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Athens, Georgia

Return to Georgia

In the east central portion of the state, not too far from the Blue Ridge Mountains, is leafy Athens, home to the sprawling University of Georgia and the State Botanical Gardens.  The city is nicknamed the "Classic City" because many of its buildings are similar to that of classic Greek architecture.   

 

 

This small city (about 103,000) is a nice compromise between the urban sprawl of Atlanta and some smaller towns with less of a cultural scene.  The cost of living is below the national average, and home prices are downright affordable, with modest homes beginning under $150,000.   A three bedroom home can be had for around $190,000.  

Athens boasts some award-winning restaurants and has a lovely restored downtown area with shops, pubs, art galleries and lots of live music.   There are wine tastings and a community orchestra.  Fortunately, Athens was spared during the Civil War and so fourteen neighborhoods and 35 other structures are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

 

There are two excellent hospitals here and three golf courses just on the outskirts of town.  And if you think this is just a college town, think again.  The University offers free classes, taught by local professors, to anyone over 62.