Whether you are looking for the lively energy of city living or small-town charm, Georgia has something for you. Almost 11 million people call Georgia home, and it is easy to see why.
The state has four mild seasons, plenty of Southern charm, and a thriving economy in several sectors. You can enjoy a cabin weekend in the North Georgia mountains, explore the rich history at several museums, and you have access to one of the world’s busiest airports.
Read on to find out more about the merits and demerits of Georgian life, whether you should make the move, and discover the best place to live in Georgia.
But first…
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Is Georgia a Good State to Live In?
Georgia is one of the best places to live. Over 100,000 new residents move into the state each year.
Cities in other states are overpriced and overrated. In Georgia, you will enjoy a laid-back culture, clean air, and excellent food.
Georgia is perfect for college students building their lives, young couples looking for a selection of romantic getaways, and families looking for the perfect place to raise their kids.
The state is also one of the best destinations for retirees. The light tax burden and low cost of living mean the state is number one in the affordability rank for retirees.
Pros and Cons of Living in Georgia
Georgia has a celebrated sports culture, friendly neighborhoods, and excellent weather. However, the state also has its negatives.
If you are planning on moving to the Peach State, you need to weigh the pros and cons of Georgia life.
Pros of Living in Georgia
Below are reasons millions of people embrace the state:
- Short and mild winters—Snow days are rare, so you do not need to shovel snow. Even on the coldest days, residents rarely don gloves, heavy sweaters, and winter coats.
- Excellent schools—You get access to an excellent array of schools, universities, and colleges. Georgia is also home to liberal arts schools and prestigious research universities.
- A low cost of living—GA is the sixth most affordable state in the U.S. So the cost of housing, goods, groceries, transportation, and utilities is lower compared to other states.
- Atlanta—You will enjoy vibrant city life, urban parks, a thriving economy, and amenities. There are also more job opportunities in sectors such as showbiz, finance, and music.
Cons of Living in Georgia
Like any other American state, Georgia is also not perfect. Some cons of living here are:
- Long, hot, and humid summers—Georgia is a southern state that experiences sweltering summers. Intense heat and humidity make a shirt soak in minutes, but residents can head to the mountains to cool off.
- Things are slow—The laid-back lifestyle in Georgia can sometimes be too slow. Moving to Georgia from a bustling city means you need time to adapt to the quiet life or change your lifestyle.
- Not much beach—While Georgia has a 100-mile coastline, most of it is prone to mud and marsh or tucked in. Overcrowded beaches along the coastline are a major problem in summer, and accessing them can be an issue if living in western Georgia.
Best Places to Live in Georgia
To find the best place to live in Georgia, you need to consider several factors. These include:
- The cost of living
- The housing market
- Crime rates
- Schools
- Socioeconomics
Note that lists of the top place to live in Georgia are not the same. Make your list depending on what is important to you, your family, and your lifestyle to decide on the ideal place to set roots.
Here is a list of the top four cities in Georgia to get you started.
Johns Creek
Johns Creek is one of the best and safest places to live in. There is a high demand for homes in the newly formed city, which is a good sign if you ever decide to sell house in Georgia after a few years.
Residents have access to shopping, restaurants, parks, and trails. Make sure you check out Newtown Park and Autrey Mill Nature Preserve.
Atlanta
No list of the best cities in Georgia is complete without a mention of the state’s capital. But is Atlanta a good place to live?
Most people moving into Georgia choose Atlanta first for its excellent amenities and the growing job market. The city is also close to an international airport and many Fortune 500 companies have their headquarters here.
The city of trees is home to many growing startups, a vibrant music industry, and many tourist attractions. Most areas also have hiking trails and in-town parks.
However, navigating the city can be difficult. There are over 50 streets with the Peachtree and you need to consider whether you are Outside the Perimeter (OTP) or Inside the Perimeter (ITP).
Canton
The city of Canton is between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Atlanta. Canton offers residents plenty of community events, arts, beautiful green spaces, and excellent shopping spaces.
Canton has a suburban, small-town feel, making it the ideal place for young families. You also have easy access to the outdoors and wide, open spaces.
Savannah
The Savannah College of Art and Design and ghost stories are the top markers of this city. However, living in Savannah brings you amenities such as a thriving nightlife, fine dining, proximity to the ocean, and exceptional Southern hospitality.
The city is close to the city’s bustle, especially in the Pooler, Wilshire Estates, and Midtown neighborhoods. Explore the city on foot and take in its natural beauty. Or, you can stroll down the Savannah River and head to the City Market for a delicious bite.
Also read: What types of homes do real estate investors look for?
Ready to Make the Move?
Atlanta is one of the most popular destinations to move to, but the state is also home to many great cities. All the options above offer excellent amenities, such as wonderful schools, fine dining, and fun entertainment. Further, you will enjoy mild weather throughout the year.
Nature is only a few miles away from you, and you get plenty of camping and hiking opportunities. Have you picked the best place to live in Georgia? If not, this list will help you get started!
