The number of residents in Auburn more than quadrupled in the 1980s, and growth never stopped. The population now sits just under 10,000, an increase of 29% since 2020. Locals say the growth spurt was spurred by the city’s location between Atlanta and Athens. (The small Georgia city is not to be confused with the city of the same name in Alabama, where football-crazy Auburn University resides.) “I didn’t even know what Auburn was eight to nine years ago. A lot of people are just moving to a quiet, nice suburban area,” says broker Eladia Aracena, owner of Cena Realty, who has 15 years of real estate experience in the area. More growth is on the way as the nonprofit Rowen Foundation constructs a 2,000-acre campus just south of the city. The mixed-use site will house environmental, agricultural and medical research facilities and is expected to create over 100,000 jobs over the next several decades. Meanwhile, the city’s current top employment sectors are service, retail and manufacturing jobs, but most residents commute to Atlanta for work.
Nestled amidst rolling hills, the small town of Auburn is rapidly transforming into a bustling and vibrant hub for innovative manufacturing and diverse service providers, attracting entrepreneurs and skilled workers alike.
Continued growth is on the horizon as the nonprofit Rowen Foundation embarks on an ambitious project to construct a sprawling 2,000-acre campus, nestled just south of the vibrant city.
1/2
Homes sell for below Atlanta’s median
The median home price in Auburn is $338,000, lower than the median price in Atlanta. Recent construction includes Harmony, built around the city’s new Municipal Center. The downtown community has trails, a garden and an apiary. “We have new construction going on all over the city, from one end to the other,” says Staci Waters, Auburn’s main street coordinator.
The newly constructed Harmony community is elegantly designed and thoughtfully developed around the city’s state-of-the-art Municipal Center in Auburn, offering residents a vibrant and engaging living environment enriched by modern amenities and green spaces.
The vibrant city of Auburn has officially relocated its municipal building to a newly constructed facility, designed for enhanced accessibility and functionality, reflecting the community’s growth and commitment to better serving its residents.
1/2
Getting to Atlanta and Athens
Interstate 85, west of Auburn, travels 42 miles into Atlanta. Highway 29 goes 32 miles east to Athens. The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is 52 miles away. The nearest hospital is Northeast Georgia Medical Center Barrow, which is 10 miles away in Winder.
Small businesses in Whistlestop Shop’s tiny cottages
Small businesses operate out of the Whistlestop Shops, a collection of small wooden cottages downtown. Businesses include a seamstress, a spice store and a sports card shop, each looking out onto the decorative red caboose near the railroad tracks, where a farmers market is held every Tuesday from October to July. A few small shopping centers, grocery stores and restaurants are along Highway 29. Waters says the city is working with investors to revitalize the downtown and attract local restaurants.
Vibrant murals, crafted by talented local artists, brilliantly showcase the stunning beauty and rich artistic spirit that can be found throughout the streets of Auburn.
Each week, shoppers from near and far flock to the charming, quaint retail cottages of the Whistlestop Shop, drawn in by their unique offerings and warm atmosphere.
1/2
Most students attend Barrow County schools
Most students attend the Barrow County School System, which gets a B-plus on Niche. A few students on Auburn’s western edge attend Gwinnett County Public Schools, which gets an A. Higher education options within 50 miles include the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Emory University and more.
Winder-Barrow High School is renowned for its exceptional academic programs and dedicated faculty, consistently earning its reputation as one of the premier educational institutions in the county.
Gwinnett County Public Schools is one of the largest and most dynamic school districts in the entire state of Georgia, serving a diverse community of students and families with a wide range of educational programs and opportunities.
1/2
Fairy tales come alive at Auburn Ever After
Every May, children mingle with characters such as Spider-Man and Cinderella during downtown's Auburn Ever After. “It’s a fairy tale day for kids,” Waters says. “It’s just a magical day for them.” In October, live music fills the air for AuburnFest, with hayrides and a barbecue competition near the Whistlestop Shops.
Picking pecans at Whistlestop Park
Whistlestop Park is a small greenspace downtown where fresh pecans can be picked off trees hanging over picnic tables. The City of Auburn Ballfields has sports fields and walking trails. James Shackelford Memorial Park’s nature trail winds through an area with picnic shelters.
Whistlestop Park is surrounded by majestic pecan trees, their sprawling branches providing a cool and inviting shade during the sweltering summer days, creating an enchanting atmosphere as visitors stroll through the park and indulge in some delightful shopping.
James Shackelford Park is a beautiful, vibrant oasis nestled in Auburn, featuring a network of winding walking trails that meander through lush greenery and colorful flower beds.
1/2
Hot summers and mild winters in Auburn
Auburn gets warm falls and springs, hot summers and mild winters. According to Georgia Bureau of Investigations statistics, violent and property crimes rose slightly in 2023. The county's crime rate is more than doubled by those of Fulton County in Atlanta and Clarke County in Athens, but higher than that of the neighboring Jackson County.
Written By
Josh Gully
Photography Contributed By
Bradley Parrish
Video By
Houston Knight
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Stephanie Cann,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Auburn, GA sell after 52 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Auburn, GA over the last 12 months is $368,240, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to “The Continental,” a beautifully upgraded 5-bedroom, 3-bath home on a premium lot in the highly sought-after Mill Creek High School district. This spacious open floor plan features wood floors on the main level, wood stairs, a formal dining room, butler’s pantry, and a gourmet white kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, oversized island, and walk-in pantry. The
$30k Price Improvement!! This beautifully maintained home offering 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms in the desirable Pinebrook at Hamilton Mill community. The main level features hardwood flooring throughout, a separated formal dining room and a dedicated home office conveniently located next to the living room—ideal for remote work or study. This office can easily be turned into a 5th bedroom. The
Coleford This home offers 3 Bedrooms and 2.5 Bathrooms with a loft area upstairs. The foyer leads to the main living space: the great room opens to the kitchen and dining area. The kitchen has a center work island with bar stool seating and a large pantry. The Powder room is on the main level. Upstairs has a Loft area, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a laundry room. Sample Images, home is currently
Welcome to a move-in ready, almost-new home offering modern finishes, an open-concept floor plan, and a convenient location with easy access to Highway 316, shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation. This beautifully maintained single-family home is filled with natural light and designed for comfortable everyday living and entertaining. The open kitchen features granite countertops, stainless
$30K Price Improvement!! This beautifully maintained home offering 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms in the desirable Pinebrook at Hamilton Mill community. The main level features hardwood flooring throughout, a separated formal dining room and a dedicated home office conveniently located next to the living room-ideal for remote work or study. This office can easily be turned into a 5th bedroom. The
Luxury Living on 3.24 Private Acres | No HOA | Minutes from Chateau ElanWelcome to this extraordinary one-owner custom-built estate, privately nestled on 3.24 serene acres with no HOA. Designed for both grand entertaining and comfortable everyday living, this home offers an exceptional blend of luxury, craftsmanship, and functionality.Step through the impressive double iron doors into a
Regan Maki
Ansley Real Estate | Christie's International Real Estate
********Up to $18,500 in down payment assistance available to qualified homebuyers through Preferred Lender!******** This stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath home in Auburn showcases modern design with luxurious features throughout. The open-concept layout makes the main living areas feel grand and welcoming, perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen is the centerpiece of the home,
Meticulously cared for 5 bedroom / 4 bath home tucked away in a cul de sac in the Estates at Mulberry. Larger lot for the neighborhood, 0.71 acre. Built in 2017, it has a beautiful open floor plan with luxurious coffered ceilings! Stunning gourmet kitchen, featuring double ovens, a gas cooktop, an oversized island, granite countertops, tons of counter space and cabinets, and views into the
Welcome to this beautiful 5-bedroom 4 full bathroom home. Enjoy peace of mind knowing this home was built in 2017 and has had one owner. Open concept living at full comfort. Kitchen features stainless steel appliances with white cabinets and stone countertops. screened porch with fireplace. The backyard has been enclosed by a privacy fence perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Improvements
Charming 3-Bedroom Townhouse in Auburn, GA – Move-In Ready! Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhouse located in the heart of Auburn, Georgia. This well-designed home offers an open floor plan with abundant natural light and modern finishes throughout. As you enter, you’ll find a welcoming foyer that leads into a spacious living area perfect for daily living and
Prime location on US-29 BUS S with 339' feet of highway frontage. This developmental commercial lot consists of 1 acre. Zoning has been approved for gas station. The back of the property is bound by Seaboard Coastline Railroad. Several businesses are already in this high traffic area. The future holds an expansion of the highway which will enhance accessibility. Call list agent Vickie Bateman
Welcome to “The Continental,” a beautifully upgraded 5-bedroom, 3-bath home on a premium lot in the highly sought-after Mill Creek High School district. This spacious open floor plan features wood floors on the main level, wood stairs, a formal dining room, butler’s pantry, and a gourmet white kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, oversized island, and walk-in pantry. The
Built in 2023, this 4BR/2.5BA home is tucked in the back of the community on a quiet, private cul-de-sac. The main level features an open-concept floor plan with a spacious living room, dining area, and kitchen that flow seamlessly together. The kitchen offers a large island with breakfast bar seating, recessed lighting, and tile backsplash. A convenient half bath is also located on the main
Welcome to your next home! This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom tri-level ranch sits on nearly an acre of land with no HOA and offers the perfect mix of comfort, charm, and space. Step into the cozy living room featuring a wood-burning fireplace, or enjoy your mornings on the rocking chair front porch with a cup of coffee in hand. The custom back patio is ideal for grilling and
Newer construction pool home available for lease in a charming one-street community just inside Barrow County with NO HOA. Enjoy the convenience of nearby shopping, dining, and I-85 access while still experiencing the peace and quiet of a scenic, pastoral setting where the night sky truly shines. This stunning home features a gorgeous pool with spa PERFECT for summer and upscale finishes
Beautiful and well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home available for lease in the desirable Auburn Landing community. This move-in ready property features laminate wood flooring throughout the entire first floor and hardwood stairs, adding warmth and durability to the main living areas. The spacious layout offers comfortable living with generously sized bedrooms, providing ample space for
Our beautiful four-bedroom rental homes feature high-end finishes such as granite countertops, resilient plank flooring, fireplaces, attached garages, stainless steel appliances, and large bedrooms with spacious closets. With three floor plans to choose from, you can find the perfect layout to fit your lifestyle. Whether you need extra space for a home office or a guest room for hosting visitors,
Built in 2022, this like-new home offers modern comfort in the highly desirable Mill Creek High School district. Inside, you'll find a thoughtfully designed layout featuring a formal dining area, durable hardwood flooring, and a seamless open-concept living space that's perfect for both relaxing and hosting. The main floor includes a private primary suite with dual sinks, a spacious shower, and a
Discover Polaris at Auburn, a , pet-friendly apartment home community in friendly Auburn, Georgia. This charming town is renowned for its strong sense of community and warm hospitality. Immerse yourself in the lush parks, vibrant community events, and a remarkable library available for your enjoyment. Experience the welcoming atmosphere that awaits you at Polaris at Auburn. HOUSING VOUCHERS
SPRING SPECIAL!!! If you have GOOD credit and sign an 18 or 24 month lease the rental rate will be $2675. If you only want a 12 month lease it will be $2875. The Cartay Plan Lot 34a: 5BR/3BA ***BRAND NEW. Welcome to Beckett Ranch, a Brand New Community Situated in the Lively and Timeless "SOUTHERN CHARM" Town of Auburn, GA. 2 STORY FOYER and Beautiful Open Concept Spacious Plan has Room for
Find Your Lucky Lease! 8 Weeks Free The Station at Kentmere by ARK Homes offers BRAND NEW 3-bedroom townhomes in Auburn, GA. These modern homes feature smart home technology, private yards, attached garages, and open-concept layouts. Located near top schools, shopping, and major commuter routes, this professionally managed community offers comfort and convenience just outside the city.
Welcome to Luxury Living in Auburn, Georgia! Step into elegance with this stunning brand-new construction in one of Auburn’s most beautiful and fast-growing communities. This 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom luxury home offers the perfect blend of sophistication, comfort, and convenience. Designed with today’s lifestyle in mind, the home features a wide open-concept floor plan that flows seamlessly from the
Tamara Roberts HodgesThe Commission Luxury Group LLC
Find Your Lucky Lease! 8 Weeks Free The Station at Kentmere by ARK Homes offers BRAND NEW 3-bedroom townhomes in Auburn, GA. These modern homes feature smart home technology, private yards, attached garages, and open-concept layouts. Located near top schools, shopping, and major commuter routes, this professionally managed community offers comfort and convenience just outside the city.
Fully renovated home located just one mile from Auburn City Hall. The property features a brand-new kitchen and fully updated bathrooms. The upper level includes 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, while the lower level offers 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and a bonus room connected to one of the downstairs bedrooms — perfect for an office, sitting area, or additional living space. Please note the requirements
Find Your Lucky Lease! 8 Weeks Free The Station at Kentmere by ARK Homes offers BRAND NEW 3-bedroom townhomes in Auburn, GA. These modern homes feature smart home technology, private yards, attached garages, and open-concept layouts. Located near top schools, shopping, and major commuter routes, this professionally managed community offers comfort and convenience just outside the city.
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
