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Best Places to Live in Georgia in 2023
By noel MONEY RESEARCH COLLECTIVE
Georgia is a state that offers a diverse range of living options, from bustling cities to quaint small towns and everything in between. With its charming southern hospitality, affordable cost of living, and vibrant job market, it’s no surprise that Georgia is a popular destination for those looking to relocate.
Georgia has a rich history, cultural attractions and delicious southern cuisine. In recent years, Georgia’s job market has been booming, with major companies like Coca-Cola, Home Depot and Delta Air Lines headquartered in the state.
We’ll examine each location’s population, median household income, median home price and unemployment rate so you can decide where to call home in the great state of Georgia.
Alpharetta
Located just north of Atlanta, Alpharetta is a lively city with around 67,000 residents. The median household income in Alpharetta is $133,920 and the median home price is $630,042. The unemployment rate in Alpharetta is currently at 2.6%.
Alpharetta is known for its excellent schools, top-notch healthcare facilities and abundant shopping and dining options. The city is also home to major employers like Microsoft, Verizon and HP, making it an exceptional choice for job opportunities in the tech industry. With its beautiful parks and proximity to Lake Lanier, Alpharetta is an ideal place to live for those who love the outdoors.
In addition to its impressive amenities and thriving job market, Alpharetta boasts a rich cultural scene. The city hosts several annual events, including the Alpharetta Arts Streetfest, which showcases the work of local artists and craftspeople. The city’s historic downtown district is another major draw, featuring charming boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. For those who love live music, the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year. Mainly, Alpharetta offers a unique blend of big-city amenities and small-town charm.
Johns Creek
Located in the northern suburbs of Atlanta, Johns Creek is a family-friendly city with a population of around 81,000. The median household income in Johns Creek is $133,948, and the median home price is $622,440. The unemployment rate in Johns Creek is currently at 2.6%.
Johns Creek has much to offer, including outstanding schools, a low crime rate and abundant green spaces. The city has several parks and trails, providing ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy hiking, biking and other activities. Johns Creek is also a hub for several major employers, such as State Farm, Macy’s and Emory Johns Creek Hospital.
Besides its natural beauty and robust job market, Johns Creek has a growing arts and culture scene. The city hosts various events throughout the year, including the Johns Creek Arts Festival, concerts at the amphitheater and outdoor movies in the park. With its emphasis on community engagement and quality of life, it’s no wonder Johns Creek consistently ranks among Georgia’s best places to live.
Milton
Located in Fulton County, Milton is a peaceful city with a population of around 40,000. The median household income in Milton is $136,020 and the median home price is $807,474. The unemployment rate in Milton is around 3%.
Milton is known for its large lots and spacious homes, giving residents plenty of room to spread out. The city has a strong sense of community, with regular events like farmers’ markets and outdoor concerts. Milton is also home to several top-rated schools, making it an excellent choice for families.
Milton is known for its equestrian culture. The city has several equestrian centers and miles of trails for horseback riding. Milton is also home to several parks and nature preserves, including Bell Memorial Park and Birmingham Park, which offer opportunities for hiking, picnicking and other outdoor activities. Milton is conveniently located near major cities like Atlanta and Alpharetta, making it easy to access shopping, dining and entertainment options.
Decatur
Decatur is a small city located just east of Atlanta, with around 29,000 residents. The median household income is $123,617 and the median home price is $312,798. The unemployment rate is 3.5%.
Known for its walkable downtown area, Decatur has numerous restaurants, shops and galleries. The city is also home to several parks and green spaces, including the sprawling Glenlake Park, which offers a range of recreational activities. With its proximity to Atlanta, Decatur is ideal for those seeking a small-town feel with big-city convenience.
Decatur is home to several highly-rated schools. The city focuses on sustainability and community involvement, with initiatives promoting green living and community engagement. Decatur has a rich history, which is celebrated through numerous sites and landmarks, including the Old Courthouse on the Square and the DeKalb History Center Museum. Overall, Decatur offers a blend of small-town charm, cultural vibrancy and convenient access to the amenities of the nearby metropolis.
Peachtree City
Located just south of Atlanta, Peachtree City is a planned community that offers a unique living experience. The city has a population of around 39,000 and boasts a median household income of $103,374 and a median home price of $489,338. The unemployment rate in Peachtree City is currently at 2.6%.
Peachtree City is known for its network of golf cart paths, allowing residents to travel in electric carts throughout the city. The city also has several parks and recreational areas, including the scenic Lake Peachtree, which offers fishing and boating opportunities. With its top-rated schools and low crime rate, Peachtree City is an ideal place to live for families.
In addition, Peachtree City is known for its robust economy, with several major companies and industries calling the city home. These include Panasonic Automotive, Cooper Lighting Solutions, and Hoshizaki America. The city also has a thriving retail sector, with several shopping centers and a variety of dining options. Peachtree City is also a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with over 100 miles of golf cart paths connecting parks, lakes, and neighborhoods.
With its small-town charm, modern amenities, and abundant outdoor recreation, Peachtree City is a first-rate choice for those looking for a unique and active lifestyle.
Methodology
To determine the best places to live in Georgia in 2023, we considered several factors: population, median household income, median home price and unemployment rate. We also looked at other factors like quality of life, access to amenities and overall affordability.
Aside from quantitative factors, we considered qualitative aspects such as the culture and character of each city, as well as the variety of recreational activities and entertainment options available. We also examined the quality of local school systems, healthcare facilities and transportation infrastructure to understand each city’s livability. We aimed to create a comprehensive and informative guide for those considering relocating to Georgia and searching for the best places to settle down.
We consulted government data, industry reports and expert opinions to compile our list of Georgia’s top five places to live in 2023.
The bottom line
Georgia has much to offer, from its diverse communities to its culture and history. Whether you’re looking for a bustling urban environment or a peaceful suburban lifestyle, you’ll find the perfect place to call home in Georgia. With a strong job market, a low cost of living, and a high quality of life, Georgia is an excellent choice for those looking to relocate.
