area.
For Fiscal Year 2025 (October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025), the rates are as follows:
Atlanta Area Rates
- Atlanta (Fulton & DeKalb Counties):
- M&IE: $86 per day
- Lodging: Seasonal, with a peak rate of $197 per night (January-March) and a rate of $182 per night for all other months.
- The first and last day of travel M&IE rate is $64.50.
- Marietta (Cobb County): Often considered part of the metro area, Cobb County has a different rate.
- M&IE: $74 per day
- Lodging: A flat rate of $126 per night.
Standard CONUS Rate
For any county in Georgia not specifically listed by the GSA, the standard CONUS rate applies. For FY 2025, this rate is $178 ($110 for lodging and $68 for M&IE).
Atlanta Per Diem Rate Calculator
To find the precise per diem allowance for your trip to the Atlanta area, our calculator provides instant, accurate results based on the official GSA schedule.