Your complete guide to moving to Athens, GA

Athens, GA is a vibrant and captivating city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and an unmatched Southern charm. Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Athens has something to offer for everyone, making it an ideal place to live.

One of the main reasons to consider moving to Athens is its thriving music scene. Known as the “Liverpool of the South,” the city has produced many renowned musicians, including the legendary band R.E.M. and the B-52s. With numerous live music venues, ranging from intimate clubs to larger concert halls, you’ll have ample opportunities to enjoy a diverse range of performances and discover emerging talents.

Living in Athens also means indulging in a vibrant culinary scene. The city is home to a variety of unique and delicious dining options, ranging from traditional Southern cuisine to innovative farm-to-table restaurants. You can explore the local farmers’ markets, sample artisanal cheeses, and enjoy craft beer brewed by local breweries.

Athens Area Communities

Five Points

Located near the University of Georgia campus, Five Points is a vibrant and popular neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and local businesses. It offers a mix of residential and commercial spaces, including boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Normaltown

Situated just north of downtown Athens, Normaltown is a trendy and eclectic neighborhood. It has a lively atmosphere with a mix of restaurants, bars, music venues, and art galleries. The community is known for its artistic and bohemian vibe, attracting a diverse range of residents.

Boulevard

Boulevard is a historic neighborhood that offers a strong sense of community and a charming small-town feel. It features beautiful homes with architectural character, tree-lined streets, and a thriving local art scene. The Boulevard neighborhood hosts regular community events and festivals.

Cobbham

Cobbham is another historic neighborhood with well-preserved homes and a strong sense of community pride. The area boasts picturesque streets and is known for its historic architecture. It’s conveniently located near downtown Athens and offers easy access to local amenities.

Eastside

The Eastside of Athens is a suburban area with a mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial developments. It offers a quieter atmosphere compared to the bustling downtown, with various parks, shopping centers, and restaurants. The Eastside is popular among families and those seeking a more suburban lifestyle.

Top Athens School Districts

Finding the right school district for your children has a major impact on their quality of life and path to success. These are the top rated school districts in the Athens Area; if you want to delve deeper into school records and standards for the State of Georgia, NewHomeSource has a guide to all the resources you need to find the right school for your child.

Kian Update!!!!!!

Students Served: 71,721

School Breakdown: 66 elementary schools, 22 middle schools, and 17 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 25

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: Antelope Island, Hill Air Force Base, Davis

Kian Update!!!!!!

Students Served: 34,423

School Breakdown: 32 elementary schools, 14 middle schools, and 14 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 23

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics

Communities Served: Alta, Brighton, Solitude, Sandy, Seven Springs, Pepperwood Canyon, Hidden Hill

Kian Update!!!!!!

Students Served: 24,526

School Breakdown: 30 elementary schools, 11 middle schools, and 7 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 22

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in some demographics

Communities Served: Salt Lake City

Kian Update!!!!!!

Students Served: 52,985

School Breakdown: 68 elementary schools, 27 middle schools, and 22 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 24

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in some demographics

Communities Served: Riverton, Westfold, Bluffdale, Olivers, Dalton, Snyder, Maxfield, Echo Ridge, Country Cove, Ridgecrest, Clover Ridge

Kian Update!!!!!!

Students Served: 6,544

School Breakdown: 7 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 2 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 23

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics

Communities Served: Murray

Kian Update!!!!!!

Students Served: 70,100

School Breakdown: 72 elementary schools, 27 middle schools, and 23 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 24

Test Proficiency: Below state averages

Communities Served: Garfield, Lost Acres, South Salt Lake

Top Employers in Athens

Healthcare and manufacturing are two of the largest employers in Savannah.

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation

The Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation is the largest employer in the Savannah Area, providing over 11,000 jobs to people in the manufacturing field.

Savannah-Chatham County Board of Education

The Savannah-Chatham County Board of Education provide over 5,000 jobs in the education sector to people who provide necessary government services and education services to the people of Savannah.

St. Joseph’s Candler

St. Joseph’s Candler is the largest employer in Savannah providing thousands of jobs in all aspects of the healthcare sector.

Memorial University Medical Center

Memorial University Medical Center is another major healthcare employer in the Savannah Area, providing thousands of more jobs to people involved with hospital systems.

Wal-Mart and the Wal-Mart Distribution Center

Wal-Mart has a major employment presence in Savannah, with almost 7,000 retail sector and distributuion jobs available to residents.

Athens Area Museums

Georgia Museum of Art

Located on the University of Georgia campus, the Georgia Museum of Art is the state’s official art museum. It houses a vast collection of American paintings, works on paper, European art, and decorative arts. The museum also features rotating exhibitions showcasing various art forms and styles.

Athens-Clarke County Library Heritage Room

Situated within the Athens-Clarke County Library, the Heritage Room is dedicated to preserving and promoting local history. It contains a wealth of resources, including archives, manuscripts, photographs, and maps related to Athens and the surrounding area. It’s a great place to delve into the rich historical heritage of the region.

UGA Special Collections Libraries

Housed on the University of Georgia campus, the UGA Special Collections Libraries offer an array of unique collections, including rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and artifacts. Visitors can explore exhibits related to Southern history, Civil Rights, Georgia literature, and more.

Lyndon House Arts Center

The Lyndon House Arts Center showcases contemporary art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural programs. The center features rotating exhibits by local, regional, and national artists, highlighting a variety of artistic mediums and styles.

Great Parks in the Athens Area

Sandy Creek Park

Located on a 782-acre site, Sandy Creek Park is one of the largest and most popular parks in Athens. It features a 260-acre lake where you can go fishing, boating, or kayaking. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a dog park.

Memorial Park

Situated near downtown Athens, Memorial Park is a beautiful green space that pays homage to local veterans. The park features walking trails, sports fields, tennis courts, a pool, and a playground. It also houses the Bear Hollow Zoo, a small wildlife exhibit showcasing native Georgia animals.

Bishop Park

Situated in the heart of Athens, Bishop Park is a community park that offers a range of amenities. It features sports fields, tennis courts, a swimming pool, a playground, and picnic areas. The park is a popular spot for outdoor activities and social gatherings.

Living in Athens

Athens, GA offers a perfect blend of culture, entertainment, natural beauty, and a tight-knit community. Whether you’re looking for an active social life, artistic inspiration, or outdoor adventures, Athens has it all. Embrace the charm and energy of this remarkable city, and you’ll discover why it’s a great place to call home.

The people of Athens are known for their warm hospitality, creating a friendly and welcoming environment. The city has a strong sense of community, with various local events and festivals that bring residents together. From the Athens Farmers Market to the Twilight Criterium bike race, there’s always something exciting happening in town.

Athens Housing Trends

With a great blend of hip downtown neighborhoods and family-friendly suburbs, there are many housing options depending on the kind of lifestyle you are looking for.

Housing costs are rising over time, but there are still a variety of options depending on your pricepoint, as there are many suburbs and cities surrounding Athens.

Median Home Price: $355,000

The median home price in Athens is lower than the national median home price, making it a wonderful place to settle down, if you’re a first time homebuyer, or an experienced home shopper looknig for the perfect retirement destination.

Amazing Athens Restaurants

These are just a few examples of the many restaurants you can find in Athens, GA. Whether you’re in the mood for Southern comfort food, international flavors, or fine dining experiences, you’ll discover a diverse culinary landscape in Athens that caters to all palates.

The Last Resort Grill

This popular restaurant features a diverse menu with a Southern and Mediterranean fusion. It offers delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including seafood, steak, vegetarian options, and delectable desserts.

Five & Ten

Helmed by acclaimed chef Hugh Acheson, Five & Ten is a fine dining establishment that combines Southern flavors with modern culinary techniques. It offers an elegant dining experience and a menu featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Mama’s Boy

Known for its Southern-style breakfast and brunch, Mama’s Boy is a beloved Athens eatery. You can savor dishes like biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits, and fluffy pancakes, all served with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The National

This European-style café and restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and a menu inspired by Mediterranean flavors. You can enjoy dishes like wood-fired pizzas, seasonal salads, and an array of small plates.

Cali N Tito’s

For a taste of Latin American cuisine, Cali N Tito’s is a local favorite. This vibrant and casual eatery serves up flavorful dishes like Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, and marinated grilled meats.

Great Attractions for Athens Stay-cations

Tree That Owns Itself

The Tree That Owns Itself is a famous landmark in Athens. Located near the University of Georgia campus, this oak tree has legal ownership of itself and the surrounding land. It’s an intriguing and quirky piece of local history.

State Botanical Garden of Georgia

Located a short drive from Athens, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia offers a diverse collection of plants, flowers, and gardens. Visitors can explore the themed gardens, hike through nature trails, and learn about the region’s flora and fauna. The garden also hosts educational programs and events.

North Oconee River Greenway

This scenic trail system stretches along the North Oconee River, providing a tranquil escape within the city. The greenway offers walking, jogging, and biking paths, as well as spots for picnicking and birdwatching. It’s an excellent place to enjoy nature and get some exercise.

Athens Twilight Criterium

If you’re a fan of cycling, don’t miss the Athens Twilight Criterium. This annual bike race brings together professional cyclists from around the world for a thrilling competition. It’s a lively event with food vendors, live music, and a festive atmosphere.

Shopping

Athens has a great mix of unique local shops and big-name stores, often found side by side in shopping areas. There’s plenty of opportunity to shop ‘til you drop in this city.

Athens Farmers Market

Take a stroll through the vibrant downtown area, known for its charming architecture, unique shops, art galleries, and live music venues. The streets are lined with a variety of establishments, including bookstores, boutiques, and coffee shops.

Agora Vintage

Located in downtown Athens, Agora Vintage is a treasure trove for vintage clothing enthusiasts. This boutique offers a carefully curated selection of vintage apparel, accessories, and home decor items.

Avid Bookshop

Avid Bookshop is an independent bookstore that showcases a wide range of books, including bestsellers, local authors, and niche genres. The knowledgeable staff provides personalized recommendations, and the store often hosts author events and book clubs.

Wuxtry Records

Established in 1976, Wuxtry Records is a beloved Athens institution for music lovers and vinyl enthusiasts. Browse through their extensive collection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, and music memorabilia.

Places of Worship

Athens has numerous places of worship that represent a wide range of faiths and religions.

​First Christian Church of Athens

​The First Christian Church of Athens is a beautiful historic church, founded in the 1870s, that welcomes the people of Athens into fellowship with Jesus.

​Congregation Children of Israel

​The Congregation Children of Israel is a warm and welcoming Reform Jewish synagogue that serves the people of Athens.

​Al-Huda Islamic Center of Athens

​The Al-Huda Islamic Center of Athens serves the Muslim community of Athens in this convenient community center.