Georgia

Coastal Beaches

Cost of Living: Moderate

Train Access: Yes (metropolitan atlanta rapid transit authority (marta), amtrak, relatively safe)

Bus Service: Yes (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), Chatham Area Transit (CAT), Athens Transit, CobbLinc, relatively safe)

Georgia, known as the Peach State, is a diverse and vibrant state located in the southeastern region of the United States. It is characterized by a rich tapestry of landscapes, including sprawling metropolitan areas, quaint small towns, lush farmland, and picturesque coastal beaches. The state's largest city and capital, Atlanta, is a bustling hub of commerce, culture, and transportation, known for its significant role in both the Civil Rights Movement and as a center of major corporations. Georgia's history is deeply rooted in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, with many historical sites and museums dedicated to these periods. The state's climate is predominantly humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters, which contributes to its robust agricultural sector, famous for peaches, pecans, and Vidalia onions. Georgia's coast, part of the larger Atlantic Coastal Plain, offers beautiful beaches, marshlands, and the historic city of Savannah, known for its 18th-century architecture and oak-lined streets. Moving inland, the terrain rises to the foothills and mountains of the Appalachian range in the northern part of the state, offering scenic views and outdoor recreational activities. Georgia's culture is a blend of Southern charm and modern innovation, with a thriving arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and a strong tradition of music, particularly country, hip-hop, and R&B. The state also hosts several major universities and colleges, contributing to its educational and research prowess. Overall, Georgia presents a unique mix of historical significance, natural beauty, and modern urban development, making it a compelling destination for visitors and a beloved home for its residents.

Nomad Lifestyle

Private Schools

A-

Family Friendly

B+

Single Friendly

Senior Friendly

B-

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Weather

Cost of Living

A-

Recreation

Nightlife

Restaurants

C+

Crime

Cost of Living

Georgia's cost of living is generally considered moderate, with expenses such as housing, utilities, and groceries varying depending on the area. Urban centers like Atlanta may have higher costs, while smaller towns and rural areas tend to be more affordable.

Weather

Georgia experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot and humid summers, mild winters, and moderate to heavy rainfall throughout the year. The northern part of the state has a slightly cooler climate due to its higher elevations, while the coastal areas tend to have milder winters and cooler summers due to the Atlantic Ocean's influence. Severe weather, such as thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes, can occur, especially in the spring and summer months.

Educational System Georgia

The educational system in Georgia is structured similarly to the rest of the United States, with a mix of public, private, and homeschooling options available. Public education is free and is divided into elementary, middle, and high school levels. Children typically start kindergarten at the age of five and complete high school by the age of eighteen, earning a diploma. The state follows a grade level system starting from Kindergarten to 12th grade. Elementary school usually includes Kindergarten through 5th grade, middle school from 6th to 8th grade, and high school from 9th to 12th grade. Georgia has adopted the Common Core State Standards, ensuring a consistent, high-quality education in English language arts and mathematics. The state also offers various magnet, charter, and specialized schools focusing on different educational approaches or themes, such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), performing arts, or international studies. Additionally, Georgia's Pre-K Program is available to prepare four-year-olds for elementary school. Parents moving to Georgia from another country can expect a supportive educational environment with a variety of resources designed to help students of all backgrounds succeed.

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Best Places to Live in Georgia

Discover the top-ranked towns in Georgia. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.

Atlanta

Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.

Universities in Georgia

University Costs: high

The university system in Georgia is comprehensive and offers a wide range of options for higher education, including public universities, private colleges, and technical schools. The system is governed by the University System of Georgia, which includes well-known institutions such as the University of Georgia (UGA), Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), and Georgia State University. Undergraduate degrees typically take four years to complete, while graduate degrees can take an additional two to six years, depending on the field of study. Foreign students considering attending university in Georgia will find a welcoming environment with a variety of programs designed to support international students, including English language support and cultural integration programs. Costs for attending university can vary widely depending on the institution and whether it is public or private. Public universities generally offer lower tuition rates for in-state residents, but international students will pay out-of-state or international tuition rates, which are higher. Financial aid, scholarships, and work-study programs are available to help manage costs. Degrees offered range from associate degrees, which typically take two years to complete, to doctoral degrees. The academic calendar is usually divided into semesters, with the fall semester starting in August and the spring semester ending in May.

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