Cumming vs Gainesville
Cumming and Gainesville are two towns that I get questions about constantly. They have a few similarities, and some major differences that are very important when choosing which one to move to. Today I thought I would put these two popular towns head to head, and let you decide who is the “winner”. Both of these towns sit on Lake Lanier which makes them highly desirable To live in, but there are some big differences when it comes to price, schools, and town amenities. Let’s talk about schools first. Cumming is located in Forsyth county, which is notorious for its incredible schools. They have several schools that are rated an eight or a nine on niche.com which is a website that many people use to decide what school systems they want to send their kids to. Precise county schools are rated number to best school districts in Georgia according to that same website, which is a huge advantage of living in Cumming. The schools in Gainesville and Hall county are good, don’t get me wrong, but they do not have the same ratings that Forsyth county schools do. I most definitely believe that you can send your kid to school in Hall county and they can get an amazing education, I actually taught in the county myself. However, schools are not necessarily something that people will relocate to Gainesville with the sole purpose of attending, Unless it is for athletics. There are some amazing athletic programs in the Gainesville hall county area, like Gainesville high school and North Hall high school. But Cumming definitely takes the cake when it comes to higher rated schools. If schools are important to you, I’m sure the cost of living at home prices is! Homes in general and Cumming are more expensive by far than they are in the majority of Gainesville, and not only our home price is more expensive, but so is the overall cost of living. On a scale based on the US average of 100, the cost of living in Cumming has a score of 116.1, which is obviously 16.1 points higher than the national average. This is one of the highest levels in the state of Georgia, and much much higher than Gainesville. Gainesville comes in 26.5 points lower than Cumming, which is a huge difference. This number comes from housing prices, the cost of utilities, taxes, etc. The median listing price of homes in Cumming is $470,000 with the median sold price of $440,000. In Gainesville on the other hand, the median listing home price is $299,500. The median sold home price is $330,000. That’s not to say that there aren’t more expensive homes in Gainesville, which there most certainly are, especially closer to downtown, but the median home price is much, much lower than it is in Cumming. I will give this round to Gainesville for it’s lower home prices and lower overall cost of living. If you are big into shopping, Cumming might be a little bit more appealing to you. They have tons and tons of shopping, from little small business boutiques, too big box stores, to more higher end retailers that are typically only located near bigger cities. There are several huge shopping areas, like the Collection at Forsyth, Cumming market Place, Cumming 400 Shopping Center, and the list goes on. They have just about every store and restaurant that you can think of and Cumming, it is definitely more built out than Gainesville is when it comes to shopping. And you are only about 15 minutes from the popular Avalon or Halcyon in Alpharetta. These are two great outdoor shopping venues with a ton of great local restaurants and is a popular destination for families and people of all ages. Of course Gainesville has great restaurants and shopping as well, but not nearly as much. Gainesville has the downtown Square which features a lot of smaller businesses, and local breweries which makes the town a lot more unique and charming in my opinion, you can check out Downtown Drafts on the square or my favorite, Cork It. Of course Gainesville also have target, Walmart, TJ Maxx, and all of your other retail stores and chain restaurants that you’re used to, But there are a few less options then you would have in Cumming. I don’t think that Gainesville should be docked a point for this, but I do definitely think that Cumming has more options if you are big into shopping and retail. And of course, Gainesville is closer to the Mall of Georgia in Buford which is about 20-30 minutes away. You’re also close to the new Top Golf in Buford as well. When it comes to housing, you are going to have more options in Gainesville, because it is bigger size wise, but both towns are growing and expanding and adding more new construction neighborhoods. I just recently talked about new construction in and around Gainesville and how difficult it is to actually get a new construction home under contract these days, but it is possible. Obviously like I mentioned earlier home prices in Cumming are much higher, and there’s also a lot less resale homes in Cumming then there is in Gainesville. You will definitely have more options in Gainesville, and the prices will be a lot lower. Cumming is very popular for commuters, Georgia 400 runs through Cumming and will take you straight into Atlanta- commuting is never super fast these days with all the construction and road work, but Cumming is definitely an easier place to commute to the city from then Gainesville and is a popular location for people to live who commute to the Alpharetta area. Something that both of these towns have that is a huge selling point is convenient access to Lake Lanier. Both towns sit on Lake Lanier with Cumming being on the southwest side of the lake, and Gainesville being on the northeast side of the lake. Obviously that means there is a plethora of outdoor activities to do in both of these towns, Between the lake, and public parks that they both have quite a few of. If you are big into water sports, kayaking, hiking, anything that has to do with being outdoors, these are both great places to live because you Can take advantage of all the shopping restaurants and businesses in town, but also quickly run to the lake and enjoy the outdoors. And it goes without mentioning, when it comes to the names of the towns–Gainesville wins that one hands down. So what do you think? Would you rather live in coming and pay a little bit more but have more shopping and restaurants, and be closer to Atlanta, or would you rather pay a little less and live in Gainesville and enjoy a little bit more charm? 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The Best Places to Live In Gainesville, Georgia
Planning to move to the Gainesville, GA area but unsure where to settle? We've got you covered. In this guide, we'll explore five of the most popular communities in Gainesville and Hall County, helping you make an informed choice. Flowery Branch - The Commuter's Haven Flowery Branch is the first on our list, a smaller town beloved by commuters heading to Atlanta. It offers easy access to the city via Interstate 985, making it a prime choice for Atlanta-bound professionals. Housing in Flowery Branch is attractive, with newer and more spacious homes compared to Atlanta, but this comes at a premium. The average home price in Flowery Branch is around $265,000, making it an appealing mix of affordability and convenience. This charming town is enriched with local amenities and proximity to Lake Lanier, making it a favorite for families and commuters alike. Downtown Gainesville - Where Charm Meets Diversity Downtown Gainesville, the next on our list, is a magnet for young professionals and families with older children. The town oozes charm and diversity, boasting stately homes on Green Street that have been converted into businesses, offices, and restaurants. While property prices are at a premium for these historic homes, the town is investing in new apartment complexes to accommodate young professionals. Downtown Gainesville's bustling Square offers an array of shops, restaurants, and cafes. The schools here are highly rated, and it's an excellent choice for those seeking proximity to vibrant city life and the beauty of Lake Lanier. North Hall - For Peace and Space Northern Hall County is the perfect retreat for those who prefer a quieter, more rural lifestyle. Living here offers the best of both worlds – peaceful surroundings and a quick 20-minute drive to major retailers like Target and Walmart. This area is excellent for those desiring more land or even acreage for farming. However, it may not be the ideal spot for those craving quick access to fast food giants like Chick-fil-A and Starbucks. North Hall boasts stunning properties, often with scenic views and strong schools with robust athletic programs. This region is a great choice if you're interested in the mountains or have a teen considering the University of North Georgia Dahlonega campus. Lake Lanier - Lakeside Luxury Lake Lanier is one of Hall County's most sought-after areas, offering lakeside living with a breathtaking view. The average home price here is around $530,000, although it can go well into the million-dollar range for prime properties. The appeal of Lake Lanier is in its outdoor activities, from boating to fishing, and the community feel. Some neighborhoods provide community docks for those not directly on the lake. You can also enjoy Lake Lanier Islands' waterpark during the summer and festive events year-round. This lakeside life brings proximity to conveniences and scenic beauty, but finding the perfect home with all your desires can be a challenge. Braselton/Hoschton - Safety and Community Braselton and Hoschton are attracting retirees and families, thanks to their reputation as the safest towns in Georgia. This bustling area has plenty of 55 and older communities, like Cresswinds at Twin Lakes, The Village at Deaton Creek, and Chateau Del Web, which offer maintenance-free living and fantastic amenities. Homes in these communities range from the upper 200s to the 500s. Beyond these communities, Braselton has a thriving sense of community, hosting frequent events, festivals, and markets. Located near I-85, you can conveniently reach Atlanta within an hour. KeyPoint The Gainesville and Hall County area offers a plethora of appealing options, each with its unique charm and character. Whether you're searching for a bustling downtown, lakeside luxury, rural retreat, or a safe community, you'll find the perfect place for your family in this vibrant region. The North Georgia lifestyle is unbeatable, and we'd be thrilled to assist you in your move.
What it’s Really Like Living in Gainesville
Gainesville, Georgia, is a town that has been making strides in recent years, transforming into a unique blend of southern charm and modern living. In this post, we'll delve into the essence of Gainesville and what it's like to call this town home. Location and Proximity Gainesville, nestled in the heart of Hall County, is home to approximately 49,000 residents. Its location is one of its key selling points. The town offers an exceptional balance of being just minutes from Lake Lanier, making it a haven for water enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Moreover, Gainesville is conveniently positioned about 40-45 minutes from the North Georgia Mountains, catering to those who appreciate the allure of the mountains. This combination of proximity to both the water and mountains is a dream come true for those who relish the great outdoors. Furthermore, Gainesville is strategically situated about 45 miles north of Atlanta. This easy access to the city is perfect for quick trips, flights, or leisurely days spent exploring Atlanta. While Gainesville isn't the go-to choice for daily city commuters due to its distance from Atlanta, it does offer the advantage of lower living costs compared to more urbanized towns like Alpharetta and Johns Creek. Downtown Revitalization In recent years, downtown Gainesville has undergone significant revitalization. The charming downtown area, which has always been a highlight of the town, is now undergoing major transformations. One notable project is "The National," an $80 million endeavor converting an old bank into a mixed-use space featuring a hotel, restaurants, and apartments. The town has also seen the introduction of the "Bridge To Somewhere" with the construction of the Solis apartments, which connects residents to the downtown square. These developments are fostering a more walkable community, making Gainesville even more attractive. Gainesville Trolley For those who prefer not to walk, Gainesville offers the Gainesville Trolley, a free hop-on-hop-off service during the summer months and again in December for Christmas. The trolley tour covers key locations such as the downtown square, Brenau University campus, Quinlan Visual Arts Center, City Park, and more. This trolley experience adds to the town's charm, creating a vibe reminiscent of towns like Charleston and Savannah. Culinary Scene and Real Estate Development Gainesville is witnessing a culinary renaissance with new restaurants like "Standard Service" adding to the town's retro charm. Upcoming establishments, "Bourbon Brothers Smokehouse & Tavern" and "Boot Barn Hall," promise diverse dining and entertainment experiences. Real estate is booming too, with luxury rental communities and retail centers revitalizing old shopping areas, providing more housing options and stimulating the local economy. Lake Lanier Lake Lanier, a vast man-made lake spanning five counties, including much of Gainesville, is one of the town's most enticing features. It offers numerous recreational opportunities, from camping and fishing to water sports and public beaches. With two marinas in Gainesville, you don't need to own a boat to enjoy the lake. The Fourth of July is a particularly festive time on the lake, attracting crowds, but you can still find quieter spots for a serene escape. Housing Market The average home price in Gainesville is currently $515,000. Although living on the lake may cost more, with prices around $750,000 and up, it's still significantly more affordable than neighboring areas like Johns Creek, Alpharetta, or Milton. KeyPoint The southern charm, affordability, and numerous attractions in Gainesville make it a compelling place to call home. If you're considering a move to Gainesville, my team and I are here to assist you every step of the way.
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