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12 Pros And Cons Of Living In Athens, GA
Aug
Excited about Athens, Georgia?
It’s greater than just a university town. Sure, the University of Georgia is an enormous a part of life here, but there’s so far more.
Whether you’re into live music at places just like the 40 Watt Club, having fun with some good old Southern cooking, or simply taking a soothing stroll through botanical gardens and parks, Athens has something for you.
With around 125,000 people, Athens isn’t too big or too small. It’s got that nice mixture of Southern charm and latest vibes.
You’ll see trendy cafes next to buildings which have been around perpetually, and the streets are crammed with faces young and old.
So, what’s it really wish to live in Athens? Let’s dive in and explore the nice and not-so-good parts of calling this place home.
It’s got loads going for it, and we would like to present you the total scoop on living in Athens, GA.
Is Athens a Good Place to Live?
Athens is a terrific home base and a superb place to boost kids.
It’s got all of the pros of living in Austin 15 years ago, and that’s something special.
What sets Athens apart is its great cost of living matched with a high quality of life which may surprise you for a town of its size.
When you’re into music, you’re going to like Athens. The music scene here is incredible, and places like Georgia Theater and 40 Watt Club are only the tip of the iceberg.
There’s a wealthy culture waiting so that you can explore, and also you don’t need a automobile to do it. With free buses and an increasingly bike-friendly attitude, getting around is simple and convenient.
Safety is one other big plus in Athens. It’s a really protected city, which adds to its appeal as a spot to quiet down with a family.
The housing market in Athens generally is a bit tight, especially for reasonably priced options, and it’s difficult to seek out anything decent under $1000 a month. But it surely’s well worth the effort to seek out the correct spot.
Traffic? Not an issue here. And football culture, while present, doesn’t need to dominate your life unless you wish it to.
Athens is growing, and there’s a palpable sense of pleasure within the air. With big development projects within the works, it seems like a spot on the verge of something big.
Whether you’re drawn to the cultural offerings, the protection, or the relaxed atmosphere, there’s plenty to like about living in Athens, GA. So come on down and see what it’s all about.
It’d just be the place you’ve been searching for. Now, let’s check all the professionals and cons of Athens.
Pros of Living in Athens, GA
Listed here are the various advantages of living in Athens:
Reasonable Cost of Living
Athens has a median income of $50,447 and a house value of $310,000 (4.7% up over the past 12 months).
In comparison with other protected cities in Georgia, especially major metropolitan areas, Athens offers reasonably priced housing options, lower utility bills, and lower expenses.
This makes it attractive for families, young professionals, and retirees. Who wouldn’t wish to live in a city where their hard-earned money stretches just a little farther?
A Growing Economy
Athens has a full of life economy, and loads of that comes from the University of Georgia.
The varsity doesn’t just add to the local job market; it makes the town a spot where expert professionals gather, collaborate, and innovate.
With strong research programs on the university, there’s a magnet for talent that extends into various sectors.
From healthcare and technology to creative arts and startups, Athens has a combination of industries that create loads of job prospects and room for profession growth.
Naturally Beautiful
Athens will charm you with its natural beauty should you love nature.
Town is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including lush green forests, rolling hills, and sparkling lakes.
Its proximity to The North Georgia Mountains and the Chattahoochee National Forest offers countless outdoor adventures similar to mountaineering, camping, and fishing.
Athens also has quite a few parks and green spaces where you possibly can loosen up, picnic, or just soak in the town’s scenic beauty.
Great Food Culture
When you love food, Athens is a dream come true.
This city knows easy methods to eat! Whether you’re into Southern comfort food or international dishes, there’s something for each taste here.
And should you’re a fan of beer or spirits, the local breweries and distilleries won’t disappoint.
From cool little cafes to restaurants that win awards, Athens has dining options that fit any budget, ensuring no person leaves hungry.
Eccentric Music
When you’re into tunes, you’re going to like Athens.
This place is all about music, and it’s been home to big names like R.E.M., the B-52s, and Widespread Panic.
But it surely’s not only the famous bands that make Athens rock.
There’s at all times something happening within the local music scene, whether you’re into jazz, rock, blues, or indie.
If you wish to get a feel for what’s occurring on the town, try the web sites for Georgia Theater, 40 Watt Club, Classic Center, and UGA Presents.
You’ll get a taste of the several performances coming through and possibly find your next favorite band.
The people here love their music, and also you’ll feel that energy throughout town.
College Town
As home to the University of Georgia, Athens has the distinct advantage of being a university town.
This brings a full of life, youthful energy that permeates every corner of the town.
The presence of scholars creates a dynamic atmosphere, offering a big selection of cultural activities, sports events, and academic opportunities.
College campuses are known for having resources and facilities that always profit the local people, and Athens is not any exception.
The university’s libraries, museums, and sports facilities are open to the general public, providing enrichment options for residents of all ages.
Great art Scene
For those with an appreciation for the humanities, Athens is a haven.
Town has a thriving arts scene, with quite a few galleries, theaters, and museums offering an eclectic range of exhibitions and performances.
Athens embraces all types of artistic expression, from local art festivals to international exhibits.
The Georgia Museum of Art and the Georgia Theatre are only a few the numerous cultural landmarks in Athens that cater to art buffs, drawing in visitors from near and much.
Robust Housing Market
Athens’s real estate market offers healthy housing options to suit every need and budget.
Whether searching for a captivating historic home within the downtown area or a spacious suburban house to your growing family, you’ll find various options.
Town also has a robust rental market, making it a horny selection for many who prefer to lease as a substitute of own.
With a healthy housing market, finding your dream home in Athens shouldn’t be a far-fetched dream but a reality waiting to occur.
Cons of Living in Athens
Like all other place, there are specific cons that residents of Athens need to contend with.
Hot and Sticky Summers
Summers in Athens are inclined to be extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the upper 80s.
High temperatures and humidity will be uncomfortable for those unfamiliar with such weather conditions.
Outdoor activities throughout the day will be difficult, and air-con becomes vital, resulting in higher utility bills.
Rowdy Downtown Scene (too many students)
Athens isn’t just known for its music and food; it’s also home to the University of Georgia, with a whopping 38,000 students.
Now, that many students can really enliven a spot, especially downtown.
But be warned, it’s not for everybody.
If game days and weekends get just a little wild to your taste, you may find the noise, traffic jams, and the fight for parking a bit much.
It may possibly be a fun scene, but it may possibly even be a hassle should you’re not within the mood for it.
High Poverty Rate
Despite being home to a prestigious university, Athens struggles with the next poverty rate than the national average.
Around one in five people here live in poverty, and that’s way above the national average.
But it surely’s not nearly statistics. Previously few years, there’s been a noticeable increase within the homeless population, and it’s got loads of folks nervous.
Athens has turn out to be the go-to place for mental health and rehab services in northeast Georgia, but with one in all the very best poverty rates per capita for a county, it seems like there’s more occurring under the surface than you’d expect for a town this size.
Rising Real Estate Prices
Athens has seen an actual spike in housing costs in recent times.
Whether you’re seeking to rent or buy, you’re going to seek out that prices have gone up.
It’s a pinch that’s hitting loads of folks, from long-time residents to newcomers searching for cheaper options.
Now, here’s a heads-up should you’re not a student: the Athens rental market is just about built across the university crowd.
Most leases start in July or August, and it’s all about student living.
It’s not at all times easy to seek out a one-bedroom apartment, and should you’re a non-student, this whole setup might feel a bit frustrating.
But, let’s keep some perspective.When you’ve been living in Atlanta and are stressed concerning the housing situation there, take a breath.
Cut that anxiety in half, and that’s about how hard it’ll be in Athens.
Sure, it’s a bit more seasonal, and possibly the timing isn’t perfect, but don’t overthink it an excessive amount of. It’s a challenge, nevertheless it’s workable.
Final Thoughts
Living in Athens, GA, offers its own unique mix of advantages and challenges.
Your selection to maneuver here will depend largely on what you’re searching for in a house base.
When you appreciate a full of life music scene, quality education on the University of Georgia, and a terrific cost of living/quality of life ratio, Athens could possibly be the right fit for you.
But should you’re concerned concerning the rising housing costs, the seasonal rental market catering to students, or the underlying issues like poverty and a growing homeless population, chances are you’ll wish to weigh these aspects rigorously.
Athens has loads to supply, but when it’s not suitable for you, remember to check our guides for living elsewhere in Georgia:
11 Pros And Cons Of Living In Sandy Springs
13 Pros And Cons Of Living In Macon
