Is This Georgia’s Best Place to Retire? Northeast Georgia’s 55+ Communities

There’s no denying it—Northeast Georgia has become one of the hottest retirement spots in the Southeast. Between the lakeside views, access to Atlanta, and retirement-friendly tax perks, this part of Hall County and its surrounding towns is drawing retirees from all over the country.

I’m Sarah Maslowski with KeyPoint Homes Group, and I help families and individuals relocate to North Georgia every day. Over the last few years, I’ve seen a surge of buyers choosing Flowery Branch, Gainesville, and Braselton for one big reason: 55+ active adult communities. Let’s break down why this area is on the rise for retirees and highlight some of the most exciting neighborhoods.

Why Northeast Georgia Is a Retirement Hotspot

The appeal comes down to lifestyle and location.

• Close enough to Atlanta to reach the airport, concerts, and sporting events easily.

• Far enough away to escape the high prices and heavy traffic.

• Convenient local amenities—Lake Lanier, top-rated hospitals, shopping, and dining—without driving into the city.

For retirees, it’s the perfect balance: suburban comfort with big-city access when you need it.

Is Georgia Retirement-Friendly?

Yes—Georgia is one of the most tax-friendly states for retirees.

• Lower overall income taxes compared to many other states.

• Strong senior property tax exemptions.

• In Hall County, homeowners age 70 and older qualify for a full exemption from the school portion of property taxes, no matter their income.
  
  

👉 That means many retirees cut their property tax bill in half—a major financial incentive to settle here.

Why Builders Are Targeting This Area

Unlike closer-in suburbs like Alpharetta or Johns Creek, Hall County and Braselton still have available land. That makes it possible for developers to build the large master-planned communities retirees love—complete with:

• Clubhouses

• Pools

• Walking trails

• Social programs

• Gated entrances

These amenities are designed for lifestyle, not just housing—and they’re a big reason retirees are flocking here.

Spotlight: Sterling on the Lake – Flowery Branch

One of my personal favorites is The Retreat at Sterling on the Lake in Flowery Branch.

• This is the 55+ section of the larger Sterling on the Lake master-planned community.

• Residents enjoy their own private amenities but also have access to the larger neighborhood’s offerings.

• Built by David Weekley Homes, this neighborhood just wrapped up construction.
  
  
  

I even had the privilege of listing the former model home here—a stunning property loaded with designer touches, from coffered ceilings to an oversized shower and extended patio overlooking Flowery Branch.

👉 While new construction in The Retreat has sold out, resale homes are available—and they offer all the benefits of this gated, amenity-rich community.

New 55+ Communities on the Horizon

Lanier Landing – Gainesville (David Weekley Homes)

• 507 homes across 121 acres.

• Mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and condos.

• Amenities include clubhouse, pool, pickleball, and walking trails.

• Located just 10 minutes from Northeast Georgia Medical Center and Lake Lanier.

• Pricing expected from the mid-$500Ks for single-family homes, with condos and townhomes offering more affordable options.
  
  
  

The Court at Gainesville Township – Gainesville (Lennar)

• Part of a larger master-planned community with shared resort-style amenities.

• Features include clubhouse, pool, dog park, tennis, and pickleball courts.

• 55+ residents share amenities with the overall neighborhood (no private section).

• Homes currently selling in the $500K range.

• Located less than 10 minutes from downtown Gainesville and the hospital.
  
  
  

Lifestyle Beyond the Neighborhoods

One of the biggest perks of retiring in this part of North Georgia is everything just outside your neighborhood.

• Lake Lanier: Dining at Fish Tales, boat storage at Safe Harbor Marina, and endless water activities.

• Shopping: Target, Home Depot, Publix, TJ Maxx, and more are minutes away.

• Highways: Quick access to I-85 and I-985 means easy trips to the airport or downtown Atlanta.

It’s suburban living with big conveniences close by.

Bottom Line: Is Northeast Georgia the Best Place to Retire?

If you’re searching for a retirement destination with:

✅ Affordable homes and tax savings
✅ Active 55+ communities with resort-style amenities
✅ Lake views, hospitals, shopping, and dining nearby
✅ Easy access to Atlanta without the hustle and bustle

Then yes—Northeast Georgia is one of the best places to retire in the state.

Ready to Explore 55+ Communities?

My team at KeyPoint Homes Group specializes in helping retirees relocate to Flowery Branch, Gainesville, Braselton, and surrounding towns. We’ve toured these neighborhoods, helped buyers close in them, and know what sets each community apart.