Are you considering a move to Blue Ridge, Georgia? Blue Ridge is nestled in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains and offers a charming small-town atmosphere with a touch of Southern hospitality. Before you pack your bags and are ready to move, research and familiarize yourself with some key aspects of the area.
This blog will help make your decision easier. Check out these eight things to know before moving to Blue Ridge, GA.
Experience All Four Seasons
Blue Ridge experiences four distinct seasons, each with its own unique charm. If you are used to extreme weather, you are in luck. This town has the best seasons, making it easy to acclimate. Summers are warm and sunny, perfect for water activities and outdoor adventures. They can be humid, but the mountain breeze helps cool you off. Fall brings vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures, creating a stunning landscape. Winters can be cold and sometimes snowy, making it an excellent place for winter sports enthusiasts. Spring welcomes blooming flowers and a fresh burst of greenery, signaling the arrival of warmer days.
Stunning Views Everywhere You Look
One of the biggest draws of Blue Ridge is its breathtaking natural beauty. The town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, surrounded by lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and the serenity of Blue Ridge Lake. One of the most enjoyable ways to experience its true beauty is through exploration. If you enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, or simply immersing yourself in nature, you’ll find endless opportunities to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. If you want a more relaxed approach, The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway never gets old!
Affordable Cost of Living
While Georgia has a state income tax, it is still the fifth-lowest cost of living in the United States1.
Low housing costs, affordable utilities and groceries, and other necessities help contribute to the low cost of living. Tourism also generates high revenue for areas like Blue Ridge, which helps keep prices low for residents. Working with a custom home builders can help you find the best location and work within your budget.
Family-Friendly
North Georgia is full of great fun for everyone. With endless opportunities for entertainment for all ages, Blue Ridge is considered an excellent place to raise a family. Blue Ridge has your choice of public and private schools if you have school-age children.
A Variety of Local Cuisine
When moving anywhere, finding local restaurants tops the list of things to know. This is one of the perks of living in the North Georgia Mountains! All-day breakfast joints, gourmet chocolate shops, riverside fine dining restaurants, and tons of delicious comfort food can be found here. If you want a more trendy vibe, over half a dozen local breweries and wineries offer tours and samplings. Some of the most popular local brews include lagers and porters. However, there is just about something for everyone to enjoy.
Community Events and Art Scene
Blue Ridge hosts various community events and festivals annually, celebrating local culture, traditions, and the region’s natural beauty. Something exciting always happens in town, from the Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race to the Georgia Apple Festival.
If you enjoy art, you’re in luck! The art scene took off over the last several years, thanks to the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association and Art Center and the Blue Ridge Community Theater. Both organizations continuously work hard to bring the community art, music, and entertainment. The quaint downtown galleries help showcase local artists. While the opportunities are endless. Memorial Day Weekend and the beginning of October bring together some of the best local art festivals.
Outdoor Adventure and Activities
If you are looking for things to do, Blue Ridge is the place for you. If you enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, or simply immersing yourself in nature, you’ll find endless opportunities to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. Below are some of the most popular activities:
- Fly Fishing: Fly fishing in Blue Ridge is a major sport. From late March to the end of October, Native Georgians and anglers from all over the globe venture out to try and catch the famous trout in The Wild Toccoa River and Lake Blue Ridge. It is no wonder Fannin County is known as the Trout Capital of Georgia since there are over 100 miles of trout streams.
- Hiking and Nature Trails: Blue Ridge is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re an avid hiker or prefer leisurely walks, you’ll find trails suitable for all skill levels. The famous Appalachian Trail passes near Blue Ridge, providing access to picturesque sections with stunning views. The Benton MacKaye Trail and the Aska Adventure Trail System are other popular choices, offering a variety of terrains and distances to explore.
- Water Activities: Water activities are popular in the area, with Blue Ridge Lake and the Toccoa River nearby. There are plenty of freshwater fish to catch, including bass, trout, and other species. You can rent boats, kayaks, or paddleboards to navigate the pristine lake or take a leisurely tubing trip down the Toccoa River. The serene surroundings and tranquil waters make for a perfect day out on the water.
Great investment opportunities
Real estate, tourism, hospitality, retail, artisan industries, outdoor adventure, and local farming are some of the sectors that offer investment opportunities in Blue Ridge, GA. The town’s natural beauty, small-town charm, and thriving tourism industry make it an appealing location for investors. Home prices are affordable, which contributes to the influx of new homes and mountain retreat construction. Georgia continues to grow statewide in new residents and tourists, especially in Blue Ridge.
A move to Blue Ridge, GA, can be a rewarding experience for those seeking a peaceful and natural lifestyle. The town’s natural beauty, small-town atmosphere, and community spirit create a welcoming environment. By understanding what to expect, you can make a well-informed decision and embrace all that Blue Ridge offers. If you are ready to make the move, let WaterStone at Jonica Gap help build you the perfect custom home.
1https://meric.mo.gov/data/cost-living-data-series