6 Most Affordable Places to Live in Georgia (Budget-Friendly)

Are you considering moving to Georgia but are concerned about the cost of living? You are not alone! Being a student, recent college grad, or just starting your career, affordable places to live in Georgia matter in today's economy. 

Lucky for you, the Peach State offers a variety of affordable towns and cities that can help you stretch your dollar, without sacrificing comfort or community!

Georgia has a list of affordable options, from the cheapest places to live in Georgia, like Albany or Valdosta, to the latest wave of suburbs with cheap rent. And while they might not have the 'cool factor' of the city, they are practical and level-headed living options. In this guide, we will break down the best places with a low cost of living in Georgia, perfect for students, remote work, and anyone looking for the best bang for their buck!

Now let’s see where else that budget gets you further while still being somewhere you'll love to call home.

Amber’s got you, my friend

Top Affordable Places To Live In Georgia

We explored some of the cheapest cities in Georgia—these are areas with lower living costs and rent that won't consume your entire paycheck, as well as attainable homes. In this post, we will look at 6 of these affordable cities where you can enjoy the best of both worlds! 

From the ultra-affordable and value-oriented Americus and Albany to the slightly more established yet still affordable Warner Robins and Dalton, there is something for everyone! Whether you are a student, young professional, or looking to start a family, each of these cities allows the ability to grow without poverty knocking at your door! Let's take a look at the unique attributes of each of these cities.

Warner Robbins, Georgia

Warner Robins is one of the least expensive places in Georgia to live due to its steady economy, low housing costs, and high quality of life. Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment would be between $750 and $1,500, while home prices have a median range of $203,750 and $211,317, both of which are well under the state and national averages. This affordability is appealing to students, young professionals, and military families specifically.

An advantage of Warner Robins is the presence of Robins Air Force Base, which is one of Georgia's largest employers. 

• Colleges/Universities: Middle Georgia State University, Georgia Military College, Central Georgia Technical College
• Best Neighborhoods: North Park, Deerfield, Shirley Hills, Midtown

Along with the advantages of good public services, the proximity of Middle Georgia State University, and a secure sense of community, Warner Robins solidifies itself as a quality investment for anyone who wants a life of substance without high costs.

Albany, Georgia

Whether you're looking for vibrant urban areas or quiet suburban neighborhoods, affordable places to live in Georgia provide options for every lifestyle and budget.

Albany is a great place to live if you’re looking for a low cost of living coupled with the comforts of home. Albany's cost of living is around 7% lower than the national average, which will keep more money in your pocket. Expect to pay between $700 and $1,000 for a one-bedroom apartment, and if you are interested in buying, homes typically range from $124,000 to $148,000, making it a great option for students, families, or anyone wanting to really get the most from their money.

But Albany is not affordable because of housing alone. The city boasts a stable economy thanks to jobs in healthcare, education, and manufacturing industries. 

• Colleges/Universities:        Albany State University, Albany Technical College
• Best Neighborhoods:        Lakeview, Buckingham, Five Points, Radium Springs

Students attending Albany State University can easily find off-campus student apartments in Albany and enjoy affordable living near the university.

Valdosta, Georgia

If you're looking for an affordable place to live in Georgia, Valdosta is a hidden treasure. The cost of living and housing are both way below the national average, so your dollar stretches easily, and you won't feel pinched financially. Generally speaking, a one-bedroom apartment will rent you between $700 and $1,400, and if you want to buy, the median prices usually stay around $197,000-$210,000 — a good price for the lifestyle you will accomplish.

Valdosta's charm lies in its combination of small-town feel, yet it still offers everything you need. Not to mention, they have an incredible education system centered around Valdosta State University, which gives the city youthful energy and plenty of cultural opportunities.

• Colleges / Universities: Valdosta State University, Wiregrass Georgia Technical College
• Best Neighborhoods: Brookfield Estates, Azalea Park, Shirley Lakes, Deerfield Estates

Whether student, young professional, or just someone looking for a welcoming place to call home, you will find a welcoming escape for an affordable cost of living that does not sacrifice quality.

Are you ready for the next city?

Athens, Georgia

With a lively college atmosphere and low cost of living, it should come as no surprise that Athens, Georgia, is a top destination for students and young professionals alike! The cost of living is still very affordable, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment typically ranging from $750 to $1,400, and the median home price ranging from $220,000 to $300,000. Student apartments in Athens are affordable without compromising lifestyle.

• Colleges/Universities: University of Georgia, Athens Technical College, Piedmont College (Athens campus)
• Best Neighborhoods: Normaltown, Five Points, Cobbham, Boulevard

The local economy is largely driven by education, healthcare, and technical services (of which there are plenty of jobs available!), and with the University of Georgia in the center of Athens, you can expect lots of fun with a wide variety of amenities available. Athens is one of the best places to live affordably in Georgia!

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, combines historic charm with affordability, making it a go-to for students who want to make their dollars go further. Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment typically falls between $900-$1,500, while median home prices range from $180,000-$250,000, giving Savannah plenty of character and great value. This means even student housing in Savannah is easily affordable for students attending the state universities.

• Colleges/Universities: Savannah State University, Savannah Technical College, SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design)
• Best Neighborhoods: Historic District, Ardsley Park, Midtown, Windsor Forest

The city's economy is supported primarily by tourism, education, and manufacturing. This paves the way for job opportunities for the residents of Savannah. For affordable housing, Savannah has several universities that contribute to a rich cultural environment amongst coastal living - making Savannah one of the best affordable places to live in Georgia.

Augusta, Georgia

Finding affordable places to live in Georgia is easier than many think, with several cities offering a great balance of cost and quality of life. 

Augusta, Georgia, is an affordable city with significant history and an increasing job market, a great option for students and young professionals. One-bedroom units rent for an average of $750 to $1,200. Median home prices in Augusta are between $150,000 and $210,000. Augusta is great value and has a high standard of living.

Augusta has many employment opportunities with an economy focused in healthcare, manufacturing, and education. 

• Colleges/Universities: Augusta University, Paine College, Augusta Technical College
• Best Neighborhoods: Olde Town, Summerville, Lake Olmstead, Turpin Hill

Augusta is home to several respectable colleges, has a warm community, amply amenities, and is one of the most affordable cities in Georgia to live in.

Final thoughts.. 

Living comfortably in Georgia on a budget isn't just a reality but surprisingly easy if you know where to look. There are many choices for the best places to reside in Georgia at affordable costs without compromising the quality of life.

Whether you want the leisure of living in a slower-paced southern town or if you want the energy of a college town, Georgia can provide options for both. There are affordable suburbs in Georgia near Atlanta, and rural towns in Georgia where you can retire and stretch your dollar.

So if you have ever wondered where the best affordable cities in Georgia can be found, this is a great starting point. Well, wherever you go to live smart, so that you can continue living well, it doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality; that just means you choose to live in an affordable space where your money goes further for the lifestyle you chose.