Retiring in North Georgia

After years of working hard and saving up, many people dream of the day they can finally retire. Whether you’re a year away or you’re planning years in advance, here’s everything you need to know about living the retired life in north Georgia.
Why Live in Georgia
With all the places you could live when you retire, you may be wondering why retirement in Georgia can be the right fit. For starters, several online articles have praised Georgia for its safe neighborhoods, affordable housing, beautiful outdoors, and kind, hospitable people. Georgia offers a unique experience for couples, professionals, and families — and it’s no different when it comes to retirees.
Best Mountain Towns to Retire
There are several North Georgia Mountain towns from which to choose. Whether you’re looking for a quaint, small town or a city with a wide variety of activities available, living in the Blue Ridge Mountains has something for everyone. Three popular towns for retirement include:
- Ellijay, Georgia: Ellijay is the county seat of Gilmer County and is famous for its annual Apple Festival in October. Also known as the Apple Capital of Georgia, Ellijay provides a small-town, family-friendly environment for retirees.
- Blue Ridge, Georgia: Blue Ridge offers activities such as horseback riding in the Chattahoochee National Forest, touring the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, fruit picking at Mercier Orchards, fishing at the Toccoa River, and golfing at Old Toccoa Farm.
- Blairsville, Georgia: Blairsville, located in Union County, offers destinations such as Butternut Creek Golf Course, the Chattahoochee National Forest, the highest mountain peak in Georgia, Vogel State Park, and Lake Nottely.

Things to Do in the North Georgia Mountains
Once you’ve picked your dream retirement home in the North Georgia Mountains, there are several activities and sights just a short drive away. Below are some of the most popular ways retirees fill their time.
- Enjoy the outdoors. From fishing to sightseeing to horseback riding, the North Georgia Mountains offer endless outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy fast-paced activities like rafting and tubing or a slower pace of life with hiking and fishing, there’s sure to be a beautiful space nearby that offers just what you’re looking for.
- Attend local events. Attend the Georgia Apple Festival each October, the Georgia Renaissance Festival from April to June, or one of the many fall festivals held in the North Georgia Mountains each year. You can watch the Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race in the early spring and take the grandkids to see North Georgia’s Santa Claus at the end of the year.
- Dine to your heart’s content. Love to start your morning with a cup of joe? There are several locations of Caribou Coffee in the area. If you’re looking for some food, try the pizza at Paizano’s Italian Restaurant, buffet-style food at the Blue Willow Inn, southern cuisine at Milton’s, or family style dining at The Smith House.
- Give back to the community. With charities like Creature Teachers, The Golden Pencil, and The Open Door Community, it’s easy to volunteer for a cause that you care about. Help out at a local animal shelter or volunteer at an elementary school — whichever route you choose, there’s an organization that would be happy to have your help.
This list only covers a small portion of the activities available in the North Georgia Mountains. One thing is clear: between the miles of mountains, the hospitable communities, and the endless variety of events and activities, retiring in North Georgia will be a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else!
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