A small, growing city in South Georgia
There is some debate as to how Hahira got its name. Some say it's Biblically inspired, while others speculate the word originated from a local Native American called Hira. Nevertheless, the city became incorporated in 1891. Today, the area is a small, rural community with a growing downtown. According to the U.S. Census, the population doubled between 2000 and 2020. Over the last few years, local organizations and the city government have continued to develop the area. Residents enjoy local eateries and community gatherings. "People love it here because the school system is highly rated. And there are good places to eat, so we don't have to go to Valdosta," says Laura Jones, a resident and Hahira City Hall employee. "Hahira has downtown events at the end of every month called the Main Street Market."
Retail and new restaurants in downtown Hahira
Food Lion and North Lowndes Hardware are inside the city limits. The industrial park along Sonny Rogers Memorial Drive includes manufacturers and distribution companies. The community has a growing number of dining spots that are popular among locals. "One of my favorite restaurants is The Slice. The pizza is just amazing, and the owner has a brick oven," Jones says. Fancy Girl Farms is a newcomer to the Hahira dining scene. "This one is very popular because they've got a farmers market where they sell vegetables. They also have a little gift store, a coffee shop and the actual restaurant," Jones says. The farm-to-table establishment has an on-site garden and outdoor seating. The Buzz is a new downtown bar and grill that opened in 2024. According to Jones, the spot is often packed with patrons. Some locals visit nearby Valdosta or Adel for more dining and retail options.
A range of older and newer homes in Hahira
Hahira has many New Traditional homes and older ranch styles. Nearly half of the residences on the market were built over the last 10 years; several are new constructions inside Grove Point and the gated Creekside West developments. Houses from the 20th century typically cost between $115,000 and $375,000; dwellings built after the 2000s range from around $215,000 to $475,000.
Lowndes County Schools is one of Georgia's top districts
Niche ranks Lowndes County Schools as the sixth-best district in Georgia. Hahira Elementary and Hahira Middle have A grades from Niche. Lowndes High receives an A-minus. The school provides a career, technical and agricultural education program. The high school building was recently renovated to include technology labs and a performing arts center. Parents can apply for transfers to other county public schools on the district's website.
Gathering at North Lowndes Recreation Complex and Hahira Square
Hahira Square is a downtown space with a red train caboose and a replica of the railway station. The Hahira Train Depot, reconstructed in 2017, is now used for private parties and community events. North Lowndes Recreation Complex is one of the area's largest green spaces. The grounds include a skate park and multiple sporting fields. Visitors can also enjoy the small fishing pond. Smith Park and City Park have picnic spots and a playground.
Traveling along Interstate 75
Many locals travel outside the area for work. Moody Air Force Base stands about 15 miles from the center of Hahira. Interstate 75 runs north to south through the community. Drivers take the interstate to reach Valdosta or Adel in about 10 miles. The Georgia-Florida border is roughly 30 miles to the south.
Honey Bee Festival has been a tradition for over 40 years
"We have a big Independence Day event with fireworks. There is also the Honey Bee Festival that goes on every year," Jones says. The festival is a week-long event showcasing the community's spirit. The autumn event features a pageant, parade and over 250 vendors.
Weather trends in Lowndes
Lowndes County has a history of hurricanes and severe thunderstorms. The region experienced three major hurricanes between 2023 and 2024. These weather systems can lead to damaging winds and flooding, which can impact properties. The area also has a risk of wildfires.
Written By
Ashley Kennedy
