Gainesville, GA 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Overview

Gainesville is a popular suburb of Atlanta in Northern Georgia. This affordable city is located at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and borders a popular lake, giving residents plenty of outdoor recreation. In addition, its quaint downtown provides homeowners with local shops, breweries, art centers, museums, and a weekly farmers market.

Climate and Geography

The region has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot and humid while winters are generally mild, although winter temperatures can vary greatly. Residents of Gainesville can expect to see more rain than the national average and about 200 sunny days a year. 

Gainesville is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and has a hilly, heavily wooded terrain. The city is along the shore of Lake Lanier.

Recreation, Culture & Entertainment

Residents looking to get outside in Gainesville have plenty of exciting options, including Lake Lanier, Don Carter State Park, Elachee Nature Science Center, River Forks Park, and Longwood Park. Homeowners can swim, hike, boat, and camp at these popular destinations.

In the city, there are a number of museums and galleries for residents to explore, including the Francis Meadows Aquatic Center and Quinlan Visual Arts Center.  Downtown, there are local eateries, boutiques, a weekly farmers market, and breweries.

The excitement and attractions of Atlanta are also just over an hour away.

Cost of Living & Taxes

The cost of living in Gainesville is lower than the national and state averages. Housing costs are below average, followed by transportation, utility, and grocery costs. 

Georgia is one of the most tax-friendly states for retirees. The state does not tax Social Security benefits, and residents over 62 are eligible for substantial deductions on all other forms of retirement income. The sales tax in the city is 7 percent, which is average for the U.S., and the state allows for local taxation of groceries. Property taxes are low, and retirees over 65 may qualify for a double homestead exemption.

Health Care 

The Atlanta metro area ranks in the top 60 communities on Gallup's Well-Being Index.

Gainesville is home to Northeast Georgia Medical Center, which is rated high performing in eight procedures and conditions by U.S News. In addition, Northside Hospital-Forsyth in Cumming is rated high performing in 5 procedures and conditions.