Ellijay is small town known as Georgia’s Apple Capital
Situated in North Georgia’s Appalachian Mountains, Ellijay is a small city known as Georgia’s Apple Capital for its orchards and annual Georgia Apple Festival, which draws thousands to the city every October. “A lot of people come up here for the slower pace, small-town environment,” says Pam Johnson, a volunteer at the Tabor House Museum downtown who’s lived here since 1990. “It’s a warm and accepting community.” According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Ellijay has a population of just over 1,800 residents and a median age of 45; many retire here, and others work in the area’s tourism, agriculture or service industries.
Ellijay’s centrally located downtown is surrounded by hilly, tree-filled neighborhoods, and the Cartecay and Ellijay Rivers join into the Coosawattee River in the center of town. Parks and national retailers are in the city’s south, and mountain parks like Amicalola Falls State Park and Fort Mountain State Park are a short drive away.
Ellijay Georgia was founded in 1834.
Ellijay is renowned for its scenic orchards and charming countryside, while BJ Reece offers a fantastic array of products and services to explore.
1/2
Vacation cabins on acreage and bungalows in town
The median housing price is $480,000, higher than the national median. Throughout the community, there are early 21st-century cabins which often serve as second homes or vacation rentals. Closer to downtown, buyers can find midcentury bungalows and ranch-style houses. Secluded mountain cabins and manufactured homes on multi-acre lots are usually outside of the city limits. Properties near the area's rivers and creeks might have a high risk for flooding.
Ellijay is a welcoming community with a variety of home styles to suit your budget.
Ellijay is a mountain town in North Georgia.
1/2
Downtown Ellijay is a walkable area of locally owned businesses
Downtown Ellijay is at the intersection of six streets that meet in a roundabout; locally owned boutiques, antique stores and restaurants line a couple of blocks in every direction, including The Roof, a rooftop bar and restaurant with views of North Georgia’s mountains. “A lot of development has been done on the town square,” Johnson says, and this walkable area of brick storefronts retains its early 20th-century charm even though the downtown continues to grow. Area grocery stores include Food Lion, Aldi and Ingles, and big box stores like Walmart are in the south. Apple orchards and wineries surround the community and are popular day trips.
Kaffee Haus is a local hotspot where you can enjoy a cup of joe in Ellijay.
Rustic Root is a trendy boutique located in downtown Ellijay.
1/2
The annual Georgia Apple Festival and year-round arts events
“The fall is a very busy season in the Ellijay area,” Johnson says. The Georgia Apple Festival is the city’s most popular annual event; on the second and third weekends of October, residents and visitors fill the Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds to sample the region’s apple harvest, enjoy live music and wander among hundreds of vendors. The Gilmer Arts and Heritage Association downtown offers year-round entertainment, with a playhouse, visual art classes and an art gallery. The Tabor House Museum downtown is home to the Gilmer County Historical Society, which is located in the city’s oldest home. Residents can volunteer with the historical society or explore North Georgia’s history at the museum.
River recreation and state parks are nearby
The 26-acre Harrison Park just east of Ellijay’s downtown is home to walking paths and a flower meadow. Hefner River Park has a 2-mile walking trail and soccer fields. Tubing, kayaking and fly fishing are popular on the Cartecay, Ellijay and Coosawattee Rivers that flow through the city’s center. The public Whitepath Golf Club nearby has an 18-hole course with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hiking and mountain biking are popular in the nearby state parks, including the nearly 4,000-acre Fort Mountain State Park and the 800-plus-acre Amicalola Falls State Park, home to Georgia’s tallest waterfall.
Two rivers meet in Ellijay and form the Coosawattee River, which is popular for fishing and kayaking.
Amicalola Falls State Park is renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls and boasts an incredible lodge nestled along the scenic Appalachian Trail.
1/2
Gilmer County Public Schools earn Bs
Kids can attend Gilmer County Public Schools, which earn a B from Niche. There are three elementary schools, including the B-plus-rated Clear Creek Elementary. For middle school, students go to the B-plus-rated Clear Creek Middle, then attend the B-rated Gilmer High. Gilmer High’s men’s wrestling team has won the state championship 19 times, most recently in 2023. At Dalton State College’s Mountain Campus, students can earn an associate degree in ecotourism or entrepreneurship.
Clear Creek Middle in Ellijay has an above-average rating and hosts around 900 students.
Glimmer High School is a highly ranked high school in Georgia.
1/2
Near healthcare, but airports and large cities are a longer drive
U.S. Highway 76 and state Route 515 connect drivers to larger cities, like Marietta, about 60 miles south, and Chattanooga, less than 70 miles northwest. On the southern edge of town, the Piedmont Mountainside Hospital provides emergency care and employment opportunities. Houses of worship here include First Baptist Church and Ellijay First United Methodist Church. The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, which has domestic flights, is 65 miles away, and the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a 90-mile trip.
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.
Ellijay First United Methodist Church sits in the heart of downtown.
1/2
Written By
Annie Franklin
Photography Contributed By
Alan Bates
Video By
Maurice Boone
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jennifer Black,
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 Ellijay, GA sell after 79 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Ellijay, GA over the last 12 months is $460,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Single Story 3 Bedroom/2Bath Craftsman Style Home at end of Cul-de-Sac in Exclusive Gated Community minutes from town, shopping and/or dining. Split floorplan, Master with large walk-in closet & Utility Room with Washer & Dryer. Granite Countertops in Gourmet Kitchen. Private wooded setting. Great community with lots of hiking and a wooded community park with year round creek access for all to
Joe FolsomColdwell Banker High Country Realty - Ellijay
Now including almost 2 acres! This meticulously maintained, spacious one-level home with a fully finished, completely wheelchair-accessible basement is ready to welcome you, your family, and your guests. Featuring a private downstairs apartment, this property offers flexibility, comfort, and convenience all in one. Located within walking distance to downtown Ellijay, you'll enjoy easy access to
THIS HOME YOU MUST SEE TO APPRECIATE! Private North Georgia Retreat on 2+ acres in Ellijay is only 2 miles from the Ellijay town center and all it has to offer, 1/4 mile from the expressway, and 4 miles from everyday shopping, restaurants and hotels. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-Bath ranch features vaulted ceilings with exposed beams throughout the central living areas divided by a beautiful see-through
Discover timeless elegance in this exquisite home, masterfully built in 2004 by Keith Sumner. As the sole owner-occupied residence, it exudes pristine care and character, ready for its next chapter. Step inside to soaring vaulted ceilings that flood the open-concept living spaces with natural light. The heart of the home is a gourmet open kitchen featuring a spacious island, perfect for
Discover a virtually new mountain sanctuary in the prestigious Coosawattee River Resort-this exceptional home is just 5 years old yet has been sparingly enjoyed, preserving that coveted new-home feel and fresh scent throughout. Welcome to an extraordinary retreat where luxury meets the tranquility of the North Georgia Mountains. This is more than a home; it's a private sanctuary offering
Welcome to your Mountain Getaway inside one of Georgia's finest resorts - Coosawattee River Resort! This fully furnished home awaits you - just bring your toothbrush, a change of clothes and your groceries. Enjoy the spacious cabin with friends and family or sit on one of the numerous decks and enjoy the sound of the rushing river just across the road. With bedrooms and bathrooms on all levels,
Pre-inspected and move-in ready! Bordering thousands of acres of untouched U.S. Forest Service land that can never be developed, this rare property offers a front-row seat to some of North Georgia's most protected and breathtaking natural landscapes—right from your own backyard. Set on over 2 private acres in a peaceful, well-maintained neighborhood, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home provides direct
Turnkey, fully furnished mountain retreat designed for both everyday living and unforgettable getaways. With space designed to sleep up to six, this inviting home offers a seamless blend of modern comfort and relaxed mountain charm—ideal as a primary residence, second home, or short-term rental opportunity. Step inside to an open, light-filled layout anchored by a well-appointed kitchen that
Luxury Home in High River - Mystic Grove Mystic Grove is a beautifully appointed home in the gated High River community of Ellijay, GA, offering timeless craftsmanship and upscale modern amenities. The open-concept layout features soaring ceilings, a stone fireplace, and expansive windows overlooking serene wooded surroundings. A gourmet kitchen with premium appliances and a large island flows
Discover the perfect opportunity to build your mountain getaway on this 0.52-acre wooded lot tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in Coosawattee River Resort. Offering a moderate slope ideal for a walk-out basement, this lot provides both privacy and a natural setting surrounded by mature trees and abundant wildlife. A soil test is already available, helping you take the next step toward building.
Located just a short drive from downtown Ellijay, this private property offers a peaceful setting with a creek running along the back of the land. Tucked away yet close to everything, you’ll enjoy easy access to local restaurants, tubing on the Cartecay River, boating and fishing at Carters Lake, and hiking at nearby Fort Mountain State Park. The area is also known for its apple orchards and the
Colby Harris
Ansley Real Estate | Christie's International Real Estate
Here is a great opportunity to build your dream mountain cabin in established community of Double Knob subdivision in Ellijay on 1.85 acres. A little tree clearing will provide scenic mountain views. Utilities are available nearby for connection. Located halfway between Downtown Ellijay and Blue Ridge for access to shopping and restaurants. Survey and Soil Test available.
Discover the perfect canvas for your dream mountain retreat on this 1.7-acre pristine lot, ideally situated a short drive off of HWY 515. Its location offers convenient access to both downtown Ellijay and Blue Ridge, and you are within walking distance to one of North GA's finest dining establishments and event venues, The Falls. This remarkable property boasts stunning mountain views, providing
**BRAND NEW HOME!! Don’t Miss This One!** Tucked away in the serene North Georgia mountains, this brand-new construction Ellijay home offers a peaceful retreat with the comfort of everyday living—plus the confidence of all-new systems, finishes, and builder warranties. Nestled on a quiet lot, it blends natural surroundings with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that truly feels like home.Inside,
Welcome to this charming newly remodeled 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home! Step inside to find luxury wood laminate floors stretching throughout the entire interior. The living room is a true centerpiece, featuring a stunning rocked wood-burning fireplace that adds warmth and character to the space. The kitchen is equipped with sleek stainless steel appliances and updated countertops. Whether you're
Austin Place — A Great Place to Call Home.Austin Place is a quiet, well-maintained apartment community located three miles from downtown Ellijay. Small residential property with attentive ownership and long-term residents.Available:2 Bedroom | 1.5 Bath TownhomeRent: $1,535Deposit: $1,000Lease: One yearFeatures:• Two-level townhome layout• Two
Property Id: 2467810NEW CONSTRUCTION in unique gated small community. This Mountain Modern 2-bed/ 2-bath home is located in Jakes Landing Overlook with panoramic views of majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and the Coosawattee River. Hard to find elevated views and river view/access. COMMUNITY: This property is NOT your typical cookie cutter build in the dreaded CRR "Mega-Resort".
Amazing 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bathroom townhome within 1/4 mile of downtown Ellijay. Main level/no steps into Kitchen is well equipped with granite countertops, new built in microwave, and new stove/range combo. There is also a side by side refrigerator w/ icemaker, dishwasher, tile floor, and 2 pantries. Living room and breakfast area are combined with wood laminate flooring. There is a 1/2 bathroom
Steve TuckerEngel & Volkers North Georgia Mountains
Property Id: 2061086Just minutes from the Coosawattee and Cartecay rivers, apple orchards, and 14 miles from charming downtown Ellijay, this modern rustic cabin has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The large master suite has a beautiful walk in shower and double vanity. Split floor plan offers privacy with the other two bedrooms and bathroom on the opposite side of the cabin. The great room is
Amazing 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bathroom townhome within 1/4 mile of downtown Ellijay. Main level/no steps into Kitchen is well equipped with granite countertops, new built in microwave, and new stove/range combo. There is also a side by side refrigerator w/ icemaker, dishwasher, tile floor, and 2 pantries. Living room and breakfast area are combined with wood laminate flooring. There is a 1/2 bathroom
Property Id: 2494389Partially furnished and renovated home overlooking downtown Ellijay. Mountain View, walkable to shops and restaurants. Updated finishes.
Ellijay Apartment Now Available! Welcome to this charming 2BR/1BA unfurnished apartment, offering convenience & character, Positioned above a professional office, this apartment provides a unique setting with easy access to local shopping, dining, parks, and all that Ellijay has to offer! Featuring a practical layout, classic appeal, and an in-town location that's hard to find, this rental is
Cozy, fully furnished 2 bedroom 2 bath house located in Downtown Ellijay. This property has 2 queen beds, washer and dryer, kitchen appliances, 3 TV's and so much more! Large storage space below the house. Trash service is included in the lease. The monthly rent is $1,995 with a $1,995 security deposit. 1 year lease.Please visit our website for more details and to apply.We
Newly remodeled home in Ellijay! Make this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home your peaceful retreat. Quiet neighborhood, peaceful view. New LVP flooring throughout, new interior paint, new HVAC, new tile tub surround in secondary bath, new glass door in primary shower, new front deck, new gas logs in fireplace, septic pumped in November. All adult occupants must apply regardless of income or employment
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.
