It was Sparta, Mississippi, in “In the Heat of the Night,” Hazzard County in “The Dukes of Hazzard,” and Mystic Falls, Virginia, in “The Vampire Diaries.” But in real life, it’s Covington, Georgia. Covington, the seat of Newton County, has been dubbed the “Hollywood of the South” for the dozens of TV shows and movies filmed in the city. “They do a lot of filming in Covington because it has that old Southern charm,” says Janice Williams, a Realtor with D.R. Horton Realty of Georgia with a decade of experience. In addition to jobs in the entertainment industry, Newton Health System and Newton County Schools are the leading employers for the city’s 14,600 residents.
Cinelease, Three Ring studios is home to many filming projects in Covington.
Walk the square in Covington to find the Walk of Stars from films and TV shows that took place here.
Covington Welcome Center doubles as a film museum and meeting spot for tours.
Dukes of Hazzard's iconic jump scene happened here in Covington.
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Downtown Covington’s “Walk of the Stars”
Historic downtown Covington was named one of the "Prettiest Small Towns in Georgia" by Southern Living magazine in 2017 and the "Best Town Square in Atlanta" by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution in 2018 for its plethora of independent stores and restaurants. Some noteworthy downtown restaurants include City Pharmacy, which is housed in a century-old drugstore, and The Town House Café, which the local Hamm family has owned since 1964. Another downtown restaurant, Mystic Grill, was a filming location for “The Vampire Diaries.” The downtown Walk of the Stars covers the ground with bricks dedicated to actors who starred in movies and TV shows filmed in Covington.
Historic Covington square is popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
You can sip and paint at Wild Art in the Covington Square.
Locals enjoy the shopping and dining options in Covington square.
Kuter's Cage barber shop stays busy in downtown Covington
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Touring through Covington’s historic districts
Covington's downtown district is among the four districts on the National Register of Historic Places. Many individual sites, including the Newton County Courthouse, are also listed. Visitors can take themed tours through the city’s historic sites and other notable spots, including the Mystic Falls Tour for fans of “The Vampire Diaries” and the Covington Ghost Tour for paranormal enthusiasts.
Situated in Covington Square, Mystic Grill stays busy.
Covington Square features a Confederate War Memorial, made of stone.
The heart of Covington Square is the City Hall building.
Take the Mystic Falls Vampire Stalkers tour in Covington, which starts at the welcome center.
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Covington homes span a century of construction
Newton County has a mix of historic mansions, clapboard cottages and newly constructed homes. Some residences were built as recently as 2024, and others were built at the turn of the 20th century. While prices have been gradually rising, the city’s median home price of $317,500 remains lower than the Atlanta median of $416,500. “If it’s move-in ready and priced right, it’s not going to sit,” says Lytice Brown, a Realtor with NorthGroup Real Estate who has been working in the city for 11 years. “It should be gone in less than two weeks here. It’s affordable, and you can get a lot of land for the money.”
Crasftman style new homes are found in the Covington area.
Homes in covington can range from spacious farm homes to quaint historic bungalows.
Ranch style split level homes can be found in the Covington area.
Remodeled homes with a blend of styles can be found throughout Covington.
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Miles of hiking on Cricket Frog Trail
Outdoor options abound in Newton County. Locals can shoot hoops, ride the bowl at the skate park or cool off on the splash pad at Denny Dobbs Park. City Pond Park has lighted baseball fields, tennis courts and a concession stand. Hikers, joggers and mountain bikers all frequent the 15-mile Cricket Frog Trail. Lake Varner and Yellow River are both popular boating spots.
Lake Varner, in Covington, is a great place to fish, swim, or boat.
Yellow River runs along the eastern edge of the City of Covington, a great spot for relaxation or play.
Cricket Frog Trail is a popular trail in Covington for walking, running and biking.
City Pond Park is a multi-sport complex in Covington, GA.
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Newton County Schools are filming locales
Newton County Schools serves Covington and has an overall B-minus grade on Niche. Even the local schools have been involved in the city’s film industry, as Alcovy High School was the backdrop for some scenes in the 1980s horror movie “Halloween II.” Georgia Piedmont Technical College and Perimeter College at Georgia State University have regional campuses in Covington, and Oxford College of Emory University is in neighboring Oxford.
Perimeter College at Georgia State University has regional campuse in Covington.
Newton County Schools serves Covington and has an overall B-minus grade on Niche
Alvoy High School is a public school teaching grades 9th through 12th.
There are several education options in Covington including Oxford College of Emory University.
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Interstate 20 connects to Atlanta
Covington is about 35 miles from Atlanta and 38 miles from the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. I-20 connects Covington to the larger metro. While the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) has bus and train routes throughout Atlanta, the transit system does not reach Covington.
Georgia summers bring humidity and tornadoes
Covington's summers are hot, winters are cold, and it is generally humid year-round. Like the rest of the Atlanta area, Covington can be prone to tornadoes, especially from March through August.
According to the Covington Police Department, property crimes increased between 2022 and 2023, while violent crimes decreased. The police department has many community programs, including the annual Fuzz Run, a 5K race and one of the city's largest events.
Written By
Delaney Murray
Photography Contributed By
Greg Riegler
Video By
Drew Webster
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Ben Herring,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Covington, GA sell after 56 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Covington, GA over the last 12 months is $318,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Modern farmhouse on two private acres built in August 2024 with open living spaces, a guest suite on the main level, and a large covered porch designed for outdoor living. This beautifully crafted home by Reliant Homes blends modern finishes with comfortable everyday living while offering the space and privacy many families are searching for today. A welcoming rocking chair front porch and
*"DELUXE RANCH HOMES WITH FULL BASEMENT" -BUYER INCENTIVE - "UP TO $12,000" TOWARD RATE BUYDOWNS AND CLOSING COSTS - AND "ONLY" WITH OUR PREFERRED LENDER - STANDING INVENTORY ONLY!! NEW CONSTRUCTION- MOVE -IN READY HOMES!! NEW ENERGY EFFICIENT HOME! (Cellulose whole house, Foam, Superior Wall Sheathing and Vapor Barrier, Radiant Reflective Roof Sheathing, Energy Efficient Windows). NEW
"DELUXE RANCH HOMES WITH FULL BASEMENTS - BUYER INCENTIVE-* "UP TO $12,000" (FOR QUALIFIED BUYERS) TO USE FOR CLOSING COSTS OR BUYDOWN RATE "ONLY" WHEN YOU USE OUR PREFERRED LENDER - STANDING INVENTORY NEW CONSTRUCTION HOMES - "MOVE-IN READY" -THIS IS A LIMITED TIME OFFER! New Energy Efficient Home! (Cellulose whole house, Foam, Superior Wall Sheathing and Vapor Barrier, Radiant Reflective Roof
Located within River Walk Farm, this newly built 2024 residence offers 2,990 square feet of refined living with thoughtful design across two levels. Set on a cul-de-sac, 370 Granary Walk in Covington, Newton County, GA pairs an open main level with a flexible upstairs loft creating multiple living and entertaining zones. The main level features a spacious guest suite with a private ensuite bath
Back on Market By No Fault of Seller * Best Value on Jackson Lake * Deeded Lot * Dock Slip * Clear Septic Letter * Clear Termite Letter * Amazing Value * Oversized Lot * Almost 1/2 Acre Deeded Lot * Jackson Lake Deeded Property with NO HOA * Log Cabin Style Home * Street has Million Dollar Homes * Huge Screened Porch with Bar and Pull Down TV and Surround Sound * Rarely does a Lake Home have
100 % USDA Financing available. Welcome to 80 Hunters Trace, a charming, freshly renovated step less ranch nestled on a spacious 0.88-acre private lot in Covington, GA. This delightful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is perfect for buyers looking for a peaceful retreat that combines modern comforts with the tranquility of country living. As you step inside, you're greeted by an airy open floor plan
Welcome to this charming and move in ready home in the heart of Covington, GA. This beautiful property features a spacious layout with a cozy living area perfect for relaxing or entertaining, and a well-maintained yard ideal for outdoor gatherings. Enjoy an updated eat-in kitchen with newer appliances, a comfortable master suite with brand new flooring, and 2 additional bedrooms that provide
Welcome Home to This Stunning Covington Estate on a Private Cul-de-Sac This beautifully appointed 5-bedroom, 4-bath home with a fully finished terrace level featuring one flex room used as a bedroom and one full bath offers exceptional space, luxury finishes, and outstanding indoor-outdoor living in a sought-after private Covington community. A grand two-story foyer and two-story family room
Beautiful Contemporary Home with Open Floor Plan in Prime Covington Location Welcome to this stunning contemporary home featuring a bright and open floor plan, perfect for entertaining and everyday living. Designed for comfort and style, this home offers spacious living areas ideal for socializing with family and friends. The main level features elegant tile flooring throughout, while the second
Must-See Master on Main Space Galore and Prime Covington Location... Welcome home to this spacious and well-maintained beauty one of the few homes in the community featuring a mostly brick exterior, offering timeless curb appeal and lasting value. This sought-after master-on-the-main floor plan includes 5 generously sized bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms, providing exceptional flexibility for
Great opportunity to own 6.29 acres in a quiet rural setting. Property is level with a mix of cleared and wooded areas and is currently zoned A-R. Conveniently located just minutes from Hwy 36, Hwy 212, Jackson Lake, and Covington. An additional 1.22-acre parcel zoned C-H is also available, and the seller prefers to sell both together. Great for a home-based business, hobby farm, or anyone
Opportunity abounds in this Covington home. 2Bd, 2BA on 2.3 ac +/-. 500+ ft road frontage with 2 large outbuildings. One shop and one built and wired for a home-based recording studio. Call today.
Great opportunity to own 1.22 acres zoned C-H with excellent potential and convenient access to Hwy 36, Hwy 212, Jackson Lake, and Covington. The property is level and versatile, offering a range of possible commercial or mixed-use options. Adjoining 6.29-acre tract zoned A-R is also available, and the seller prefers to sell both together. Combined, these properties offer a unique opportunity for
Move in by 3/30 to receive 1-month free rent on all floor plans. $99.00 app/admi fee! Multiple floor plans available. Days on Market accrued is not specific to this current plan listed. Call for updated pricing, specials and availability. Mention The Apartment Brothers. When You’re Here, You’re HomeHome is more than a place. It’s a chance to gather. Get to know your neighbors. And feel like
This spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bath split-level home offers generous living space, modern finishes, and standout features throughout. The thoughtfully designed split-level layout provides natural separation between living and sleeping areas, perfect for those who value both shared and private spaces. A cozy fireplace anchors the main living space, while the kitchen impresses with granite countertops
This beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers a functional layout and modern upgrades throughout. The upper level features a spacious primary suite with double closets and two additional bedrooms connected by a Jack-and-Jill bathroom. On the lower level, a fourth bedroom with a private ensuite provides added privacy, and a versatile flex room is ideal for a home office, media room, or
Welcome home to space, style, and flexibility! Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in a high-demand community with pool, tennis courts, and playground, this move-in ready home checks all the boxes. Known for its bright, open layout, tall ceilings, cozy fireplace, and beautiful floors, the main level features the primary suite with LVP flooring plus 2 additional bedrooms and bath. Upstairs offers a
13 month lease price. Call for updated pricing, specials and availability beforehand. Ask about our “Local Heroes” program where the community is currently waiving the administrative fees for employees in the medical field and law enforcement. Multiple floor plans available. Days on Market accrued is not specific to this current plan listed. Mention The Apartment Brothers. Welcome to Covington
Call for updated pricing, specials and availability beforehand. Ask about our “Local Heroes” program where the community is currently waiving the administrative fees for employees in the medical field and law enforcement. Multiple floor plans available. Days on Market accrued is not specific to this current plan listed. Mention The Apartment Brothers. Welcome to Covington Creek, a premier
Move in by 3/30 to receive 1-month free rent on all floor plans. $99.00 app/admi fee! Days on Market accrued is not specific to this current plan listed. Call for updated pricing, specials and availability. Mention The Apartment Brothers. When You’re Here, You’re HomeHome is more than a place. It’s a chance to gather. Get to know your neighbors. And feel like you belong. It’s also what we’re
Move in by 3/30 to receive 1-month free rent on all floor plans. $99.00 app/admi fee! Multiple floor plans available. Days on Market accrued is not specific to this current plan listed. Call for updated pricing, specials and availability. Mention The Apartment Brothers. When You’re Here, You’re HomeHome is more than a place. It’s a chance to gather. Get to know your neighbors. And feel like
Welcome to RENDER Turner Lake apartments, where small-town charm meets modern living. Our new, four-story garden-style apartments feature one-, two- and three-bedroom layouts, blending casual comfort with a sleek, urban design. Located near Covington Highway and just minutes from Downtown Covington, our new, vibrant community combines thoughtful design and effortless luxury with premium amenities.
Move-In Ready! Come make this beautiful ranch home your retreat after a day of work. This corner lot home features 3 Bedrooms, 2 Full baths, family room with fireplace overlooking the kitchen; which is fully equipped with range, refrigerator, dishwasher, plenty of cabinet space and a laundry closet. This home has laminate and tile flooring throughout; 2 car garage with opener, screened in back
Pointe Grand Covington proudly presents brand-new two-bedroom apartments offering 1,170 square feet of open living space. These apartments feature upscale interior amenities, including wood-inspired flooring, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, oversized kitchen islands, LED lighting, and keyless entry. Residents also enjoy community amenities such as a 24-hour fitness center, a
Spacious 5 Bedroom / 4 Bathroom Home with Basement and 3-Car Garage This beautifully designed home offers the perfect blend of space, comfort, and functionality. Enjoy a dramatic two-story family room with coffered ceilings, creating an open and inviting atmosphere. The chef's kitchen features granite countertops and an oversized island, ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Hardwood floors
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