As you approach retirement age, you may be starting to think about where you want to spend your golden years. If you’re considering the state of Georgia for your retirement destination, and you should considering it’s 9th overall for the best state to retire to, there are a few cities that stand out as particularly attractive options. From access to high-quality healthcare and recreational activities to a low cost of living and beautiful landscapes, these Georgia cities offer something for everyone, but especially retirees.
Savannah
Honestly, it’s amazing that Savannah doesn’t get picked more. Located on the Atlantic coast, Savannah is a charming city with a rich history and a thriving arts scene. It’s known for its beautiful squares and parks, as well as its excellent dining and shopping options. The city also has a low cost of living that’s common to most of the state, but surprising given it’s coastal location and access to high-quality healthcare, with several hospitals and medical centers located nearby. Plus, golfers will love the city’s many courses, and water sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the nearby beaches and waterways, as Tybee Island and the Gold Coast are less than an hour away. If you prefer you can head to Hilton Head, SC or Jacksonville, both of which are less than a few hours away.
Athens
Athens ends up on every retirement list for a reason. Athens is home to the University of Georgia, giving the city a youthful and vibrant atmosphere. It’s known for its music scene, with several live music venues and annual festivals. However, don’t let all that excitement scare you, as the suburbs of Athens are more rural and quiet. The city also has a low cost of living and access to high-quality healthcare, with several hospitals and medical centers located nearby. Plus, golfers can enjoy the city’s courses, and the nearby Lake Sinclair offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water sports. It’s easy to see why Athens is one of the best cities to retire to in Georgia.
Augusta
Want that old town feel with just enough conveniences of the modern day? Augusta might be for you. Located in the eastern part of the state, Augusta is a historic city with a beautiful riverfront and many parks and recreational opportunities. The city is home to several hospitals and medical centers, making it a great option for retirees who want access to high-quality healthcare. Golfers will love Augusta’s many courses, including the famous Augusta National Golf Club, and the nearby Savannah River offers opportunities for fishing and other water sports.
Alpharetta
Alpharetta is the most sought after city for people relocating to the Atlanta area. In fact, it’s the most searched for city behind only Atlanta. Located in the northern part of the state, Alpharetta is a vibrant and growing city with a thriving business community. It’s known for its excellent schools and low crime rate, making it a great option for families. The city also has a low cost of living relative to the rest of the country (but high for Georgia) and access to high-quality healthcare, with several hospitals and medical centers located nearby. Golfers can enjoy the city’s courses, and Lake Lanier is less than an hour away and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water sports. If money were no object, then most people would believe that Alpharetta would be the number one best city to retire to in Georgia.
Roswell
Roswell is another city that always makes a best place to live type list. Located in the northern part of the state, Roswell is a historic city with a charming downtown and many parks and recreational opportunities. The city is home to several hospitals and medical centers, making it a great option for retirees who want access to high-quality healthcare. Golfers can enjoy the city’s courses, and the nearby Chattahoochee River offers opportunities for fishing and other water sports.
When choosing the best cities to retire to in Georgia, it’s important to consider your personal preferences, priorities and unfortunately, your budget. If access to high-quality healthcare, and activities to do are important to you, then Savannah, Athens, Augusta, Alpharetta, and Roswell are all excellent options in the state of Georgia. Take the time to research and compare these cities to find the one that’s right for you.
