Lifestyle

10 Best Cities to Retire in Georgia in 2024

If you’re looking for a warmer climate and reduced taxes on your retirement income, Georgia could be the state for you.

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Adam Cecil

Published March 1st, 2021

Updated December 8th, 2022

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

If you love history, Georgia is a great place to retire.

From small waterfront towns to large metropolitan areas, there’s plenty to choose from.

Make sure you look at access to healthcare and attractions as you search.

If you’re looking for a warmer climate and reduced taxes on your retirement income, Georgia could be the state for you. While the 65-plus population statewide is relatively low, there are areas of the state with a higher percentage of older adults than others.

Is Georgia a good place to live for retirees?

Yes, Georgia rates as one of the best places to live for retirees. We rank Georgia as the best state to retire in our annual Best & Worst States to Retire Report.

Is Georgia tax-friendly for seniors?

Georgia is considered tax-friendly for seniors, as Social Security income is not taxed at the state level. Pension, 401(k), and other retirement account income is also only partially taxed.

Do seniors in Georgia pay property taxes over 65?

In addition to the standard homestead exemption, seniors have access to more money saving exemptions on property taxes in Georgia. You may be eligible for a floating inflation-proof exemption, property tax deferral, or a school tax benefit. You’ll also be eligible for a double homestead exemption, which will exempt up to $4,000 of your home’s value from property taxes.

What benefits do seniors get in Georgia?

The Division of Aging Services in Georgia offers a number of programs for seniors, including help at home, nutrition and wellness education and counseling, and help with home modification and repair.

Where is the best place to retire in Georgia?

The best places to retire in Georgia have amenities for retirees, easy access to healthcare, and plenty of dining and shopping options. Here are some of the top 10 best cities for your Georgia retirement.

St. Simons

st-simons

CITY POPULATION: 14,982

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 37.3%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 2.1% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $630,918

MEDIAN RENT: $3,800

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

If you can afford the housing costs, St. Simons Island is one of the most beautiful places to retire to in Georgia. Located on one of the many islands that make up Georgia’s coastline, St. Simons is perfect for resort-style living. St. Simons attracts a number of seasonal visitors, but still has numerous attractions and benefits for year-round residents.

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Savannah

savannah

CITY POPULATION: 147,780

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 15.6%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 2.8% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $298,222

MEDIAN RENT: $2,000

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

Savannah is Georgia’s oldest city and is packed with history and culture. With warm weather, plenty of annual events and festivals, and reasonable cost of living and home values, Savannah is the perfect urban retirement option. Plus, you won’t be hurting for healthcare options—Savannah is home to several major hospitals and doctor’s offices.

Atlanta

atlanta

CITY POPULATION: 498,715

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 12%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.8% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $391,685

MEDIAN RENT: $2,018

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

Of course, if you’re looking for a big city to retire to, you have to consider Atlanta. Of all the places to live in Georgia, it’s the best if you want access to everything in retirement without compromise. The country’s ninth-largest city has an abundance of 55-plus communities and all the restaurants, shops, and healthcare you could need. And if city-living isn’t quite your style, there are numerous suburbs that will get you out of the chaotic inner-city while still giving you access to all of the amenities.

Fayetteville

fayetteville

CITY POPULATION: 18,957

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 22.3%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.2% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $409,726

MEDIAN RENT: $2,548

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

Although Fayetteville has often been listed as one of the best towns in Georgia for young people, its large senior population makes it great for retirees. Just a half an hour from Atlanta, Fayetteville has all the amenities of suburban living, including shopping, outdoor recreational areas, and the third-largest amusement park in Georgia, Fun Spot America.

Cumming

cumming

COUNTY POPULATION: 7,318

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 21.1%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.1% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $574,003

MEDIAN RENT: $2,475

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

Situated just 39 miles to the northeast of Atlanta, Cumming’s easy access to Lake Lanier makes it one of the best towns to live in Georgia for outdoor enthusiasts. The city’s rich history and shopping, dining, and healthcare also make it a charming retirement option for those who prefer smaller towns without being too far away from a big city.

The outdoor access comes at a steep cost, with home prices and rents above the national average, but for more affluent retirees, Cumming is a great place to retire to in Georgia.

Augusta

augusta

CITY POPULATION: 140,467

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 16.1%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 10% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $164,957

MEDIAN RENT: $1,210

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

This riverfront city is one of the best places in Georgia if you like history. The antebellum homes and historic sights make it a great place for retirees who are Civil War buffs. There’s also plenty of shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation to keep you entertained during your long, leisurely days. And with the cost of living and housing costs way below the national average, you’ll find that living in Augusta is very affordable.

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Stone Mountain

stone-mountain

CITY POPULATION: 6,703

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 12%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.7% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $278,655

MEDIAN RENT: $1,775

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

Located at the base of Stone Mountain, the most visited tourist attraction in Georgia, this small village draws visitors from all over the country. But there are plenty of other reasons to enjoy this small town. You’ll get access to all the amenities that bring tourists to the area, including dining, shopping, fun attractions, and historical landmarks.

Athens

athens

CITY POPULATION: 96,124

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 9.8%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.1% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $304,937

MEDIAN RENT: $1,695

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

Athens is well-known for its creative and artistic community, as well as being home to the University of Georgia. The college has plenty of learning opportunities for retirees and makes Athens a great place to retire if you’re looking for an injection of youthful energy. Athens isn’t just for learning—you’re only a quick drive away from either the beach or the mountains if you’re in the mood for an outdoor day trip or a weekend away.

Twin City

twin-city

CITY POPULATION: 1,642

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 19%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 10.7% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $79,472

MEDIAN RENT: data unavailable

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

This affordable small town in East Emanuel County is considered one of the nicest places to live in Georgia due to its quiet streets and friendly population. You’ll find a number of local restaurants specializing in Southern cooking and plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities, all in a lovely village that’s cheaper than most places in Georgia.

Marietta

marietta

CITY POPULATION: 60,972

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 14.2%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.5% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $451,343

MEDIAN RENT: $2,125

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

Marietta is another popular city in Georgia to live in after retirement. The historic district adds charm to the city, while the nearby battlefield is popular with both history buffs and those looking for some fresh air. Regular cultural events ensure you’ll never run out of things to do. While it’s not the most affordable city to live in, this Atlanta suburb does have everything a retiree needs to live comfortably.

Bottom Line

For those who love history and culture, Georgia can be a great state for retirement. The best cities to retire in Georgia typically offer a little bit of everything, from entertainment options to access to healthcare. But retirement needs can differ from one person to the next. We recommend reviewing your retirement savings with a Certified Financial Planner® to find the perfect city for your retirement years.

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Adam Cecil
Adam Cecil

Adam Cecil is a freelance writer who has produced financial content for Retirable, Policygenius, and Donational, In his free time, he writes the weekly pop culture newsletter Night Water and produces independent fiction podcasts.

Best Places To Retire

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Northeastern U.S. Best Places To Retire


Southern U.S. Best Places To Retire


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Western U.S. Best Cities To Retire

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Best Places To Retire

Getting Started


Northeastern U.S. Best Places To Retire


Southern U.S. Best Places To Retire


Midwestern U.S. Best Places To Retire


Western U.S. Best Cities To Retire


Share this advice


Adam Cecil
Adam Cecil

Adam Cecil is a freelance writer who has produced financial content for Retirable, Policygenius, and Donational, In his free time, he writes the weekly pop culture newsletter Night Water and produces independent fiction podcasts.

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To empower a confident, worry-free retirement for everyone.

Legal

Retirable, Inc. ('Retirable') is an SEC registered investment advisor. By using this website, you accept our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. Retirable provides holistic retirement planning services, which are available only to residents of the United States. You must be at least 18 years of age to become a Retirable Premium user. Nothing on this website should be considered an offer, solicitation of an offer, or advice to buy or sell securities.

Investing involves risk and past performance is not indicative of future results. Increased spending increases the risk of depleting your savings and performance is not guaranteed. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any decisions based on your own personal circumstances.

For more information, see our Form ADV Part II and other disclosures.

Retirable is a financial technology company and is not a bank. Banking services provided by Thread Bank, Member FDIC. The Retirable Business Visa® Debit Card is issued Thread Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa cards are accepted. FDIC insurance is available for funds on deposit through Thread Bank, Member FDIC. Pass-through insurance coverage is subject to conditions.

Your deposits qualify up to a maximum of $3,000,000 in FDIC insurance coverage when placed at program banks in the Thread Bank deposit sweep program. Your deposits at each program bank become eligible for FDIC insurance up to $250,000, inclusive of any other deposits you may already hold at the bank in the same ownership capacity. You can access the terms and conditions of the sweep program athttps://go.thread.bank/sweepdisclosure and a list of program banks athttps://go.thread.bank/programbanks. Please contact [email protected] with questions on the sweep program.

* The interest rate on Retirable Consumer Deposit Account Tier 2 is 3.4% with Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 3.45%. The interest rates are accurate as ofSep 19, 2024. Rate is variable and is subject to change after account opening. Fees may reduce earnings.

** Refer to the fee schedule in your Consumer Deposit Account Agreement

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