Augusta,Albany, Columbus, or Macon (Atlanta, Savannah: new construction, private school, live in)

[cdcdguy]

Georgia is one state we are considering relocating to. We live in the Northeast now, and are tired of snow. We want a medium size city.We have 2 boys. Could someone maybe compare these cities? A general comparison would work. Economy, schools,weather,safety,anything. We don't like hurricanes, so left Savannah out. Thanks.

[atlantagreg30127]

Of those listed, I'd pick Columbus. Medium sized, and has a nice riverfront park/hike area as well as a decent economy. Georgia ranks as the second worst in the U.S. public school test scores (SC is worst), so I don't think there are many glowing marks for that - two words... private school.

Or, go north to NW Georgia to someplace just south of the Tennessee boarder - you'll have Chattanooga, which has lots of touristy/cultural things for a town that size, and you'd only be 2 hours or less from Atlanta if you ever wanted to do the big city thing.

[AmScout]

Macon has terrible public schools - must go private - it is very hot - it sits in a valley so the hot air get trapped!
All 4 cities are very similar in size, 'old southern' air with traditions and charm. Augusta has the Master's - also has a riverwalk with the Savannah river running through it. You are closest to Atl. in Macon (about an hour).

[cdcdguy]

Thanks for all the help. All of these cities are south of Atlanta. I know summer-HOT and humid.Do any get snow? Which city will be the mildest in winter? What is the typical winter day like? Maybe 45-50? Thanks again.

[k-dedmon]

I grew up in Albany and left - have not looked back-(except to visit a handful of friends who stayed) I would not suggest anyone moving into the heat and humidity. Move to North West Georgia!!!!

removed

[Racelady88]

I live just on the SC side of Augusta. I love it here.

Winter was not so bad, and I came from Florida. There were some cold days (30's for highs), but not a whole lot. It has been right around 100 here for the last week, but I have not turned on the A/C in my car. The humidity has been at 50% or lower. Being from Florida, that isn't very humid.

[cdcdguy]

Evey. My parents probably lived in your town. Aiken??? GREAT place. But, it is just a little expensive for us. We will consider Augusta, though.

[Racelady88]

Yep, Aiken.

There are still some pretty good deals here. New construction 3/2 starts around $110k.

[cdw1084]

Columbus is the best choice. Not fast paced. Better than the other cities because it will become the fastest growing with BRAC and the movement of 30,000 soldiers and family.

[fammaf]

Originally Posted by cdw1084

Columbus is the best choice. Not fast paced. Better than the other cities because it will become the fastest growing with BRAC and the movement of 30,000 soldiers and family.

I know Columbus is growing but faster than Augusta. Augusta is focused on becoming a metropolis at the moment. While visiting Columbus I didn't get that impression. More like the leaders wanted to keep Columbus a medium size southern charm city.