I just now found this thread. May I ask where you're living in N. Ga? We're looking to get out of Atlanta, ITP. I've been here a long, long, long time and we're fed up with it. We've been looking in NE Ga for a long time but can't decide which side of the ridge we'd like to be on. Of course, Blairsville/Hiawassee is nice but I just hate going up and down the mountains to get back to Atl where I still have family. We've looked around Sautee Nacoochee and found some nice areas. And like you said, the healthcare situation is one that definitly has to be factored into the decision.
We’re in Rabun County. Lots of hiking trails, waterfalls and National Forest. Home prices are still climbing around Clayton and the developers are moving in to respond to the demand for housing.
It’s a great area in many ways but if you need a specialist or have a serious health issue (I haven’t yet) it’s an hour and a half drive. Atlanta is still the go to place for concerts, museums, restaurants and other amenities, about the same distance to Athens.
We had a vacation home here for about 25 years. When we retired we downsized, got rid of over 5000 lbs of stuff, and moved in full time. We love the quiet, nature and scenic beauty. But during Covid when we could not travel we became aware of all the limitations of being here full time.
If we could afford to move to New England we would. Lots of small town life and scenic beauty, but still having excellent healthcare, attractions and amenities.
Trade offs only work for me for awhile and then I get restless and want to move again.