by Robert Borges on May 2, 2025
Thinking about retiring in the South? Georgia should be at the top of your list. With a winning combination of warm climate, low cost of living, vibrant outdoor lifestyle, and being among states tax friendly for retirees, the Peach State has earned its spot among the best places to retire in the U.S. From the serene mountains to the charming coast and thriving metro areas, Georgia’s diverse regions offer something for every lifestyle.
In this article, we’ll break down the best places to retire in Georgia, highlight a featured retirement community in each region, and dive into the top reasons to retire in Georgia. Whether you’re wondering why retire in Georgia, or curious about where most retirees live in Georgia, you’ll find the expert insights you need—brought to you by PCR (Private Communities Registry), your trusted source for exploring the best communities in Georgia and beyond.
Why Retire in Georgia?
Retirees choose Georgia for more than just peaches and southern hospitality. Here's a snapshot of why Georgia is one of the best states to retire in the Southeast:
- Mild year-round climate
- A cost of living below the national average
- Zero tax on Social Security income
- Beautiful scenery from coast to mountains
- Rich cultural and historical heritage
- A wide selection of active adult and lifestyle communities
Where Do Most Retirees Live in Georgia?
Retirement hotspots in Georgia tend to cluster in three distinct regions: Atlanta Metro, Georgia Coast, and Georgia Mountains. Here's a breakdown.
Atlanta Metro Area
Best for: Access to healthcare, urban amenities, arts & culture, and airport proximity
Metro Atlanta offers big-city excitement blended with suburban peace and top-tier healthcare—making it a magnet for retirees who want to stay active and connected.
Featured Community: Cresswind at Spring Haven – Newnan, GA
Just 40 minutes southwest of Atlanta, this gated 55+ community by Kolter Homes is designed with wellness and connection in mind. With 700 homes and resort-style amenities like a SmartFIT Training Center, pickleball, walking trails, and a community garden, residents enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle rich in engagement. Floorplans offer personalization options ideal for today’s active adults.
Georgia Coast
Best for: Waterfront living, mild winters, and coastal recreation
Georgia’s Golden Isles, historic downtown Savannah, and southern coastlines attract retirees with their stunning marsh views, beach access, and laid-back lifestyle.
Featured Community: Osprey Cove – St. Marys, GA
Nestled along the South Georgia coast, this gated community spans 1,100 acres with a championship golf course, newly renovated clubhouse, and scenic access to the Intracoastal Waterway. From kayaking and nature trails to a marshfront Tiki Hut and fitness center, Osprey Cove delivers the ultimate in coastal living—just 25 minutes from Jacksonville, FL.
Georgia Mountains
Best for: Peaceful living, lake views, and outdoor recreation
Looking to retire where cool breezes meet scenic views? North Georgia’s mountain towns offer a slower pace with easy access to lakes, hiking, and charming small towns.
Featured Community: Lake Arrowhead – Waleska, GA
Surrounded by 8,000+ acres of lush forest and a 540-acre spring-fed lake, Lake Arrowhead is a paradise for nature lovers. With two pools, tennis, a private marina, a top-ranked golf course, and over 16 miles of trails, the community promotes a well-rounded active lifestyle. Homes include ranches, lakeview townhomes, and mountain cottages with customizable features to create your ideal retirement retreat.
5 Top Reasons People Choose to Retire in Georgia
Wondering why so many retirees are heading to Georgia? Here are five standout reasons:
1. Affordable Cost of Living & Tax Benefits
Georgia offers a cost of living 10% below the national average and is among the most tax-friendly states for retirees. There's no tax on Social Security income, plus generous retirement income deductions and a low 4% state sales tax.
2. World-Class Golf & Outdoor Recreation
From the iconic Augusta National to coastal and mountain courses, Georgia is a golfer’s dream. Many Georgia retirement communities are centered around award-winning golf courses, hiking trails, lakes, and more.
3. Diverse Living Environments
Whether you crave the charm of small mountain towns, coastal serenity, or the buzz of metro life, Georgia has it all. The state’s diverse geography ensures every retiree can find their ideal lifestyle fit.
4. Mild Four-Season Climate
With average highs in the 80s and lows rarely dipping below 40, Georgia’s climate is ideal for those seeking to escape the snow without sweltering summers. It supports an active outdoor lifestyle year-round.
5. Rich History and Cultural Attractions
Georgia is steeped in American history. From Civil War landmarks to Civil Rights heritage trails and vibrant arts scenes in cities like Savannah and Atlanta, there’s no shortage of cultural enrichment.
Ready to Explore the Best Places to Retire in Georgia?
Whether you're drawn to lakeside tranquility, coastal breezes, or cultural conveniences, Georgia offers retirement options to match your lifestyle and budget. Begin your journey with PrivateCommunities.com—a trusted expert in lifestyle and retirement communities.
At PCR, we feature hundreds of communities with detailed profiles, photo galleries, available real estate, and the option to request info directly from community reps. Let us help you find your perfect match in Georgia—or explore the best active adult communities across the U.S.
Considering other locations? You may also be interested in the best places to retire in Pennsylvania for a cooler climate and Northeast charm.
About the Author
With over 20 years of experience as a seasoned content creator, Robert Borges is the senior writer for Private Communities Registry (PCR), specializing in real estate trends and master-planned communities. He works closely with builders, developers, and real estate pros to create helpful content that guides homebuyers in finding the perfect community, ensuring they have the information needed to make confident, informed decisions.
