If you’re exploring the best places to live in Georgia with an eye toward moving there, you’re not alone. The secret sauce of this sprawling, diverse state is definitely out as more and more people flock to its cities, farmland, beaches, and mountains. And with a jump of more than 116,000 residents just in the past year, the Peach State is now among a select group of states that have crossed the 11 million mark in population.
All signs point to ongoing expansion of Georgia’s population explosion, too, as the South keeps pace as the fastest-growing region in the U.S. with 87 percent of all U.S. growth. In fact, in 2023, Georgia experienced the fourth-highest growth in the nation as more people found their way to the best places to live in GA.
But enough with the nerdy numbers. Why are people moving here and where are the most popular Georgia cities and towns? Let’s find out!
Ready to make your move to Georgia? .
Best Places to Live in Georgia
Mild winters, friendly neighbors, a low cost of living, and delicious Southern home-cookin’ are just some of the reasons people move to the Peach State. From urban Atlanta to historic Savannah, there’s a long list of best cities to live in Georgia.
Alpharetta, Georgia
(Source: )
1. Alpharetta, GA
Average rent (1-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
Just 25 miles north of Atlanta, Alpharetta gives residents easy access to the big city while still offering the pleasures of small-town life. It’s rated No. 2 on Niche’s “” list, and its public schools, housing, family-friendliness, nightlife, and diversity all receive an A- grade or better. So it’s no wonder Georgians choose to call Alpharetta home.
In this town, you’ll find music venues, restaurants, and a variety of shopping opportunities ( in a 5-mile radius, in fact). Meet up with friends at one of the local breweries ( has a rooftop bar on Academy Street), or try your luck at one of the escape rooms in town. And for the outdoorsy, there’s where you can hike and bike to your heart’s content, or visit one of the for a relaxing walk through native Georgia greenery.
The only potential downside of Alpharetta is the cost of living. Not only is it , but it even exceeds the state average (by close to 20 percent!). But then again, Alpharetta has so much to offer as one of the best cities to live in Georgia, we think it’s worth it.
2. Rome, GA
Average rent (1-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
Nestled in the northwest Georgia foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Rome is about halfway between Atlanta and Chattanooga. This Rome doesn’t have a Colosseum, but it is home to , and this charming city will make you wonder why you didn’t move to Georgia sooner.
The historic downtown welcomes shoppers and diners to boutiques and local restaurants, delis, bakeries, and cafes. We suggest for a riverside beer garden experience or for Rome’s famous chicken salad (since 1978). There are also some chain favorites in town, so you won’t have to give up your protein shakes at or Friday pizza nights at .
In addition to checking out art exhibits and live music shows, locals can swim, kayak, or fish in the three rivers that run through Rome — the . There are also more than two dozen parks in town, popular for hiking, biking, walking, picnicking, and the like. And for those looking for higher education opportunities, just outside of the city limits you’ll find , an independent coeducational institution that’s been providing students with a liberal arts education for more than a century. In addition to having the largest college campus in the world, at 27,000 acres, it’s just plain gorgeous.
It’s also important to note that the cost of living in Rome is about than the Georgia average (and about 19 percent lower than the national average!). Housing, groceries, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses become notably more affordable once you settle in Rome — another reason it’s considered one of the best places to live in Georgia.
Q: What is the healthiest place to live in Georgia?
A: Sandy Springs was named the in 2024 by Niche. And although we’re not going to argue with that, of course, we think that almost all of Georgia has the potential to unseat Sandy Springs. From cozy spots in the North Georgia mountains to the laid-back beach vibe of the coast, Georgia cities offer an abundance of outdoor options to keep you active and healthy.
3. Athens, GA
Average rent (1-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
Home to the University of Georgia, Athens (or the “Classic City,” as it’s known) is consistently named to various “Best College Towns in America” lists, including Southern Living’s prestigious honors in 2022. What’s more, the is lower than the Georgia average, making Athens an affordable place to live. But a lower cost of living and a higher education are just a small part of what makes Athens one of the best cities in Georgia.
The local music and entertainment scene is impressive, which is no surprise once you realize that bands like R.E.M., Drive-By Truckers, The B-52s, and Widespread Panic all made their start right here in Athens. And today, you can still catch amazing live music — from up-and-comers to big name acts — at local venues like and . If you’re looking for something a little less rock ’n’ roll, head over to or for Broadway shows, instrumental and classical music, comedy showcases, and more. And we can’t forget the summer festivals — the Series and , to name just two.
In addition to local parks and the must-visit , there’s the Oconee Rivers Greenway, where visitors can bike, hike, kayak, fish, and more. And the local art scene will have you touring the , perusing downtown boutiques and galleries, and searching for the that have been installed throughout the city in celebration of the . We’re pretty sure he thinks his hometown is the best place to live in Georgia. Go Dawgs!
Savannah, Georgia
4. Savannah, GA
Average rent (1-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
Savannah is a dream — almost surreal and ever mysterious, filled with beautiful oaks cloaked in Spanish moss, historic architecture, grand fountains decorating city parks, and those famous blooming azaleas. Add to that world-class dining plus the vibrant , and it’s no wonder Savannah is one of the best places to live in Georgia!
Contrary to what you may expect from a tourist town that attracts millions of visitors each year, Savannah has a surprisingly low cost of living — nearly below the national average. Not bad for one of the most popular Georgia cities.
Stunning mansions line many of this Southern city’s oak-shaded streets, but you can still find homes that are affordable and pretty darn cute, if you ask us. From bungalows and craftsman houses to townhomes and estates, there’s something for everyone in Savannah. And there are plenty of rentals, too. As a matter of fact, a of Savannah’s rent their homes rather than own.
And if you’re looking for a city with true Southern hospitality, you’ll be happy to hear that Savannah’s self-dubbed nickname is “Hostess City of the South.” Living here, you’ll always have your fill of good food and entertainment. Take in award-winning performances at or , or put on your dancing shoes for the (for starters). Visitors and locals alike embark on haunted ghost tours through the city’s historic streets and then unwind again at one of .
Outdoor activities include strolling along River Street, beaching it up at (20 minutes from the downtown Historic District), and exploring the 100-acre (and centuries old) , of “” fame. And history buffs won’t want to miss out on the plethora of historic architecture and religious sites (some of the oldest in the South).
Dining is another reason Savannah is one of the best cities to live in Georgia. Favorites of the ÐÓ°ÉPro Blog staff include for an upscale experience, The for a Savannah classic, and for down-home Southern chow.
Q: What is the most beautiful city to live in Georgia?
A: Savannah, GA, has the honor of being called the most beautiful city in Georgia and the , according to Forbes. We couldn't agree more.
5. Sandy Springs, GA
Average rent (1-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
Less than 30 minutes north of Atlanta, Sandy Springs has a lot going for it. Many Fortune 500 companies are based here, and it’s home to the headquarters of UPS and Mercedes-Benz USA (and then some). In short, Sandy Springs is a business hub, making it a great city to live and work. The cost of living is almost than Georgia’s average, but that hasn’t deterred the city’s . It helps that the Sandy Springs median household income, at $93,300, is a solid than the state’s median.
The Chattahoochee River creates the north and west borders of the city, providing endless opportunities for residents to get out on the water. There’s ample green space, including more than two dozen parks and the , where locals can bike or stroll through Georgia’s natural beauty. And downtown, you’ll find , home to the local history museum and the city’s namesake springs. With all this nature and outdoor recreation, it’s no wonder Sandy Springs was named the by Niche.
Sandy Springs has above-average schools, and, with its , it’s a . According to Niche, it’s a great place for retirees, as well, and was rated the (that’s right, out of the entire country — not just one of the best places to live in Georgia).
6. St. Simons Island, GA
Average rent (1-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
St. Simons Island is one of the most romantic places to live in the Southeast. The largest in a string of barrier islands off the Southeast Georgia coast called , St. Simons is a favored resort getaway for vacationers from all over Georgia — and the U.S., for that matter. And for good reason: About an hour and a half from Jacksonville to the south and Savannah to the north, this is island life turned up to the max, with a leisurely pace of life, immaculate beaches, and enough entertainment to keep you thrilled every day of the year.
For a resort town, is comparatively reasonable at about lower than the rest of Georgia and 9 percent lower than the rest of the U.S. Buying a home here will cost you, though, and jobs are somewhat scarce in the off season, with an unemployment rate of 4 percent. But if you’re a fan of laid-back beach living and don’t mind summer humidity and heat (but with a lovely sea breeze!), this may be your cup of tea.
Travel + Leisure ranked St. Simons, along with its neighbors Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Sea Island, as the . High praise for the Peach State! Its antique shops, galleries, boutiques, and southern culinary delights are of particular note. And you might be surprised at the volume of restaurants on the island — more than 70! Some favorites for locally sourced treats: and (try the shrimp-anything).
Q: Is Georgia a good place to move to?
A: Georgia is such a diverse state — so different from city to city in cultural, geographic, and lifestyle characteristics — that the answer is an enthusiastic “yes.” The Peach State offers a blend of Southern charm, sophisticated urban living, picturesque mountain towns, island paradises, and rich (if complicated) history.
7. Atlanta, GA
Average rent (1-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
If you’re looking for big-city living in Georgia, Atlanta is where you need to be. Sometimes called the New York of the South, this Southern capital is home to nearly half a million people, with more than . Skyscrapers, booming nightlife, incredible dining and shopping, pro sports, live entertainment. Atlanta’s on a different level, and that’s why people love it here! In fact, Atlanta ranks No. 17 on Niche’s “” list — in the country.
Moving to Atlanta, you won’t stay a lonely newcomer for long. Georgia’s friendly Southern hospitality is commonplace even in this uber-urban setting. And if you’re willing to strike up a conversation with your neighbors, you’ll find new buddies in no time. Basically, there are nearly endless reasons why so many residents believe the ATL is the best place to live in Georgia.
And guess what? The ATL is about to become very bikeable. Currently underway is the , a repurposing of the 22-mile historic railway loop around downtown into a paved multi-use path, lined with art installations and native greenery. Once complete, it’ll connect 45 in-town Atlanta neighborhoods and will include 1,300 acres of new greenspace and 33 miles of trails. The Northside, Westside, Eastside, and West End trails are already finished, and the entire project is estimated to be complete in 2030.
The cost of living in The Big Peach is more than and 20 percent higher than the rest of the state. But while that’s more expensive than a lot of other places on our list, it’s not bad for life in the big city. , on the other hand, is just as bad, or maybe worse, than you’d expect.
Winters here are mild, but you still have to contend with hot, humid summers, and the allergy season is nothing to sneeze at — or rather, it’s most definitely something to sneeze at, as Atlanta is a city lush with gardens and trees and, therefore, seasonal pollen. Luckily, you’ll have easy access to , so you can take a trip to somewhere a little less pollen-heavy if you need to.
Chattahoochee River
(Source: )
8. Johns Creek, GA
Average rent (one-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
Johns Creek is a suburb less than 30 miles north of Atlanta. It’s one of the best places to live in Georgia for families — actually, that’s an understatement. Johns Creek was rated by Niche as the , with A- ratings or better for its public schools, housing, nightlife, and diversity. It also received excellent safety marks from , which found Johns Creek to be safer than 71 percent of U.S. cities. Overall, we’d say this is one of the very best towns to live in Georgia. But with such high marks, it may not surprise you that the is more than 13 percent higher than the U.S. average (and almost 20 percent higher than in the rest of Georgia).
The Chattahoochee River makes up the town’s southern boundary and is a popular place for locals to tube, boat, or fish. The — with 46 acres of trails, creek, historic buildings, pavilions, and woodlands — is a great place for an afternoon hike or picnic.
There’s plenty to entertain you indoors, as well. The town has its fair share of local boutiques, salons, and spas. There are multiple country clubs and a wide variety of restaurants with menus to appease all palates. If you’re looking for a culture kick, check out the or the . And remember: You always have easy Atlanta access.
Q: Where is the safest place to live in Georgia?
A: According to NeighborhoodScout, the tiny little town of , about an hour southwest of Augusta, is the safest place to live in Georgia. Out of the cities on our list, though, with a crime index of 71 (safer than 71 percent of cities in America).
9. Roswell, GA
Average rent (one-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
Across the Chattahoochee River from Sandy Springs, you’ll find Roswell. This beautiful city is only 22 miles north of Atlanta and has been dubbed the . Home to , Roswell is known for having great public schools, a plethora of outdoor recreation activities, and a delectable dining scene.
Take the kids to the , where they can explore fantastical gnome homes and fairy houses on the . Roswell was also the first city in Georgia to earn the designation of being a “” by the League of American Bicyclists. Cycling enthusiasts can join local organizations of like-minded “pedal heads” and take to the trails at or the .
There’s a lot of history here, too. Roswell was founded in 1839 by Roswell King. He named the town after himself and, harnessing the power of the Chattahoochee River, opened the first cotton mill for the Roswell Manufacturing Company. Most of the mill buildings were burned during the Civil War, but visitors can explore the ruins at . The park also has hiking trails and a pedestrian bridge over Vickery Creek that connects to the trail.
If you’re looking for a night out on the town, you’re in the right place. is where you’ll find sidewalk cafes and restaurants. There’s a variety of amazing dining options throughout Roswell, serving chef-driven cuisines from around the world. If craft beer (or even mead) is your scene, head to one of Roswell’s many breweries, and be sure to check out . There’s plenty of live entertainment here, as well. From the and to the and the , there’s something for everyone.
Marietta, Georgia
(Source: )
10. Marietta, GA
Average rent (one-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
Only 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta, Marietta still retains its small-town Southern charm with beautiful antebellum homes and a historic downtown — similar to so many of the best places to live in Georgia, but with its own distinctive flavor. The cost of living is about than the state’s average. But boasting great schools and a family-friendly environment, among many other attributes, this is an urban-suburban city to love.
For the outdoorsy among you, there are endless hiking trails, parks, and public gardens. You can go for a woodsy bike ride on the or take the whole family to East Cobb Park to picnic at the gazebo. For bigger adventures, take a quick drive north toward the mountains for a weekend camping trip. Marietta is also home to amusement park — a perfect getaway for hot summer days.
And culture abounds in the form of museums, art galleries, and the , an Art Deco-style treasure . You can spend the day exploring boutiques, antique malls, and vintage clothing shops while also satiating your palate at one of the 30+ restaurants in the historic , and end the evening taking advantage of Marietta’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Q: How much does it cost to live comfortably in Georgia?
A: Employment, gas, and food prices, as well as other factors vary somewhat dramatically across Georgia cities, from Lookout Mountain to Hahira, influenced as they are by their border neighbors Tennessee, North and South Carolina, Alabama, and Florida. But overall, the cost of living averages than in the rest of the U.S. To live comfortably requires an income of about $59,000 for a family and almost $45,000 for a single person.
11. Smyrna, GA
Average rent (one-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
Smyrna is another smallish city with an easy commute into Atlanta — but once you find out all that Smyrna has to offer, you’ll never want to leave.
The schools here are top-notch, making it a great place to raise a family. But the city is also a terrific option for young professionals and singles. With vibrant culture and nightlife, plus an ever-increasing foodie scene, there’s rarely a reason to leave the city limits. And the cherry on top of Smyrna’s cultural sundae? The , home to both the and the .
Another reason to love Smyrna: The housing prices aren’t that bad, especially when compared to Johns Creek, Sandy Springs, and Roswell. A little rather than own, and there are plenty of rentals available at any given time. Communities such as offer amenities like tennis courts, resort-style pools, fitness centers, and clubhouses.
Here are some local recommendations for all you foodies out there:
(20 varieties of frankfurters)
(with its own roastery)
(popular spot with a creative menu)
(an ever-changing and creative menu)
(good ol’ southern comfort food)
12. Lookout Mountain, GA
Average rent (one-bedroom): N/A
Typical home value:
Great for:
Travelers all over the Southeast are familiar with Lookout Mountain — even if they don’t know it — thanks to the abundance of “” signs everywhere from billboards to barn roofs. This charming town on the border of Georgia and Tennessee, just outside of Chattanooga, gives its residents a mountain-town lifestyle lifted from a . The nickname “Fairyland,” as shown on , is a perfect descriptor. Waterfalls, lush deciduous forests, and abundant wildlife make it feel like you’re living in a fairy tale.
Residents enjoy a calm, safe environment. Niche gives Lookout Mountain for Crime & Safety, with near-zero violent crimes reported and few property crimes. And more than of the population here holds a four-year college degree. Median household income is also strong, coming in at about .
Business options are limited — there are only a few grocery stores, restaurants, and other stores in town — but easy access to nearby Chattanooga solves these issues. And with , you can be assured that you’ll have a community to connect with.
Masters Tournament in Augusta, Georgia
(Source: )
13. Augusta, GA
Average rent (one-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
Which city in Georgia has a lower-than-expected cost of living? Augusta! The cost of living here is , earning it the No. 33 spot on Niche’s list of . It turns out that those three-dollar pimento cheese sandwiches Augusta National is famous for translates to the city’s cost of living, too.
Augusta’s biggest draw is the , a prestigious organization with membership on an invite-only basis. Augusta National hosts The Masters each year, one of professional golf’s four major tournaments, and the only one that is played at the same course every year. Needless to say, the tournament is a huge draw to Augusta each April and patrons the nation over flock to partake.
But the Masters is only one week out of fifty-two. Every other week, Augusta is a blossoming city in its own right.
Georgia’s second-biggest city, Augusta lies on the South Carolina border, edged on the east by the Savannah River. Locals take in the sights and sounds of the city as they stroll along the peaceful between Downtown Augusta’s 6th and 10th streets. Attractions include the , , and the (to name a few). Not to be missed: The Museum of Art exhibit honoring Augusta’s own James Brown, the Godfather of Soul. A walk through the historic downtown transports you back in time, with a tour past architectural styles from Greek and Romanesque Revival to Beaux Arts and Queen Anne. Several churches, homes, and other buildings are even open to the public.
Daytime venturing may find you at the , just a few minutes from downtown Augusta, with 1,100 acres of natural spaces and miles of trails for hiking and biking. For indoor entertainment, you can take in a show at the , which once showcased vaudeville and now is home to popular musicals and live concerts. And when it comes time to dine, Augusta won’t disappoint. Start with , , and the .
Q: What is the most affordable place to live in Georgia?
A: is widely considered the most affordable city in the Peach State, likely because it’s home to the Warner Robins Air Force Base and the employment opportunities and economic stability that comes with it. On this list, Hahira takes the cake. In general, however, Georgia is an affordable state — the . Some affordability exceptions, of course, include exclusive coastal resort communities and some of the more extravagant neighborhoods around Atlanta, Savannah, and other metro areas.
14. Clarkesville, GA
Average rent (one-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
Nestled in the North Georgia mountains, Clarkesville offers small-town living just a hop, skip, and a jump from weekends in the big city. This quaint village is a bustling tourist draw in the fall leaf-peeping season, when the gorgeous Southern foliage bursts with color. And visitors come during other times of the year, too, to shop and dine in Clarkesville’s old-fashioned downtown, hike the miles of nearby mountain trails, or relax in a cozy weekend cabin with family and friends.
Just full-time, so if solitude is your preference, you’ll likely be comfortable in Clarkesville. Other facts and figures: Habersham County Schools get a from Niche, the median household income is right around , and the town scores a from NeighborhoodScout (meaning it’s 31 percent safer than other cities in the nation).
Dining options are surprisingly diverse for such a small town. Try for a special dinner — or just a weeknight out. And besides Mother Nature’s abundant offerings, entertainment in Clarkesville includes the , where touring acts and locals alike take the stage. Feeling gutsy? Grab the mic for karaoke every Friday night at 8 p.m.
15. Hahira, GA
Average rent (1-bedroom):
Typical home value:
Great for:
Every October since 1981, the has drawn tens of thousands of visitors to this South Georgia town for a week-long celebration that includes a parade, arts and crafts, and live entertainment — all in the name of bees. The remaining 51 weeks in Hahira aren’t too shabby, either, with plenty of small-town fun to keep the happy.
Schools in Hahira get an . With more than 10,500 students in the Lowndes County District’s 11 schools, the student-teacher ratio promises that your kids will get the right attention. And like in any charming small town, after-school sports are a mainstay of civic life. Friday night lights, anyone?
More things to love about Hahira: The median household income is around $86,000, and the cost of living is than in the rest of the U.S. Parks abound, from to more modest green spaces, golf courses, and playgrounds. And the downtown area offers a walkable main stretch with more than , including restaurants, boutiques, and arts organizations.
ÐÓ°ÉPro Can Help You Move to Your Perfect Place in Georgia
Once you’ve found your home in one of the best cities to live in Georgia, let ÐÓ°ÉPro help you get there. ÐÓ°ÉPro will deliver your portable moving container right to your driveway where you can pack and load at your own pace. When you’re ready, ÐÓ°ÉPro will pick it up and take it to your new home in one of Georgia’s best cities. And one month’s storage is included in every move, so you can unload on your own schedule without feeling rushed.
Shannon Jacobs is a Tampa-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to the ÐÓ°ÉPro Blog. She has lived in Atlanta, the Berkshires, and Nashville, but always returns to the warmth of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
