Georgia is considered by many to be an extremely good place for off grid living, the local climate is excellent for growing vegetables and most importantly there is no shortage of water. Georgia is famous for its peaches, and many homesteaders are making a full-time income by simply growing peaches. The winters are relatively mild in Georgia and some vegetables can be grown almost all year round with some careful planning.
The best places for off grid living in Georgia are the ones that have a good climate for growing vegetables and the groundwater is not polluted. Generally speaking the best counties for off grid living and homesteading in Georgia are Chatham County, Cherokee County, Hall County, Taliaferro County, Quitman County, Ware County, and Burke County.
Although Georgia might seem like a paradise for anybody who wants to live off the grid but this state does have its fair share of problems. Most notably the pollution in Georgia is one of the highest in the entire country, even the groundwater in remote areas might be polluted. This is why it is extremely important to test the groundwater if you want to buy a plot of land in this state.
The good news is that you can legally harvest rainwater in Georgia, especially as this state gets plenty of rain. The bad news is that as the rain drops to the ground it can pick up dust particles and other chemicals, so you might want to purify your water especially if you live near the bigger cities. If you want to know more about off grid living in this state then check out my recent article Off grid living in Georgia ( Peach State ).
Best Places To Live Off The Grid In Georgia
In my personal experience, Georgia offers some incredible options for living off the grid. The state’s diverse landscapes, from the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains to the picturesque coastal areas, provide a stunning backdrop for a self-sufficient lifestyle. Areas like Rabun County and Fannin County, located in the northern part of the state, offer lush forests, pristine rivers, and a strong sense of community. These regions provide opportunities for sustainable farming, off-grid energy solutions, and a deep connection with nature.
Moreover, the remote communities of Telfair County and Wilcox County in central Georgia offer a peaceful and secluded environment, surrounded by wide-open spaces and serene natural beauty. Georgia’s mild climate, affordable land prices, and a culture that celebrates independence and Southern hospitality make it an enticing choice for individuals seeking to disconnect from traditional utilities and embrace a more self-reliant and sustainable way of life amidst the charm and warmth of the Peach State.
Chatham County
Chatham County is located in the eastern part of the state, right on the coast. This is an excellent place for off grid living especially if you want to live near the coast. Although there are pros and cons to living off the grid next to the coast but it can be an excellent place for the right kind of people. The population density is somewhat high which means that the cost of living and the cost of land are somewhat higher than in the neighboring counties. If you want to know the legal aspects of collecting rainwater in every state then check out my recent article Collecting rainwater illegal? ( Laws in all 50 States ).
Cherokee County
Cherokee County is located in the northern part of the state, and this is somewhat of a hidden gem for off grid living. The local groundwater is relatively clean, and the county gets plenty of rainfall every year. The population density is somewhat high, as there are around 258k people living in an area of 424 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the south and southwestern parts of the county. If you want to know what vegetables are the best to can then check out my recent article Best vegetables to can ( Top 13 ).
Hall County
Hall County is located in the northern part of the state, and this small county has everything that you would need for off grid living. The population density is relatively high, but there are a couple of areas in the south and southeastern parts of the county that are excellent for off grid living. Currently, there are around 204k people living in an area of 394 sq mi, and the population is slowly rising every year.
Taliaferro County
Taliaferro County is located in the eastern part of the state, and this small county is excellent for anybody who wants to live off the grid on a tight budget. Due to the low population density, the demand for housing is extremely low, which means that the prices are one of the lowest in the entire state. Currently, there are around 1500 people living in an area of 195 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the southwestern parts of the county.
Quitman County
Quitman County is located in the western part of the state, and this is another hidden gem for anybody wanting to buy a big plot of land for as cheap as possible. The population density in Quitman County is one of the lowest in the state, and the real estate market is one of the cheapest in the area. Currently, there are around 2k people living in an area of 152 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the northern parts of the county.
Ware County
Ware County is located in the southern part of the state and is considered by many to be an excellent place for off grid living. Due to the large size of the county, the population density is relatively low, so you will have no problem buying a large plot of land for relatively cheap. Currently, there are around 35k people living in an area of 903 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the southern parts of the county.
Burke County
Burke County is located in the eastern part of the state, due to its unique geographical position this is an excellent place for off grid living. In addition to this, the population density is also relatively low which means that the cost of land and property are fairly low as well. Currently, there are around 22k people living in an area of 831 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the eastern parts of the county.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia’s mild climate, with relatively short and mild winters, provides favorable conditions for off-grid living and agriculture. The state’s fertile soil and longer growing season support the cultivation of a wide range of crops, including vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Off-grid residents can take advantage of the agricultural potential to establish self-sustaining food systems.
- Georgia is known for its numerous rivers, lakes, and aquifers, providing abundant water resources for off-grid living. Access to freshwater sources allows for irrigation, livestock watering, and other essential water needs. Additionally, the state’s humid climate helps support plant growth and reduces the need for excessive water usage.
- Georgia is home to supportive off-grid communities and a rural lifestyle that embraces self-sufficiency and sustainable living. These communities offer a network for knowledge sharing, resource exchange, and community support. The state’s rich agricultural heritage and cultural appreciation for self-reliance contribute to a welcoming environment for off-grid enthusiasts.