Georgia is one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S., with a population surpassing 10.8 million in 2024. If you are considering moving to Georgia, the overall cost of living is about 10% below the U.S. average. This makes it an excellent choice for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
Georgia’s economy thrives, supported by booming industries such as technology, film, and healthcare. The state is expected to generate 5.2 million jobs by 2028. Major corporations like Coca-Cola, Home Depot, and Delta Airlines are headquartered in the state, making Georgia a hub for career growth.
Georgia also offers a rich cultural experience. You can immerse yourself in Southern hospitality, explore historical sites like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, or hike the scenic Appalachian trails. With its mild climate and vibrant community life, Georgia is an ideal place to both live and work.
6 Reasons to Move to Georgia
Georgia is one of the favorite relocation destinations for Americans. Here are six reasons for moving to Georgia.
| # | Reasons to Move to GA | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Cost of Living | The cost of living in Georgia is 10% lower than the national average. |
| 2. | Employment | Georgia is home to 19 Fortune 500 companies across industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. |
| 3. | Education | Georgia has over 1.7 million students and is home to top universities like Georgia Tech and Emory. |
| 4. | Business Opportunities | The Peach State has a low corporate tax rate of 5.75% and offers job creation tax credits up to $4,000. |
| 5. | Neighborhoods | Georgia's neighborhoods, like Alpharetta and Johns Creek, are known for low crime rates and excellent schools. |
| 6. | Outdoor Activities | Georgia’s mild climate allows for year-round outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and fishing. |
1. Low Cost of Living
The cost of living in Georgia is 10% below the national average. It’s an attractive option compared to states like California and New York, where living costs are 38% and 26% above the national average.
Here’s a breakdown of basic expenses in top metros in Georgia.
| Metro | Median Home Price | Median Home Rent | Public Transport | Utilities | Food |
| Atlanta | $399,187 | $1,927 | $95 | $216.15 | $324 |
| Savannah | $322,217 | $1,950 | $89 | $198.56 | $526 |
| Augusta | $176,006 | $1,250 | $40 | $198.56 | $478 |
| Winder | $341,092 | $1,960 | $95 | $216.15 | $237.86 |
2. Employment Opportunities in Georgia
Georgia’s robust economy offers various employment opportunities across several industries. The Peach State is also home to 19 Fortune 500 companies.
- Advanced Manufacturing: Georgia is a leader in automotive and aerospace manufacturing. This sector added more than 16,000 new jobs. Companies like Hyundai and Kia Motors are top employers in the state.
- Healthcare and Biosciences: The healthcare industry is one of the fastest-growing in Georgia. By 2032, it’s expected to add around 66,000 new jobs. This includes hospitals like Emory Healthcare and Piedmont Healthcare, along with bioscience companies like Boston Scientific.
- Logistics and Distribution: GA is a logistics hub. Hartsfield-Jackson is one of the busiest airports in the world. Savannah also has one of the largest ports in the country. The state employs over 251,000 people. Leading companies like UPS and Home Depot rely on Georgia’s world-class logistics network.
- Technology and FinTech: Georgia is a tech powerhouse, especially in FinTech. Companies like Equifax and Fiserv are growing their presence here, creating jobs for IT professionals, software developers, and finance experts. The sector is expected to add more than 5,000 jobs in 2024.
3. Excellent Education System
Georgia is ranked #1 in the US in creating a smooth transition between early learning, higher education, and the workforce. The state serves over 1.7 million students across 194 districts.
- Public Schools: Georgia has over 2,238 public schools. Gwinnett County Public Schools and Cobb County Schools are some of the largest school districts in the state.
- Specialized Magnet and Charter Schools: GA has 97 charter schools that offer specialized programs in STEM and arts. These schools are tuition-free. Notable schools include the International Charter School of Atlanta and Drew Charter School.
- Private Schools: Georgia has over 284 private schools known for their academic excellence. The average annual tuition for private schools in Georgia is around $12,685. Prominent private institutions include Pace Academy in Atlanta and Woodward Academy in College Park.
- Higher Education: Georgia is home to several top-tier universities. The University of Georgia and Georgia Institute of Technology offer programs in business, law, and engineering. Emory University is another prestigious option, known for its programs and research opportunities.
4. Business-Friendly Economy
Georgia has been ranked the #1 state for business for 11 consecutive years. Its low corporate tax rate of 5.75% makes it one of the most attractive places to start or expand a company.
Georgia also offers a Job Tax Credit of up to $4,000 per year for every new job created. Its strong infrastructure, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and the Georgia Ports, further supports business growth.
5. Incredible Neighborhoods
Georgia’s neighborhoods stand out for their safety, community vibe, and strong local amenities. Areas like Alpharetta, Decatur, and Johns Creek consistently rank among the best due to low crime rates and top-rated schools.
Alpharetta, for instance, has an A+ rating for public schools and a thriving tech job market. Many Georgia neighborhoods host regular events like farmer’s markets, block parties, and festivals. Some of the popular festivals in GA include the Georgia Peach Festival, Atlanta Food & Wine Festival, and Rhythm & Ribs BBQ Festival.
6. Outdoor Activities
Georgia has a mild climate with around 218 sunny days a year, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The state’s weather allows for year-round activities like hiking, golfing, and exploring scenic landscapes without drastic seasonal changes.
If you love outdoor sports like boating, biking, and fishing, Georgia offers endless options. You can hike the Appalachian Trail or paddle along the Chattahoochee River. For those into water sports, the state’s lakes and rivers make it easy to enjoy kayaking and fishing throughout the year.
Cost of Moving to Georgia 💲
There are additional costs involved in moving from one state to another. Here’s a breakdown of costs you may incur while relocating to Georgia.
1. Moving Costs ≈ $408 to $3,418
Moving to GA involves several costs, including the costs involved in moving your belongings.
- Georgia movers can cost $103 per hour, which includes labor costs for 2-3 movers and a truck. However, this figure depends entirely on your belongings and the distance traveled.
- If you want to DIY your move, you can rent a truck as a cost-effective alternative. Mid-size moving trucks with a load capacity of 4,000-6,000 pounds generally cost between $40 and $80 per day.
- 👉 Tip: Moving can be expensive, especially if you are selling your home before you move. In this case, you can use a Flat Fee MLS company to save on listing agent commissions. This way, you can have additional cash when you move to Georgia.
2. Utility Expenses ≈ $400 to $500 Per Month
Apart from moving and housing costs, you will have to incur utility expenses when moving to Georgia.
- When moving to GA, you must set up utilities like gas, electricity, water, etc. The average utility bill in New Jersey is around $411/month.
- You will have to register your vehicle in Georgia. The first-time registration cost of a passenger vehicle is $20, with an additional $18 title fee.
3. Housing Costs
Housing costs in the Peach State can vary depending on your location.
- In popular cities like Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta, the average rent ranges between $1,400 to $2,000.
- However, buying can be complex as home prices vary across the state. Make sure you find cheap houses for sale in Georgia in your budget. Homes in coastal cities like Savannah have a median home price of $351K. On the other hand in inland cities like Columbus, it is $203K.
3 Things to Know Before Moving to Georgia💡
Before you pack your bags for the Peach State, you should know about these key factors that could impact your experience:
1. Traffic Congestion
Traffic congestion in Georgia, particularly in Atlanta, is a significant problem. With an average commute time of 35 minutes, Atlanta surpasses the national average of 27.6 minutes. Studies indicate that drivers in Atlanta spend a substantial 70 hours annually stuck in traffic during peak travel times.
The limited reach of public transportation, provided by MARTA, contributes to the congestion. Only 8% of commuters utilize public transit, resulting in a heavy reliance on cars.
2. Pollen Allergies
Georgia ranks among the top 5 worst states for allergies, particularly in spring. Pollen counts can reach as high as 4,000 particles per cubic meter during peak allergy season (typically from March to May), significantly impacting residents with seasonal allergies.
3. Weather Conditions
Georgia faces a variety of weather challenges. The state experiences an average of 30 tornadoes per year during springtime and sometimes during summer. The state is also affected by tropical storms and hurricanes, especially in coastal regions.
In case of tornadoes, keep an emergency kit with food supplies, essential medicines, and important documents. For added protection, purchase hazard insurance to safeguard your property.
4 Tips for a Seamless Move to Georgia ✅
Moving to a new place can be tough. Here are some tips to help you make a smooth transition.
- Research Cities and Neighborhoods: It’s important to research the area you want to live in. You must know if your home is in the city or suburbs. Find out where the nearby schools, hospitals, coffee shops, or restaurants are.
- Find the Living Costs: Your living costs will change once you relocate to GA. Get an estimate of the basic living expenses in your desired location before visiting the locality.
- Visit the Neighborhood: Once you’ve decided where you want to live. You must visit that Georgia neighborhood in person and see what you feel about the area.
- Meet Your Neighbors: Connect with your neighbors and socialize. Local Facebook groups can be the best way to meet your neighbors.
Is Moving to Georgia a Good Idea?
Yes, moving to Georgia is a good idea. The state offers a low cost of living, a robust job market, and top-notch education options. Whether you’re drawn to Atlanta’s urban lifestyle, Savannah’s historic charm, or the scenic beauty of the mountains, Georgia has something for everyone.
While moving can be challenging, planning ahead will make it easier. Make sure to do your research and budget adequately to make your move as smooth as possible.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much would it cost to move to Georgia?
The average moving cost in GA can go up to $3,418. However, this depends on the quantity you're moving and how far you're moving.
Why are so many Californians moving to Georgia?
Many people are moving from California to Georgia primarily due tothe low cost of living. Georgia also offers a favorable business climate and a growing job market for those seeking new opportunities.
What to know before moving to Georgia?
A few things to know before moving to state of GA include its extreme weather conditions, traffic congestion and the high pollen.
What are some of the best places in Georgia to live?
Columbus, Athens and Johns Creek are some of best places to move in Georgia. Columbus is known for its culture, history, and natural beauty. Athens is often considered one of the best areas in Georgia to raise a family, work and vacation.
Which cities have the lowest cost of living in Georgia?
Americus and Macon are some of cheapest places to live in Georgias. Living costs in Americus and Macon are 28.8% and 14% below the national average.
