
Life in Athens, GA
Athens, Georgia is a dynamic college town located about 70 miles northeast of Atlanta. Home to the University of Georgia (UGA), Athens combines southern hospitality with youthful energy, a rich music and arts scene, and historic charm. Athens offers an affordable and engaging lifestyle. Whether you're a student, a homeowner, or a business owner, Ackerman Security delivers the reliable protection your lifestyle demands. From smart home automation to 24/7 monitoring, we’ve got your Athens property covered.
Athens Neighborhoods
- Five Points: Historic district with charming homes, boutiques, and cafes near UGA.
- Boulevard: Artsy and walkable with Victorian homes and galleries.
- Eastside: Suburban feel with newer developments and shopping centers.
- Normaltown: Hip and eclectic with local eateries and music venues.

Athens Population
Athens-Clarke County has a population of around 130,000, with a large portion made up of students, faculty, and university staff.
Demographics
- White: 60%
- African American: 26%
- Hispanic or Latino: 8%
- Asian: 4%
- Median Age: 27 years (due to student population)
- Median Household Income: $42,000
Athens Schools
- Operated by Clarke County School District
Notable Schools
- Clarke Central High School
- Cedar Shoals High School
- Barrow Elementary
- Hilsman Middle School
Daycare & After-School Care
- Apple Tree Prep
- Discovery Point Athens
- YMCA of Athens
- Milledge Avenue Baptist Preschool
Extracurricular Activities
- Dance: East Athens Educational Dance Center
- Swim: UGA Ramsey Center
- Martial Arts: Athens Karate School
- Music & Art: Lyndon House Arts Center, Athens School of Music
Athens is known for
- The University of Georgia and SEC football
- Legendary music scene (birthplace of R.E.M., The B-52s)
- Athens Twilight Criterium and cultural festivals
- Historic homes and vibrant downtown
Parks and Recreation
- Sandy Creek Park (lake, beach, hiking)
- Dudley Park (Greenway Trail access)
- Bishop Park (sports, pool, playgrounds)
- North Oconee River Greenway
Homes in Athens
Owners vs Renters
- Homeownership rate: 39%
- Renting: 61%, due to high student and young professional population
Why Live in Athens?
- Rich cultural and music scene
- Walkable downtown with great dining
- Affordable cost of living
- Proximity to Atlanta and North Georgia nature
Working in Athens
Major Employers
- University of Georgia
- Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center
- St. Mary's Health Care System
- Creature Comforts Brewing Co.
Hiring Sectors
- Higher Education
- Healthcare
- Government
- Creative Arts and Hospitality
Transportation
- Athens Transit (bus system)
- UGA Campus Transit (free to public during certain hours)
- 90 minutes to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Shopping, Dining and Entertainment
Grocery Stores
- Kroger, Publix, Walmart, Trader Joe's
- Daily Co-op and local farmers markets
Dining Scene
- The National (Mediterranean)
- Mama's Boy (Southern brunch)
- Seabear Oyster Bar
- Last Resort Grill
- Five & Ten (fine dining by Chef Hugh Acheson)
Entertainment
- Georgia Theatre
- 40 Watt Club
- State Botanical Garden of Georgia
- Classic Center concerts and shows
Community Services & Resources in Athens
Emergency & Healthcare Services
- Police: Athens-Clarke County Police Department
- Fire: Athens-Clarke County Fire & Emergency Services
- Hospitals: Piedmont Athens Regional, St. Mary's Hospital
- Urgent Care: Georgia Clinic, Peachtree Immediate Care
Medical Providers
- Athens Internal Medicine
- Athens OB/GYN
- Pediatric Associates of Athens
- Dental and wellness providers citywide
Religious Institutions
- First Baptist Church of Athens
- St. Joseph Catholic Church
- Athens Islamic Center
- Congregation Children of Israel
