Moving to Georgia: 7 Reasons to Pack Your Bags & Move

Are you craving sweet peaches and Southern charm? Then moving to Georgia might be just the thing for you! With a cost of living 10% below the national average, a thriving job market, and near-perfect weather, the Peach State has something for everyone.

What’s more, the state’s real estate market is currently in your favor! 27.2% of homes sell below the list price, and homes spend an average of 70 days on the market. So, if you’ve been planning on relocating to Georgia, consider this your sign!

👉 Georgia Homes for Sale: Find your dream home in Georgia today!

7 Reasons to Move to Georgia

With mouthwatering food and vibrant communities, the Peach State is the perfect place to call home! But if you still need a gentle push, here are 7 reasons to move to Georgia:

1. Cost of Living

Good news! The Peach State’s cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. In comparison, states like California and New York cost 26% and 38% more respectively. Here’s what your monthly expenses would look like in Georgia’s top cities:

If you feel these costs will burn a hole in your pocket, you can explore some of the cheapest places to live in Georgia.

2. Employment Opportunities

The state’s robust economy offers several employment opportunities across industries. Georgia is home to 19 Fortune 500 companies. This includes major corporations like Home Depot, Delta Airlines, and Coca-Cola.

Georgia is closer than ever to hitting its goal of adding 5 million jobs in 2025. Here are the sectors that you should keep an eye out for:

• Healthcare and Biosciences: One of the fastest-growing sectors in Georgia, healthcare is expected to add 66,000 new jobs by 2032. This includes key hospitals like Piedmont Healthcare and Emory Healthcare, along with bioscience companies like Boston Scientific.
• Advanced Manufacturing: Georgia is the nation’s leading automotive and aerospace manufacturer. In fact, the sector added nearly 16,000 jobs in 2024, with Kia Motors and Hyundai being key employers in the state.
• Logistics and Distribution: The state is a logistics hub, with some of the most essential airports and harbors in the nation. With over 251,000 people employed in the sector, major companies like Home Depot and UPS rely on Georgia’s logistics network.
• Finance and Technology: Famously nicknamed the “Transaction Alley”, Georgia is a national leader in FinTech. With over 42,000 employees in the sector, companies like Fiserv and Equifax provide opportunities for software developers and IT professionals.

3. Education and Schools

Georgia serves over 1.7 million students across 194 districts. In fact, the state is ranked #1 in the US for creating a smooth transition between early learning, higher education, and the workforce. Here’s a quick look at your options:

Schools in Georgia

• Public Schools: Organized into 2,238 public schools, Georgia’s largest school districts are Cobb County Schools and Gwinnett County Public Schools.
• Private Schools: The state has a vast network of private schools, with the average annual tuition at $12,792. Institutes like the Woodward Academy in College Park and the Pace Academy in Atlanta are renowned.
• Specialized Magnet and Charter Schools: Georgia’s 97 charter schools offer specialized programs in arts and STEM. Notable schools like the Drew Charter School and International Charter School of Atlanta operate independently of the traditional public school system.

Higher Education in Georgia

Georgia is home to several top-tier universities. Georgia Institute of Technology and the University of Georgia offer programs in law, business, and engineering. Emory University is known for its Business Administration & Management and Neuroscience programs.

4. Business-Friendly Economy

The low corporate tax rate of 5.75% makes Georgia an ideal location to start or expand your company. No wonder it has ranked as the #1 state for business for 11 consecutive years!

Moreover, the Peach State offers a Job Tax Credit of up to $4,000 per year for every new job you create. The Georgia Ports and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport also support business growth due to their solid infrastructure.

5. Healthcare

The Peach State has a network of 194 hospitals, which includes special divisions for oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, and more. Georgia also offers excellent pediatric care at hospitals like Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Children’s Hospital of Georgia.

GA’s Department of Community Health accepts Medicaid. The total Children’s Health Insurance Program and Medicaid enrollment in Georgia came up to 2 million in June 2024.

6. Neighborhoods

Known for its rich history and a strong sense of community, the Peach State is home to a variety of safe and welcoming neighborhoods. With low crime rates, the Georgia lifestyle brings the perfect blend of comfort and convenience.

For instance, with only a 4 in 1,000 chance of encountering financial crime, Savannah is one of the safest cities to live in the US. Holly Springs and Senoia also have low crime rates.

7. Recreation

With 218 sunny days a year, Georgia’s climate is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can trek, golf, and explore the state’s scenic landscapes all you want. If you’re a nature lover, the Appalachian Trail is a hiker’s paradise.

But that’s just the beginning! You could go tubing down the Chattahoochee River, or even explore the Doll’s Head Trail. If that isn’t enough, you could marvel at the world’s largest peach cobbler at the Georgia Peach Festival.

How Much Would It Cost to Move to Georgia?

If you’re moving to Georgia, here’s a cost breakdown:

1. Moving Costs – $399 to $3,372

There’s nothing wrong with a little DIY, so you could rent a truck. If you want to move 4,000-6,000 pounds, a mid-sized truck would cost anywhere between $40 to $80 per day.

On the other hand, you could always consider professional movers. Moving companies in Georgia typically charge $101 per hour, which includes 2-3 movers and a truck. This also depends on the distance traveled and your belongings.

2. Housing Costs

The average rent in major cities like Atlanta and Savannah ranges between $1,400 to $2,000. In contrast, Dalton and Warner Robins cost almost 17% less than the US median. So, if you’re looking for affordable housing, you can explore cheap houses for sale in Georgia.

3. Utility Expenses – $400 to $500 Per Month

Utilities will cost you around $411/month for basics like water, gas, and electricity. It costs $20 to register your vehicle in Georgia for the first time, while a title fee starts at $18.

4 Tips for a Seamless Move to Georgia

Here are a few things to know before moving to Georgia:

1. Do Your Homework: Research the Georgia housing market thoroughly, from home prices to market trends. Additionally, familiarize yourself with your neighborhood’s layout to ensure easy access to essential amenities.
2. Inspect the Living Costs: Before moving to Georgia, make sure you get an estimate of the utility bills. Speak to your local telemarketer to understand what your phone and WiFi charges would look like.
3. Explore Recreational Opportunities: Find out if there are any restaurants, malls, or parks around you. Whether you want a breathtaking view or exciting nightlife, Georgia has a place for you.
4. Meet Your Neighbors: Connect and socialize with your neighbors, and check if there’s a local homeowners association (HOA). Also, explore if the community holds any fun events or mixers.

Is Georgia a Good Place to Live in?

Yes, life in Georgia could pan out great for you! The top-notch education options and robust job market are only a few of the reasons to move to Georgia. However, be prepared for the traffic congestion and high probability of pollen allergies in the state.

Here’s the best bit: the cost of living in Georgia is 10% below the US median. So, are you ready to enjoy a vibrant and affordable life in the Peach State?

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