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Georgia holds a special place in America’s heart! For years, the Southern state has been hailed as one of the top retirement destinations for seniors. Fittingly nicknamed ‘The Peach State,’ Georgia has invited retirees seeking an affordable lifestyle with a breath of hospitable charm!
Beyond everything on offer, from serene landscapes to bustling cities, let us explore why this Southern gem is an alluring choice for retirees across the USA. By the end of this article, you may be wondering why you are not in Georgia already!
What makes the Peach State so subtly sweet?
While Georgia can be considered the peach capital of the USA in the minds and hearts of American citizens, this historical state offers so much more than a fruity aftertaste! Retirees looking at a combination of country living or a metropolitan lifestyle will find Georgia the best of both worlds!
And, of course, there is the other thing.
Georgia is one of the most affordable states for retirees in the US! And the reason behind it can be pinpointed down to the cost of living! Whether you are looking to take advantage of senior housing or older adult apartments, Georgia’s cost of living is relatively lower than the national average.
Part of its Southern charm may include the attractions, and the rich cultural history, but that’s different from why Georgia pops up first when seniors think of retirement! See, nursing home costs are below $8,500 per month for private or semi-private rooms! On average, older adults looking for assisted living communities have availed them for $3,500.
While it will differ from city to city, consider how affordable that is compared to states like Alabama or Florida!
Choosing the best places in Georgia to retire
Selecting the perfect city in Georgia for your retirement is similar to finding a tailored fit for your golden years. It involves a thoughtful exploration of factors that go beyond the scenic landscapes and welcoming communities.
The ideal retirement destination considers each retiree’s unique needs and lifestyle preferences. From independent living to specialized care options, the best places in Georgia offer a spectrum of choices to ensure a retirement that suits your vision.
How to find the best city in Georgia to retire to?
You are here to find the perfect city for retirement in Georgia, and your criteria go beyond mere geography. So listed below are some key factors to consider when locating The best retirement destination!
- Look for cities or towns with accessible parks, cultural venues, and recreational facilities personalized to senior preferences.
- Prioritize cities with exceptional healthcare facilities and a vigorous network of medical professionals.
- Evaluate the overall cost of living, including housing, taxes, and daily expenses.
- Look for cities with active senior communities, social clubs, and continued learning and cultural enrichment opportunities.
- Look for locations with mild temperatures or coastal areas with climate preferences.
- See the city’s transportation infrastructure to confirm ease of mobility and access to essential services.
- Highlight cities with low crime rates that are known for providing a safe environment, especially for retirees.
Finance your dream retirement in Georgia.
Living in Georgia makes it easier for seniors when it comes to finances. Why? Georgia is already known to be a tax-friendly state in America. The cost of living is 10% lower than the national average, especially in the neighboring states!
Here are some financial facts for you to note down!
- Taxpayers who are 62+ are eligible for retirement income alteration on their tax return.
- Tax breaks for seniors (62 – 64) include up to $35,000 on their retirement income.
- The tax deduction goes up to $65,000 at age 65 and over.
- Georgia does not tax Social Security benefits.
- Married senior couples may file for joint returns on tax and earn the maximum deduction (depending on qualification).
- A tax-funded program (Supplemental Security Income) is available for disabled seniors.
Other than a tax-friendly atmosphere for seniors, here are some other benefits of retiring in the Peach State!
- The cost of food is 4% lower than the national average.
- The monthly utility bill is 12% lower than the national average.
- Both transportation and cost of goods & services are 10% lower than the national average!
So you see, Georgia offers more than just a mild climate, bustling city life, and incredible terrains of natural beauty! And before we scroll down to read about the best places to live in Georgia for retirees, why not look at the articles below?
10 Best places to retire in Georgia
Let’s double down on some of Georgia’s best places to offer for retirement! It should be pointed out that while there are many other excellent smaller cities and towns in Georgia for retirees, the list below is unanimous no matter where you look!
7 best cities to retire in Georgia
1. Atlanta:
Atlanta is undoubtedly one of the best places to retire in Georgia. The bustling metropolis molds urban amenities with Southern hospitality and redefines what bliss can be for seniors looking at retirement.
2. St. Simons Island:
St. Simons Island is where seniors looking to escape to coastal serenity should be. This charming retreat offers retirees a laid-back lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and a friendly community to dive into!
3. Savannah:
Savannah is Georgia’s best city to retire, and we aren’t just saying that. This year, Savannah was voted one of the top cities in the USA regarding retirement.
4. Augusta:
Huddled along the Savannah River, Augusta perfectly combines outdoor recreation and cultural experiences. Golf enthusiasts, in particular, find it to be a paradise.
5. Athens:
Home to the University of Georgia, Athens reflects a youthful spirit with its vibrant arts scene, college-town atmosphere, and numerous parks for seniors to stroll amongst.
6. Georgetown:
For older adults looking at a quieter retreat, Georgetown offers a suburban and peaceful lifestyle while being close to the amenities of larger cities.
7. Blue Ridge:
Also known as the mountain town in Georgia, Blue Ridge is perfect for seniors wanting to take hikes or other outdoor activities to amplify their retirement lifestyle.
3 Best places to retire in Georgia on a budget
If you want to retire in Georgia without breaking the bank, consider the smaller cities or towns! Often, such locations offer an idealistic retirement scenario that reflects the atmosphere of, let’s say, ‘Little House on the Prairie.’ Now, while we do live in modern times,
8. Gainesville:
With a small population of around 45,000, this city offers retirees a southern allure with its scenic beauty and tight-knit community!
9. Fayetteville:
Fayetteville falls within the Atlanta metro, offering retirees a suburban retreat with city perks, including budget-friendly retirement communities like independent living!
10. Griffin:
If you’ve seen ‘Driving Miss Daisy,’ you know this iconic movie was shot in Griffin, GA. With a blend of Southern charm, warm hospitality, and affordable living, this place won’t break your bank or your head!
Final thoughts
When you are not riddled by the constant worry of rising expenses, a livable atmosphere, and the question of your retirement future, only then will you live in the golden hour! And Georgia offers precisely that!
Be it one of the best locations in the US to retire to, like Savanna, or the amiable surroundings that the capital offers, rest assured that if you choose Georgia as a retirement destination, you won’t look back!
FAQs
Where do most retirees live in Georgia?
Retirees often prefer cities like Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta. Coastal areas like St. Simons Island are also attractive for seniors who prefer a scenic perspective in their daily routine!
Is Georgia a cheap state to retire?
Absolutely. Georgia’s affordability offers retirees a lower cost of living, diverse housing options, and encouraging tax policies.
Is it expensive to retire in Georgia?
The Peach State is the farthest thing from expensive. As a city, Georgia harbors an environment that makes it an affordable haven for retirees seeking a comfortable and enjoyable lifestyle. Even cities like Atlanta are some of the best cities in Georgia to retire to if you want to retire affordably.
Is retiring in Georgia a good idea?
A mild climate, beautiful cities and never-ending attractions, with favorable tax environment and programs towards seniors make Georgia an ideal retirement destination! Over many years, Georgia continues to be among the top choices regarding the best state for retirement!
