Known as the “Peach State”, Georgia is one of the Southern United States’ most beautiful and culturally rich places. For those in the retirement phase of life, deciding to move to a new town may be an exciting and uncertain experience, but Georgia is always ready to welcome newcomers. From beautiful riverside views, stunning mountain landscapes, and plenty of Southern charm, a number of small Georgia towns may indeed be just the right spot for retirees to settle down in. Though all unique in their own ways, these towns are united by their relative affordability, calm atmospheres, and of course special Georgia beauty.

　　American Small TownsDiscover the 13 most charming small towns in the American south.

　　

Americus

The Municipal Building City of Americus, at the Historic District, viaRoberto Galan / Shutterstock.com Home of Georgia Southwestern State University, the 16,230 resident town of Americus is indeed a splendid and charming college town, that also makes for an ideal retirement destination. Formally incorporated in the 1850s, this historic town is full of fascinating stories and is a most comfortable place to live.

　　The Sumter County Courthouse and it is Veterans Memorial, via Roberto Galan / Shutterstock.com With a low crime rate and an affordable housing market, Americus also boasts hot summers and warm winters making it a great place to consider retiring to. In addition visitors and residents alike can enjoy easy access to such important landmarks like the Andersonville National Historic Site and the grand Windsor Hotel built in 1892.

　　

Jesup

City Hall in Jesup, Georgia With nearly 10,000 inhabitants, Jesup serves as the seat of Wayne County and traces its history to the 1860s. A quaint and sleepy town, Jesup reports a low crime rate and a most welcoming atmosphere to all who live and visit.

　　A river fishing boat docked on the banks of the Altamaha River in Georgia during a crisp misty, morning Add in a hot summer season and warm winter temperatures, and this small Georgia town may indeed be the perfect place for those looking for authentic Southern charm to enjoy in retirement. In addition with Jesup’s vicinity to the Altamaha River, fun and relaxing afternoons on the water are great ways to spend a post-work life.

　　Rivers in GeorgiaThere are numerous rivers within the state which drain into different basins such as the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

　　

Albany

The old business district on Broad Ave, via Roberto Galan / Shutterstock.com Situated along the 344 mile long Flint River, Albany is Georgia’s eighth largest city. With a population of just over 68,000 residents, this seat of Dougherty County is a place of great fun and activities for all ages, including of course those in retirement.

　　Radium Springs in Georgia With many festivals, historic landmarks, museums, galleries, and shopping outlets, Albany is indeed a great mid size city that one can comfortably live and retire in. Visit such sites like the Albany Museum of Art, the Wetherbee Planetarium, or enjoy some great scenic views by golfing near the beautiful Flint River.

　　

Bainbridge

The Willis Park and its Civil War Monument, via Roberto Galan / Shutterstock.com The beautiful town of Bainbridge is just an hour’s south from Albany and was founded way back in the 1820s. Today the modern town is home to nearly 15,000 people and is a wonderful place to enjoy warm Southern weather, fascinating American history, and splendid natural surroundings.

　　The Historic District on Water Street, via Roberto Galan / Shutterstock.com Located along the Flint River, opportunities for fishing, walking, and biking are always on hand. Meanwhile a most active arts scene, historic district, and annual festivals make Bainbridge a most fulfilling place to live. For retirees this mid sized town offers all the essential amenities of modern life, with a quieter yet still busy slice of Southern living.

　　

Moultrie

The old business district on Main street, via Roberto Galan/Shutterstock.com Seat of Colquitt County, the town of Moultrie is near the border with Florida and is indeed an ideal place to consider for those looking for a warm and beautiful natural setting to retire to. In addition to its most pleasant climate, Moultrie also has an affordable housing market and a relatively low crime rate, which makes it appealing to retirees and young families alike.

　　 The Colquitt County Courthouse Annex, via Roberto Galan / Shutterstock.com And for the history lovers the town is site of the Moultrie Commercial Historic District and its assortment of late 19th and early 20th century buildings. While at the nearby Reed Bingham State Park, one can partake in camping, fishing, hiking, boating, and even catch a glimpse of local wildlife.

　　

Cordele

Historic downtown as seen on 7th street , via Roberto Galan / Shutterstock.com Nicknamed the “Watermelon Capital of the World”, Cordele experiences very hot summers and mild winters and is indeed a most beautiful Southern locale. Seat of Crisp County and home to a population of just over 10,000, Cordele was established in the 1880s and continues to offer many preserved historic landmarks and fascinating museums including the Georgia Veterans State Park. Here a number of vehicles, weapons, and other materials from the Revolutionary War to the present day offer a glimpse into the history of American warfare.

　　Lake Blackshear in Cordele, Georgia And of course there is the annual Watermelon Festival in June, which is a delightful treat for people of all ages. Finally, Cordele is home to the beautiful Lake Balckshear, which offers residents the opportunity to enjoy pictureque lakeside views all year long. 

　　

Forest Park

Aerial view of homes in Forest Park, Georgia Located just nine miles from Atlanta, the town of Forest Park is an ideal place for retirees looking to live close to a big city but within a quieter and more serene ambience. Home to a population of just under 20,000 residents, Forest Park is a comfortable modern city where retirees, families, and working professionals alike can enjoy quality amenities of life and plenty of cultural activities. And with warm Southern weather, Forest Park is indeed a great place to explore throughout the year. In addition a relatively affordable housing market and low crime rate make it attractive not just for those in retirement, but for those looking to start their professional lives.

　　

Cusseta

Chattahoochee County Courthouse Seat of Chattahoochee County, Cusseta was founded in the 1850s, and today is home to a population of just under 10,000 residents. Right on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, this quiet and peaceful place is indeed full of serenity, making it a potentially perfect place to retire to. In addition the town reports a low number of violent and property crimes and is conveniently located near major amenities like hospitals and shopping districts. Part of the Columbus metropolitan area, Cusseta also has a number of historic buildings (including 1839’s First Baptist Church) that reveal the region’s past and growth in the 19th century.

　　In the Southern United States, the State of Georgia is indeed one of the most naturally and culturally rich areas in the region. Indeed for those in the retirement phase of life, deciding to move to a new locale may be a considerable challenge, but Georgia’s towns offer an easy solution. Here splendid Southern charm, beautiful vistas, fascinating histories, and welcoming people make the choice to retire a desirable destination. From the “Watermelon Capital” to beautiful Americus, and beyond these and other Georgia towns are prime examples of Americana, perfect for retirement or any time in life.