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Living in Georgia
Saturday, April 05, 2025

Top 19 Best Places to Live in Georgia

Aerial view of a bustling cityscape with skyscrapers and highways teeming with vehicles, showcasing a mix of buildings in one of Georgia's best places to live. A hexagonal logo with the letters "ez" graces the left side against a teal, hexagon-patterned background.

From the buzzing energy of Atlanta to the historic streets of Savannah and the serene beauty of the Blue Ridge mountains, the Peach State offers plenty of amazing places to call home. And people are making the move! 

According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 327,795 individuals relocated to Georgia in 2022, drawn by its affordability, job opportunities in booming, innovative sectors like aerospace, tech, or film production, and unbeatable southern appeal. 

If you also have Georgia in your mind, here are the 19 best places to live in Georgia. Let’s find the perfect spot for you.

Alpharetta

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Alpharetta isn’t just one of Atlanta’s top five suburbs to settle down in—it’s also consistently ranked among the best places to live in Georgia by renowned publications like Southern Living, Travel + Leisure, Miami Herald, and Niche.com

Beyond its appeal as a residential hotspot, Alpharetta has earned accolades for safety and career opportunities, ranking as the 9th safest city in the U.S. and one of the top 100 cities for a career switch.

Potential relocators will find Alpharetta to be a city of fast-appreciating properties and real estate options for every homebuyer. The homes for sale in Alpharetta cost an average of approximately $700K, with a growth of 3.8% in the last 12 months. Aside from single-family homes, you will find condos and townhouses for sale in Alpharetta, as well as high-value plots of land just miles from Georgia’s capital. 

Being just 26 miles north of Atlanta’s vibrant offerings is a major perk of moving to Alpharetta—but there’s even more to love. Families benefit from the highly regarded Fulton County School System, a safe environment, and well-established neighborhoods. 

For professionals, Alpharetta serves as a thriving business hub. When it’s time to unwind, the city offers endless activities, from hiking and biking to festivals, parks, arboretums, exhibits, and more. 

County: Fulton County

Population: 67,056

Median Sale Price: $704,404

Cost of Living Index: 113.3

Top Zip Codes: 30004, 30005, 30009, 30022, and 30075.

Best For: Families, young professionals, luxury homebuyers. 

Blairsville

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Peaceful Blairsville, the only city and the seat of Union County, is a top retirement destination in north Georgia but also a popular spot to purchase vacation homes or land to build your own cabin right on the scenic Blue Ridge mountains. Home to less than 800 residents, Blairsville is less than 3 hours north of Atlanta and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Real estate in Blairsville primarily features private, spacious single-family homes nestled on forested lots, but seniors on modest budgets can still find affordable small-town living options. 

Investors have plenty of opportunities to purchase charming cabins and mountain retreats, many boasting stunning lakefront or mountain views. However, land is the most abundant real estate option in Blairsville, with available plots in exclusive, amenity-rich communities like Thirteen Hundred on Lake Nottely.

Moving to Blairsville means embracing breathtaking natural beauty, fresh mountain air, and a welcoming small-town charm. Residents enjoy easy access to some of Georgia’s most stunning landmarks, including Brasstown Bald, Vogel State Park, and over 80 miles of the Appalachian Trail. The area is also home to pristine lakes like Nottely and Winfield Scott, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, from hiking and fishing to boating and beyond.

County: Union County

Population: 785

Median Sale Price: $378,223

Cost of Living Index: 88.3

Top Zip Codes: 30512, 30514.

Best For: Retirees, outdoor enthusiasts, and second-home buyers.

St. Simons Island, GA

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Located midway between Savannah and Jacksonville, FL, is the scenic coastal community of St. Simons Island, a barrier island part of what’s known as “Golden Isles,” a region that includes Jekyll Island and Brunswick, GA. St. Simons Island treats locals and visitors with miles of warm-water beaches, various recreational activities, its resort-town vibes, and a tight-knit community that values Southern hospitality.

The average piece of real estate in St. Simons Island currently costs $667K, with a year over year increase of 5.3% and properties going pending in around 30 days. However, due to increased inventory, the city has shifted to a buyer’s market, giving potential relocators more power to negotiate. Most properties in this coastal town are single-family homes, luxury waterfront estates, vacation rentals and investment properties, and condos and townhouses.

The cost of living in St. Simons Island, GA, reflects its premium coastal lifestyle, attracting wealthy retirees seeking warm weather and beachfront living, as well as second-home buyers and luxury investors looking for the perfect vacation retreat. 

Residents cherish the island for its vibrant local events calendar, abundant water activities, exceptional dining, and charming village-like atmosphere, making it a sought-after destination for both relaxation and adventure.

County: Glynn County

Population: 15,983

Median Sale Price: $667,593

Cost of Living Index: 90.9

Top Zip Codes: 31522, 31523, and 31525.

Best For: Retirees, luxury homebuyers, and second-home buyers.

Athens

Aerial view of a city hall in Georgia with a clock tower and surrounding buildings at sunset. Roads weave through autumn-hued trees, showcasing one of the best places to live. A hexagonal blue graphic with the letters "ez" is overlaid on the right side.

Being situated around 72 miles east of Georgia’s capital, Athens is considered a suburb of Atlanta. Still, this lovely city is Clarke County, which has its own flavor and vibe, and it’s regarded as one of the best places to live in Peach State. 

Athens is a cultural hub, a vibrant college town (it is home to the University of Georgia), and some of the best food in the area. Southern Living Magazine even named it the “South’s Best Food City.”

The housing market in Athens is healthy and moving fast. The city is in a seller’s market with median prices around $320K and a 2.8% yearly growth, and properties stay 53 days in the market before going pending. The most commonly found real estate in Athens is the single-family home, but there are also condos of all sizes, as well as townhouses. 

If you’re looking to move to Georgia on a budget, the cost of living in Athens is below the national average. Finding a job shouldn’t be an issue here. The city boasts a thriving economy and robust job market, offering opportunities in construction, education, public service, retail, and more. 

County: Clarke County

Population: 128,628

Median Sale Price: $318,280

Cost of Living Index: 87.6

Top Zip Codes: 30606, 30605, and 30677.

Best For: Students, young professionals, and investors.

Decatur

A cityscape at sunset, with a large tree in the center surrounded by buildings and autumn-colored trees, showcases why Georgia is among the best places to live. The partly cloudy sky glows near the horizon, with a geometric pattern and "ez" logo on the left side.

Decatur is safe, walkable, and only 6 miles east of Downtown Atlanta. It is also a coveted family-friendly suburb where locals prioritize community involvement and enjoy a pleasant atmosphere near many walking and biking trails, and plentiful shopping and dining options. 

The Decatur real estate market stands out for its affordability and is somewhat competitive. Families of sizes will find many single-family homes on tree-lined streets, while young professionals often opt for one of the many condos and apartments for sale here. The average cost of real estate in Decatur is around $290K, but there are options starting at around $60K. 

Decatur has 57 acres of parks and a children-first vibe. Kids here walk to school and play freely in the city parks. There are also many family-focused events and activities. Education in Decatur is also high quality. 

The city has an independent school system boasting four elementary schools, one middle, and one high school. Decatur is also a stone’s throw from Atlanta’s hip atmosphere, urban amenities and top-class events,  

County: DeKalb County

Population: 24,307

Median Sale Price: $293,333

Cost of Living Index: 104.8

Top Zip Codes: 30310, 30318, 30032.

Best For: Families, young professionals, and urban-minded homebuyers

Gainesville

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Thinking about moving to Gainesville, GA? Good call. The bustling city is one of the top relocation spots in Northeast Georgia, especially for those wanting to reside by the water. Gainesville is right on the shores of scenic Lake Lanier, which provides for endless water recreation, but is also on the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, so moving here is perfect if you love a nature-rich environment with access to many outdoor recreational opportunities. 

If Gainesville, GA, has caught your eye and you want to enter its real estate market, you should know that the area currently favors buyers with a median sale price of around $363K, reflecting a 2.9% increase over the previous 12 months. 

Families planning to relocate to Gainesville, Georgia, can choose from a wide variety of properties, from charming historic homes to modern, new-construction residences in pleasant suburban communities. 

Outdoor lovers and investors can also purchase lakefront properties near Lake Lanier. Are you in retirement? Then low-maintenance options like townhomes and condos are perfect for you. 

Gainesville is home to 443 acres of parks, perfect for long walks after a long day at work. It is also a business hub and has a strong job market but in selected sectors (mostly poultry processing). The community has a welcoming, tranquil atmosphere, and a reputation of being a top spot near Atlanta for academic growth due to its schools and education institution diversity. There are 11 colleges and universities in Gainesville, including the University of North Georgia and Brenau University. 

County: Hall County

Population: 47,265

Median Sale Price: $363,366

Cost of Living Index: 95.1

Top Zip Codes: 30506, 30542, and 30507.

Best For: Retirees, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Kennesaw

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Welcome to charming Kennesaw, a suburban dream around 26 miles northwest of Atlanta that is considered a great place to live in Georgia. Kennesaw has family-centered communities, excellent schools and universities (including Kennesaw State University), and abundant parks, green spaces, and amenities. 

The Kennesaw real estate market is considered dynamic and its average property costs around $402K and a median price per square foot of $190. The most frequent housing alternative in the suburb is the single-family home. 

These residences often have large bedroom and bathroom counts and proximity to schools. For young professionals wanting to live in Kennesaw, modern townhouses and condos come with the promise of low-maintenance living and are packed with amenities such as fitness centers and pools.  

Kennesaw has a comfortable vibe, a quaint, walkable downtown filled with seasonal events and festivals, and a thriving job market. The city attracts young professionals with a low unemployment rate of 3.1% (below the national average of 4%) and opportunities in industries like healthcare, biotech, and manufacturing. 

County: Cobb County

Population: 34,683

Median Sale Price: $402,001

Cost of Living Index: 109.8

Top Zip Codes: 30144, 30152, and 30101.

Best For: Families, young professionals, and commuters.

Johns Creek

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Johns Creek, Georgia, stands out as one of the premier places to live in Georgia, offering a harmonious blend of top-tier education, safety, and community amenities. The city boasts some of the highest-rated public schools in Georgia, including Northview High School and Chattahoochee High School. 

This commitment to education makes Johns Creek particularly appealing to families, but the city has also been recognized as the #2 Safest City in America, according to a report by SafeWise.com in 2024. 

The housing market in Johns Creek is considered robust and fast-appreciating. When surfing properties here, potential homebuyers will encounter a median price of over $674K with a year-over-year increase of about 3.8% and homes going pending in around 31 days. Since the city caters to a plethora of lifestyles, prospective buyers have plenty of options in Johns Creek. 

Families tend to gravitate toward the more spacious single-family houses in well-regarded neighborhoods, but there’s also the luxury investor looking to snatch upscale estates of classic design or custom-built in prestigious gated communities. For professionals there are also apartments and townhouses providing comfort and carefree living near everything Johns Creek and Atlanta have to offer. 

County: Fulton County

Population: 81,108

Median Sale Price: $674,062

Cost of Living Index: 113.3

Top Zip Codes: 30005, 30022, 30024, 30076, and 30097.

Best For: Families, luxury homebuyers, and professionals

Woodstock

The vibrant playground scene, with its swings, slide, and climbing structure, epitomizes why this area is among the best places to live in Georgia. With trees and a wooden fence creating a charming backdrop, two adults chat near the swings while a stylish hexagonal graphic subtly overlays on the right.

Nestled approximately 30 miles northeast of Atlanta in Cherokee County, Woodstock, Georgia, successfully combines historic charm and modern amenities for residents of all ages. 

Woodstock offers a nurturing environment for families, featuring well-regarded public schools such as Bascomb Elementary and Etowah High School. Locals also love exploring the Greenprints Trail System, which, when fully completed, will offer over 60 miles of trails for hiking and biking.

Housing in Woodstock, GA, is a varied as its residents. Small families and young professionals are typically attracted to comfortable Downtown lofts and townhouses. These properties provide an easy lifestyle within walking distance of breweries, music venues, and trendy restaurants. 

Multigenerational families often move into more established neighborhoods and prioritize having room to grow (at least four bedrooms) and spacious backyards for the children. Master-planned communities such as Towne Lake bring resort-style amenities right to the homeowners’ doorstep. For retirees, there are townhomes, single-story ranches, and active 55+ communities. 

County: Cherokee County

Population: 38,473

Median Sale Price: $506,617

Cost of Living Index: 112.7

Top Zip Codes: 30188 and 30189.

Best For: Families, young professionals, and retirees

Peachtree City

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Peachtree City is Georgia’s largest and oldest master-planned community, so if the idea of living in safe, well-established neighborhoods, including retirement-focused, apartment, and family-oriented communities circled by over 90 miles of golf cart paths. The city is also filled with amenities, parks, an amphitheater, farmers markets, restaurants, and a country club among them.  

Peachtree City also has a strong real estate market with a median home price of just over $500K and an average cost of $227 per square foot. Both figures highlight the area’s desirability and top-notch quality of life. 

Families and established professionals will find many suburban residences with large bedroom and bathroom counts and sprawling yards in the Peachtree City real estate market. At the same time, retirees have charming cottage-style homes and a few townhouses offering more affordability without sacrificing amenities and the local strong sense of community. 

Living in Peachtree City has numerous advantages for relocators, including 27 top-performing public schools, a supportive environment, and access to great healthcare facilities, such as Piedmont Fayette Hospital, center of the Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), and OrthoAtlanta.

County: Fayette County

Population: 40,193

Median Sale Price: $542,664

Cost of Living Index: 112.7

Top Zip Codes: 30268 and 30223.

Best For: Families, retirees, and established professionals

Evans

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Named by Money Magazine “The Best Place to Live in America” in 2020 due to its thriving school system, diverse recreation, and stable real estate landscape, Evans remains one of the top spots to move in Georgia to this day. 

The community is one of the top suburbs north of Augusta, GA. It offers a tranquil, friendly environment for newcomers, with easy access to premium recreation, including kayaking, hiking, and biking along the adjacent Savannah River.

Welcoming Evans, GA, has a fast-moving real estate market with a consistent demand for suburban houses. The majority of homes sell after being listed for around 34 days. Homebuyers looking to move to Evans real estate will find beautifully renovated single-family homes with waterfront views, up to 6 bedrooms, and 4,400 sq ft. 

There are also new construction houses of contemporary design in Evans, most designed to offer expansive living areas and family-friendly features. There’s also land for sale in Evans, GA, on prime locations, and some waterfront lots are even ready for development.

County: Columbia County

Population: 37,456

Median Sale Price: $457,400

Cost of Living Index: 94.4

Top Zip Codes: 30907, 30813 and 30909

Best For: Families, military personnel, and retirees.

Blue Ridge

Scenic view of a forested landscape at sunset with the sun partially obscured by clouds in Georgia. The foreground has green trees, and mist rises from the valley. A graphic overlay with a hexagonal design and the letters "ez" is on the left. Discover why it's in the Top 19 Best Places to Live.

Living in Blue Ridge, Georgia, means embracing a slower pace of life surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and endless outdoor adventures. This charming town offers a tight-knit community, a thriving arts scene, and access to some of Georgia’s best hiking, fishing, and kayaking spots. 

With its quaint downtown filled with local shops, farm-to-table dining, and the famous Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, residents enjoy a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern convenience. Whether you’re raising a family, retiring, or looking for a peaceful retreat, Blue Ridge provides a beautiful, welcoming place to call home.

If you consider moving to Blue Ridge, GA, you will find plenty of wood cabins for all tastes and budgets, from modern brand-new mountain cabins for sale in Blue Ridge to rustic cabins with river frontage or humble cabins priced under $300K. And for those wanting to build their own cabin from scratch, there are also acres of unrestricted land in communities like Blue Ridge Discover.

County: Fannin County

Population: 1,233

Median Sale Price: $491,805

Cost of Living Index: 101.9

Top Zip Codes: 30513, 30540, 30512 and 28904.

Best For: Retirees, second-home buyers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Suwanee

An aerial view of a charming Georgia town at sunset reveals a harmonious blend of buildings and greenery. A large white structure with a tower stands prominently in the foreground, while dark clouds frame a warm horizon. An overlay design with hexagons and "ez" graces the left, marking one of the best places to live.

Progressive, safe, and active, Suwanee, GA, is one of the best places to live in Georgia, USA It has been featured in publications like Kiplinger.com and MoneyFamily as a top destination to raise a family. 

Residents here are served by the Gwinnett County Schools System, the largest in the state, and have recreation across 600 acres of parkland and a lively downtown perfect to live, work, and play. The cost of living here reflects the many advantages the suburb offers, but there’s a balance with a median household income of $105,878. 

Suwanee’s real estate market remains strong, with a median home value surpassing $600K  and an increase of 8.4% year over year. Homes typically sell in under 36 days in this market. The housing inventory in Suwanee includes a range of property types, from single-family homes to townhouses. 

Regarding architectural styles, Suwanee homebuyers have a varied catalog, including brick Ranch-style residences, Cape Cod retreats, and luxurious Mediterranean villas. Potential buyers and investors can also purchase acres of land in prestigious communities like The River Club. Other popular neighborhoods in Suwanee include Hillside Trace, Aberdeen, and Turnberry. 

County: Gwinnett County

Population: 22,913

Median Sale Price: $607,416

Cost of Living Index: 102.2

Top Zip Codes: 30024, 30097, 30022, and 30041.

Best For: Families, young professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Atlanta

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ATL, A-Town, The Big Peach—no matter what you call it, once you get to know Atlanta, you’ll never forget it. With a reasonable cost of living for a major metro, mild winters, and a thriving job market in tech, film, and Fortune 500 companies, it’s a city full of opportunity.

Life here means mornings hiking at Stone Mountain, afternoons sipping craft brews along the BeltLine, and nights vibing to live music in Little Five Points. Whether you’re chasing career growth, outdoor adventures, or some seriously good Southern food, Atlanta’s something for you.

Atlanta is experiencing continued price growth and a fluctuating inventory, which leaves us with neither a buyer’s nor seller’s market but a more balanced one. The inventory couldn’t be more diverse. 

Prospective homebuyers in the Atlanta real estate market can purchase anything from luxurious Mid-town condos on high-rise buildings, perfect for professionals, investors, and urbanites, to custom-builts in premium suburban locations like Buckhead, highly regarded among well-to-do families and individuals.

As Georgia’s capital, Atlanta blends big-city energy with a unique mix of history, culture, and Southern charm. With three distinct downtowns, an epic live music scene, and more parks and green spaces than you’d expect from a metro this size, the city has something for everyone. Sports? Atlanta’s got them. World-class museums? Plenty. And with over 240 diverse neighborhoods, finding your perfect spot to call home is just part of the adventure.

County: Fulton County

Population: 510,823

Median Sale Price: $386,77

Cost of Living Index: 113.3

Top Zip Codes: 30080, 30309, and 30318.

Best For: Young professionals, urban dwellers, investors, and families.

Savannah

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Relocating to Savannah means immersing yourself in one of Georgia’s most charming and picturesque cities. With cobblestone streets, moss-draped oak trees, and a historic district filled with beautifully preserved architecture, Savannah feels like stepping back in time—but with all the modern conveniences you need. 

The city’s vibrant arts scene, incredible local cuisine, and walkable downtown make it perfect for those who appreciate culture and Southern hospitality. Plus, with its proximity to Tybee Island, you’re never far from a beach getaway.

Savannah is an idyllic place to live, which means high demand, but there’s limited real estate supply, leading to vicious bidding wars and price increases. The result is a flaming hot market, especially in the city’s historic district, with prices trending upward, attracting mostly wealthy retirees, history lovers, and remote workers who love the atmosphere.

Investors also find the Savannah housing market their playground due to the flourishing tourism industry. For more affordability, buyers head to the suburbs for newly renovated or new-construction single-family homes in Savannah. 

Beyond its beauty, Savannah offers an affordable cost of living compared to other coastal cities, making it an attractive option for newcomers. Whether you’re drawn by career opportunities in tourism, education, or the growing tech sector or simply want a laid-back lifestyle with plenty of community events and outdoor activities, Savannah makes every day feel like a new adventure.

County: Chatham County

Population: 147,748

Median Sale Price: $321,132

Cost of Living Index: 90.2

Top Zip Codes: 31405, 29928, 29910, 29927, 31324, and 31406.

Best For: Retirees, history lovers, and investors.

Marietta

A brick fountain with three tiers is centrally located in a Georgia park, one of the top places to visit. Surrounding it are leafless trees, benches, and people walking. Buildings and a pavilion are visible in the background under a clear blue sky. A logo labeled "ez" is on the left.

Moving to Marietta gives you the best of both worlds—a charming, historic small town with easy access to Atlanta’s modern amenities. Marietta Square serves as the heart of the city, offering boutique shopping, delicious restaurants, and year-round events like farmers markets and concerts. The city’s strong sense of community makes it easy to meet new people, while its top-rated schools and family-friendly atmosphere make it a great place to settle down.

The homes for sale in Marietta are in consistently high demand, with a supply not as tight as in recent years and days on the market averaging 26. These trends have kept the prices high and the market competitive, which makes this Atlanta suburb excellent for buyers looking for a sound investment long-term. 

Families are attracted to Marietta the most and they find a plethora of single-family residences for all tastes and budgets. For young professionals, there are plenty of condo units and townhouses in Marietta.  

For those who love the outdoors, Marietta is home to Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, where you can hike, bike, and explore Civil War history. The cost of living is reasonable compared to Atlanta, too. Marietta’s balance of history, culture, and convenience makes it a fantastic place to call home in Georgia.

County: Cobb County

Population: 62,769

Median Sale Price: $464,347

Cost of Living Index: 109.8

Top Zip Codes: 30060, 30066, and 30068.

Best For: Families, young professionals, and commuters

Roswell

A city hall with columns and a dome, flanked by a clock and a flagpole flying the Georgia state flag, showcases why it's among the top places. Trees frame the sky above, while on the left, a graphic with a hexagonal pattern and an "ez" logo can be seen.

Roswell is one of Atlanta’s most charming northern suburbs, blending old-world charm with a tight-knit community and providing plenty of services and conveniences for families and individuals. 

Its historic downtown is the heart of the city, featuring locally loved spots such as comfort food, craft beer, and coffee experiences. The area buzzes with activity year-round, hosting events and monthly street festivals that bring live music, food trucks, and local vendors together.

Roswell’s natural beauty is another major draw for potential relocators. The Chattahoochee River runs alongside the city, offering residents easy access to Riverside Park for scenic trails, kayaking, and fishing. 

The suburb also has a strong job market, with proximity to Atlanta’s major employment centers while maintaining a peaceful, suburban atmosphere. With top-rated schools, a mix of historic and new housing, and a strong sense of community, Roswell is an ideal spot for those looking for a relaxed yet lively place to call home.

Next door to Alpharetta, Roswell is a high-valued suburb of Atlanta currently in a seller’s market where properties appreciate an average of 8.4% every year. The majority of the homes for sale in Roswell are spacious single-family residences with five or more bedrooms on acreage or even mansions with impressive architecture and superb features. 

These homes sell in under 40 days of being listed. For smaller budgets, prospective homebuyers will find townhouses for sale in Roswell, while investors can purchase multifamily buildings, low-rise condos, and land for sale. 

County: Fulton County

Population: 91,706

Median Sale Price: $635,369

Cost of Living Index: 113.3

Top Zip Codes: 30009, 30022, 30075, 30076, and 30077.

Best For: Families, young professionals, and luxury homebuyers.

Helen

A scenic view of a Georgian village with red-roofed buildings and a tower under a clear blue sky. The landscape includes green hills in the background. On the left, a graphic with hexagonal patterns and the initials "ez" is overlaid on the image, highlighting one of the best places to live.

Moving to Helen is like stepping into a Bavarian fairytale—this small town is famous for its German-inspired architecture, cobblestone streets, and festive atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quiet mountain retreat or an active lifestyle filled with hiking, tubing, and outdoor adventures, Helen delivers. Nestled in the North Georgia mountains, the town offers a breathtaking backdrop for those seeking a slower, nature-focused way of life.

Real estate in Helen has a median price of around $370K, and the area is currently a seller’s market. There are plenty of single-family houses in Helen, but second-home buyers and investors will find some meticulously maintained townhomes perfect as personal retreats or investment properties.

 Many buildings in Helen have Euro-style architecture, so it’s common to see Bavarian-inspired properties, but you will also find Craftsman-style and some gorgeous wood cabins. 

Despite its small size, Helen has a strong sense of community, with year-round festivals like Oktoberfest and the Christmas Market bringing residents together. The cost of living is lower than in major cities, and for those who work remotely or want to escape the hustle and bustle, Helen provides an idyllic setting. If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a unique, storybook-style town with easy access to nature, Helen is well worth considering.

County: White County

Population: 600

Median Sale Price: $370,219

Cost of Living Index: 86.2

Top Zip Codes: 30528, 30512 and 30506

Best For: Second-home buyers, retirees, and investors

Smyrna

View of Smyrna Market Village at sunset, a charming spot among the best places to live in Georgia. A circular white structure and landscaped gardens grace the foreground, while buildings line the background under a sky of red and gray clouds. A logo with "ez" appears on the left side.

Relocating to Smyrna offers the perfect blend of suburban comfort and city convenience. Just 22 minutes from Atlanta, Smyrna provides a quieter, more residential feel while keeping you close to top-tier restaurants, entertainment, and job opportunities. 

The city has invested heavily in infrastructure, with forested parks, scenic walking trails, and a revitalized downtown area known as The Market Village, where you’ll find shops, eateries, and a strong sense of community.

Smyrna is an idyllic community with real estate options for every homebuyer. Whether you are a young professional looking for an affordable condominium or a family on the market for a spacious single-family home with high-end features, you’ll find it all in the Smyrna real estate market. 

The median price in the area is currently under $500K, but there are budget-friendly alternatives like a two-bedroom, one-bathroom for under $300K. Luxury buyers can go with stunning custom-builts with sports courts and pools. Standard home designs in Smyrna include Craftsman bungalows, contemporary residences, and ranch-style houses. 

Aside from the real estate market, one of Smyrna’s biggest draws is its proximity to Truist Park, home to the Atlanta Braves, making it a dream location for sports fans. In addition, the city’s excellent schools, low crime rate, and growing job market make it one of the best places to live in Georgia, whether you’re moving from out of state or just looking for a fresh start.

County: Cobb County

Population: 56,566

Median Sale Price: $448,812

Cost of Living Index: 109.8

Top Zip Codes: 30080, 30082, 30318 and 30339.

Best For: Young professionals, families, and commuters.

Final Thoughts: Best Areas To Live in Georgia

City skyline viewed across a calm lake, with trees in autumn colors reflecting in the water. The serene landscape captures Georgia's charm as one of the best places to live. On the right, a hexagonal graphic displays "ez" in a hexagon icon, surrounded by a honeycomb pattern.

Whether you’re researching the best places to live in Georgia for a job relocation, upgrading to a larger home to accommodate your growing family, or downsizing for a relaxed, on-budget retirement, hopefully, our list uncovered a few places worth including in your list of Georgia locations to be explored. When it’s time to crunch the numbers, use our house affordability calculator to find the perfect fit for your financial plans. Happy house hunting!

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