Georgia is one state that offers people a variety of climates and living styles. Whether you want to live near the Atlantic Ocean, closer to the mountains, in a small town, or in a big city, Georgia has something for everyone.
With hundreds of cities and towns to move to, it can be hard to know which ones are the best. The good news is that no matter where you want to live, there are plenty of eXp properties in Georgia.
We’ve gathered the 19 best places to live in Georgia based on population, median income, and median house price, as well as schools, amenities, and more.
The 19 Best Cities to Live in Georgia
Whether you’re considering relocating to The Peach State or looking for a new start in your home state, check out the 20 best places to live in Georgia.
Alpharetta
Population: 67,267
Median Income: $133,920
Median Home Price: $639,922
If you want to be near Atlanta for the city atmosphere and job opportunities but crave a more suburban feel, then Alpharetta is one of the best places to live. It’s roughly 25 miles north of Atlanta and has many things to do, great schools, safe neighborhoods, and many job opportunities.
As a suburb of Atlanta, it hosts an affluent community, and the homes and amenities of the city reflect that. The schools are some of the best in the state; they have a low crime rate and many outdoor activities for residents and visitors to participate in.
Alpharetta has what’s known as Avalon, a multi-use development that opened in 2014. It’s become a central hub in the city for shopping, restaurants, and overall gathering for residents.
Canton/Holly Springs
Population: 35,809/18,739
Median Income: $67,355/$98,651
Median Home Price: $466,497/$405,906
Canton and Holly Springs are great places to live in Georgia if you’re looking for a suburban area that’s not too big. The entire Canton and Holly Springs area is spread across 20 square miles, so you’ll see a lot of farmland in between businesses and the other regions of town.
Technically Canton and Holly Springs are separate towns, but because they share a lot of amenities like schools, businesses, and acres of parks, they’re often lumped together. This area of Georgia provides people with a good dose of small-town charm, but it’s not too small that you’ll know everyone.
Canton and Holly Springs are known as two of the safest cities in the state, making them ideal places to live for those with kids and individuals.
Athens
Population: 128,561
Median Income: $43,466
Median Home Price: $291,580
Even if you haven’t heard of Athens, you’ve probably heard of the University of Georgia. Well, Athens is the home of this famous university! You’ll find a lot of young adults living in Athens, particularly closer to the university, but there are also a lot of families that reside here.
If you love college towns, there’s a lot to love about Athens. It’s the perfect city if you want a metropolitan area without all the tedious Atlanta traffic, but it also has quiet neighborhoods for families and fun areas for college students. There are ample job opportunities here, great restaurants, art museums, and other fun things to do.
People love moving to Athens because of its beautiful scenery, but also because it’s one of the most affordable cities in Georgia.
Decatur
Population: 24,338
Median Income: $123,617
Median Home Price: $314,404
Decatur, located in DeKalb County, is one of the few cities in Georgia that regularly is voted as one of the best places to live in Georgia. It’s the perfect place if you want to be inside the Atlanta perimeter highway, known to locals as the ITP.
Since it’s less than seven miles west of Downtown Atlanta, you can take in all the city vibes you want if you move here. Despite being 20 minutes from Downtown Atlanta, Decatur is a city all its own. The small downtown area is a favorite among locals thanks to the coffee shops, restaurants, and shopping opportunities.
There’s also a vibrant nightlife scene for adults who enjoy a night out, but it’s still a family-oriented area. The schools are excellent, which is why you see families regularly moving to Decatur.
Gainesville
Population: 212,692
Median Income: $67,571
Median Home Price: $337,831
Gainesville is probably most known for being the host of the 1996 Olympic Games and being a short drive to the famous Lake Lanier. This smaller town is right on the water, only an hour from Atlanta and an hour from the mountains.
This is the place to live in Georgia if you love being outdoors, exploring, and don’t want to live in a bustling city. As the primary business center for Northeast Georgia, there are plenty of jobs, and it is perfect for families.
You’ll find great outdoor activities and all your classic urban amenities like movie theaters, shopping, and great restaurants.
Johns Creek
Population: 82,453
Median Income: $133,948
Median Home Price: $635,303
Located in Fulton County, Johns Creek is known for having some of the best public schools in the state. This city in Georgia has a little bit of everything, meaning there’s something for everyone here. For those who love spending time outdoors, there are numerous parks and walking trails.
There’s also a great nightlife scene for young adults and plenty of restaurants and access to amenities throughout Johns Creek. As one of the leading Atlanta suburbs, you get the smaller suburban feel while still being able to take advantage of the larger city nearby.
You’ll often see luxury neighborhoods with multi-million dollar homes, especially in the exclusive St. Ives Country Club. Residents love it here because there are a lot of gated communities, golf courses, and excellent schools.
Woodstock
Population: 37,350
Median Income:$92,648
Median Home Price: $424,003
If you drive about 30 miles north of Atlanta, you’ll find Woodstock in Cherokee County. This smaller city only spans about 12 square miles and is famous for its vibrant little downtown area and world-class hiking trails and public parks.
Woodstock is the place to be if you want a friendly community and love shopping at local stores. They have tons of small businesses here and other shopping options, making them a tourist destination for shopping lovers.
Families flock to Woodstock to plant roots because they have an excellent school system. In addition to the excellent schools, there are beautiful green spaces, and affordable and diverse housing. You’re also not too far from the mountains for a lovely weekend getaway when you live here.
Peachtree City
Population: 39,562
Median Income: $103,374
Median Home Price: $498,191
South of Atlanta in Fayette County is one of the best places to live in Georgia, Peachtree City. For those who want a more idyllic suburb; you’ll love Peachtree City. It’s deemed one of the safest towns in the state, so if crime rates are important to you, you’ll likely love living here.
One of the most popular developments in Peachtree City is the new Town at Trilith. Some of the best architects in the United States were on the project, so you’ll see stunning and unique homes that will have your jaw on the floor. In addition to beautiful housing, the Town at Trilith has unique eateries, cafes, amenities, and shops!
If you’re considering moving to Peachtree City, you’ll experience great schools, beautiful amenities, and a sense of community like no other. Something interesting about this Georgia city is that it’s completely legal to drive golf carts around! So, you might want to invest in one if you plan on making this place your new home.
Blue Ridge
Population: 25,737
Median Income: $49,810
Median Home Price: $461,903
Blue Ridge is one of the best places to live in Georgia if you want to live in a mountain town. This lovely little town is near the Blue Ridge Mountains and Chattahoochee National Forest and offers residents a completely different life than those in the larger cities.
The downtown area is your typical, charming little mountain downtown area with shops and local restaurants, and small businesses for you to browse. People love how close it is to pumpkin patches in the fall, wineries, and apple orchards.
For families with children or those planning to raise children here, the public schools in the state are in the top 30% of schools.
Suwanee
Population: 22,477
Median Income: $99,022
Median Home Price: $557,174
Suwanee is one of the smallest cities on our list. It’s technically part of the Atlanta metropolitan area, but it’s northeast, closer to Buford than the city center of Atlanta. The school district here is great, and the housing market is strong and competitive.
You’ll find people of all ages making Suwanee their home. There are families with small children, young professionals who commute into Atlanta, and plenty of retirees. Most people here have a good job and can’t imagine living elsewhere.
One of the best things about this town is the Suwanee Town Center Park. This outdoor venue and park hosts festivals and other fun activities throughout the year that bring the residents together.
Atlanta
Population: 499,127
Median Income: $69,164
Median Home Price: $376,284
We can’t talk about the best places to live in Georgia and not mention the capital city, Atlanta. Atlanta is a wonderful place to live for young professionals, those with corporate jobs, and anyone who thrives in a city environment.
Atlanta has a thriving nightlife, film, and music industry and plenty of things to do every day of the week. The job opportunities are extensive here, which is why so many people flock to this major city every year.
The best part is all the unique neighborhoods in Atlanta, like Midtown, Buckhead, and West End, and efficient public transportation to help you explore the city. Atlanta is by far the most walkable city on this list.
Savannah
Population: 148,004
Median Income: $49,832
Median Home Price: $279,826
In Southern Georgia, near the Atlantic Ocean, is Savannah. Savannah is a popular tourist destination for history buffs but is also one of the best places to live in the state. The town’s historic district features old architecture, brick walkways, ghost tours, restaurants, and shopping centers the closer you get to the Savannah River.
You’ll find many more young adults, those without children, and retirees here because it has far more to do with their age group. That doesn’t mean families with children can’t love living in Savannah, though.
The public schools are average compared to others in the state, but the surrounding cities also have excellent schools and Georgia offers open enrollment!
Augusta
Population: 202,081
Median Income: $46,108
Median Home Price: $177,370
Augusta is a city nestled on the Georgia-South Carolina border. As one of Georgia’s largest cities, it’s famous for the soul singer James Brown and its role in professional golf. This smaller metropolitan city is perfect for those who want to live in a city but not as big as Atlanta.
Public schools are average here compared to the rest of the state, but families still think it’s a great place to raise children. Beautiful neighborhoods, including gated ones, provide families with a sense of security.
Augusta is a great place for professionals to live and work because it has a decent number of job opportunities and is incredibly affordable.
Marietta
Population: 62,602
Median Income: $62,585
Median Home Price: $440,732
Marietta is a suburb of Atlanta in Cobb County. For families who want a great school district,
Marietta is the place to be, with a strong rating of 9/10 on Great Schools. The suburb looks affluent, but it’s still relatively affordable when compared to others nearby.
Attractions in Marietta range from parks to theaters and museums. For those who love history, the Civil War Museum is in town, and Downtown Marietta has a ton to offer in the way of coffee shops, restaurants, retail stores, and more. You’ll love the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park whenever you want to get outside.
Roswell
Population: 92,950
Median Income: $111,214
Median Home Price: $596,412
Roswell is a suburb of Atlanta that is commonly associated with Marietta, but it’s technically in Fulton County. It’s on our list of the best places to live in Georgia for numerous reasons.
They have some of the best schools in the state, one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state, and a low crime rate. Another great thing about Roswell is that the cost of living isn’t outrageous like other affluent areas of Atlanta.
When you live here, you’ll have access to over 900 acres of parkland, local restaurants, shops, and community events that the town regularly hosts for residents and visitors.
Helen
Population: 470
Median Income: $65,125
Median Home Price: $326,105
Inside the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is the mountain town of Helen. This town is a popular tourist destination, much like Blue Ridge, but the residents of Helen wouldn’t trade living there for anything.
The one thing that makes Helen more notable than others in the state is the Barvarian-style architecture in the town center. It has a strong German population, and this place feels like something out of a fairytale all the time, but especially during the holidays.
Those who live there get to experience the fairytale year-round. You’ll find a lot of older adults living here and young adults who want a simpler life. The schools are decent here, and the crime rate tends to be higher because of the tourists the city attracts.
Smyrna
Population: 56,160
Median Income: $83,029
Median Home Price: $439,564
Smyrna is yet another wonderful place to live in Cobb County, Georgia. It’s a northern Atlanta suburb and offers some great areas for families, young professionals, and older adults. Crime isn’t overly common here, but Bennett Woods and Forest Hills are some of the safest neighborhoods.
It has an intense suburban feel, so you’ll love it here if that’s what you’re looking for. Most residents own their homes thanks to reasonably affordable housing.
Crime isn’t too common here, but the closer you move toward Atlanta in Smyrna, there will be more crime. Families love raising children here, thanks to the great schools, parks, and activities in the surrounding areas.
Rome
Population: 37,913
Median Income: $40,000
Median Home Price: $198,079
Last but certainly not least, we have Rome, Georgia. The city is at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains and is your typical suburban Georgia town. The small-town southern charm makes it so appealing to people moving to Georgia.
This isn’t an overly affluent city, but most people here do so comfortably. With lower housing prices, most people own their homes and enjoy participating in town activities, festivals, and other events.
The public schools are average here compared to other cities of their size around the country, so you’ll see a lot of families making Rome their new home.
FAQs
So, is Georgia on your mind? You’re not the only one! Here are some frequently asked questions other eager movers are asking.
What is the best part of Georgia to live in?
The best part of Georgia to live in will depend on your income, your preferences, and what type of area you’re looking for. If you want big-city living, then Atlanta will be the best. Savannah is the best if you want to be closer to the coast.
What is the best county to raise a family in Georgia?
The best counties for raising a family will have great schools and low crime. Georgia’s best counties to raise a family are Forsyth, Oconee, Fayette, Cobb, and Cherokee Counties.
Where is the cheapest place to buy a house in Georgia?
Georgia has many affordable places to live, but the cheapest place to buy a house in Georgia is in Warner Robins.
Is Georgia expensive to live in?
Expensive is subjective, but generally, Georgia isn’t expensive. The cost of living in Georgia is roughly 11% lower than the national average, making it a rather affordable place to live.
What are the cons of living in Georgia?
Georgia is a beautiful Southern state, but living there has some cons. Some cons are that there are a lot of bugs, traffic is bad in some areas, and it’s prone to tropical storms in the summer.
What part of Georgia has the best climate?
What you think is the best climate and what others think is the best climate can vary. If you want a warmer, more tropical climate, the closer you are to the Florida-Georgia border, the better the climate. For those who want a more mountain environment, heading towards Atlanta and further north has the best climate.
Is Georgia a good place to move?
Yes! Georgia is a good place to move if you want a more affordable place to live with great outdoor recreation, rich history, and culture.
Where is the best place to live in Georgia on a fixed income?
Statesboro, Georgia, is the best place to live in the state if you’re on a fixed income because it’s affordable but has a lot of things to do.
What is the advantage of living in Georgia?
There are a lot of advantages of living in Georgia, like the lower cost of living, a thriving economy, plenty of jobs, and plenty of things to do.
Is housing cheaper in Georgia or Florida?
Georgia is by far cheaper to buy a home in than Florida. The median home value in Georgia is $311,254, while in Florida, it’s $385,157. While this might not seem like a huge difference, it’s substantial when you factor in the cost of living.
Are houses cheaper in Tennessee or Georgia?
It depends on where in Georgia and Tennessee you’re moving, but houses tend to be cheaper in Tennessee than in Georgia. The median price for a home in Tennessee is $297,185 compared to $311,254 in Georgia.
What salary do you need to live in GA?
What salary you’ll need to live in Georgia depends on where you live, your bills, and how many people you support. On average, you will need an annual salary of $54,564.
In Conclusion
With affordable housing, excellent schools, plenty of things to do, and charming southern hospitality, these 20 cities in Georgia are the best places to move to.
No matter where you’re looking for your new home in Georgia, you can find dozens of beautiful properties. If you’re ready to find the house for your fresh start or want to sign up for our property alerts, contact one of our eXp agents today!
