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“Is Georgia a good place to live?” Those who don’t know Georgia but are looking to move should know why 10.8 million people live in the “Empire of the South,” a name coined from Georgia’s days as the leading southern U.S. textile producer. From bustling urban centers to tranquil suburbs and scenic natural landscapes, Georgia’s dynamic mix of culture, lifestyle, and opportunity make it an ideal place to relocate. Young professionals embarking on a new employment journey, retirees chasing warmer weather, and families seeking solid education are among the many with Georgia on their minds. This guide explores some of the best places to live in Georgia in 2025, including top neighborhoods and tips for a smooth move.
Key Takeaways:
Georgia’s appeal stems from affordable living, a thriving job market, and a rich culture steeped in Southern hospitality.
- At 59,423 square miles, Georgia offers a variety of living options, including vibrant cities, peaceful suburbs, and countryside towns.
- Family-friendly suburbs with top schools, like Johns Creek and Alpharetta, offer safety and amenities.
- Recreational activities abound in Georgia for the outdoor enthusiast.
- Research and location scouting are important early steps for relocation, followed by thorough preparation that includes mortgage pre-approval and planning for moving expenses.
Why is Georgia a Good Place to Live?
The list is strong and compelling for those wondering what makes Georgia such a peach. Some things that make Georgia an attractive spot to settle include:
Affordability: With the cost of living 10% lower than the national average and housing 21% lower, affordability is among Georgia’s most attractive qualities. U.S. News & World Report ranked Georgia No. 26 of the 50 states for cost of living and No. 18 in the best overall category, considering factors like crime, economy, education, fiscal stability, healthcare, infrastructure, and more. Georgia offers more value for money in most categories, including housing, utilities, groceries, and childcare.
Job market and employment opportunities: Not only is Georgia a good place to live from an affordability standpoint, but it’s also a good place to work. Georgia’s economy is flourishing, with a low unemployment rate of 3.4%. Georgia’s major industries include agribusiness, aerospace, defense, technology, logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing. Top-ranking, Atlanta has a thriving film and entertainment scene, while Savannah’s tourism, port and transportation, military, and manufacturing contribute to the state’s economic diversity. Leading employers include Delta Airlines, The Home Depot, UPS, DHL, Emory University, and Coca-Cola.
Natural beauty and activities: Georgia’s geography and climate allow for year-round activities, and there is something for everyone. North of Atlanta, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer 300 miles of hiking trails, the start of the Appalachian Trail, waterfalls, and trout streams. Chattahoochee National Forest is one of the largest national forests east of the Mississippi River. Georgia’s coastline is just over 100 miles, with 15 barrier islands to explore. Sea Island is home to the only resort in the world to earn four Forbes Five-Star awards for 15 consecutive years. Cumberland Island National Seashore is one of the country’s most secluded parks, with 17 miles of pristine beachfront. Tybee Island is just a day trip from Savannah (15 miles east of the city), offering an easy opportunity to relax and enjoy the surf, sand, and sunsets.
Best Places to Live in Georgia
Those asking themselves, “Is Georgia a good place to live?” should learn about the state’s geography, demographics, and popular towns. Here are a few highlights of some of Georgia’s leading cities and suburbs.
Atlanta: Ranked as one of the best cities for young professionals in America, Atlanta has an urban feel, with residents leaning toward the liberal side. Most residents rent their homes. However, single-family homes are in high demand because of all that Atlanta has to offer, which includes a thriving nightlife.
Johns Creek: Located in Fulton County, along the banks of the Chattahoochee River, Johns Creek is the 10th largest city in Georgia. It boasts top-tier schools, a low crime rate, and plentiful recreational facilities. Rated the No. 1 suburb in Georgia, Johns Creek is ideal for families. Cultural diversity is high in this area, with a 25% international population.
Alpharetta: About 20 minutes from Johns Creek is Alpharetta, a vibrant city known for its lively downtown area. Alpharetta ticks all the boxes, with excellent schools, a low crime rate, a healthy job market, a strong shopping and cultural scene, and ample green space. The real estate market is competitive, as it has become popular for young professionals and growing families alike.
Milton: Another suburb of Atlanta, Milton is the most sparsely settled of the three, offering a quieter lifestyle with rural charm. It is among the safest cities in Georgia, and most residents own their homes. The town offers restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and other recreation opportunities. The education system in Milton is strong, with competitive, highly-rated public schools, so many families call it home.
Tips for Moving to Georgia
The best way to start a relocation process is to establish a timeline for the move. Is there something dictating it, like the start of a new job? How much time is needed to pull the details together? Other key steps to establishing a move plan include:
Research neighborhoods: Potential buyers should evaluate their lifestyle against various locations to determine which best suits their needs. Families prioritizing education may choose a suburb with leading schools, while young professionals might opt for Midtown Atlanta. Once potential homeowners arrive at a shortlist, they should visit in person.
Budget for moving costs: Relocating to Georgia requires potential homebuyers to be financially ready for the move and a down payment on a mortgage. Even a local move can cost $2100 or more. Long-distance moves can cost well over $5,000 depending on distance. A relocation budget should include moving, transportation, and temporary housing.
Get pre-approved: Georgia’s real estate market is competitive, so homebuyers can give themselves an edge by getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Homebuyers need to know how much mortgage they can afford, and tools like Moreira Team’s mortgage calculator can help establish a budget in a few easy steps.
Choose the right mortgage lender: Four main types of mortgage lenders exist in Georgia: banks, credit unions, mortgage lenders, and mortgage brokers. Individual circumstances will determine the best fit for each potential homebuyer. Two years of work history are required for most mortgage types, and potential homebuyers need to understand how their employment when they move to Georgia can impact their mortgage possibilities, for example, changing positions or bringing in less income.
Find an experienced realtor: Potential homebuyers should partner with a realtor who knows the market in the area(s) they are interested in and has helped people buy and sell properties there. A seasoned realtor can also provide insights into emerging markets people relocating to Georgia may not know about.
Georgia’s unique blend of affordability, opportunity, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure make it an ideal place to relocate. With a vibrant community life that brings residents together, like the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, and traditional comfort dishes and hospitality woven into the cultural fabric, it’s difficult not to fall in love with Georgia. And let’s not forget the weather. Not only is Georgia a good place to live, it’s even better to call home.
If you are considering a move to Georgia, Moreira Team can get help with the pre-approval and mortgage lending part of the process. Start planning today.