The Cost of Living in Georgia for Retirees

Thinking about where to spend your retirement years? Georgia is climbing the list of top destinations for retirees – and for good reason. With a warm climate, famous Southern hospitality and landscapes ranging from coastal islands to the Blue Ridge Mountains, the state offers something for nearly every lifestyle.

Whether you’re drawn to Atlanta’s big-city energy, Savannah’s historic charm or the slower pace of small towns, Georgia combines cultural richness with relative affordability. Here’s a closer look at what it really costs to retire in the Peach State.

HOUSING COSTS AND MAINTENANCE

Housing in Georgia is generally more affordable than the national average, making it attractive for retirees looking to maximize their savings. The state’s median home value in 2025 is approximately $334,839, down 2.0% over the past year. In contrast, the average home value in Atlanta is higher, around $396,813, reflecting the area's desirability and urban amenities.

For those considering active adult communities, planned developments or condominiums, monthly homeowners association fees are common. These typically cover maintenance, landscaping, security and shared amenities such as clubhouses or pools, adding convenience but also an ongoing cost.

It’s also worth noting that many Georgia homes, particularly in rural areas and historic neighborhoods, are older properties. Roof repairs, HVAC replacements, plumbing updates and other maintenance expenses can add up, so retirees planning to age in place should budget for both expected and unexpected upkeep. On the flip side, newer construction is widely available in suburban growth corridors, offering low-maintenance designs that may better suit long-term retirement living.

HEALTH CARE AND LONG-TERM CARE

Health care access varies widely across Georgia. In the Atlanta metro area, retirees benefit from nationally recognized hospitals such as Emory University Hospital and Piedmont Atlanta, along with a large network of specialists. Savannah, Augusta and Athens also provide strong health care options.

In more rural parts of the state, however, health care can be harder to access. Retirees may need to travel longer distances for specialized treatment, which is an important consideration if you plan to live outside major population centers.

Long-term care costs in Georgia are in line with national averages, with the median monthly cost of assisted living in Georgia landing at about $4,400 – slightly below the national average. Including long-term care costs in your planning helps ensure you’re ready for whatever the future brings.

TAXES AND RETIREMENT INCOME

When it comes to stretching your retirement dollars, Georgia stands out as one of the most tax-friendly states in the South. From fully exempt Social Security benefits to generous retirement income exclusions, the state helps retirees keep more of what they’ve earned. Add in relatively low property taxes and the absence of estate or inheritance tax, and Georgia offers meaningful advantages for retirees looking to preserve wealth and maintain financial flexibility.

• Social Security benefits: Fully exempt from Georgia state income tax
• State income tax: Georgia is transitioning to a flat 5.39% rate, which primarily applies to earned income.
• Estate and inheritance taxes: Georgia imposes neither, a key advantage for higher-net-worth households.
• Property taxes: Generally lower than many states, though rates vary by county
• Sales tax: Base rate of 4%, with local add-ons that can raise the total to 9%+ in some counties (including parts of Atlanta).

LIFESTYLE AND QUALITY OF LIFE

Retiring in Georgia isn’t just about dollars and cents – it’s about how you’ll spend your days. The state offers a mix of big-city excitement, historic charm, outdoor adventure and close-knit community life. Whether you imagine weekends exploring art galleries, afternoons on the golf course or mornings hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Georgia’s diversity of settings makes it easy to find the right fit for your retirement lifestyle.

• City living: Atlanta delivers world-class dining, professional sports, performing arts and a major international airport – ideal for staying connected with family or pursuing global travel
• Historic charm: Savannah offers walkable neighborhoods, rich history and coastal living
• College-town energy: Athens provides music, culture and affordability in a lively small-city setting
• Outdoor recreation: Georgia offers hiking and scenic drives in the Blue Ridge Mountains, golf resorts in the central region, plentiful fishing lakes and easy access to the barrier islands
• Year-round activity: Mild winters support outdoor recreation throughout the year, though hot and humid summers can be a drawback for some
• Health care access: Atlanta and Augusta feature nationally ranked hospital systems, complemented by regional medical centers across the state
• Community life: Small towns retain a slower pace and close-knit feel, while metro areas offer cultural diversity, educational opportunities and a vibrant mix of neighborhoods

IS RETIRING IN GEORGIA WORTH IT?

The answer depends on your personal financial picture and what you value most in retirement. Georgia’s tax-friendly treatment of retirement income, moderate housing costs and access to diverse communities make it appealing to many. Yet challenges like high property taxes in some counties, the state’s moderate income tax rate and the hot climate may lead some retirees to look elsewhere.

For those with family ties or a love for Georgia’s blend of Southern hospitality, urban convenience and outdoor living, the benefits may outweigh the drawbacks. Others may want to compare Georgia with nearby states like Florida, Tennessee or North Carolina, each of which offers different tax structures and lifestyle trade-offs.

MAKING GEORGIA WORK FOR YOUR RETIREMENT

Georgia combines affordability, tax advantages and diverse lifestyle options, making it an appealing choice for many retirees. Still, factors like hot summers, dispersed regional health care access and varying local taxes mean it may not be the perfect fit for everyone.

The key is aligning Georgia’s opportunities and trade-offs with your personal retirement goals. A financial advisor can help you build a tailored plan that makes the most of what Georgia offers while preparing for the costs and considerations that come with it. If you’re ready to see how Georgia fits into your retirement plan, we’re here to help.