Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Valdosta, GA
Thinking of making Valdosta, GA your home? With a population of 55,378 and a cost of living well below the national average, Valdosta offers affordable housing—median home prices are around $164,000 and typical rents average $940. Commutes are short, averaging just 18 minutes, and the city enjoys warm, sunny weather most of the year. While crime rates are higher than national averages, Valdosta features a vibrant college-town atmosphere, anchored by Valdosta State University, and a diverse community with good access to healthcare and schools. Explore more about the city below to see if Valdosta fits your lifestyle!
Demographics - Valdosta, GA
Demographics - Valdosta, GA
Valdosta is home to about 55,000 residents with a youthful median age of 28.6, reflecting its vibrant college-town atmosphere. The community is diverse, with over half identifying as Black and more than a third as White, and nearly 8% speak a language other than English at home. The city’s moderate population density creates a lively yet accessible environment for newcomers.
Population:
55,378
Density:
1,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
28.6
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
36.3%
Black:
52.2%
Asian:
2.5%
Others:
9.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Valdosta, GA?
Valdosta offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $164,000 and average rent around $940, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious movers. The overall cost of living index is 83.7, well below the national average, while everyday expenses such as utilities and groceries remain reasonable. Residents benefit from comparatively low state income tax rates and manageable homeownership costs.
Median House Value:
$164,000
Gross Rent:
$940
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,490
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,190
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.7
Grocery:
94.3
Housing:
61.4
Utilities:
104.2
Transportation:
90.7
Health Care:
90.3
Miscellaneous:
96.8
Crime
Is Valdosta, GA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Valdosta are higher than national averages, with a 1 in 244 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 36 chance for property crime. While the city has a vibrant community, prospective residents should consider local safety resources and neighborhoods when relocating. Taking standard precautions and staying informed can help ensure a positive living experience.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
410
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,790
Crime Index:
3,200
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 244
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 36
Weather
What is the weather like in Valdosta, GA year-round?
Valdosta enjoys a warm, sunny climate with mild winters averaging lows in the upper 30s and hot summers reaching the low 90s. The city sees about 67% sunny days each year and receives around 51 inches of rainfall, supporting lush greenery and outdoor activities. Residents can expect comfortable springs and falls, perfect for year-round recreation.
Winter
Min:
39°F
Max:
62°F
Spring
Min:
55°F
Max:
80°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
51.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
67%
Neighbors
Valdosta’s neighborhoods have a median household income of $37,700 and a poverty rate of 25.7%, reflecting a community in transition. Most residents drive to work, facing short commutes of around 18 minutes, and less than 1% use public transportation. Educational attainment is solid, with nearly 88% of adults holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$25,900
Household Income:
$37,700
Family Income:
$53,000
Per Capita Income:
$20,700
Income Male:
$28,500
Income Female:
$24,200
Poverty Rate:
25.7%
Non English Speakers:
7.8%
Rent:
$940
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
18.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.8%
Bachelors or More:
25.1%
Education
How are the schools in Valdosta, GA?
Valdosta offers a range of educational options, from well-regarded public schools like Valdosta High School to private institutions such as Valwood School. Higher education is a local highlight, with Valdosta State University enrolling over 11,000 students right in the city. The presence of technical colleges and diverse K-12 schools supports families and students at every level.
Public Schools
Name:
Valdosta High School
Street:
4590 Inner Perimeter Rd
Phone:
229-333-8540
Students:
2,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Name:
J.L. Newbern Middle School
Street:
2725 N Forrest St
Phone:
229-333-8566
Students:
1,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Private Schools
Name:
Valwood School
Street:
4380 Old US Hwy 41 N
Phone:
229-242-8491
Students:
530
Colleges
Name:
Valdosta State University
City:
Valdosta
State:
GA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
11,200
Name:
Wiregrass Georgia Technical College
City:
Valdosta
State:
GA
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
4,500
Healthcare
Healthcare in Valdosta is anchored by South Georgia Medical Center, providing comprehensive emergency and general care. The area has 2 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 87% have health insurance coverage, ensuring good access to medical services. The healthcare index of 69.5 indicates adequate facilities and services for the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
South Georgia Medical Center
Address:
2501 N Patterson St, Valdosta, GA 31602
Phone:
(229) 433-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.9%
Health Care Index:
69.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Valdosta, GA?
The Valdosta housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $164,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $940. Homeownership is less common, with only 39% of homes owner-occupied, and the area has a healthy 6.1% annual home appreciation rate. Renters benefit from a relatively high vacancy rate, offering flexibility and options.
Median Home Price:
$164,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$940
Owner Occupied Rate:
38.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Valdosta residents are served by the Georgia Department of Driver Services located locally on Gil Harbin Industrial Blvd. This office provides licensing, registration, and other motor vehicle services, making DMV-related tasks convenient for new arrivals. More information and online services can be accessed via the Georgia DDS website.
State:
Georgia
Department:
Georgia Department of Driver Services
Address:
371 Gil Harbin Industrial Blvd, Valdosta, GA 31601
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.