Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Macon, GA
Considering a move to Macon, GA? With a population of 156,711, Macon offers affordable living—median homes are just $130,000 and average rent for a 2-bedroom sits at $950. Commute times are short, averaging 21 minutes, and the city enjoys warm Southern weather with 63% sunny days. While crime rates are higher than average, Macon boasts access to major hospitals, a vibrant university scene, and a low cost of living. Explore more about housing, education, and local amenities to see if Macon is right for you.
Demographics - Macon, GA
Macon, Georgia is home to about 156,700 residents, with a diverse community where a majority identify as Black and the median age is 36.9 years. The city features a moderate population density and a nearly balanced gender ratio, offering a vibrant urban atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
156,711
Density:
1,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.9
Gender Ratio:
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
36.7%
Black:
54.5%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
7.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Macon, GA?
Macon offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $130,000 and average rents around $950. The city’s living expenses are notably below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$130,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,430
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.0
Grocery:
92.4
Housing:
57.0
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
91.5
Health Care:
94.7
Miscellaneous:
95.0
Crime
Is Macon, GA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Macon are higher than average, with a 1 in 87 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 23 chance of property crime. Residents are encouraged to be mindful of safety when choosing neighborhoods.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,145
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,420
Crime Index:
5,565
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 87
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 23
Weather
What is the weather like in Macon, GA year-round?
Macon enjoys a warm Southern climate, with mild winters, hot summers reaching up to 92°F, and about 63% of days being sunny throughout the year. Annual rainfall averages 46 inches, supporting lush greenery and outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
52°F
Max:
78°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Local households in Macon have a median income of $44,600, though the area faces a higher poverty rate of 25.2%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the average commute time is a convenient 21 minutes.
Median Income:
$28,300
Household Income:
$44,600
Family Income:
$53,750
Per Capita Income:
$23,100
Income Male:
$38,900
Income Female:
$33,000
Poverty Rate:
25.2%
Non English Speakers:
5.8%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
6.0%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
21.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
86.5%
Bachelors or More:
22.1%
Education
How are the schools in Macon, GA?
Macon features a range of educational options, including public and private schools with manageable class sizes, and is home to colleges like Mercer University and Middle Georgia State University. This makes it an appealing destination for families and students alike.
Public Schools
Name:
Howard High School
Street:
6400 Forsyth Rd
Phone:
478-779-4850
Students:
1,300
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Name:
Springdale Elementary School
Street:
4965 Northside Dr
Phone:
478-779-3250
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Private Schools
Name:
Stratford Academy
Street:
6010 Peake Rd
Phone:
478-477-8073
Students:
800
Colleges
Name:
Mercer University
City:
Macon
State:
GA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
8,700
Name:
Middle Georgia State University
City:
Macon
State:
GA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
7,900
Healthcare
Macon residents have access to major hospitals like Atrium Health Navicent and Piedmont Macon Medical Center, with 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people and over 86% health insurance coverage. The city’s healthcare services are robust and easily accessible.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center
Address:
777 Hemlock St, Macon, GA 31201
Phone:
(478) 633-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Piedmont Macon Medical Center
Address:
350 Hospital Dr, Macon, GA 31217
Phone:
(478) 765-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.3%
Health Care Index:
67.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Macon, GA?
Housing in Macon is accessible, with a median home price of $130,000 and over half of properties owner-occupied. The market has seen steady appreciation, and rental options are widely available with a vacancy rate near 11%.
Median Home Price:
$130,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Driver services for Macon residents are provided by the Georgia Department of Driver Services, conveniently located downtown. The local office offers essential licensing and registration services for drivers and vehicle owners.
State:
Georgia
Department:
Georgia Department of Driver Services
Address:
200 Cherry St, Macon, GA 31201
Phone:
(678) 413-8400
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.