Lifestyle
If you’re looking for a warmer climate and reduced taxes on your retirement income, Georgia could be the state for you.
Adam Cecil
Published March 1st, 2021
Updated December 8th, 2022
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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 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.
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 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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