Athens, GA: More Than Just a College Town
The majority of people are familiar with Athens since it is home to the University of Georgia, which is known for its vibrant college town atmosphere, music culture, and football Saturdays. However, the majority of outsiders are unaware that Athens has one of Georgia’s most varied property markets.
Whether you’re wondering where to live in Athens, and you’re a family wishing to live near prestigious schools, a student seeking walkability, a retiree seeking tranquility and culture, or an investment seeking stable rents.
This is your straightforward guide to the top neighborhoods in Athens, GA (2025 edition), including who should live there, how much it costs, and what to look out for before making a purchase.
🏡 Best Neighborhoods for Families
Oconee Crossing (Oconee County)
• Top-rated schools, safe, community-focused.
• Homes: Mostly $400K–$600K.
• Why families love it: Room to grow without Atlanta prices.
Jennings Mill
• Close to shopping/dining, golf course community.
• Homes: $450K–$750K.
• Great for active families who want convenience + recreation.
Five Points (Clarke County)
• Historic, walkable, near UGA + dining.
• Homes: $600K–$1M+.
• Prestigious, family-friendly, but pricey.
If you’re asking where to live in Athens as a family, these neighborhoods should be top on your list. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful suburban retreat or a vibrant, walkable community, Athens offers a variety of options for every family type.
🎓 Best Neighborhoods for Students
Five Points
• Walkable, historic rentals, close to campus.
• Popular for UGA students with bigger budgets.
Normaltown
• Trendy, artsy vibe with restaurants and music venues.
• Mix of student rentals + young professionals.
Downtown Athens
• Apartments, lofts, walk-to-class convenience.
• Higher rents, nightlife-heavy.
East Campus / East Athens
• More affordable apartments and townhomes.
• Shuttle/bus access to UGA.
When considering where to live in Athens as a student, Five Points, Normaltown, and Downtown Athens stand out for their proximity to UGA and vibrant lifestyles. Whether you prefer a lively scene or more affordable housing, there’s something for everyone.
🌳 Best Neighborhoods for Retirees
Watkinsville (Oconee County)
• Quiet small-town feel with Athens access.
• Homes: $350K–$600K+.
• Loved for charm + low taxes.
West Athens
• Newer builds, quieter pace, convenient shopping.
• Easy access to highways + hospitals.
Oconee County (general)
• Ranch homes, active communities, strong resale value.
For retirees wondering where to live in Athens, Watkinsville and Oconee County offer tranquil, easy-living options with a range of amenities and low taxes, making them ideal for peaceful retirement.
💰 Best Neighborhoods for Investors
Normaltown
• Consistent rental demand from students + professionals.
East Athens
• Affordable, high rental yields, strong student market.
Downtown Athens
• Premium rents, walkability, lofts + apartments.
Investors looking to buy property should consider where to live in Athens in areas like Normaltown and East Athens, which offer solid rental potential due to consistent demand from both students and professionals.
💵 Cost of Living & Prices (2025)
• Athens median home price: ~$320K.
• Oconee County median home price: ~$600K.
• Student rentals: $800–$1,200 per bedroom.
• Family rentals: $1,800–$2,500 per month.
The cost of living varies across Athens, so if you’re trying to determine where to live in Athens, understanding the price range of the different neighborhoods will help narrow your search.
✅ Pros & Cons of Living in Athens
Pros:
• UGA + jobs.
• Affordable compared to Atlanta.
• Music, food, and culture.
• College-town energy.
Cons:
• Traffic on game days.
• Rental turnover in some areas.
• Smaller job base than Atlanta.
Benefits offered by Athens are great for those wondering where to live in Athens, but it’s important to consider the occasional downsides, like traffic on game days and the turnover in rental properties.
Bottom Line: Where to Live in Athens
Athens is diverse. The right neighborhood depends on how you want to live. Whether you’re a family, student, retiree, or investor, there’s a neighborhood in Athens to suit your needs.
📲 Call or text me 706-817-2905, and I’ll send you a tailored list of where to live in Athens that actually fits your lifestyle and budget.
📧 ethanharkins@kw.com
🌐 ethanharkinsrealestate.com