Where Veterans Can Buy Smart: 10 Best Places to Live in Georgia Using a VA Loan

Georgia continues to rank among the best places for veterans to live in the U.S., and anyone who lives there can tell you why.

From military-friendly tax policies and job opportunities to low housing costs and access to top-tier VA healthcare, the state offers a solid combination of benefits that appeal to veterans at every stage of life.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer transitioning from active duty or a retired service member ready to settle down, Georgia provides a smart path to homeownership—especially if you want to use a VA loan.

In this article, we break down the 10 best places for veterans to live and buy a home in Georgia, highlighting affordability, military access, career options, and quality of life.

Why Georgia Is One of the Best States for Veterans

Georgia stands out for both practical and personal reasons. Here are just a few:

• No state tax on military retirement pay
• Property tax exemptions for disabled veterans
• Several VA medical centers and military bases
• Strong job market in aerospace, logistics, cyber, and healthcare
• Lower-than-average housing costs

Plus, with a VA home loan, eligible buyers can skip a down payment, avoid PMI (private mortgage insurance), and benefit from more lenient credit standards.

Learn more about VA loans and how you can use them to boost your buying power.

1. Savannah

Military Connection: Hunter Army Airfield
Population: ~150,000

Why veterans choose Savannah:

• Affordable home prices below the national average
• Access to VA healthcare through Savannah’s VA Clinic
• Strong military community with local support groups

Savannah offers charm, culture, and coastal living—all while keeping you close to military infrastructure. For veterans who want a slower pace with economic opportunity, it’s an excellent fit.

2. Columbus

Military Connection: Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning)
Population: ~200,000

Veteran perks in Columbus:

• Lenders and real estate agents who are VA loan experts.
• A wide selection of affordable homes
• Excellent support services for military families transitioning out of the armed forces

Columbus is built around its military presence, making it one of the most veteran-friendly cities in Georgia. It’s a great option for active-duty families, retirees, or anyone separating from service.

3. Warner Robins

Military Connection: Robins Air Force Base
Population: ~80,000

Why Warner Robins ranks high for veteran buyers:

• Low cost of living
• Defense and aerospace career opportunities
• Consistent home value appreciation

Veterans looking for career continuity after service will appreciate Warner Robins’ defense contracting jobs and stable housing market. FHA and VA loan users often find flexible options here, too.

4. Augusta

Military Connections: Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon), VA Medical Center
Population: ~200,000

Veteran benefits in Augusta:

• Expansive veteran healthcare options
• Growing jobs in cybersecurity and healthcare
• Strong network of veteran nonprofits

Veterans will appreciate Augusta’s military-friendly culture. At the same time, though, they will appreciate the opportunities the rapidly growing civilian job market offers. Augusta is also an ideal place for veterans who might need medical assistance.

5. Atlanta Metro Area

Support for Veterans: Multiple VA health centers and veteran service offices
Top Suburbs: Marietta, Peachtree City, Lawrenceville

Why the Atlanta Metro area is a good move for vets:

• One of the largest veteran populations in the state
• Career opportunities in tech, healthcare, and logistics
• Access to top-ranked schools and medical care

Yes, the cost of housing in Atlanta proper can be steep. However, the nearby suburbs offer better value. Veterans using their Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) can often afford larger homes while staying close to job hubs.

6. Valdosta

Military Connection: Moody Air Force Base
Population: ~56,000

Valdosta is best for first-time VA loan buyers and growing families, due to:

• Lower-than-average home prices
• Friendly VA loan environment
• Tight-knit, family-friendly community

Valdosta’s small-town feel and military presence make it one of the best starter markets for veterans buying their first home.

7. Macon

Population: ~150,000

Macon is closest to the Robins Air Force Base.

Why Macon deserves attention:

• Central Georgia location with easy access to Atlanta and Savannah
• Emerging healthcare and arts sectors
• Active veteran-focused nonprofits

Macon offers the best of both worlds: affordable housing with urban revitalization. Veterans interested in long-term equity growth should keep it on their radar.

8. Rome

Population: ~37,000

The closest military base in Rome, GA, is Dobbins Air Reserve Base.

Why Georgia veterans like Rome:

• Quiet residential areas with a scenic countryside
• Low property taxes and living costs
• Multiple services are available for retirees and those on disability

Rome’s peaceful lifestyle and veteran-friendly community is an ideal place for veterans who just want to get away from it all.

9. Hinesville

Military Connection: Fort Stewart
Population: ~35,000

Top VA benefits in Hinesville:

• A large population of active-duty and veterans
• Affordable homes, including newly-built houses
• Strong rental market to help you explore the area without commitment

Hinesville is one of the most supportive communities for military families planning for life after the armed forces. It offers a direct path from on-base living to permanent homeownership, and the affordable homes will let you maximize your VA loan money.

10. Athens

Population: ~130,000

While Athens doesn’t have its own military base, it’s just as friendly to veterans and a great place for veteran homebuyers. 

Why Veterans choose Athens:

• Stable housing market
• Access to education and VA programs
• Cultural and entertainment perks

Home to the University of Georgia, Athens provides access to GI Bill benefits and a diverse job market. It’s a great place for second careers or going back to school.

How the VA Loan Process Works in Georgia

Buying a home with your VA loan benefit doesn’t have to be complicated. At Salute Mortgage, we guide you through each step, from pre-approval to closing.

Check out the Georgia Department of Veterans Services for state-level benefits, such as:

• Property tax exemptions
• Education grants
• Veteran ID cards
• Healthcare access

If a VA loan isn’t right for you right now, FHA loans are also widely available and accepted in Georgia.

Find Your Georgia Home with Salute Mortgage

From Savannah to Rome, the best places for veterans to live in Georgia offer different lifestyles, but they all share one thing: military support, affordability, and opportunity.

At Salute Mortgage, we combine veteran-led integrity with fast, clear service. Whether you’re using your VA loan for the first time or making your final PCS move, we’ll help you close fast, without the stress. Get your free custom VA loan quote today.