Blue Ridge is known for its mountain views, so much so that Southern Living named it the No. 3 best mountain town in the South in 2022. Hiking trails are a highlight, as is the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, a sightseeing train ride through Georgia’s mountains that begins and ends at Blue Ridge’s historic train depot. “We’re an hour, an hour-and-a-half from downtown Atlanta,” says Mayor Rhonda Haight, who’s lived in Blue Ridge for 25 years and served on the city council for 12 years before becoming mayor in 2021. “People come here for weekend getaways. We’re one of the first cities where you start seeing the mountains.”
Located in northeast Georgia’s Fannin County, Blue Ridge is only 2 square miles. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway’s track runs through the center of town along Main Street, where residents can find local shops and restaurants. There are few residential neighborhoods within the city limits, so the population of around 1,200 people has remained steady. The city is home to everyone from retirees to remote workers looking for a room with a view. Many locals also work in the tourism industry.
Blue Ridge you can ride Scenic Railway, a sightseeing train ride through Georgia’s mountains.
Hiking trails are a highlight, as is the Blue Ridge.
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Modern cabins with mountain views
With a city footprint of just over 2 square miles, there are few homes within the city limits. “There’s a mixture of new construction and historic homes,” Mayor Haight says, “and there’s great walkability here.” Homes closest to downtown are early-20th-century bungalows and Craftsman homes, and 21st-century modern cabin architecture becomes common farther away. The median price for a single-family home is about $650,000, significantly higher than the national median of about $400,000. Homes outside city limits with mountain or lake views are typically some of the area’s most expensive, while cost-conscious buyers can find less expensive options several miles from the city.
Live atop a breathtaking mountain in Blue Ridge, where every sunrise paints the sky with vibrant colors.
Live in a custom home in the mountains of Blue Ridge, Georgia.
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Busy weekends on Main Street and an established art scene
Locally owned restaurants, galleries, boutiques and breweries line Blue Ridge’s walkable Main Street. “Blue Ridge is known for having very unique high-end restaurants,” Mayor Haight says. “The population triples on the weekends. Fall used to be our busiest season, but now it’s year-round.” Restaurants like Southern Charm and The General Ledger serves regional comfort food, while Ferraro's Kitchen offers upscale Italian dishes. Popular annual events include the Fire and Ice Chili Cook-Off & Craft Beer Festival and the Old Timers’ Parade. “We’re an art town,” Mayor Haight says. “There are several galleries downtown with local and national artists.” The historic Fannin County Courthouse houses the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association and Art Center, where residents can take classes and enjoy art exhibits. Residents can also attend plays, musicals and live music at Blue Ridge Community Theater just south of downtown, and they can head to the Swan Drive-in Theatre to watch the latest blockbuster movie. For essentials, big-box retailers and grocery stores like Food Lion are on the city's north side.
The best Italian cuisine and wine selection in Blue Ridge can be enjoyed at Ferraro's Kitchen.
Blue Ridge Mountain Mall features antiques, collectibles, and home decor in Blue Ridge.
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Hiking and fishing in Georgia's trout capital
Blue Ridge City Park, in the center of downtown, has a playground and community space for festivals and other events. To the city’s east, the 3,290-acre Lake Blue Ridge is popular for boating and fishing, and the Toccoa River nearby is known for white water rafting, tubing and fly fishing. “We’re the trout fishing capital of Georgia,” Mayor Haight says, “and people love to hike here.” For hiking in the area, the Aska Adventure Area and Rich Mountain Wildlife Management Area are local favorites.
Blue Ridge is renowned for its exceptional trout fishing along the scenic Toccoa River and boasts a vibrant local scene that's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Discover the joys of Blue Ridge Lake by renting a boat or jet ski for an exciting day on the water.
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B-rated schools with a charter system
Kids can attend Fannin County Public Schools, which earn a B-plus from Niche. The school district is a charter system and emphasizes flexibility in its curriculum. Students can start school at Blue Ridge Elementary and then attend Fannin County Middle; both earn a B. Fannin County High also earns a B and offers flex time where students can pursue career pathways in subjects like general automotive technology and journalism. High schoolers can also take dual-enrollment courses at the University of North Georgia’s Blue Ridge Campus.
Fannin County Middle School is an above average, public school located in Blue Ridge.
Fannin County High School is a public high school located in Blue Ridge.
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Within two hours of Atlanta and Chattanooga
U.S. Route 76, also called the Appalachian Highway, is the main road through Blue Ridge. Chattanooga, the nearest major city, is 83 miles northwest, and Atlanta is 93 miles south. Piedmont Mountainside, the closest hospital, is 17 miles away in Ellijay. The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, which has direct flights to nine U.S. cities, is 74 miles away, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a 103-mile trip. Houses of worship here include First Baptist Church, St. Luke's Church and the Jewish Congregation of Blue Ridge.
Blue Ridge offers a variety of local places of worship, catering to diverse spiritual needs.
The vibrant Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport is just a quick and convenient drive from Ben Hill Terrace, making it easy to jet off on your next adventure.
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At risk for wildfires, but the fire department is prepared
Blue Ridge’s proximity to forests and camping areas puts it at risk for wildfires, but the chance of one endangering the city is slim. “We’ve had a few fires,” Mayor Haight says, “but we’ve never had anything that’s gotten out of control.” In November 2023, high winds caused a fire in a downtown restaurant to spread to nearby businesses. “It’s definitely made us more conscientious of future builds and fire equipment. The county and the city have worked collaboratively to ensure we have proper fire equipment to handle the downtown area.” The damaged property was sold, and a new project is in development.
Written By
Annie Franklin
Photography Contributed By
Alan Bates
Video By
Daniel Willingham
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Maggie Jett,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Blue Ridge, GA sell after 84 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Blue Ridge, GA over the last 12 months is $635,000, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Come by and see this beautiful Creekfront Cabin Retreat on Fighting Town Creek 308 Hemlock Trail Blue Ridge, GA Welcome to your mountain getaway on the rolling waters of Fighting Town Creek with all new paved roads. This charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath cabin is the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Step inside and you'll find a warm wood interior with a vaulted great room, cozy stone fireplace,
Elizabeth YeomanEXIT Realty Mountain View Properties
Discover the latest masterpiece by Nicholson Home Builders—a newly completed mountain retreat designed for both elevated living and exceptional rental performance. Thoughtfully crafted with a seamless blend of rustic textures and modern finishes, this home delivers a warm, high-end experience from the moment you step inside. The inviting great room is anchored by a dramatic floor-to-ceiling stone
INSTANT EQUITY! PRICED BELOW APPRAISAL! Rarely does an opportunity arise to own a double lot totaling 3.84 expansive acres while remaining less than 5 miles from the vibrant heart of downtown Blue Ridge. This unique property offers the perfect balance of mountain seclusion and proximity to the city's best offerings, where you will love spending your weekends browsing local boutiques, enjoying
Escape to the quiet beauty of the mountains on 2.21 private acres, where a sense of seclusion and natural surroundings invite you to slow down and truly unwind. Tucked into a serene setting of gentle wooded terrain, the property offers mountain and seasonal views along with the calming presence of nearby water-creating a peaceful retreat from the pace of everyday life. Inside, a light-filled open
Less than a mile from Downtown Blue Ridge, this home offers a rare combination - walkability to the heart of town, the flexibility of being just outside the city limits where short-term rentals are permitted, and the convenience of being sold fully furnished, so all that's left to do is bring your toothbrush. Walk to local restaurants, boutiques, festivals, and the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, then
Located less than five miles from DT Blue Ridge and just off the sought-after Aska Adventure Area, this furnished mountain cabin offers the perfect blend of privacy, comfort, and convenience - ideal as a full-time residence, second home, or turnkey short-term rental. From the moment you step inside, the warmth and character of a true mountain cabin take center stage. Rich wood interiors, soaring
Set on a gentle, wooded lot with seasonal mountain views, this Blue Ridge log cabin offers the kind of setting that makes everyday living feel like a getaway-with the added benefit of strong short-term rental appeal. Inside, warm wood tones, hardwood floors, and a gas fireplace create a welcoming space that feels instantly comfortable. The main living area flows effortlessly to a screened porch
This private 3-bedroom, 3-full bath mountain home is far from ordinary; it's truly the great escape! Located near the Aska Adventure Area, Toccoa River and canoe launch, Appalachian Trail and Lake Blue Ridge, this home offers a great open floor plan w/soaring ceilings highlighted by natural light & exposed beams. It offers one-level living with an additional bedroom and full bath on both the
New Listing in Downtown Blue Ridge! This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home is the perfect opportunity for first-time homebuyers or investors looking to add a rental property to their portfolio. Conveniently located less than 5 minutes from downtown Blue Ridge, you'll enjoy easy access to local shops, restaurants, and entertainment while still having a spacious yard to relax, garden, or entertain.
Toccoa House Properties is a rare riverfront hospitality compound just minutes from downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia, offering a proven blend of luxury vacation rental income and untapped event venue potential. The property features four distinct accommodations, from an intimate glamping-style campsite to a spacious five-bedroom riverfront retreat, each positioned to appeal to a different segment of
Welcome to a luxury creekside sanctuary in the North Georgia mountains, where refined design meets the natural beauty of Fightingtown Creek. Crafted by acclaimed builder Keith Sumner, this stunning residence offers a true resort-style experience. Inside, the expansive living room showcases towering 25-foot ceilings, elegant fireplaces, custom lighting, and hardwood floors, creating a grand yet
Just minutes from Downtown Blue Ridge, this 5-acre property offers the perfect blend of mountain privacy and everyday convenience. Fully wooded with a mix of level and gently sloping terrain, the land provides a beautiful setting to create a home that feels tucked away in nature while remaining close to everything that makes Blue Ridge one of North Georgia's most sought-after destinations. A
Nestled in Mountain Tops, one of Blue Ridge's most sought-after communities with no restrictive covenants, this beautifully maintained mountain home offers long-range mountain views from every level and is just 3 miles from downtown Blue Ridge. With a strong rental income history, it's equally appealing as a full-time residence, second home, or investment property. Wake up to stunning long-range
Opportunity knocks in one of the most spectacular waterfront settings in North Georgia! Located off Colwell Road near the beautiful Cohutta Wilderness Area, this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home sits on an exceptional property featuring hundreds of feet of small creek frontage, a stocked private pond with dock, and breathtaking year-round mountain and pasture views. Bring the fishing rods! The home is
Timeless Chalet-Style Cabin with Year-Round Mountain Views! This beautifully designed 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom retreat is the Perfect Mountain Cabin! Featuring floor-to-ceiling glass, the home is filled with natural light and showcases stunning long-range mountain views. Enjoy two spacious living areas, each with cozy gas log fireplaces, plus a game room ideal for entertaining. The expansive
Now Renting: Exquisite 3-Story Townhome Near Downtown Blue Ridge Experience unparalleled luxury in this stunning 3-story townhome, ideally situated just moments from the vibrant heart of downtown Blue Ridge. This residence defines opulence with its state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen, equipped with premium Bosch appliances, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. The home is adorned with elegant European
Property Id: 2741358 4Bed 2.5Baths Furnished Cabin features long range layered mountain views. Kitchen boasts all modern comforts including stainless steel pots and pans, newer refrigerator, dishwasher etc. Property is located in the community of Fox Run only minutes to down town Blue Ridge, Ga. Fire place, large scenic windows, well stocked kitchen, basement features game room with foozball
Available for rent: RV lot suitable for your own RV, featuring level terrain and convenient access, City Water and Power available, on the lot. Just a 10-minute drive from Blue Ridge, McCaysville, Lake Blue Ridge, and the Toccoa River. Offering a 6-month +- lease with the tenant responsible for electric costs.
Charming 3-Bed Home with Expansive Yard – Perfectly Situated Between Blue Ridge & McCaysville! Available now! This delightful 3-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Boasting a functional layout, this residence is ideal for those who value outdoor space—featuring a large, level yard perfect for recreation, gardening, or relaxing on the large covered front
Now Renting: Exquisite 3-Story Townhome Near Downtown Blue Ridge Experience unparalleled luxury in this stunning 3-story townhome, ideally situated just moments from the vibrant heart of downtown Blue Ridge. This residence defines opulence with its state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen, equipped with premium Bosch appliances, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. The home is adorned with elegant European
Escape to the mountains in this newly crafted 2-bedroom, 2-bath cabin, ideally located in the heart of Blue Ridge's highly sought-after Aska Adventure Area. Available for flexible stays minimum just one month, this home is perfect for a peaceful retreat, remote work escape, or extended getaway. Inside, you'll find an interior featuring modern finishes while preserving the warmth and charm of a
The advertised rate of $5,120/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 9, 2027.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Experience the ultimate mountain retreat at our recently renovated 2500 sq ft cabin that sleeps 9 and is conveniently located just minutes from downtown Blue Ridge, Mercier Orchards, Ellijay, and Blairsville. This peaceful getaway offers a fully stocked modern kitchen, a cozy living area complete with a smart TV and gas log fireplace, multiple comfortable bedrooms with private amenities including
Property Id: 225223 1 bd apt with front porch located in Blue Ridge, GA, in a private setting on 6 acres off Hwy 2 and located on a partially paved/partially gravel road; all utilities plus weekly trash pickup included. Fiber internet is available if you need it. (not included in price) No pets; ideal for a retiree. Please email if interested. There is a credit/background check.
Welcome to this charming, partially furnished 2 bedroom, 1 bath home conveniently located just minutes from downtown Blue Ridge shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation. Only 4 minutes from the Blue Ridge Hospital. This well-kept home offers vintage charm with a warm and inviting feel throughout. Features include a spacious living room, large separate laundry room, and a beautiful new deck
Property Id: 2580720 Beautiful ranch-style home with mountain and valley views, featuring a full terrace level. This 4BR/3BA home offers 3 bedrooms and 2 baths on the main level, plus a 1BR/1BA terrace level ideal for guests or an in-law suite. Open floor plan with spacious kitchen, granite countertops, dining area, and large living room with gas log fireplace. Abundant natural light
Newly Renovated 3 BR/2BA furnished home for rent! - 2 car garage and covered carport! Large covered deck and paved driveway! Living space includes a living room and separate dining room with sitting area. All new kitchen with new appliances. Mature yard just 5 minuutes from downtown Blue Ridge
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