As one of the largest states in the Southeastern United States, Georgia has much to offer in terms of high quality of life. Known for its mild climate, scenic landscapes, and affordable living costs, the Peach State is an increasingly popular destination for both young professionals and retirees alike. If you’re considering making the move to Georgia, you may be wondering which cities offer the best combination of safety, job opportunities, and overall livability. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top cities to live in Georgia and what makes them stand out.
Best Places to Live in Georgia
- Atlanta
- Warner Robins
- Athens
- Savannah
- Duluth
- Roswell
- Cumming
- Marietta
- Decatur
- Kennesaw
- Sandy Springs
- Alpharetta
| CITY | POPULATION | MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE | MEDIAN RENT PRICE | COST OF LIVING INDEX |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | 498,715 | $379,000 | $1,700 | 106.4 |
| Warner Robins | 78,657 | $173,000 | $975 | 91.3 |
| Athens | 127,064 | $260,000 | $1,275 | 89.6 |
| Savannah | 146,444 | $283,000 | $1,250 | 95.6 |
| Duluth | 30,854 | $336,000 | $1,350 | 102.2 |
| Roswell | 96,679 | $510,000 | $1,725 | 113.9 |
| Cumming | 7,494 | $399,000 | $1,450 | 110.3 |
| Marietta | 60,867 | $363,000 | $1,400 | 103.9 |
| Decatur | 26,949 | $350,000 | $1,400 | 104.5 |
| Kennesaw | 36,840 | $327,000 | $1,350 | 103.5 |
| Sandy Springs | 111,506 | $660,000 | $1,950 | 130.9 |
| Alpharetta | 67,575 | $521,000 | $1,750 | 117.9 |
1. Atlanta
As the capital and largest city in Georgia, Atlanta is a bustling metropolis with a diverse population and a thriving job market. With an unemployment rate of just 3.8% and a median household income of $67,806, Atlanta offers a wide range of career opportunities in industries such as finance, technology, and healthcare.
In addition to its job market, Atlanta is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and music venues. If you’re a sports fan, you’ll also appreciate Atlanta’s numerous professional sports teams, including the Falcons, Braves, and Hawks.
2. Warner Robins
Warner Robins is a city located in Houston County, Georgia, United States. With a population of over 75,000 people, it is the largest city in the county and is known for its strong military presence, excellent schools, and community events.
One of the most notable attractions in Warner Robins is the Museum of Aviation, which is one of the largest aviation museums in the country. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including aircraft and artifacts from different eras of aviation history.
Warner Robins also boasts a vibrant downtown area, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The city is home to several annual events, including the International Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates the city’s Japanese heritage and features live music, food, and other activities.
3. Athens
Athens, Georgia is a vibrant college town located in the northeastern part of the state. It is known for its music scene, with famous bands like R.E.M., the B-52s, and Widespread Panic having originated there. The city is also home to the University of Georgia, the state’s flagship institution of higher learning.
In addition to its musical and academic offerings, Athens has a thriving culinary scene, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars serving up a variety of cuisines. The city is particularly well-known for its barbecue, as well as its farm-to-table ethos that emphasizes locally-sourced ingredients.
Athens is also surrounded by natural beauty, with several parks and green spaces located within the city limits. The Oconee River runs through town, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation like fishing and kayaking.
Overall, Athens is a dynamic city that combines a rich cultural heritage with modern amenities and a thriving arts and music scene. Whether you’re a student at the university, a local resident, or a visitor passing through, there’s always something exciting to see and do in Athens, Georgia.
4. Savannah
If you’re looking for a city with rich history and charm, Savannah may be the perfect place for you. Known for its well-preserved antebellum architecture and its role in the American Civil War, Savannah is a popular destination for history buffs and tourists alike. But beyond its historic district.
Savannah also offers a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues. With a median household income of $45,489 and a low unemployment rate of 3.2%, Savannah is also an affordable and attractive place to live.
5. Duluth
Duluth is a vibrant city located in Gwinnett County, Georgia, United States. With a population of over 29,000 people, it is known for its diverse community and a wide range of amenities that cater to the needs of its residents and visitors alike.
The city is home to numerous parks, including the 76-acre Rogers Bridge Park, where visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is also within easy reach, providing residents with ample opportunities to explore the great outdoors.
In addition to its natural attractions, Duluth boasts a thriving cultural scene. The city is home to the Hudgens Center for Art & Learning, which hosts exhibitions, workshops, and other events throughout the year. The Red Clay Music Foundry is another popular venue, offering live music performances by local and national artists.
6. Roswell
Roswell, Georgia is a historic city located in the northern part of the state. The city was founded in the 1830s and played a key role in the Civil War, serving as a site of several important battles. Today, Roswell is known for its charming downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
One of the most popular destinations in Roswell is the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, which offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. The city is also home to several parks and green spaces, including the Roswell Riverwalk and the Roswell Area Park.
Roswell is also a hub for arts and culture, with several galleries and performance venues located within the city limits. The Roswell Cultural Arts Center, for example, hosts a variety of concerts, theater productions, and other cultural events throughout the year.
In addition to its natural beauty, Roswell is known for its strong sense of community and commitment to preserving its history. The city is home to several historic landmarks, including Bulloch Hall and the Archibald Smith Plantation Home.
7. Cumming
One of the biggest attractions in Cumming is Lake Lanier, a large reservoir that offers a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is also home to several parks and campgrounds, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cumming is a city located in Forsyth County, Georgia, United States. With a population of over 6,000 people, it is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and small-town charm.
Cumming is also known for its excellent schools, including the highly-ranked Forsyth County Schools. The city is home to several public and private schools, as well as the University of North Georgia, which has a campus located nearby.
Cumming is home to several historic landmarks, including the Brannon-Heard House and the Cumming Schoolhouse. The city also boasts a thriving downtown area, where visitors can find a variety of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and cafes.
8. Marietta
Located in the heart of Cobb County, Marietta is a city with a rich history and a strong sense of community. With a population of just over 60,000, Marietta offers a small-town feel while still providing easy access to all the amenities of a major city. The city’s economy is driven by industries such as healthcare, education, and government, with major employers including WellStar Health System, Cobb County School District, and Lockheed Martin. Marietta is also home to a variety of parks, trails, and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a great place for nature lovers.
9. Decatur
Decatur is a city located in DeKalb County, Georgia, United States. Known for its historic charm and cultural richness, it is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike.
The city boasts a vibrant downtown area, where visitors can find a wide range of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and cafes. Decatur Square is the heart of the downtown area, hosting events and festivals throughout the year. Visitors can also explore the Decatur Farmers Market, which features a variety of fresh and organic produce from local farmers.
Decatur is home to several historic landmarks, including the DeKalb County Courthouse and the Old Decatur Cemetery. The city is also known for its excellent schools, including the highly-ranked Decatur City Schools.
Decatur is also a hub for arts and culture, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues located throughout the city. The Decatur Arts Alliance hosts several events and exhibitions each year, including the popular Decatur Arts Festival.
10. Kennesaw
Kennesaw is a city located in Cobb County, Georgia, United States. With a population of over 34,000 people, it is known for its historic charm, excellent schools, and community events.
One of the most notable attractions in Kennesaw is Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, a historic site that played a significant role in the Civil War. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic structures, including the museum and visitor center.
Kennesaw also boasts a vibrant downtown area, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The city is home to several annual events, including the Big Shanty Festival, which celebrates the city’s railroad history, and the Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival, which features live music and a barbecue cook-off.
11. Sandy Springs
One of the most notable attractions in Sandy Springs is the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, a beautiful natural area that offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The city is also home to several parks, including the popular Morgan Falls Overlook Park, which features hiking trails and picnic areas.
Sandy Springs is a city located in Fulton County, Georgia, United States. With a population of over 100,000 people, it is one of the largest cities in the state and is known for its affluent neighborhoods, excellent schools, and cultural attractions.
Sandy Springs boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues located throughout the city. The Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center is a popular destination for live performances and shows.
12. Alpharetta
Located just 25 miles north of Atlanta, Alpharetta is a rapidly growing city known for its high quality of life and excellent schools. With a population of just over 66,000, Alpharetta offers a small-town feel while still providing easy access to all the amenities of a major city.
The city’s economy is driven by industries such as technology, healthcare, and finance, with major employers including Verizon Wireless, Hewlett-Packard, and UPS. Alpharetta is also home to a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including parks, trails, and golf courses.
FAQs
What are some of the best cities to live in Georgia?
Some of the best cities to live in Georgia include Atlanta, Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs. These cities offer a high quality of life, great job opportunities, and excellent amenities.
What makes Atlanta a great city to live in?
Atlanta is a great city to live in because it has a vibrant culture, great food, and lots of entertainment options. It’s also home to many major corporations and has a strong job market. The city is also very diverse and has a great sense of community.
What are some of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta?
Some of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta include Buckhead, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Inman Park. These neighborhoods offer a mix of great restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment options, as well as beautiful homes and great schools.
What makes Alpharetta a great city to live in?
Alpharetta is a great city to live in because it has a high quality of life and is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the US. It has a great school system, a low crime rate, and plenty of parks and outdoor activities. It’s also home to many tech companies and has a strong job market.
What are some of the best suburbs of Atlanta?
Some of the best suburbs of Atlanta include Roswell, Johns Creek, Sandy Springs, and Marietta. These suburbs offer a quieter, more suburban lifestyle while still being close to the amenities and job opportunities of Atlanta. They also have great schools and plenty of outdoor activities.
Conclusion:
Georgia is a state with a lot to offer in terms of high quality of life, and these four cities are just a few examples of the many great places to call home. Whether you’re looking for a thriving job market, a tight-knit community, or a rich cultural scene, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in one of these top Georgia cities.
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