If you’re moving to Georgia, the biggest question for most people is “Atlanta or not Atlanta?” What that really means is, do you want a fast, messy, high-opportunity city, a college town with a younger, more energetic personality, or a suburb to spread out and enjoy better parks and schools?
As of today, the top 10 largest cities in Georgia by population (according to the 2024 Census estimate) are:
This guide looks at the 10 largest cities in Georgia and what it’s actually like to live there.
| Rank | City | Population | Average 1-Bedroom Rent | Average 2-Bedroom Rent | Median Household Income | Walk Score | Transit Score | Bike Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Atlanta | 520,070 | $1,780 | $2,244 | $85,652 | 48 | 44 | 42 |
| 2 | Augusta | 201,830 | $1,115 | $1,255 | $578,073 | 15 | N/A | 28 |
| 3 | Columbus | 201,737 | $1,200 | $1,376 | $55,485 | 22 | N/A | 33 |
| 4 | Macon | 157,056 | $1,251 | $1,442 | $51,234 | 30 | N/A | 32 |
| 5 | Savannah | 148,808 | $1,664 | $1,850 | $57,137 | 44 | N/A | 52 |
| 6 | Athens | 128,691 | $1,363 | $1,570 | $52,974 | 49 | N/A | 39 |
| 7 | South Fulton | 112,003 | $1,777 | $2,241 | $82,324 | 62 | N/A | 34 |
| 8 | Sandy Springs | 105,505 | $1,540 | $1,877 | $104,340 | 27 | 25 | 20 |
| 9 | Roswell | 92,227 | $1,658 | $1,769 | $128,654 | 22 | 14 | 22 |
| 10 | Johns Creek | 81,167 | $1,686 | $2,015 | $160,093 | 18 | N/A | 21 |
This ranking is based on city proper population with the latest data as of May 15, 2026.
For consolidated or unified governments, this piece uses the Census reporting convention tied to that city’s governing structure. That means Augusta is represented through Augusta-Richmond County consolidated government (balance), Macon through Macon-Bibb County, and Athens through Athens-Clarke County unified government (balance).
Rent figures come from the current Apartment List rent report, using average rent wherever available. Population and income figures come from the most recent Census-based data available and supporting source checks. Walk, transit, and bike scores come from Walk Score, which measures how easy it is to get around an area on foot, by transit, or by bike.
Atlanta is the city people move to when they want options. Job options, neighborhood options, food options, and options for things to do on the weekend. It’s busy, sprawling, and a place you can explore for years without scratching the surface.
Yes, the airport is a huge deal. Yes, it’s home to 13 Fortune 500 company headquarters. But what really makes Atlanta unique is that it doesn’t feel like one city so much as a collection of neighborhoods with very different vibes. Midtown, East Atlanta, West End, and Downtown all pull different kinds of renters.
Atlanta is known for its diversity and arts scene, and if that paired with big-city energy sounds right up your alley, you’ll love it here.
Columbus doesn’t always get the same attention as Savannah or Atlanta, but there’s a lot going on here. It sits right next ot the Chattahoochee River and has a major military presence with Fort Moore, yet manages to feel a bit more easygoing than a lot of cities its size.
The riverfront is one of the city’s best assets. The Riverwalk gives the place a little breathing room, and downtown has enough shops, restaurants, and museums to keep people entertained.
If you’re looking for city vibes with lower rents, a unique local identity, and a little less noise, Columbus is worth looking into.
Augusta is known to many as home to the Masters. Of course, that’s not all the city offers. It has a major healthcare footprint, a strong military presence, and much more manageable rent prices than some of the cities on this list.
Downtown Augusta has grown a lot over the past few years, especially near the Riverwalk. You’ll find galleries, festivals, theaters, and local food spots. It still feels a little underrated, which is not the worst thing if you're a renter trying to get more city for your money.
Macon has a long-standing music history. Otis Redding and the Allman Brothers both tie back here, which is a pretty absurd combo for one mid-size Georgia city.
It’s also one of the more affordable places on this list, especially if you are looking at average rent figures. The city is home to several colleges, museums, older architecture, and a community-driven downtown area with endless boutiques and art galleries.
Macon feels like a place with roots. If you want something cheaper than Atlanta but with more personality than a generic suburb, this city is a real contender.
Savannah is one of the most charming cities in the U.S., and it’s hard to compare it to anything else. The parks, the historic 18th- and 19th-century buildings, the tree canopy, the closeness to Tybee. It all captures a type of inexplicable magic. But the useful thing to know as a renter is that Savannah is not just pretty. It’s also a port city with a growing economy and a slower pace than the larger cities in inland Georgia.
The tourism in some parts can feel performative if you’re just visiting. But living there is different. You get the architecture and the walkable historic pockets, lively annual festivals, the weekly farmers markets, short walks through Spanish moss-covered oak trees, and the Southern Lowcountry cuisine.
If you want a city with a relaxed personality, Savannah has plenty of it. Just know you will be sharing it with a lot of visitors.
Athens is one of the easiest cities in Georgia to romanticize. The University of Georgia makes up a lot of the engine behind it, but the city would still have a strong identity without the school. There’s deep music history as the founding city for bands like the B-52s and R.E.M., an active downtown area, and a range of parks, museums, and music venues to keep locals entertained.
That said, Athens is still a college town. That means the rhythm of the city changes with the academic calendar, and some parts of the market skew heavily to the student population. Depending on your age and tolerance for game-day crowds, that’s either part of the charm or the exact reason you would look elsewhere.
In all, if you want a city that feels creative, social, and a little scrappier than Atlanta, Athens makes a strong case.
South Fulton is still relatively new as cities go, which means it doesn’t have the same baked-in identity as some of the older places on this list. What it does have, however, is room, a growing residential base, and quick access to Atlanta.
The commute to downtown Atlanta is easy with access to the I-85 and I-285, and with rapidly growing housing and commercial developments, there’s no doubt it’ll be booming in the next decade.
As for things to do, you have access to the Wolf Creek Ampitheater for shows, the Cochran Mill Nature Center for hiking and golfing, and an array of local shops throughout the city and nearby Douglasville.
Sandy Springs is a thriving suburb for people who want access to Atlanta without feeling like they live there. It has a comparatively high median household income, an A rating for public schools, and it’s great for professionals and families who want a little more space to spread out.
It’s also very much a modern metro suburb. You’ll find office parks, shopping centers, green spaces, cultural institutions, and access to the downtown hub of City Springs.
If Johns Creek feels too far out and Atlanta feels like too much, Sandy Springs lands in an excellent middle-of-the-road choice.
South Fulton, a suburban area located just south of Atlanta, is one of the newer cities in Georgia. Formed in 2005, South Fulton has grown rapidly, offering a mix of residential neighborhoods, retail developments, and recreational spaces. The city is home to a diverse community, with an emphasis on creating a family-friendly environment and improving public services. Its proximity to Atlanta provides residents with easy access to the city's job market, cultural attractions, and major highways.
South Fulton is also known for its parks and outdoor activities, including the popular Welcome All Park. The city offers a range of housing options, from affordable homes to newer developments, making it an attractive location for a variety of residents. With its blend of suburban tranquility, modern amenities, and convenient location near Atlanta, South Fulton is an appealing choice for those seeking a balance between city life and peaceful surroundings.
Roswell embodies Atlanta charm, just 20 miles north of downtown along the Chattahoochee River. The downtown area is lined with historic buildings, restaurants, and plenty of activity for locals without tipping into touristy. Add the 7-mile Roswell Riverwalk and 900-acre park system into the mix, and it’s not hard to see why people move here.
Roswell certainly isn’t a bargain pick here, as it has a relatively high median income with higher rental prices, but if you want a suburb north of Atlanta that feels established, attractive, and connected, this is one of the stronger options.
Johns Creek has the highest median household income on the list at $160,093, which tells you a lot right off the bat. It’s often ranked as one of the best places to live in Georgia.
People move here for schools, quality neighborhoods, safety, and recreation. The city has plenty of greenways, preserves, and a decent amount of outdoor space, perfect for swimming, playing tennis, and just generally enjoying the outdoors.
It’s one of the most affluent cities in Georgia, and if you’re thinking about moving here, it’s better to get in now before the “best-kept secret” is out.
Ready to explore the best cities to live in Georgia and find your next home? Whether you’re attracted to the bustling energy of Atlanta, the historical charm of Savannah, or the serene suburbs of Johns Creek, Apartment List simplifies your search, allowing you to easily browse available rentals in Georgia's major cities. Start your search today and discover your perfect apartment with the Apartment List quiz.
Georgia is home to 537 cities, making it one of the most populous states in the U.S.
Senoia is often considered the safest city in Georgia, according to CrimeGrade. It's known for historic homes and a small-town atmosphere. Auburn, Grovetown, and Holly Springs are also known for their low crime rates, high-quality amenities, and family-friendly environments.
Americus is often considered one of the most affordable cities to live in Georgia, with an average two-bedroom rent of around $1,050.
Decatur is the closest city for commuting to Atlanta at 6.3 miles from downtown, with a 15-minute drive or about 18 minutes by MARTA Blue Line
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, 24hr maintenance, Stainless steel, Walk in closets + more
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Stainless steel, Walk in closets, Gym + more
