Overview
Flowery Branch is a quiet, residential city north of the Atlanta metro area in Georgia. Located along Lake Lanier, the town is popular for its historic and active downtown, as well as its proximity to water and outdoor recreation. Its affordable housing and pleasant year-round temperatures make it a popular retirement destination for active adults.
Climate & Geography
Located in Northern Georgia in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Flowery Branch experiences a mix of subtropical and continental climates. Due to its higher elevation, summer temperatures are more moderate, but prolonged heat can still occur. Winters are mild with very little accumulating snow. Residents can expect frequent thunderstorms in spring as well as around 221 days of sunshine each year.
Flowery Branch’s terrain is mainly gentle, rolling hills covered with pine forests. The city is also along the southeastern shore of Lake Lanier.
Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment
Flowery Branch is southeast of its two major recreational destinations: Lake Lanier and the Chattahoochee National Forest. At the lake, there are multiple parks along the shore for fishing, boating, and camping. Residents can hike and visit historic sites along the sprawling national forest as well.
For shopping and entertainment, residents gather at the historic downtown, which dates back to the late nineteenth century. The historic area boasts a variety of shops, boutiques, and local eateries, in addition to a year-round farmers market.
For brand-name and designer stores, sporting events, and world-class restaurants, retirees can head just under an hour southwest to Atlanta.
Cost of Living & Taxes
The cost of living in Flowery Branch is lower than the national average. Most factors, including groceries, utilities, transportation, and housing are below average, while health care is above.
Georgia is very tax friendly to retirees. The state does not tax Social Security benefits, and while other forms of retirement income are taxed, there are substantial deductions available. Property taxes are below average, and retirees can qualify for a double homestead exemption. Georgia’s state sales taxes are low, but the city’s combined rate of 7 percent is average for the U.S.
Health Care
According to Gallup’s Well-Being Index, Georgia ranks in the top 23 states.
Although there are no hospitals in Flowery Branch, there are several hospitals within 20 miles that are rated high performing by U.S. News. These include Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville, Northside Hospital-Forsyth in Cumming, and Gwinnett Medical Center in Lawrenceville.