Life in Athens
Located less than 100 miles from Atlanta, Athens is a charming community and home to the University of Georgia. It is a quintessential southern college town, full of entertainment, restaurants, and exciting collegiate sports. It is a city rich in history and full of iconic antebellum architecture, and it plays host to a number of events and festivals throughout the year.
Economy and Job Market
Athens has a diversified economy and a low unemployment rate, making it an attractive location for those looking to start or advance their careers. Athens has one of the strongest economies in the state of Georgia and ranks among the top small cities in the country for job stability and economic performance. The University of Georgia is the largest employer in the city, followed by the Clarke County School District. Other top employers include Piedmont Athens Regional, St. Mary’s Health Care System, Caterpillar, and Pilgrim's Pride Corporation.
Cost of Living
Not only are jobs plentiful in Athens, but their earnings also go further than many other cities. The cost of living is just a fragment higher than the national average, with median home prices around $250,000. Property taxes are much lower than the national average, and residents will also find it more affordable for groceries, utilities, and transportation.
Excellent City for Families
Despite being a college town, Athens is a fantastic city for raising a family. It has earned many accolades for being one of the best cities to live, work, and play. For starters, Athens has an excellent school system. Most children attend the Clarke County School District, which serves nearly 14,000 students. Some of the best public schools in the city include Chase Street Elementary, South Jackson Elementary, Westside Elementary, Athens City Middle School, and McMinn High School. There are also a number of excellent private school options, including Athens Christian School, St. Joseph Catholic Parish, and Downtown Academy. In addition to great schools, Athens also offers a variety of parks, activities, and recreational facilities geared towards families.
Dining and Entertainment
Athens is never short of fun things to do. It boasts a number of excellent restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. It was even featured in Southern Living magazine as one of the “South’s Best Food Cities.” Some must-try local restaurants include The Place, South Kitchen+Grill, The Royal Peasant, and The National, just to name a few. The city also enjoys a growing craft beer scene with a variety of local breweries and distilleries. Live music is also popular in Athens. Locals enjoy hanging out at venues such as The Foundry and the 40 Watt Club.
Best Neighborhoods in Athens
In addition to the University of Georgia, the excellent schools, delicious food, and lively nightlife, Athens is known for its prime real estate. There are a variety of wonderful neighborhoods to choose from that suit any lifestyle and budget. Here are some of the top neighborhoods in Athens:
Five Points: Five Points is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Athens and is also the most expensive. Located next to the UGA campus, the community mainly houses college students and families. Residents enjoy being close to campus so they can walk to class or football games. Here, you will find historic homes all within walking distance of bars and restaurants.
Cobbham: This is known for being the first planned development in Athens and has a rich history and diverse architectural styles. It is a great neighborhood for small families and young adults who want to embrace the culture of the city.
Glenview: Glenview is part of the Five Points neighborhood and offers beautiful homes with amazing amenities like a community pool, dog park, clubhouse, and gym. It is also located in one of the best school zones, making it a desirable neighborhood for families.
Clarksboro: This neighborhood features newly constructed homes that are the perfect size for families. It boasts tree-lined streets, beautiful homes with yards, and a tight-knit community feel. Just a short drive from downtown, you are just a few minutes from great restaurants, the university, and plenty of things to do.
Ready to Move to Athens? Allied Van Lines Can Help
Athens is considered one of the best places to live in Georgia. Best known for being home to the University of Georgia, this charming city is not short on school spirit. Here, you will experience Southern hospitality, old-style charm, great dining and entertainment, and friendly people. If you are ready to make the move to Athens, let Allied Van Lines assist you with your relocation. As a leader in the moving industry for more than 95 years, we have the knowledge and skills necessary to move you with ease. Allied offers a comprehensive list of moving services to fit any budget, so call today or start by getting a free quote using our convenient Instaquote tool.