Georgetown offers quiet farmland and outdoors
Georgetown is an East Tennessee community that typically draws those looking for quiet living, scenic views and outdoor recreation. This community of about 5,000 people consists of gently rolling farmland and woods in the lower region of the Appalachian Highlands. The area is also between the Hiwassee River and Chickamauga Lake, both nearby spots for water sports. “It’s within proximity to Chattanooga, Knoxville and other cities, but it’s definitely not going to be your neighborhood that’s going to have all your pretty stores and restaurants. It’s going to be close to more trails, lakes and outdoor vibes,” says Ashley Ballezzi, a Realtor with eXp Realty. “I think if you like that quiet life, and you’re ok with a longer commute, it’s a great place to get established.”
Farmland has ranch-style to upscale New Traditional homes
Homes dotting Georgetown’s farmland are on lots that go anywhere from half an acre to well over 10 acres. “There’s not a ton of properties out there because, again, it’s very rural,” Ballezzi says. “People go out there for larger lots and that kind of thing.” While mid- to late 20th century houses are common, many homes have been added since the 2010s. Georgetown has ranch-style homes and farmhouses with features like wide, covered porches. The community also has New Traditional homes, including some upscale ones surrounded by yards of fencing. Most homes here go from about $240,000 to $600,000. However, several homes over 3,000 square feet run between $760,000 and $1.7 million.
Hiwassee River and Chickamauga Lake provide recreation
Many here live within 10 to 15 minutes of the Hiwassee River and Chickamauga Lake, which each have several launches for kayaks, canoes and motor boats. The 6,000-acre Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge draws hikers, paddlers, anglers and even hunters. During the year, refuge visitors may see migrating cranes and vast beds of water hyacinths. The area is also home to Cherokee Removal Memorial Park, which has monuments dedicated to those displaced during the Trail of Tears. The park’s features include several granite walls inscribed with the names of many Cherokees.
Community has Dave’s and proximity to Cleveland’s dining scene
Georgetown’s only restaurant, Dave’s Spiced Right BBQ is a local staple for downhome cooking. The restaurant has anything from baked beans and fried okra to pulled pork sandwiches and dry rub ribs. Otherwise, it’s not uncommon for residents to drive about 20 minutes south to Cleveland to find more food options. They can stop for Indian cuisine at Naan House or sit down for a smoke and a drink at Ocoee Cigar Lounge in Cleveland’s historic downtown. Grocery stores in the city include Publix, ALDI and Food Lion.
Three Tennessee public school districts serve the area
Depending on where they live, students may attend Hamilton County Schools, Bradley County Schools or Meigs County Schools. The Hamilton County district gets a B from Niche, while Meigs receives a B-minus. The Bradley County district gets an A-minus. Notable schools include Walker Valley High, which belongs to the Bradley County district and gets an A-minus. The high school has a softball squad that won its first state title in 2025.
Birchwood Fiber Festival showcases fiber art
The nearby community of Birchwood has hosted the annual Birchwood Fiber Festival since 2023. In May, fiber art fans go to the Birchwood Community Center to watch spinning wheel demonstrations and look for items like handmade rugs, dish towels and crochet figures.
State routes 58 and 60 go region’s larger cities
Tennessee state routes 58 and 60 connect Georgetown to the region’s larger cities. State Route 60 goes to Cleveland, less than 15 miles south. Cleveland has institutions like the Bradley Medical Center, a 351-bed hospital. Georgetown is also about 35 miles northeast of Chattanooga, home to facilities like Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport. “A lot of people are probably working in either Cleveland or Chattanooga,” Ballezzi says. “And I wouldn’t be surprised if there are some people traveling toward the Loudon and Knoxville areas.”
