If you’re thinking about moving to Georgia, bustling cities like Atlanta or Savannah might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, Georgia’s small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 8 charming small towns in Georgia, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.
1. Bainbridge, GA
Median sale price: $205,000
Homes for sale in Bainbridge | Apartments for rent in Bainbridge
Bainbridge is a small town located along the Flint River. Locals enjoy weekends at the Earle May Boat Basin Park, where they can boat, fish, or picnic by the river, all while taking in stunning views of the water. Bainbridge also celebrates its heritage with the annual River Town Days festival, a community event filled with live music, food vendors, and fireworks over the river. Additionally, downtown Bainbridge has several boutique shops and cafes, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
2. Thomasville, GA
Median sale price: $242,000
Homes for sale in Thomasville | Apartments for rent in Thomasville
Thomasville, often called the “City of Roses,” is known for its Southern charm and historic architecture. Each April, the town bursts into bloom for the Thomasville Rose Show and Festival. This event has been celebrated for over a century, drawing visitors from across the region. The historic downtown area is home to unique shops, antique stores, and local restaurants like Jonah’s Fish & Grits, a favorite for Southern seafood dishes. Locals enjoy spending time at , a massive live oak tree that’s over 300 years old and serves as a town landmark. 
3. Perry, GA
Median sale price: $304,500
Homes for sale in Perry | Apartments for rent in Perry
Perry is famous for the Georgia National Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual Georgia National Fair. This is a massive event with livestock shows, carnival rides, and live entertainment. Perry’s downtown area is filled with quaint boutiques, local eateries, and historic landmarks like the New Perry Hotel, a staple since 1870. Residents often gather for community events like the Perry Music Festival, where live performances and food vendors create a festive atmosphere. With its friendly vibe and rich traditions, Perry is a welcoming stop for anyone traveling through Middle Georgia.
4. Ellijay, GA
Median sale price: $520,000
Homes for sale in Ellijay | Apartments for rent in Ellijay
Ellijay is known as the “Apple Capital of Georgia” and the town is surrounded by apple orchards. To taste an apple, you won’t have to go far – you can pick your own apples or enjoy a slice of homemade pie at local farms like B.J. Reece Orchards. Every fall, the town hosts the Georgia Apple Festival, where locals and tourists gather for apple-themed treats, crafts, and live entertainment. Other than apples, outdoor enthusiasts love exploring the nearby Amicalola Falls State Park, home to Georgia’s tallest waterfall, or taking a hike along the Appalachian Trail.
5. Tifton, GA
Median sale price: $230,000
Homes for sale in Tifton | Apartments for rent in Tifton
Tifton is home to the Georgia Museum of Agriculture, where visitors can step back in time to explore a 19th-century farmstead and learn about the region’s agricultural heritage. Each spring, Tifton hosts the annual Rhythm & Ribs BBQ Festival, where people can enjoy live music, mouthwatering barbecue, and fun activities. Downtown Tifton is full of Southern charm, with shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks like the Tift Theatre lining the streets.
6. Americus, GA
Median sale price: $287,000
Homes for sale in Americus | Apartments for rent in Americus
Americus is located in southwestern Georgia and is known for its beautifully preserved historic district. The town is home to the Windsor Hotel, a grand Victorian-style building that’s been a centerpiece of downtown since 1892. Each year, Americus celebrates its culture with the Hot Glass Craft Beer Festival. During the festival, craft breweries and glass artists showcase their talents in a lively community event. Nearby, Habitat for Humanity International’s Global Village & Discovery Center offers an educational experience, highlighting the organization’s global impact.
7. Covington, GA
Median sale price: $327,5000
Homes for sale in Covington | Apartments for rent in Covington
Covington is often called the “Hollywood of the South,” because the town has served as the backdrop for numerous films and TV shows. Popular shows filmed here include The Vampire Diaries and In the Heat of the Night. The town’s downtown area is lined with local boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, where visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon or take a walking tour of filming locations. Each year, Covington hosts the Stars and Stripes Fest, a Fourth of July celebration with live music, a parade, and fireworks that light up the town square.
8. Calhoun, GA
Median sale price: $310,500
Homes for sale in Calhoun | Apartments for rent in Calhoun
As the site of the historic New Echota, the former capital of the Cherokee Nation, Calhoun offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s Native American heritage at the New Echota State Historic Site. The town also celebrates its agricultural roots with the annual Gordon County Antique Engine and Tractor Show. This is a favorite among locals for its vintage farm equipment displays and exciting activities. Downtown Calhoun features a variety of local shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, including the GEM Theatre, which hosts live performances and films.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center.
