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Living in Georgia: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Georgia | Expat Exchange
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Living in Georgia

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 19, 2023

Summary: People describe life in Georgia as diverse, vibrant, and full of opportunity. People love the mild climate, the friendly people, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the rich culture and history. The average cost of living in Georgia is slightly below the national average, making it an affordable place to live. The approximate population of Georgia is 10.6 million, and the largest cities are Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Savannah, and Athens. The cons of living in Georgia include the high cost of living in the larger cities, the traffic congestion in the larger cities, and the occasional extreme weather.

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Is the cost of living in Georgia high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Georgia, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Georgia is usually lower than the national average. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment may fall anywhere from $800 to $1200 a month, and for a nice 2 bedroom apartment you can expect to pay anywhere from $900 to $1400 a month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant can cost anywhere from $15 to $30 for one person," commented one expat living in Georgia.

What type of recreational facilities are in Georgia?

When we asked people living in Georgia about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Georgia, residents can enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, trails, and beaches. Parks offer a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. Trails provide opportunities for walking, running, and horseback riding. Beaches provide a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand. Other recreational facilities in Georgia include golf courses, tennis courts, swimming pools, and sports fields. Georgia also has a variety of cultural attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and theaters," remarked one expat living in Georgia.

What is the weather like in Georgia?

"The weather in Georgia is generally mild and humid. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s. Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Spring and fall are generally pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-80s. Rainfall is abundant throughout the year, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in the spring and summer months," said an expat in Georgia.

Are there good restaurants in Georgia?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Georgia is The Optimist, located in Atlanta. The Optimist is a seafood-focused restaurant that serves up fresh, locally-sourced seafood dishes. The menu features a variety of dishes, from classic favorites like shrimp and grits to more creative dishes like the grilled octopus. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a full bar. Another popular restaurant in Georgia is The Shed at Glenwood, located in Atlanta. The Shed is a barbecue joint that serves up classic Southern-style barbecue dishes. The menu features a variety of smoked meats, from pulled pork to brisket, as well as sides like mac and cheese and collard greens. The restaurant also has a full bar and a selection of craft beers. Finally, Gunshow, located in Atlanta, is a popular restaurant in Georgia. Gunshow is a unique restaurant that features a rotating menu of dishes that are served family-style. The menu features a variety of dishes, from classic Southern favorites like fried chicken to more creative dishes like the pork belly bao buns. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a full bar," remarked one expat in Georgia.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Georgia?

"People living in Georgia typically buy groceries from supermarkets, convenience stores, and farmers markets. Other shopping can be done at malls, department stores, and specialty stores. Additionally, many people in Georgia take advantage of online shopping to purchase items from a variety of retailers," commented one expat who moved to Georgia.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Georgia?

"In order to visit Georgia as a foreign visitor, one must apply for a visa from the nearest Georgian embassy or consulate. Depending on the traveller’s country, the visa may be issued with a single or multiple entries, and may range from a short-term (90 days) to a long-term (365 days) visa. Those applying for a visa must provide a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs and other supporting documents, such as a hotel booking or invitation letter. To obtain residency in Georgia, a foreign national must apply for a residence permit with the local police. This involves filling out an application form, submitting relevant documents, including a valid passport, proof of financial means, proof of employment or study in Georgia, and a fee payment. After submitting the application, the applicant’s fingerprints will be collected and their identity and security verified. Once approved, the applicant will be issued a residence permit," mentioned an expat living in Georgia.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Georgia?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Georgia can be expensive. The cost of healthcare services, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs, can be high. Health insurance premiums can also be costly, and many people in Georgia are unable to afford the coverage they need. Additionally, the cost of health insurance can vary significantly depending on the type of plan and the provider," wrote one expat living in Georgia.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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