Living in Georgia USA: the ultimate expat guide

Georgia's diverse economy provides excellent employment prospects across multiple sectors. The state has positioned itself as a leader in logistics and transportation, film and entertainment, technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. With over 75% of Fortune 1000 companies maintaining a presence in Metro Atlanta, professionals find abundant opportunities in their fields.

Key Industries and Employment Sectors

The logistics and transportation sector dominates Georgia's economy, with UPS and FedEx among the state's largest employers. The film industry has exploded in recent years, with Georgia earning the nickname "Hollywood of the South" and generating over $4 billion in annual economic impact. The e-mobility sector has attracted over $27 billion in investments since 2018, creating more than 32,000 new jobs through companies like Kia, Hyundai, and Rivian.

Work Authorization for International Residents

International workers typically require an H-1B specialty occupation visa for professional employment. The annual cap is 65,000 visas plus 20,000 additional visas for those with U.S. advanced degrees. Employers must sponsor visa applications and demonstrate that no qualified American worker is available for the position. Recent policy changes introduced a $100,000 fee for new H-1B petitions as of September 2025, though exceptions exist for certain circumstances.

The table below summarizes Georgia's key employment indicators:

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Georgia Department of Labor

Georgia boasts an impressive higher education system through the University System of Georgia (USG), which encompasses 26 public institutions serving over 340,000 students. The state is home to internationally recognized universities that attract students from around the world, with international enrollment exceeding 25,000 students annually.

Top-Ranked Universities

Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) in Atlanta ranks among the world's top 100 universities (QS World Rankings) and is renowned for its STEM programs. With approximately 25% international students, Georgia Tech offers cutting-edge research opportunities in engineering, computing, and sciences. Tuition for international undergraduates is approximately $33,794 per year.

Emory University, a private research institution founded in 1836, excels in healthcare, business, and liberal arts. The university received over $894 million in research funding in 2021. International student tuition runs approximately $57,948 annually.

The University of Georgia (UGA) in Athens is the nation's first state-chartered public university, founded in 1785. UGA enrolls over 40,000 students, including 2,600 international students from 125 countries. The acceptance rate for international students is 27.2%, with out-of-state tuition at approximately $31,120.

Admission Requirements for International Students

International applicants must typically provide: official transcripts evaluated by NACES-member credential services, English proficiency scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo), standardized test scores (SAT/ACT for undergraduates, GRE/GMAT for graduates), financial documentation for F-1 visa sponsorship, and letters of recommendation. Application deadlines vary but generally fall between January and March for fall enrollment.

Sources: University System of Georgia, Georgia Tech, University of Georgia

Georgia consistently ranks among the best states for retirement in the United States, thanks to its favorable tax policies, affordable cost of living, excellent healthcare, and pleasant climate. With over 15% of the population aged 65 or older, the state has developed robust infrastructure to support retirees.

Tax Benefits for Retirees

Georgia does not tax Social Security benefits, making it immediately attractive for retirees. Additionally, the state provides a generous retirement income exclusion of $65,000 per person for those aged 65 and older, which applies to pensions, 401(k) withdrawals, and other retirement income. Retirees aged 62-64 qualify for a $35,000 exclusion. The state's flat income tax rate dropped to 5.19% in 2025, with further reductions planned.

Property tax relief programs include a homestead exemption and additional exemptions for seniors. Those 62 and older may qualify for a double homestead exemption, and a "floating" exemption can freeze property values for tax purposes based on income qualifications. Georgia has no inheritance or estate taxes.

Best Places to Retire in Georgia

Popular retirement destinations include Savannah with its historic charm and coastal lifestyle, Athens offering a vibrant college-town atmosphere, Augusta known for its golf heritage and affordable living, and Atlanta suburbs like Marietta, Decatur, and Cumming that provide urban amenities with lower costs. Coastal communities on St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island attract those seeking beach living, while mountain towns like Clarkesville appeal to nature lovers.

Sources: SmartAsset, Niche

Georgia offers diverse schooling options for expatriate families, from excellent public schools to prestigious private and international institutions. The state's public education system serves over 1.7 million students across 180 school districts, while numerous private and international schools provide alternative curricula for globally mobile families.

Public School System

Georgia's public schools are free for all residents, including children of visa holders. Schools are organized by county districts, with enrollment based on residential address. The academic year runs from August to May. Metro Atlanta districts like Fulton County Schools, Gwinnett County Public Schools, and Cobb County School District consistently rank among the state's top performers. Required enrollment documents include proof of residency, immunization records, and previous school transcripts.

International and Private Schools

Atlanta International School (AIS) is Georgia's premier international institution, offering the full International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum from pre-K through grade 12. Located in Buckhead, AIS enrolls approximately 1,340 students representing over 90 nationalities and 60 languages. The school offers dual-immersion language programs in Chinese, French, German, and Spanish. Tuition ranges from $30,604 for early grades to $34,938 for upper school. The acceptance rate is approximately 90%.

Other notable international options include The Westminster Schools, Pace Academy, and The Lovett School, all offering rigorous college-preparatory programs. British and American curriculum schools are available throughout Metro Atlanta, with tuition typically ranging from $15,000 to $35,000 annually depending on grade level and institution.

Sources: Georgia Department of Education, Atlanta International School

Georgia's housing market offers excellent value compared to other major metropolitan areas in the United States. From modern high-rise apartments in Atlanta's Midtown to charming historic homes in Savannah, the state provides diverse housing options to suit various preferences and budgets. The median home price statewide is approximately $308,200, significantly below the national average of $338,100.

Rental Market Overview

The average rent in Georgia is approximately $1,530 per month, slightly below the national average of $1,645. In Atlanta, expect to pay around $1,600 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, while three-bedroom units average $3,000 or more. Outside the Interstate 285 perimeter (commonly called "OTP"), rents drop to $1,480-$1,520 for comparable units. Savannah offers one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,427-$1,721, while Augusta remains highly affordable at $1,056 for one-bedroom units.

Popular Neighborhoods for Expatriates

Buckhead in Atlanta is the premier upscale neighborhood, featuring luxury high-rises, excellent schools, and proximity to international businesses. Midtown offers a walkable urban environment with cultural attractions and transit access. Decatur east of Atlanta provides a charming small-town feel with top-rated schools. For coastal living, Savannah's Historic District and nearby Wilmington Island attract those seeking Southern charm and beach access.

The table below shows typical rental costs across Georgia:

Sources: Numbeo, Rent.com, Apartment List

Georgia offers an exceptional quality of life with diverse cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and entertainment options. From world-class museums in Atlanta to pristine beaches along the coast, the state provides something for every interest and lifestyle.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

Atlanta anchors Georgia's cultural scene with internationally recognized institutions. The Georgia Aquarium, the largest in the Western Hemisphere, houses over 100,000 animals including whale sharks and beluga whales. The World of Coca-Cola celebrates the iconic beverage's Atlanta origins. History enthusiasts should visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library. Art lovers will appreciate the High Museum of Art and Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Outdoor Activities and Nature

Georgia's diverse geography supports year-round outdoor recreation. Lake Lanier, spanning 700 miles of shoreline just 50 miles northeast of Atlanta, offers boating, fishing, and swimming. The Blue Ridge Mountains provide hiking, camping, and scenic train rides on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Stone Mountain Park features hiking trails and a historic laser light show. Coastal attractions include Jekyll Island, Tybee Island, and Cumberland Island National Seashore with its wild horses.

Sports and Entertainment

Atlanta is home to major professional sports teams: the Atlanta Braves (MLB), Atlanta Falcons (NFL), Atlanta Hawks (NBA), and Atlanta United FC (MLS). The city's thriving music scene spans genres from hip-hop to country, with venues like the Fox Theatre and State Farm Arena hosting world-class performances. Georgia's film industry means you might spot movie productions throughout the state, particularly in locations featured in popular shows like "The Walking Dead" and "Stranger Things."

Sources: Explore Georgia, Georgia Aquarium

Daily life in Georgia combines Southern hospitality with modern conveniences. The state enjoys a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and warm, humid summers. Average temperatures range from 40°F (4°C) in January to 90°F (32°C) in July. This climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, though summer humidity requires adjustment for newcomers.

Transportation and Getting Around

Georgia is primarily a car-dependent state, and most residents own vehicles. However, Atlanta offers the MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) system, which includes 48 miles of rail track, 38 stations, and over 100 bus routes. A single MARTA trip costs $2.50, with monthly passes available for $95. The system provides direct service from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to downtown and Midtown, making it convenient for frequent travelers.

Atlanta's Streetcar serves downtown for just $1 per ride, while regional bus services like Xpress, CobbLinc, and Gwinnett County Transit connect suburban areas. Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) are widely available. Gas prices average approximately $3.14 per gallon.

Healthcare and Insurance

Georgia has excellent healthcare facilities, including Emory Healthcare, Piedmont Healthcare, Grady Health System, and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Health insurance is essential, as the U.S. does not have universal healthcare. Employer-sponsored insurance averages around $400 monthly, while individual marketplace plans range from $334 to $785 depending on coverage level. Most visa holders are required to maintain health insurance coverage throughout their stay.

Sources: MARTA, Healthcare.gov

Georgia offers a cost of living approximately 2-3% below the U.S. national average, making it an attractive destination for those seeking value without sacrificing quality of life. Atlanta's cost of living index is approximately 100.4 (where 100 equals the national average), though this varies significantly by neighborhood and lifestyle choices.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

A single professional in Atlanta should budget approximately $2,930-$3,300 monthly for a comfortable lifestyle, including rent for a one-bedroom apartment. The breakdown below provides typical monthly expenses:

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

Families should anticipate higher expenses, particularly for housing, schooling, and healthcare. A family of four in Metro Atlanta typically requires $7,100-$7,700 monthly:

Note: Families using public schools can significantly reduce education costs to zero.

Sources: Numbeo, MIT Living Wage Calculator