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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Mark Panetta,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Ellijay, GA sell after 79 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Ellijay, GA over the last 12 months is $460,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Motivated Seller & priced to sell! NEW PRICE, NEW CONSTRUCTION & NORTH GEORGIA MOUNTAIN LIVING! If you've been waiting for the right Ellijay home, this Barndo-style farmhouse deserves a fresh look. Tucked inside a private gated community just minutes from downtown Ellijay, this 3BR/2.5BA ranch on a FULL BASEMENT combines modern farmhouse style, generous living space, and the mountain lifestyle
Discover a rare opportunity to own a stunning contemporary retreat on 6 private acres just minutes from downtown Ellijay. Overlooking two spring-fed stocked ponds, rolling pasture, mature hardwoods, and a spring-fed creek, this exceptional property offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, modern comfort, and proven investment potential. Designed to capture the spectacular views, the home
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,
The house may feel like home, but it's what lies beyond the backyard that makes this setting hard to replicate. Set on more than 2 acres, the property borders U.S. Forest Service land, with thousands of wooded acres stretching beyond your own - a rare backdrop that adds a sense of privacy and connection to the mountains without putting you far from town. Closer to home, a gently sloping lawn,
There's a rhythm to life here that's hard to replicate-where mornings begin with soft light stretching across the mountains and evenings wind down under colorful North Georgia skies from your own private balcony. Set on 2.6 acres just 15 minutes from downtown Ellijay, this fully renovated, turnkey mountain retreat offers a rare blend of privacy, comfort, and connection to its surroundings.
Along the banks of the Coosawattee River, your mountain retreat awaits. The blend of peaceful river living and resort-style amenities calls your name and begs you to enjoy life at a slower pace. While this home offers a roomy 2,040 square feet and 2 bedrooms - you'll appreciate the spacious loft that can serve as a 3rd sleeping area, when needed. Designed to embrace its natural surroundings, the
Turnkey. Fully furnished. Rental-ready. This mountain retreat is an exceptional opportunity for those looking for a North Georgia getaway with short-term rental potential. Located in the amenity-rich Coosawattee River Resort - one of Ellijay's most active vacation rental communities - this inviting cabin comfortably accommodates up to six guests and is positioned to appeal to the year-round
Build Your Dream Home Near Carters Lake - 2.08 Acres with Septic Already Installed! Don't miss this rare opportunity to own 2.08 acres consisting of two combined lots in one of North Georgia's most desirable recreational areas. Located less than five minutes from the Carters Lake boat ramp, this property offers the perfect balance of privacy, convenience, and outdoor adventure. The property is
Welcome to Jakes Landing, a premier mountain community in the heart of Ellijay, Georgia! This gorgeous 1-acre lot boasts breathtaking long-range mountain views and offers the perfect canvas for your dream home or investment property. Located just a short drive-or bike ride-from the Ridgeway Recreation Area at Carters Lake, you'll enjoy quick access to boating, hiking and mountain biking trails,
Welcome to your nearly brand new dream home nestled in the heart of the prestigious Coosawattee River Resort community in beautiful Ellijay Georgia where this stunning craftsman-style residence delivers exceptional quality and timeless curb appeal in the serene wooded setting of a quiet cul-de-sac. Built just a couple of years ago this immaculate home still carries that coveted new construction
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.
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
Welcome to Rising Star-your dream mountain home. Fully remodeled and set on 5.18 private acres with breathtaking year-round mountain views, this retreat blends comfort, beauty, and privacy. Soaring tongue-and-groove ceilings, rich hardwood floors, and an open, airy layout bring the outdoors into every main living space. The beautiful, open, modern kitchen with high-end appliances flows seamlessly
Experience the potential of North Georgia living on this 1.94-acre wooded lot in Lakeland Estates, where natural beauty and thoughtful features come together to create an exceptional homesite. With mountain views and a spring head on the property, this land offers a rare blend of scenic appeal and natural character—ideal for building a private retreat or full-time residence near the Murray County
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
The advertised rate of $8,827/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 7, 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 perfect blend of mountain comfort and downtown convenience in this beautifully appointed 2-bedroom, 2-bath cabin with a versatile loft, located just a short walk from the heart of Ellijay. A meticulously maintained residential property. This attractive 1300sf home offers a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary comfort. Inside, you’ll find an inviting
Property Id: 2818863 Enjoy peaceful North Georgia mountain living without giving up convenience. This fully furnished, private 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment offers its own separate entrance, a comfortable living area, full kitchen with induction cooktop, full-size refrigerator and microwave, and all utilities included, including Wi-Fi. The apartment is located within our owner-occupied home,
The advertised rate of $5,827/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of September 17, 2026. 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
Property Id: 2192108 3 bed 3.5 bath townhome. Trash and lawn service included. Fenced in back yard. High speed internet available. Pets are allowed with pet fee.
The advertised rate of $2,583/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 4, 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
Property Id: 2614277 Rent-to-Own Opportunity in Ellijay! Own your dream home without the hassle of traditional financing. These brand-new construction townhomes offer approximately 1,400 square feet, featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, modern finishes, and a private backyard perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Located in a quiet, private setting, these homes come with a builder
CLOSE TO TOWN! UNIT B. 2 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom Townhouse in Ellijay. Within walking distance to Harrison Park and downtown Ellijay (0.5 miles to the square in the middle of town). Private and peaceful setting away from Boardtown Rd. Excellent condition. 9 ft ceilings on both 1st and 2nd levels. Hardwood floors, the kitchen has granite countertops and hickory cabinets. There is a large pantry
The advertised rate of $4,929/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 8, 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
Floorplan offers 2 master suites. Open kitchn & living room area. Unfinished basement for those that need additional storage. Porch and patio go the length of the home. So close to Hwy 515 and downtown.
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