The idea of becoming a snowbird in retirement has an undeniable appeal. Those who have spent much of their lives dealing with the harsh northern winters often want to head south for warmer weather. Typically, snowbirds gravitate to Florida, California, or Arizona, but Georgia offers an attractive alternative that often goes overlooked.
The state offers mild winters, exceptional tax benefits, and a low cost of living for stretching retirement dollars further. If you haven’t thought of snowbirding in Georgia, the Peach State is a fantastic place to retire. With its vibrant capital city and charming coastal communities, Georgia offers something for everyone looking to live somewhere affordable without sacrificing quality of life.
Why Georgia Is a Tax-Friendly Haven for Retirees
One of the biggest advantages of retiring in Georgia is the state’s generous tax treatment of retirement income. With a substantial retirement income exclusion, significant reductions to your tax burden are possible.
For residents aged 65 and older, Georgia provides a $65,000 deduction per person on various types of retirement income, including:
- Pension and annuity payments
- IRA and 401(k) withdrawals
- Capital gains
- Interest and dividends
- Net rental property income
Married couples filing jointly can potentially exclude up to $130,000 of combined retirement income from state taxes. Those aged 62-64 can still benefit from a $35,000 per-person exclusion.
The state is tax-friendly in other ways as well, having just moved to a flat income tax rate, which dropped to just 5.19% in 2025. The state sales tax is 4%, though some localities add their own taxes, bringing the average combined rate to 7.745%. Adults aged 65 and older may qualify for enhanced homestead exemptions that can reduce their property tax burdens from the already reasonable 0.83% of assessed value.
More Reasons to Love Georgia
Of course, favorable taxes alone aren’t enough to make a state your new home. Thankfully, there’s more to Georgia’s appeal than taxes. The state, being the largest east of the Mississippi, offers remarkable geographic diversity. From the Appalachian Mountains in the northeast to the coastal plains in the southeast, many options cater to diverse preferences.
Winters remain mild throughout most of the state, crucial for snowbirds. Temperatures rarely require more than a light jacket in the southern and coastal regions. With 48 state parks, historic cities, renowned golf courses, beautiful beaches, and famous attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, there’s plenty to do during those mild winter days.
Atlanta
Atlanta is the economic and cultural heart of the Southeast. The capital city continues to grow, adding over 10,000 new residents per year. The area offers world-class options for snowbirds seeking urban amenities. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a major hub for the area, making travel convenient for city residents.
As Georgia’s capital, Atlanta serves as the economic and cultural heart of the Southeast. The city continues to grow, adding over 10,000 new residents annually. There are also top-tier medical facilities in the city, such as Emory University Hospital. Cultural attractions include the Georgia Aquarium and the High Museum of Art, as well as professional sports and a thriving restaurant scene.
The cost of living in Georgia’s capital city is higher than in many of the state’s smaller cities, and 13% higher than the U.S. average. Thankfully, surrounding communities in the same metro area can lower prices while still providing easy access to city amenities.
Macon
Macon is known as the “Heart of Georgia.” Sitting roughly 90 miles south of Atlanta in the center of the state, this historic city offers snowbirds an authentic Southern lifestyle at a very affordable price point. The cost of living in the area is nearly 24% lower than the national average, making it one of the most budget-friendly options in the state.
Macon is rich in history and culture, boasting attractions like the Hay House, the Tubman Museum, The Big House Museum, and the Museum of Arts and Sciences. The area also offers plenty of hiking and nature-viewing opportunities for an active retirement.
Albany
About 100 miles south of Macon lies Albany, an area that offers snowbirds an even more affordable option in Georgia. The cost of living is over 27% below the national average, and its southern location promises mild winters with no measurable snowfall.
The Albany culture reflects its Old South heritage, early Native American history, and the area’s strong fishing and hunting traditions. The 1,400-acre Lake Chehaw is a great place for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, while the trails surrounding it are great for hiking and camping. Also, the Flint RiverQuarium offers visitors a glimpse at the unique ecosystem of the Flint River.
Thomasville
Located just 34 miles north of Tallahassee, Florida, Thomasville brings snowbirds a wonderful blend of historic Southern charm and Florida’s amenities. The annual Rose Festival has earned the city the nickname, “The City of Roses.” Its picturesque community features historic plantations, antebellum homes, and a lively downtown district.
Thomasville also has an affordable cost of living, around 21% below the national average. The city’s compact size fosters a strong sense of community, and newcomers are often quickly welcomed by residents. Notable attractions in the area include the Jack Hadley Black History Museum and the Birdsong Nature Center. Locally owned boutiques, antique shops, and farm-to-table restaurants can be found in the city’s historic downtown area.
Brunswick and the Golden Isles
Florida and California are popular choices for coastal living. For those who want that lifestyle without the expense of those two destinations, Brunswick and Georgia’s Golden Isles present an exceptional opportunity. These areas are located on the state’s southeast coast, roughly an hour north of Jacksonville, Florida.
The Golden Isles, made up of St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island, are easily accessible from Brunswick. Aside from the area’s sparkling rivers and pristine beaches, its robust recreational options, highly-rated golf courses, museums, and performing arts venues have earned it a reputation as a top snowbird destination.
Although more expensive than many of the other options on this list, Brunswick still comes in about 9% below the national average. Snowbirds who make this their home will enjoy plenty of fishing and watersports activities, and history buffs will love Historic Old Town Brunswick and its Victorian architecture, art galleries, and antique shops.
Where to Find 55+ Communities in Georgia
Georgia is home to over 130 active adult communities, ranging from intimate developments with fewer than 100 homes to massive master-planned communities that have resort-style amenities. Here are several noteworthy options:
Peppertree Crossing – Brunswick, GA
Mid $100s – High $200s
This beautiful neighborhood features 117 homes, offering a close-knit environment for retirees who want to get to know their neighbors. It includes an upscale clubhouse with indoor and outdoor whirlpool spas, an outdoor pool, a catering kitchen, gathering areas, and an exercise room. New residents will also be able to enjoy tennis courts, shuffleboard, a putting green, community gardens, and natural walking areas.
Home sizes range from 1,464 to 2,379 square feet, with single-family homes featuring two or three bedrooms. The community also has attached homes ranging from 1,459 to 2,457 square feet. All homes include an attached one or two-car garage.
Westbrook Villas at Savannah Quarters – Pooler, GA
Low $400s – Low $500s
Located near Savannah, this 92-home community features a golf course community setting that caters to active adult living. Although it isn’t age-restricted, the development features resort-style amenities, such as a Greg Norman-designed golf course, that appeal to retirees.
Home sizes in Westbrook are just under 2,000 square feet and range from two to five bedrooms. Each also has its own two-car garage. Access to the clubhouse gives residents the opportunity to enjoy dining rooms, a fitness center, a wine room, lap pools, and additional recreational facilities.
The Landings on Skidaway Island – Savannah, GA
Low $600s – Mid $2Ms
This master-planned community is spread across 4,596 acres and features several distinct neighborhoods just 12 miles from Downtown Savannah. Although it’s the most costly option on our list, The Landings provides its residents with everything they need for a carefree lifestyle. Amenities include several golf courses, dog parks, restaurants, tennis facilities, swimming pools, and clubhouses.
Single-family homes are available in The Landings that range from 1,500 to over 5,000 square feet, while attached homes come between 1,700 and 2,000 square feet. The community hosts countless clubs and activities, making it easy for newcomers to build social connections.
Del Webb Savannah at Heartwood – Richmond Hill, GA
Low $400s – High $600s
This is Del Webb’s newest community, representing the brand’s first vacation-inspired active adult community in coastal Georgia. Conveniently located less than a mile from I-95, Heartwood provides easy access to Downtown Savannah. The clubhouse offers a catering kitchen, a multipurpose room, a card room for games and gatherings, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and an indoor pool. Outside, residents can enjoy a resort-style pool, pickleball, tennis, and bocce courts, as well as trails for walking, biking, and jogging.
Homes in the community are available in 11 models, ranging from 1,345 to 2,712 square feet with two or three bedrooms and an attached two- or three-car garage. Each model is equipped with smart home technology to enhance your comfort during retirement.
Grove Park – Marietta, GA
High $300s – High $400s
Grove Park is just 30 minutes from Downtown Atlanta, offering easy access to the city’s amenities without the high cost of living in the city proper. The community offers 120 attached homes and a private clubhouse featuring an outdoor pool, a gathering room, and an exercise area. Outdoors, residents will find a swimming pool, an outdoor spa, and a large patio.
Grove Park’s four home models range from 1,750 to 2,430 square feet with two to four bedrooms. The homes feature hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops. Community members frequently organize social gatherings for newcomers to meet their neighbors and make friends.
FAQ: Snowbirding in Georgia
What does it mean to be a snowbird in Georgia?
A snowbird in Georgia is typically a retiree or part-time resident who lives in the state during the fall and winter months to escape colder northern climates.
Is Georgia a good state for snowbirds?
Yes, Georgia is a popular snowbird destination due to its mild winters, tax-friendly retirement policies, and lower cost of living compared to many traditional snowbird states.
How cold do winters get in Georgia for snowbirds?
Most of Georgia experiences mild winters, especially in southern and coastal regions, where temperatures often stay above freezing and snowfall is rare.
Does Georgia tax retirement income for snowbirds?
Georgia offers generous retirement income exclusions for residents aged 62 and older, which can significantly reduce state income taxes for snowbirds who establish residency.
What are the best cities in Georgia for snowbirds?
Popular Georgia snowbird destinations include Savannah, Brunswick, Thomasville, Macon, Albany, and Atlanta.
Is Georgia more affordable than Florida for snowbirds?
In many cases, yes. Georgia often has lower home prices, property taxes, and overall living costs compared to Florida, especially in smaller cities.
Are there 55+ communities in Georgia suitable for snowbirds?
Georgia has more than 140 active adult communities, many of which offer low-maintenance homes, social amenities, and flexible living options ideal for seasonal residents.
How does Georgia compare to Arizona and Texas for snowbirds?
Georgia offers a greener landscape, milder summers, and proximity to the East Coast, while Arizona and Texas provide drier climates and desert scenery.
Is health care access good for snowbirds in Georgia?
Georgia has strong health care networks, especially near Atlanta, Savannah, and other metro areas, making it a reliable option for retirees.
Can snowbirds rent instead of buying in Georgia?
Yes, snowbirds can rent in Georgia, although many choose to buy for long-term savings and investment potential.
When is the best time for snowbirds to live in Georgia?
Most snowbirds arrive in Georgia between October and November and stay through March or April to enjoy mild weather and avoid peak summer heat.
Find Your Ideal Snowbird Community in Georgia
If Georgia is on your short list for a seasonal or part-time move, 55places.com can help make the search easier! We have detailed information on 55+ communities across Georgia and around the country, including home types, amenities, and location highlights, all in one place.
For additional guidance, 55places.com can also connect you with a knowledgeable local real estate experts who understand active adult communities and can help narrow down options that fit long-term plans and seasonal needs. Contact us today!
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