10 Reasons Everyone Is Moving to Georgia (and Why Metro Atlanta Tops the List)

Over the last few years, I’ve watched families from all over the country fall in love with Georgia — especially the North Metro Atlanta suburbs. From affordable homes to a thriving job market and a lifestyle that just feels right, there’s a reason people keep saying, “I wish we’d moved sooner.”

I’m Sarah Maslowski with KeyPoint Homes Group, and I help people relocate to Georgia every single day. After years of helping families find homes in Alpharetta, Cumming, Buford, Suwanee, and Gainesville, I’ve seen exactly what makes this area so appealing. So today, let’s dive into the 10 biggest reasons people are moving to Georgia — and why Metro Atlanta might be the best place to call home.

1. The Weather Is Pretty Close to Perfect ☀️

If you’re coming from the Midwest or Northeast, Georgia’s climate feels like a dream. You’ll enjoy all four seasons — spring blooms, sunny summers, colorful fall leaves, and mild winters.

You can leave your snow shovels behind, but still enjoy a light chill around the holidays. And with Lake Lanier and the North Georgia Mountains just a short drive away, there’s no shortage of outdoor fun year-round.



🧠 “Does Georgia get all four seasons?” — Yes, but without the harsh snow or freezing temps you’ll find up north.

2. Lower Property Taxes (and Senior Savings!) 💰

One of the first things my relocation clients notice is the property tax savings. Georgia’s average property tax rate sits around 1% — far lower than states like New York or New Jersey.

If you’re over 62, it gets even better. Many counties offer school tax exemptions or senior credits that can save you thousands each year.

📊 Example: Forsyth County’s property tax rate is around 0.7%, making it one of the lowest in the state.

3. A Strong Job Market and Economic Growth 💼

Georgia has quickly become one of the fastest-growing job markets in the country. Metro Atlanta’s economy is fueled by technology, logistics, healthcare, and film — with major employers like Delta, UPS, Home Depot, and Microsoft expanding their footprint here.

Alpharetta’s Tech Corridor, Gainesville’s healthcare industry, and the I-85 logistics corridor all offer solid job opportunities with shorter commutes than big-city hubs.

🧠 “Is Georgia good for jobs?” — Yes. Atlanta ranks among the top 10 metros in the U.S. for job growth and relocation opportunities.

4. Top-Rated Schools Across the Suburbs 🎓

Georgia is home to some of the highest-ranked public schools in the Southeast — especially in Forsyth, Gwinnett, and North Fulton counties.

• North Gwinnett High (Suwanee) – 9/10

• Lambert High (Suwanee/Forsyth) – 10/10

• Northview High (Johns Creek) – 9/10

Families moving here often tell me they’re impressed not just by the academics, but by the sense of community and parent involvement in local schools.

✅ Trust Tip: Rankings don’t tell the whole story — visit schools and talk with other parents to see which fit your child best.

5. Homes That Offer More for Your Money 🏡

The cost of living in Georgia is a major attraction.

In the Metro Atlanta suburbs, you can find:

• New builds in Cumming or Gainesville starting in the $400Ks

• Luxury homes in Alpharetta or Johns Creek around $900K–$1M+

• Lakefront properties in Buford starting near $700K

Compared to other major metros — where similar homes can cost $1.5M+ — Georgia’s housing market offers exceptional value.

🧠  “Is Georgia affordable?” — Yes. You’ll get more square footage, land, and amenities for far less than other major metro areas.

6. New Construction and Neighborhood Growth 🚧

Drive through North Metro Atlanta, and you’ll see new neighborhoods, restaurants, and mixed-use developments everywhere.

Cities like Cumming, Buford, and Gainesville are exploding with new construction, while established areas like Suwanee and Alpharetta continue to grow with upscale retail and parks.

💡 Local Insight: Developers are prioritizing walkable communities with pools, trails, and greenspaces — making suburban life more convenient and social than ever.

7. Outdoor Living at Its Best 🌳

Whether you love hiking, boating, or simply spending weekends outside, Georgia’s natural beauty is unmatched.

• Lake Lanier: boating, fishing, paddleboarding, and lakeside dining

• Big Creek Greenway: scenic walking and biking trails

• North Georgia Mountains: weekend getaways with waterfalls and wineries

The best part? You’re never more than an hour from a lake, mountain, or trailhead.

8. A Convenient Central Location ✈️

Georgia’s location makes travel simple. You’re within a few hours of everything — beaches, mountains, and major southern cities.

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the world’s busiest, with nonstop flights to almost anywhere.

• 4–5 hours to Florida’s beaches or Charleston, SC

• 1–2 hours to Blue Ridge or Helen in the North Georgia Mountains
  
  ✈️ Experience Note: Many of my clients who travel for work love how easy it is to hop on a flight without connecting through multiple airports.

9. Great Food and Cultural Diversity 🌮

Georgia’s food scene is deliciously diverse.

You’ll find everything from classic Southern barbecue to international eats across the suburbs. Duluth is known for its incredible Korean and Vietnamese restaurants, Buford has some of the best Mexican spots around (and yes — I love tacos 🌮), and Alpharetta mixes local breweries with high-end dining at Avalon.

This blend of cultures is what makes Metro Atlanta so special — and it’s reflected in its food, festivals, and friendly neighborhoods.

10. Southern Hospitality ❤️

Finally, one thing money can’t buy — the people.

Georgia is known for its kindness, warmth, and community. Whether you’re walking your dog, grabbing groceries, or chatting with neighbors, you’ll find that Southern friendliness is alive and well here.

“Nearly every family I’ve helped relocate says the same thing: people here actually wave hello.”

Thinking About Moving to Georgia?

Every family has their own reason for relocating, but most agree — once you settle in, it feels like home fast.

If you’re considering making the move, my team at KeyPoint Homes Group can help you compare neighborhoods, navigate costs, and find the perfect home in the North Metro Atlanta suburbs like Alpharetta, Cumming, Buford, Suwanee, or Gainesville.