Nestled in the southeastern U.S., Georgia is a state of many wonders. It’s renowned for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality. But did you know that Georgia also offers some of the most budget-friendly living options in the country?
So, let’s take a look at the 10 cheapest places to live in Georgia.
If you’re thinking of relocating to somewhere more affordable without sacrificing your quality of life, Georgia could well be the perfect state.
Let’s explore the hidden, budget-friendly gems the peach state has to offer.
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10 Cheapest Places to Live in Georgia
Savannah
Coming in at number ten and the most expensive location on the list is Savannah, with an average house price of $270,000.
Savannah has a population of approximately 146,000 people, and being the oldest Georgian city, it is known for its historic quarter. The district’s rich history is reflected in its variety of historical landmarks, including the Mercer Williams House and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.
Situated on the Savannah River, the city is also home to numerous scenic parks and outdoor spaces, including Forsyth Park and Tybee Island. This close proximity to the great outdoors makes Savannah an attractive destination for nature lovers looking for an affordable waterfront lifestyle.
Athens
At number nine on my list is Athens, with an average house costing around $200,000. Athens is the principal city of the Athens-Clarke County metropolitan area, with a population of approximately 126,000 people.
It is a college town, home to the University of Georgia, and houses one of the oldest public universities in the United States with a strong reputation for academic excellence.
More great stuff here for outdoor types…
The city is also known for its beautiful parks and recreational areas, boasting the likes of the State Botanical Garden of Georgia and the Sandy Creek Nature Center. These facilities offer brilliant opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation.
Along with its scenic beauty and strong academic reputation, the city is renowned for its prolific influence in the music industry. Athens is the birthplace of various famous alternative rock bands, such as the B-52s and R.E.M. Making it a hotspot for nature-loving music enthusiasts.
Augusta
With an average property price of $173,000, Augusta comes in at number eight on my list. Augusta is located on the banks of the Savannah River and is the second-largest city in Georgia, with a population of over 200,000 residents.
Known as the ‘Garden City of the South,’ it is famous for its stunning parks and outdoor recreation opportunities. The Augusta Canal National Heritage Area offers breathtaking hiking, biking, and kayaking trails. While the Phinizy Swamp Nature Park provides idyllic spots for wildlife and birdwatching.
Golf fanatic?
Historically, the city gained notoriety for its Augusta National Golf Club, which is home to the prestigious Masters Tournament. The competition is one of the most well-known golf events in the world and attracts millions of visitors and golfing fanatics from all over the globe.
Columbus
With over 200,000 residents and an average property price of $156,000, Columbus is the cheapest of the bigger cities in Georgia. Named after Christopher Columbus, the city was founded in 1826 and is located in western Georgia, around 100 miles south of Atlanta.
Columbus is best known for its huge army base, Fort Benning, having played an important role in the Civil War as a major Confederate military center. Today, the city is home to several historic sites related to the war, including the National Civil War Museum and the Columbus Confederate Naval Shipyard.
But there’s more to Columbus than that…
In addition to its historical significance, Columbus also has a vibrant arts and culture scene.
The RiverCenter for the Performing Arts is a hub of activity in the community, hosting a variety of entertaining events throughout the year.
Warner Robins
At number six on the list is Warner Robins, with an average house price of $156,000. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and southern hospitality, Warner Robins is the largest city in Houston County, with a population of around 77,000 residents.
The city has made notable contributions to the aviation industry and hosts multiple aviation-related companies, such as Northrup Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and Boeing. It’s also home to the Robins Air Force Base, the largest single-site industrial complex in the state of Georgia.
Then there’s the sports culture…
Warner Robins is the birthplace of a variety of sports teams, too, including the Warner Robins High School football team and the Warner Robins American Little League Baseball team.
These teams have helped to bring international attention to the city, winning the Little League World Series in 2007, as well as multiple national championships. This interesting mixture of sports and aviation makes Warner Robins the perfect place for adrenaline-seeking fitness fanatics.
Cordele
Next up, in fifth place, is Cordele. A small but lively agricultural community located in Crisp County, south-central Georgia.
The city has a population of around 11,000 residents and covers an area of just 11 square miles. And an average home in Cordele costs roughly $140,000. Making it an ideal place for people looking for small-town country living without breaking the bank.
Sweet like a water…
Cordele has a long history of watermelon production and has established itself as the ‘Watermelon Capital of the World.’ Because the city hosts an annual Watermelon Days Festival, a 3-day event that celebrates the fruit with food, music, and activities for all ages. On top of its watermelon industry, Cordele is conveniently located along Interstate 75, which runs from Miami to Michigan.
So, being in the vicinity of a major highway makes the town a handy location for people who are always on the move.
Tifton
In fourth place on the list is Tifton, with property prices averaging around $132,000. It is a tight-knit community of approximately 16,000 people with a strong connection to its agricultural roots. Being located in the heart of the Georgia peanut belt.
The Tifton Museum of Arts and Heritage showcases the region’s culture. While the Georgia Museum of Agriculture and Historic Village provides a glimpse into its farming history.
Nuts about Tifton…
Tifton is also host to the annual Georgia Peanut Festival, commemorating the harvest with peanut-themed fun for all the family.
Additionally, it has gained recognition for its research and education facilities in the field of agriculture, including the Georgia Tifton Campus and the Tifton Campus of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College.
The commitment of these institutions to research crops and cultivation practices has earned Tifton its reputation as a hub of agricultural innovation.
Vidalia
The third cheapest place to live in Georgia is Vidalia, with an average home costing in the region of $130,000. It is located in Toombs County and has a small-town feel with a population of around 10,000 people.
Vidalia also has a strong agricultural heritage and is best known for its world-famous onions. Vidalia onions were first discovered in the 1930s by Moses Coleman and have been grown in the region ever since. These unique specimens can only be grown in specific regions of Georgia. That’s those with low-sulfur soil, giving them their mild, sweet flavor.
Besides onions…
Vidalia has a variety of public spaces to enjoy, such as the Altamaha River, which is a perfect spot for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.
The Vidalia Recreational Department also offers an array of recreational programs and facilities in the area. Making it ideal for nature-loving onion aficionados.
Macon
With an average property price of just over $127,000, the second place on the list goes to Macon. This is the principal city of Bibb County and one of the larger cities in Georgia, with a population of close to 155,000.
Macon is famed for its rich musical heritage, being the birthplace of several famous artists, including the legendary Little Richard and Otis Redding.
Fittingly…
The city also has a variety of music-related attractions, such as the Georgia Music Hall of Fame and the Allman Brothers Band’s former home, the Big House Museum.
Then, Macon also hosts the annual International Cherry Blossom Festival, a breathtaking spectacle that draws visitors from around the world. The festival celebrates the blooming of the city’s 350,000 cherry blossom trees and features a parade, live music, food vendors, and other activities.
And now, the moment has finally arrived, the cheapest place to live in Georgia is…
Americus
And in first place, for the cheapest place to live in the whole of Georgia. With an average house costing just over $110,000 is… Americus. Located in southwestern Sumter County, this is a small but charming city with a population of roughly 15,000 residents.
One of the most notable features of this city is its historic downtown district, which features numerous well-preserved 19th and early 20th-century buildings.
Such as?
Well, among these historical landmarks are the Victorian-era Windsor Hotel and the Ryland Theatre, which has been in operation since 1921.
The areas surrounding Americus offer a variety of state parks, such as Providence Canyon, Chattahoochee National Forest, and Lake Blackshear. This natural beauty, along with the low property prices, makes Americus a perfect place to settle for budget-savvy adventurers.
Sold?
If not, we have several other guides that may be worth checking out. Everything from the Cheapest Places to Live in California to the Cheapest Beach Towns in Florida or the Cheapest Places to Live in Texas in 2023.
But money shouldn’t be your only deciding factor…
If you’re relocating with family, why not check out the Safest States in America, Safest Cities in Texas, the Safest Neighborhoods in Atlanta, or the Safest Places to Live in Florida, and the Best Places to Live in Florida for Families?
We can also help with other relocation questions you may have, like How Long Does USPS Forward Mail after you’ve moved?
Ok, back to the…
Final Remarks
The abundance of natural beauty, low cost of living, and world-famous southern hospitality draw people to Georgia from far and wide. From scenic mountain communities to quaint towns and thriving coastal metropolises, this state truly has something for everyone.
All of the cities mentioned have property prices that are well below the national average. That’s around $355,000, according to the National Association of Realtors.
The state also offers a low cost of living, which can be attributed to its low tax requirements. Plus, it’s a thriving agricultural sector. Moreover, Georgia’s farming roots mean that fresh produce is often available at lower prices than in other regions, meaning your money can stretch further – win-win!
However…
It is important to keep in mind that living costs can vary within each city. Similarly, factors such as healthcare access and employment opportunities should be considered before deciding which of these beautiful and budget-friendly destinations to call home.
So, with that in mind, make sure to do your research. That way, you can properly see which of these enchantingly cheap locations would suit you and your needs best.
Happy house hunting!