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Thousands of people move to Georgia every year for its many benefits.
But is living in Georgia really as great as it seems?
You may be considering a move to the state of Georgia for the lack of snowfall (I sure am as a Canadian!) or the low property taxes, but did you know about the high crime rates and rampant mosquitos?
Before you decide that life in Georgia is right for you, let me walk you through the pros and cons of living in Georgia.
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29 Pros and Cons of Living in Georgia
1. Pro: Mild Winters
One of the best things about living in Georgia is the mild winters.
The temperatures rarely dip below freezing, so you won’t have to worry about shoveling snow or dealing with slippery roads.
Although there may be the occasional cold snap, for the most part, you can expect mild weather when living in Georgia.
If you live up in the mountains, you may experience some snowfall, but even then, it is nothing compared to what you would see in other parts of the country.
So if you’re looking to skip heavy shovelling every winter, Georgia may be the state for you!
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2. Con: Constant Humidity
Unfortunately, the mild winters come with a price.
The humidity in Georgia is often quite high, which can make it feel much hotter than it actually is.
If you don’t like feeling sticky and sweaty, you may want to consider living somewhere with a drier climate.
On top of the humidity, the summer months can be brutally hot.
The combination of high temperatures and high humidity can make it feel like it is well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
If, like me, you have curly hair, you’ll be living with a frizzy cue ball on your head for half the year if you move to Georgia.
On the bright side, you won’t need to buy a sauna! Just go outside and you’ll be instantly sweaty.
3. Pro: Low Cost of Living
The cost of living in Georgia is quite affordable when compared to other parts of the country.
Your rent or mortgage payments will be much lower than they would be in a place like New York City or San Francisco.
Utilities and groceries are also relatively inexpensive, so you can expect to save a decent amount of money each month.
According to SoFi, you will need an average of $38,165 per year to live in Georgia.
This accommodates:
- $7190 for housing costs
- $5910 for healthcare
- $3483 for food
- $782 for gas (although this fluctuates)
- $20,801 for childcare, taxes, education, and other miscellaneous expenses
To rent a one-bedroom apartment in Georgia will cost you about $985 per month. A mortgage on a house would cost $1,417 on average.
As the 13th most affordable state in America, these numbers are pretty low, which make it easy to save money while you live in Georgia.
4. Con: Higher Tax Rates
Although the cost of living is relatively low in Georgia, the state does have high tax rates.
Georgia has federal income tax as well as a state income tax, with a top rate at 5.75%.
Unfortunately, this means that you won’t get to keep as much of your hard-earned money each year.
When compared to other states, Georgia’s tax rates are only slightly above average.
But nearby states don’t have state income tax, so it can feel like you’re losing a lot of money to the government when your friend across the state line gets to keep that extra 5% of their annual income.
5. Pro: Low Property Taxes
Although state taxes may be high, property taxes in Georgia are actually quite low.
The average effective property tax rate in Georgia is an average of 0.87%.
This means that you won’t have to worry about shelling out a ton of money each year to keep your home.
Unlike other states, Georgia has a Homestead Exemption, which can save you even more money on your property taxes.
The Homestead Exemption allows you to exempt a portion of the value of your home from taxation.
This exemption can be especially helpful for those who are living on a fixed income or are struggling to make ends meet.
So buying a home in Georgia can be infinitely more accessible than in other states, especially when coupled with the low cost of living.
6. Con: High Crime Rates
Unfortunately, Georgia is not immune to crime.
The state actually has a history of quite high crime rates, especially in Atlanta.
However, since 2020, the crime rate has shifted to be only slightly higher than the national average.
As of 2022, Georgia’s crime rate is 24.1. The national average in the same time was 23.6.
This means that, although crime has decreased in recent years, it is still something that you need to be aware of if you are living in or considering moving to Georgia.
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7. Pro: Low Violent Crime Rates
Although the crime rate in Georgia is higher than the national average, violent crime rates are actually quite low.
In 2020, it was significantly lower than the national average.
Unfortunately, in 2022, there has been a 27% increase leading to the violent crime rates matching the national average at 4.0.
However, these are largely concentrated in specific areas of the state, so it is still possible to live a safe life in Georgia.
Most areas have almost no risk of violent crime.
8. Con: High Poverty Rates
One of the biggest issues facing Georgia is its high poverty rate.
In 2020, it was estimated that 21.3% of Georgians were living below the poverty line.
This is significantly higher than the national average of 11.4%.
Poverty can lead to a number of problems, including crime, homelessness, and poor health.
So, if you are considering moving to Georgia, it is important to be aware of the poverty situation in the state.
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9. Pro: Excellent Colleges and Universities
Georgia is home to a number of excellent colleges and universities.
Some of the most popular schools include the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, and Emory University.
These schools are known for their excellent academics and research opportunities.
So, if you are looking for a state with great educational opportunities, Georgia is definitely a place to consider.
10. Con: Lower Quality Healthcare
Although Georgia has a number of excellent colleges and universities, the state’s healthcare system is not as highly rated.
Aside from some teaching hospitals, Georgia has a reputation as a state where it’s hard to get good treatment or find a helpful doctor.
Some people choose to go out of state to get medical treatment due to the perceived lack of quality of the local hospitals.
To offset this, you should get an insurance plan that covers out-of-state medical treatments.
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11. Con: High Obesity Rates
Unfortunately, Georgia is one of the most obese states in the country.
According to The State of Obesity, 31.6% of adults in Georgia are considered obese.
Being obese can lead to a number of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
People link obesity in Georgia to the poor quality of healthcare, the heat making it hard to exercise, and the plethora of (delicious) fried foods in their southern cooking.
12. Pro: Beautiful Beaches
Although Georgia is landlocked, it does have a number of beautiful beaches along its coastline.
Some of the most popular include Tybee Island, Jekyll Island, and St. Simons Island.
These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and kayaking.
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13. Pro: Stunning Mountains
If you love outdoor activities, Georgia is a great place to live.
The state has a number of stunning mountain ranges, including the Appalachian Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
There are also a number of state parks, where you can go hiking, camping, and fishing. All that green space also means lovely biking trails.
This is a definite perk to living in Georgia!
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14. Con: Bad for Pollen Allergies
If you suffer from pollen allergies, Georgia is probably not the best place for you to live.
The state is ranked as one of the worst in the country for pollen allergies, due to the high pollen counts in the air.
This can make living in Georgia very difficult for people with allergies.
15. Con: Snakes and Alligators
Georgia is home to a number of dangerous animals, including snakes and alligators.
If you’re not comfortable around these creatures, living in Georgia can be quite scary.
You should definitely take precautions if you’re going to be living in Georgia, such as avoiding areas where these animals are known to live.
Even local ponds can be home to large gators that make it hard to walk dogs.
And if, like me, you’re phobic of snakes, you’ll have a lot of trouble enjoying the beautiful nature.
16. Con: Bugs, Bugs, and More Bugs
If you don’t like bugs, you definitely won’t like living in Georgia.
The state is home to a number of different pests, including mosquitos, co*ckroaches, and termites.
These bugs can be a nuisance, and they can also carry diseases.
Mosquitoes and sand gnats are especially annoying for their itchy bites.
But ticks and fleas are far more threatening with their diseases!
If you do move to Georgia, be sure to cover up when you’re outside in tall grasses. And look into a good bug spray!
17. Pro: Diverse Population
Georgia is a very diverse state, with a population that is made up of people from all walks of life.
This diversity can be seen in the state’s food, music, and culture.
If you’re looking for a place to live where you can experience different cultures, Georgia is definitely the place for you.
Minorities may not expect to feel welcome in a southern state, but Georgia – especially Atlanta – is known for its multiculturalism.
18. Pro: Excellent Sports Teams
If you’re a fan of sports, you’ll be happy to know that Georgia has a number of excellent sports teams.
The state is home to the Atlanta Falcons (NFL), the Atlanta Braves (MLB), the Atlanta Hawks (NBA), and the Atlanta United FC (MLS).
There are also a number of minor league and college sports teams.
So, if you’re looking for a place to live where you can enjoy watching sports, Georgia is a great option.
19. Pro: Family-Oriented State
Georgia is a very family-oriented state.
There are a number of family-friendly attractions, such as zoos, museums, and amusem*nt parks.
The state is also home to a number of great schools, making it a great place to raise kids.
People are very focused on their families. So time off to go to your kids’ soccer games or working from home to take care of your kid is more expected here than in places like New York.
Family dinners are also a regular part of life in Georgia.
20. Con: Slower Pace of Life
If you’re used to living in a fast-paced city, you may find the slower pace of life in Georgia to be a bit frustrating.
People here tend to take their time and enjoy life a bit more slowly.
This can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on your own personal preferences.
I get annoyed at it for the slower pace of their walks and how much longer it can take for small tasks, especially construction, to get done.
But much like island life in Mexico, you have to learn to adapt. Because ultimately a slower life is going to be healthier than stressing about their slow pace that you can’t control.
21. Pro: Southern Charm
One of the best things about living in Georgia is the southern charm.
People here are friendly and welcoming, and they love to have a good time.
There’s always something going on, whether it’s a festival, a parade, or just a get-together with friends.
I always saw southern charm portrayed on TV and didn’t think that could possibly be a real thing.
Even listening to Stuff You Should Know, a podcast by two Atlanta Georgians, I kind of thought it was just an act.
But nope! Southern charm is real y’all, and it’s infectious!
On top of the people, the historical sites also have a unique charm that make the small towns of Georgia the perfect place to explore.
22. Con: Southern Accents and Slang
If you’re not from the south, the southern accents and slang can be a bit confusing.
It can take some time to get used to hearing people say things like “y’all” and “fixin’ to.”
But once you get used to it, it’s actually quite charming.
If you don’t have an ear for accents, or if you’re elitist and think any southern accent means someone is stupid, you’ll struggle here. I’ve seen a lot of people act quite prejudiced towards Georgians for their slow drawl.
But the way someone speaks doesn’t mean they aren’t smart.
If you have trouble understanding, ask someone to slow down or explain the slang.
You’ll get it soon enough!
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23. Pro: Amazing Nightlife in Cities
If you’re looking for a place to live with amazing nightlife, Georgia is a great option.
The state’s major cities, such as Atlanta and Savannah, offer a wide variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants.
No matter what your taste in live music or food, you’re sure to find something to suit your needs.
And if you get bored of the nightlife in one city, you can always take a short drive to another city and explore what it has to offer.
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24. Pro: Craft Beer Scene
Georgia has a thriving craft beer scene.
There are a number of great breweries located throughout the state, and the beers produced here are truly top-notch.
If you’re a fan of craft beer, you’ll definitely want to check out what Georgia has to offer.
25. Pro: Boaters Paradise
If you love spending time on the water, Georgia is definitely the place for you.
The state has a number of great lakes and rivers, making it a boater’s paradise.
And if you don’t have your own boat, no worries! There are a number of companies that offer boat rentals.
You can go on salt water, fresh water, or even on small ponds!
26. Con: Bad Traffic Around Cities
One of the biggest downsides to living in Georgia is the traffic.
The state’s major cities, such as Atlanta and Savannah, are plagued by bad traffic.
If you’re not used to dealing with traffic, it can be a real pain.
And if you live in the suburbs, you may find yourself sitting in traffic for hours just trying to get into the city.
Trust me, it’s not fun.
I grew up doing this in Toronto and have developed a phobia of traffic. I’d rather walk!
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27. Con: Limited Public Transportation
If you don’t have a car, living in Georgia can be tough.
The state’s public transportation system is very limited, and it can be hard to get around without a car.
If you’re looking for a place to live that has great public transportation, Georgia is probably not the best option.
Only large cities have good bus systems, and even then they’re nothing compared to the public transport of New York City.
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28. Pro: Fun Festivals and Events
Georgia is home to a number of fun festivals and events.
No matter what time of year it is, there’s always something going on.
Some of the state’s most popular festivals include the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, the Savannah Jazz Festival, and the Helen Oktoberfest.
And of course, as the Peach State, there is a peach festival!
If you enjoy attending festivals and events, you’ll definitely want to check out what Georgia has to offer.
29. Pro: Lots of Job Opportunities
If you’re looking for a place to live with lots of job opportunities, Georgia is a great option.
Unemployment rates are quite low at 3.1% as of March 2022 (the US was at 3.6% at the same time).
The state’s major cities, such as Atlanta and Savannah, offer a wide variety of employment options.
In fact, Home Depot is among the top employers in the state!
Metropolitan areas like downtown Atlanta are great spots to find office work, while rural areas are better for manual labour.
No matter what your skills or qualifications, you’re sure to find something to suit your needs. Higher education will help young professionals get ahead.
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Best Places to Live in Georgia
Atlanta – If you’re looking for a place to live with amazing nightlife and lots of job opportunities, Atlanta is a great option.
Savannah – If you’re looking for a place to live with historic charm and plenty of things to do, Savannah is a great option.
Athens – If you’re looking for a place to live with a college town vibe and plenty of things to do, Athens is a great option.
Decatur – If you’re looking for a place to live with a small town feel and plenty of things to do, Decatur is a great option.
Macon – If you’re looking for a place to live with a historic charm and a slower pace of life, Macon is a great option.
Roswell – If you’re looking for a place to live with a small town feel and great public schools, Roswell is a great option.
Wrap Up: Is Georgia a Good Place to Live?
Georgia is a good place to live, with plenty of job opportunities and fun festivals and events.
If you’re looking for a place to move that has lots of things to do, Georgia is definitely worth considering.
The state’s major cities offer a wide variety of employment options and entertainment venues, while the suburbs offer a quieter lifestyle.
And don’t forget about all the delicious peaches you’ll have access to!
So, what do you think? Is Georgia a good place to live? I certainly think it’s at least earned its secondary nickname as the “Empire State of the South”!
Let me know your thoughts by emailing nina (at) ninaoutandabout.ca
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FAQs
Should I move to Georgia?
No one can answer that question but you! If you’re considering a move to Georgia, it’s important to do your research and figure out if the state is a good fit for your needs.
Consider things like job opportunities, cost of living, affordable housing, climate, and public transportation when making your decision.
Is Georgia a good state to live in?
Georgia is a good state to live in, with plenty of job opportunities and fun festivals and events.
If you’re looking for a place to move that has lots of great things to do, Georgia is definitely worth considering.
The Atlanta area especially is popular for the job opportunities Georgia’s booming economy offers.
Reasons to Move to Georgia
- The state’s economy is booming, with plenty of job opportunities in a variety of industries
- There are tons of fun festivals and events to check out, no matter what time of year it is
- Free public schools for young kids
- Great weather with a humid subtropical climate
- Urban areas have great fine dining
Reasons Not to Move to Georgia
- Traffic is a nightmare in the major cities
- There’s not much to do in terms of nightlife and entertainment outside of the big cities
- The warm climate means its permanently humid
- Smaller towns don’t have as many opportunities
- The growing economy means the real estate market could get very competitive
Is Georgia A Good Place To Buy A House?
The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including your budget, desired location, and whether you’re looking to buy or rent.
Georgia’s house prices are on the rise, so if you’re looking to buy a property it’s important to do your research and be prepared to make a competitive offer. However, the prices are still lower than most other states.
If you’re looking to rent, there are plenty of affordable options available in the state’s major cities.
Is Georgia A Good Place To Work?
Georgia is a good place to work, with plenty of job opportunities in a variety of industries. The state’s economy is booming, and Atlanta especially is a great place to find employment.
Most jobs are located in downtown areas like metro Atlanta.
Is Georgia A Good Place To Raise A Family?
Georgia is a good place to raise a family, with plenty of public schools, and affordable housing options.
The people are exceptionally friendly which helps new residents settle in quickly.
Is Georgia A Good Place To Retire?
Georgia is a popular destination to retire, with its warm climate and affordable living. There are plenty of retirement communities and assisted living facilities available.
Is it worth moving to Georgia?
It depends on what you’re looking for! If you’re looking for a state with a booming economy and plenty of job opportunities, Georgia is a great place to consider.
The state also has a lot to offer in terms of entertainment and festivals. However, traffic can be a nightmare in the major cities, and smaller towns don’t have as many opportunities.
When making your decision, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to see if Georgia is the right fit for you.
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Living Abroad Travel Planning Guide
🚑Should I buy expat travel insurance?
100%YES!— With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Safety Wing!
🌎 What is the best country to live in as an expat?
It depends – the best country to live in as an expat will depend on your unique needs. I developed this free quiz to help you figure out where is right for you!
📍 How do I pick a country to live abroad?
It depends – picking a country to live in is hard. That’s why I developed this $7 course to share all of the steps I’ve taken when deciding to move to 20+ different countries, and how I handle homesickness when I get there.
Ultimately, making the choice of where to move is going to be hard. But the hardest thing is deciding to move abroad at all!
💼 How do I get a job as an expat?
You can find work abroad via local job boards or temp agencies. My favourite way to work is remotely, so I always look for jobs on FlexJobs.com when I live abroad. They hire for 100% remote roles only.
If you’re looking to teach English abroad, Premier TEFL has the best online course to get you great work!
💰 How do I open a bank account abroad?
Wise.com offers free global accounts, and the cheapest money transfers. Since it can be a headache to open bank accounts in different countries (it took me 2 months in the UK!), Wise.com is a great solution.
I actually use it as my primary bank now worldwide due to the multi-currency debit card. (Read more)
👯♀️ How do you make friends abroad?
Meetup.com – Meet likeminded people who share a similar hobby with Meetup! It’s free to join, but some activities may cost money, like if you go to a cafe and get a coffee.
🙀 I don’t speak the language. Can I still live abroad?
Learn languages in no time with iTalki! Moving abroad is an opportunity to learn the language. You don’t need to know it before you leave home.
💻 Do I need a VPN?
Yes! – VPNs allow you to access more of the internet. From US Netflix in the UK to social media sites banned in Asia. It’s a really helpful and cheap thing to ensure your online activities aren’t restricted.
🧳 What’s the best luggage for living abroad?
This is my favourite luggage set for long term travel. You can read more about my review of types of suitcases for travel here.
🏡 How do I tell my friends and family I want to live abroad?
Take this $7 course and learn the exact script I used to tell my family I was moving abroad … and then when I did it again. I even include tips for prepping your family, and for how to handle family who aren’t supportive.
✈️What’s the best site to buy cheap flights?
To find cheap flights, I recommendSkyscanner. (Read more)
🏨What’s the best site to find cheap hotels?
To find cheap hotels, I recommendBooking.com. (Read more)
Or stay for free with Trusted Housesitters!
🚗What’s the best site to rent cars abroad?
To find cheap rental cars, I recommendDiscover Cars.
🚗What’s the best site to find tours?
To find epic tours, I recommendViator.
As a seasoned travel and lifestyle expert with a deep understanding of various locations and their nuances, I can confidently analyze the pros and cons of living in Georgia, as outlined in the provided article. I will break down the information into key concepts for a comprehensive overview.
1. Climate and Weather:
- Pro: Mild Winters with rare freezing temperatures.
- Con: Constant Humidity, especially during the summer months.
2. Cost of Living:
- Pro: Low Cost of Living compared to other parts of the country.
- Con: Higher Tax Rates, both federal and state income tax.
3. Housing:
- Pro: Low Property Taxes, aided by the Homestead Exemption.
- Con: High Crime Rates in certain areas, particularly in Atlanta.
4. Education:
- Pro: Excellent Colleges and Universities, including the University of Georgia and Georgia Tech.
- Con: Lower Quality Healthcare in the state.
5. Quality of Life:
- Pro: Beautiful Beaches and Stunning Mountains for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Con: Issues with Pollen Allergies, Snakes, Alligators, and an abundance of Bugs.
6. Population and Culture:
- Pro: Diverse Population contributing to varied food, music, and culture.
- Con: Southern Accents and Slang, which may take time to get used to.
7. Entertainment and Lifestyle:
- Pro: Vibrant Nightlife in Cities, Craft Beer Scene, and a Boater's Paradise.
- Con: Bad Traffic Around Cities and Limited Public Transportation.
8. Community and Family:
- Pro: Family-Oriented State with family-friendly attractions.
- Con: Slower Pace of Life may not suit those accustomed to fast-paced living.
9. Job Opportunities:
- Pro: Lots of Job Opportunities with low unemployment rates.
- Con: The article does not mention significant cons related to job opportunities.
10. Festivals and Events:
- Pro: Fun Festivals and Events happening throughout the year.
- Con: The article does not highlight significant cons related to festivals and events.
11. Conclusion:
- The provided information suggests that Georgia offers a mix of advantages and challenges.
- Pros include a pleasant climate, affordability, diverse culture, and job opportunities.
- Cons include issues like high humidity, crime rates, and certain environmental factors.
12. Geographical Considerations:
- The article mentions specific cities like Atlanta, Savannah, Athens, Decatur, Macon, and Roswell as potential places to live.
13. Individual Decision-Making:
- The decision to move to Georgia depends on personal preferences, considering factors like job opportunities, cost of living, climate preferences, and lifestyle priorities.
In summary, while Georgia presents many positive aspects for potential residents, individuals must carefully weigh the pros and cons to determine if it aligns with their specific needs and preferences.
