Georgia’s varied terrain, from the rolling hills of the North Georgia mountains to the captivating coastline of Tybee Island, ensures a landscape to suit every preference. Its bustling cities, like the vibrant metropolis of Atlanta and the cultural hub of Athens, offer residents a diverse range of experiences to explore. Yet, living in Georgia comes with its own complexities. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll examine both the pros and cons of living in the “Peach State”, offering insight into what to expect.
Renting in Georgia snapshot
| Population | 11,029,227 |
| Avg. studio rent | $1,211 per month |
| Avg. one-bedroom rent | $1,165 per month |
| Avg. two-bedroom rent | $1,427 per month |
| Most affordable cities to rent in Georgia | Americus, Statesboro, Albany |
| Most walkable cities in Georgia | Decatur, Atlanta, North Atlanta |
1. Pro: Rich historical heritage
Georgia’s rich historical heritage is evident in its cities and landscapes. From the historic architecture of Savannah‘s historic district to the Civil Rights Movement landmarks in Atlanta, residents are surrounded by reminders of the state’s significant role in American history. The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site preserves the legacy of the civil rights leader, while sites like the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park offer insights into Georgia’s Civil War history.
2. Con: Pollen levels
Georgia’s warm climate contributes to high pollen levels, particularly during the spring months, which can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues for some residents. Areas with abundant vegetation, such as Atlanta and Macon, often experience elevated pollen counts.
3. Pro: Diverse landscapes
Georgia’s diverse landscapes offer a wide range of natural beauty to explore. Residents can hike through the rugged terrain of the North Georgia mountains in areas like Amicalola Falls State Park or relax on the sandy shores of Tybee Island along the Atlantic coast. These various landscapes allow for all sorts of outdoor recreation for residents to enjoy.
4. Con: Traffic congestion
Georgia’s major urban centers grapple with heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. Rapid population growth and infrastructure contribute to gridlock on highways and arterial roads. For instance, the intersection of Interstates 75 and 85 in downtown Atlanta, known as the “Downtown Connector,” experiences chronic congestion, leading to delays and frustration for those navigating the city.
5. Pro: Warm climate
Georgia’s warm climate provides residents with mild winters and hot summers, creating an inviting environment for outdoor activities. Coastal cities like Savannah benefit from sea breezes, while inland areas like Macon experience warmer temperatures. The state’s temperate climate also supports an abundance of agriculture, with crops like peaches, pecans, and peanuts thriving in the fertile soil.
6. Con: High humidity
Georgia’s humid subtropical climate results in high humidity levels, particularly during the summer months, which can make outdoor activities uncomfortable for residents. Coastal areas like Savannah and Brunswick experience oppressive humidity, with heat indices often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. Pro: Educational institutions
Georgia is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including the University of Georgia in Athens and the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. These universities offer great education and research opportunities across a wide range of fields.
8. Con: Natural disaster risk
Georgia is susceptible to various natural disasters, including hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms, posing risks to residents and property. Coastal areas like Savannah and Tybee Island are particularly vulnerable to storm surges and flooding during hurricane season. Inland regions are also at risk of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, which can cause significant damage and disruption to communities.
9. Pro: Affordable cost of living
Georgia offers an affordable cost of living, especially when it comes to housing, compared to many other states. For instance, cities like Columbus provide a lower cost of living while ensuring access to essential amenities and job prospects. In Columbus, the median sale price for a home is $210,000, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment standing at $992. Residents in Georgia enjoy the benefits of a lower cost of living without compromising on quality of life.
10. Con: Bugs and pests
Georgia’s warm and humid climate fosters a thriving population of bugs and pests, including mosquitoes, ants, and cockroaches. Residents may contend with mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus, especially in areas with standing water.
11. Pro: Sports culture
12. Con: Sumer heatwaves
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.