Moving to Georgia: Your Ultimate Relocation Guide

Georgia has become one of the most sought-after states for relocation, offering big-city opportunities, small-town charm, and everything in between. Whether you’re chasing career growth in Atlanta, looking for coastal living in Savannah, or seeking the relaxed suburban life in Alpharetta, Georgia has something for everyone.

Beyond its affordable cost of living and booming job market, Georgia attracts newcomers with its warm climate, vibrant culture, and endless outdoor adventures. Imagine spending weekends hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, kayaking along the Chattahoochee River, or enjoying live music and Southern cuisine in bustling downtown districts.

But moving interstate is more than just picking a city—it’s about knowing what to expect and how to prepare. This guide covers everything you need to know about relocating to Georgia, from housing and job opportunities to cost of living and local resources, so you can make your move with confidence and ease.

Pros of Moving to Georgia

✅ Lower Cost of Living: Compared to states like California, New York, and Illinois, Georgia offers affordable housing, lower taxes, and reduced transportation costs. The median home price in Georgia is around $320,000, nearly half of what you’d pay in California.

✅ Strong Job Market: Georgia is home to major companies like The Home Depot, UPS, Coca-Cola, and Delta Airlines, providing excellent career opportunities in business, tech, and healthcare. Atlanta is one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the U.S.

✅ Mild Climate: Say goodbye to harsh winters! Georgia offers warm summers and mild winters, so you won’t have to deal with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. If you prefer sunshine over snow shovels, this might be your ideal state.

✅ Outdoor Activities & Attractions: Love the outdoors? From the Blue Ridge Mountains to Savannah’s beaches, Georgia is perfect for hiking, fishing, and boating. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone who enjoys a scenic weekend escape, there’s something for everyone.

✅ Retirement-Friendly Tax Policies: Georgia does not tax Social Security income, and retirees over 65 can exclude up to $65,000 per person in retirement income. This makes it one of the best states for retirees looking to stretch their savings.

Cons of Moving to Georgia

❌ Hot & Humid Summers: Georgia’s summers are no joke! With humidity levels over 70% and temperatures exceeding 90°F, it can feel sweltering, especially for newcomers. If you’re not a fan of sticky, muggy weather, you might struggle to adjust.

❌ Heavy Traffic in Major Cities: Atlanta’s traffic ranks among the worst in the U.S., with commute times 35% longer than the national average. If you plan to live in or around the city, expect congestion and slow-moving highways during rush hour.

❌ Higher Sales Tax in Some Counties: While the state sales tax is 4%, local county taxes can push rates up to 9%, making everyday purchases more expensive depending on where you live. If you’re moving to a metro area, be sure to check local tax rates.

Cost of Living in Georgia

One of the biggest reasons people choose to move to Georgia is its affordability compared to the national average. The state offers lower housing costs, cheaper utilities, and more budget-friendly everyday expenses than many other parts of the country. While Atlanta is the most expensive city in Georgia, smaller cities like Savannah and Augusta offer significantly more affordable housing options.

Housing costs in Georgia are below the national average, making homeownership more accessible. The median home price in Georgia is $390,373, which is comparable to the national median of $373,880. However, in cities like Savannah ($307,925) and Augusta ($250,000), homes are far more affordable than in major metro areas. Renters also benefit from lower costs, with one-bedroom apartments in Augusta averaging $1,100 per month, well below Atlanta’s $1,600 average.

Beyond housing, Georgia residents enjoy lower-than-average grocery costs, utilities, and gas prices, helping to stretch your budget further. However, one factor to keep in mind is sales tax, which varies by county. While the state sales tax is 4%, local counties can increase the total to as high as 9%, depending on where you live.

Cost of Living Comparison: Georgia vs. National Average

Georgia offers a competitive cost of living compared to the national average. Below is a breakdown of key expense categories across the state and its major cities:

Housing Market Trends in Georgia

The Georgia housing market continues to evolve, with rising demand, stable home prices, and growing real estate opportunities across the state. Unlike the broader cost of living, which considers expenses like groceries and transportation, this section focuses on home values, rental trends, and real estate market activity.

While Atlanta remains the most expensive housing market, other areas like Savannah and Augusta have seen significant appreciation in home values. The statewide median home price sits at $325,540, though buyers in Atlanta pay a premium of $388,167, while those in Augusta enjoy a much lower median price of $190,000. Savannah’s housing market is experiencing rapid growth, with home prices rising 7.8% year-over-year.

For renters, Georgia offers a wide range of price points depending on the city. The median rent for a one-bedroom unit statewide is $1,799 per month, but locations like Augusta offer significantly lower rates ($1,000/month), while Atlanta remains at the higher end ($1,881/month).

2025 Georgia Housing Market Trends

Job Market & Employment Statistics in Georgia

Georgia’s strong and diverse job market makes it a top destination for professionals seeking career growth and stability. The state’s low unemployment rate, steady job growth, and expanding industries provide opportunities for both new graduates and seasoned professionals. Major metropolitan areas like Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta offer distinct job markets, with Atlanta serving as a business and technology hub, Savannah specializing in tourism and manufacturing, and Augusta focusing on healthcare and retail.

Georgia’s economy is fueled by key industries such as trade, transportation, healthcare, and manufacturing. With corporate giants like The Home Depot, UPS, Delta Airlines, and Coca-Cola headquartered in the state, Georgia continues to attract businesses and job seekers alike. Atlanta, in particular, has become a major center for technology, logistics, and business services, offering high-paying opportunities across various fields.

For job seekers, Georgia’s cost of living remains relatively affordable compared to other major employment hubs, making it an attractive place for both work and lifestyle balance. Below is an overview of the 2025 Georgia job market, including employment statistics, salary insights, and industry growth trends.

2025 Georgia Job Market Overview

Education & Schools in Georgia

Georgia is home to top-rated schools and universities, making it an excellent place for families with children and individuals pursuing higher education. The best public and private schools are concentrated in metro Atlanta, Savannah, and Alpharetta, offering strong academic programs and extracurricular opportunities.

For higher education, Georgia boasts nationally recognized institutions, including:

🎓 University of Georgia – One of the top public universities in the country, known for its business, law, and agricultural programs.
🎓 Georgia Tech – A leading engineering and technology university, consistently ranked among the best in the U.S.
🎓 Emory University – A prestigious private research university, renowned for medicine, healthcare, and law.

If you’re moving with children or looking to further your own education, Georgia offers a diverse range of high-quality educational institutions to fit every need.

Additional Resources for Moving to Georgia

Relocating to Georgia involves more than just finding a home—you’ll need to register your vehicle, transfer your driver’s license, and enroll in school. Below are some official state resources to help you navigate the transition:

✅ Find Schools in Georgia – Explore public and private school options across the state.
✅ Transfer an Out-of-State Driver’s License – Steps to obtain a Georgia driver’s license.
✅ Register a Vehicle in Georgia – Information on transferring car registration.
✅ Register to Vote – Ensure you’re eligible to vote in Georgia after your move.

How to Prepare for Your Move to Georgia

A long-distance move requires careful planning to avoid last-minute stress. Having a detailed moving checklist can help you stay on track and ensure nothing gets overlooked during your relocation process.

Key Steps for a Smooth Transition:

1. Plan & Organize Early – Book movers at least 6–8 weeks in advance, especially during peak moving seasons, to secure availability and the best rates.
2. Declutter Before Packing – Reduce moving costs by donating, selling, or discarding unneeded items before packing. This makes the process faster and more efficient.
3. Consider Professional Packing Services – Use high-quality packing materials or hire a professional moving company to ensure fragile and valuable items are securely packed for long-distance transport.
4. Update Your Address & Utilities – Set up new service connections before arriving to avoid disruptions with electricity, internet, and mail forwarding.
5. Research Local Regulations – Some neighborhoods, apartments, and condos require moving permits, so check local rules in advance.

Get a Free Quote for Your Georgia Move

Moving to Georgia? Get expert long-distance moving services to make your transition stress-free and affordable. Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or a fresh start, our experienced movers ensure a seamless experience.

Ready to get started? Request your free moving quote today!