How to Make a Stress-free Move to Georgia in 2024
It’s 2023, and you’re moving to the Peach State, a state that’s already home to 10.8 million people.
Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or just a change of scenery, hold onto your hats, because we are about to tell you everything you need to know about Georgia—the home of Martin Luther King Jr., Jackie Robinson, and some of the country’s finest music.
We won’t bore you with grandma’s chicken soup recipe here or facts you don’t need to know. Let’s dig in to all things Georgia—and why moving there in 2023 is a good idea.
Why make Move to Georgia?
Georgia may not be the first state people think of when they want a novel or fun experience, but Georgia is one of the best-kept secrets of the south.
Rest easy knowing Georgia has a lot to offer
Just north of Florida, Georgia has northern forests and southern beaches. You can visit the beach, grab lunch in the city, and head to a national forest all in one day.
It not only has a diverse outdoor scene but also a booming economy with the Coca-Cola headquarters, the largest aquarium in the United States, and a rich history.
You can find some of the most unique experiences in Georgia while living in one of the most affordable states in the nation.
How Much Does it Cost to Move to Georgia?
The cost of hiring movers will depend on the distance of your move, the size of your household, and the amount of stuff you need to move.
Here are some rough estimates for the cost of hiring movers:
- Local move (within the same city): $300 to $1,000 for a small move, up to $3,000 or more for a larger move
- Long-distance move (more than 100 miles): $2,000 to $5,000 for a small move, up to $10,000 or more for a larger move
Please note that these are just rough estimates and the actual cost of hiring long-distance movers for a move to Georgia could be higher or lower depending on various factors such as the distance of the move, the size of your household, and the amount of stuff you need to move.
| Distance | 1 Bedroom | 2 – 3 Bedroom | 4 – 5 Bedroom |
| Local (Less than 100 Miles) | $400 – $800 | $750 – $1900 | $1200 – $4500 |
| 100 miles | $1000 – $1500 | $1250 – $1700 | $1500 – $3400 |
| 250 miles | $1200 – $2000 | $1500 – $3500 | $2,000 – $4800 |
| 750 miles | $1400 – $2900 | $2100 – $6900 | $5500 – $7900 |
| 1500 miles | $1600 – $3200 | $2600 – $7400 | $6700 – $9500 |
| 2500 miles+ | $1900 – $3700 | $3900 – $8200 | $12000+ |
If you’re interested in learning more about the costs of moving, check out this guide:
Our Most Recommended Long Distnace Movers
Adams Van Lines
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Native Van Lines
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Pricing Van Lines
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What Are The Pros And Cons Of Moving To Georgia?
Pros
- Mild winters with little snow
- Social rights movement capital of the nation
- Largest aquarium in the nation
- Coca Cola headquarters
- Great outdoor exploring, hiking, and camping
- Rich history and culture as one of the first 13 colonies
- Easy-access beaches
Cons
- Sweltering summer temperatures and terrible allergy seasons
- Tourism hub
- China now has the largest aquarium in the world
- Growing homeless population
- Constantly threatened by tropical storms and hurricanes
- History riddled with social injustice
- Expensive close-to-beach parking and lacks public transportation options
What's The Cost Of Living In Georgia?
Ranking as the 13th most affordable state in the nation, you can get by without having to dip into your savings too much.
How much should you save before making a cross country move?
In general, having at least $10,000 in savings would be helpful since it costs about $5,000 to move across the country (if you hire commercial movers) and then having a couple of months savings available will help cushion your landing.
But you can get by with much less since the cost of living is ideal.
When budgeting for your move, one of the most important factors is understanding how much it will cost you to buy or rent a home in your new hometown.
Housing Prices in Georgia Are Affordable
Real estate prices vary widely across the state—for example, while the median home value in Atlanta is around $240k, in smaller cities like Gainesville it’s closer to $150k.
Additionally, rental costs also vary dramatically across different parts of Georgia—while apartments near downtown Atlanta can cost over $2000/month, rentals in more rural areas may be under $1,000/month.
Do some research into what housing options are available in each city so that you know what kind of budget you’ll need for your new place.
What are the Best Neighborhoods to Live in Georgia?
One of the first decisions you will have to make when moving to Georgia is where in the state you want to live.
Safe Neighborhoods of Georgia
Georgia is home to many cities and towns with different vibes and styles:
- Bustling Atlanta with its world-class attractions, entertainment, and nightlife
- Quaint Savannah with its cobblestoned streets and Southern charm;
- Vibrant Marietta with its charming small-town atmosphere; and beyond.
Start doing your research now so you can decide which city is right for you when it comes to cost of living and proximity to attractions you plan on visiting regularly.
| Place | Population | Median Home Value | Unemployment Rate |
| Alpharetta | 64,672 | $392,200 | 4.6% |
| Johns Creek | 83,637 | $382,400 | 5.0% |
| Sandy Springs | 105,411 | $447,800 | 3.6% |
| Milton | 38,171 | $534,400 | 3.2% |
| Decatur | 23,054 | $466,800 | 4.7% |
| Dunwoody | 49,016 | $418,800 | 3.4% |
| Roswell | 94,257 | $355,900 | 3.3% |
| Woodstock | 30,362 | $222,500 | 2.9% |
| Suwanee | 19,215 | $292,900 | 3.2% |
| Braselton | 10,509 | $297,200 | 1.5% |
How is the job market in Georgia?
Nominated as one of the top hubs of business in 2014, Georgia is growing, and total employment is projected to grow to over 5.2 million by 2028.
So showing up in the Peach state to look for a new job isn’t a bad idea, if you want to change careers.
Huge Job Growth Over The Next Five Years
The state has a huge need for lawyers, Accountants, Nurse Practitioners, General Operations Managers, Registered Nurses, and Financial Advisors as these occupations are growing faster than the state annual average.
But that’s not to say anyone can’t further their career in this state.
Home to Coca Cola and CNN, the state has something for any career with most of the demand in the next 10 years focused in service sectors.
What is Georgia most known for?
Last but certainly not least – don’t forget about getting acquainted with the culture of your new home!
Southern Comfort And Rich History
From traditional Southern dishes like fried green tomatoes and boiled peanuts to festivals celebrating jazz music and art installations throughout the state – there is truly something for everyone when it comes to embracing Georgian culture.
Music Festivals
Explore local restaurants and shops that feature local specialties like boiled peanuts or honey-drizzled biscuits; visit nearby parks and museums that showcase regional artwork; attend one of the many festivals held throughout the state each year – no matter what interests you may have there is sure to be something special happening in Georgia that will make your stay even more enjoyable!
Embracing Georgia Culture
From a rich culture and history to the Appalachian mountain range, beaches, and southern hospitality, don’t miss a beat:
- Sip on Coca-Cola at the headquarters
- Hike the Appalachian trail or just get a scenic view from the mountaintop
- Hit the beach and explore dense national forests all in one day
- Taste a melting pot of flavors – from drool-worthy southern comfort cuisine to luscious peaches
- Get a warm southern welcome – hospitality and kindness like no other state
- Explore the history of one of the first 13 colonies
- Experience the World’s largest drive-in restaurants
- Explore Helen city – a replica of a Bavarian city – just north of Atlanta
- Ring in the New Year with an Opossum drop
- Explore the streets where the civil rights movement was born
- Drop in to watch the pros hit a hole-in-one at the Master’s Golf Tournament
- Explore the largest aquarium in the US
- Hike, bike, and run on the Silver comet trail
- Tour CNN studios
- Hike Doll’s head trail
What are the Best Schools & Universities in Georgia?
Georgia has some of the best high schools in the nation in our state.
Among the most notable are the school systems in Alpharetta and Johns Creek.
Best Colleges for Higher Education
Georgia is also home to several great colleges, including list-topping Emory, the University of Georgia (go Dawgs!), and Georgia Tech
One Luscious Peach
Making an interstate or inner city move doesn’t have to be stressful!
With some research into which city best suits your needs as well as an understanding of what kind of budget will be necessary for housing costs, plus some careful planning when it comes time for execution—you’re almost guaranteed a smooth transition into life in the Peach State.
We hope this guide has been helpful as you begin preparing for your big move – wishing all future Georgians happy trails!
