Jesup is a rural city of 10,065 residents in eastern Georgia along the Altamaha River. Once known as “the town that trains built,” it remains a rail hub at the busy crossroads of CSX and Norfolk Southern tracks. Outdoor activities like hunting and fishing surround its downtown district. The Wayne County area's abundance of forests has made agriculture-related manufacturing the top job sector. Rayonier Advanced Materials produces cellulose products, while Great Southern Wood Preserving manufactures treated lumber.
Visit the WMA at Penholoway near Jesup.
The train tracks run right through the heart of town.
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Significantly lower prices than in Savannah
Jesup’s median home price is $215,000, lower than Savannah’s $353,900 and Jacksonville’s $311,495. “You will marvel and appreciate the Southern hospitality that this small town presents,” says Realtor Jane Beare of Keller Williams Coastal Area Partners, who has sold homes in the area for 24 years. “Smaller cities generally are a very nice option for those searching for more moderately priced housing and expenses.”
Houses in Jesup sit on manicured lawns.
Jesup is home to many renovated historical homes.
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Jesup’s roads lead to major cities
Highway 84 travels 66 miles northwest into Savannah, home to the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, which has over 30 nonstop domestic flights. Jacksonville International Airport is 100 miles south. Fifty miles north, Interstate 16 connects Macon to Savannah. Amtrak’s Silver Meteor line, which travels from Miami to New York City, stops in Jesup. The closest major hospital is Wayne Memorial Hospital, located downtown.
Fishing on the Altamaha River and hunting at Penholoway Swamp
Jesup has four landings entering the Altamaha River, where anglers cast lines in waters filled with largemouth bass, crappie and white catfish. Cogden Lake is another popular fishing destination. Among the four nearby wildlife management areas is the 4,000-acre Penholoway Swamp, which hunters can explore in pursuit of deer and turkey. Lake Grace offers fishing and boating, parks and picnic areas. McMillian Creek Greenway’s boardwalk winds through wetlands and a lush forest in an area home to a former Depression-era drainage ditch.
Go fishing with your children along the river in Jesup.
Enjoy scenic sunsets at Lake Grace in Jesup.
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Jesup Drive-in is a blast from the past
Jesup Drive-in is one of less than 400 drive-in theaters in a country that was once home to over 4,000. Moviegoers roll down memory lane and park in a field surrounding a large screen. It has been open since 1948 and is undergoing renovations to add 1950s decor. Restaurants and businesses surround Cherry Street in historic downtown. “There are some delightful restaurants, diners, and excellent barbecue spots in Jesup amidst the preservation of their historic and friendly downtown,” Beare says. Fresh produce and artisanal goods are sold at the Wayne County Farmers Market.
Watch a movie at the Jesup Drive In.
Local businesses and stores line the sidewalks of downtown Jesup.
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Students attend Wayne County schools
The Wayne County School System gets a B rating on Niche. Coastal Pines Technical College has a campus in town.
The Coastal Pines Technical Collage is located in Jesup.
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Jesup stays on the warmer side throughout the year
Jesup has long, hot and humid summers and mild winters. Temperatures in February can reach 70 degrees.
According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Wayne County’s crime rate per 1,000 people decreased by nearly 2% from 2022 to 2023. That is higher than Chatham County’s rate near Savannah.
Dogwood Festival showcases local artisans
Artisans sell crafts from leather to jewelry at the annual Dogwood Festival in spring, and there's plenty of live music and food vendors.
Written By
Josh Gully
Photography Contributed By
Jonathan Dean
Video By
Sara Warthen
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Deanne Cohrs,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Jesup, GA sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Jesup, GA over the last 12 months is $209,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
With over 3,200 square feet of living space, this 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home has room for everyone-and then some! From the spacious bonus room with a beautiful stone fireplace and gas logs to the separate office and formal dining room, every detail was designed with comfort and functionality in mind. The large eat-in kitchen is a standout with solid surface countertops, a beautiful island, plenty
Waterfront Retreat on Penholloway CreekThis beautifully renovated home offers the perfect blend of comfort, function, and outdoor adventure—nestled along the banks of Penholloway Creek, which flows directly into the majestic Altamaha River. Whether you're an avid hunter, fisherman, kayaker, or simply love the peaceful beauty of South Georgia’s wildlife, this property was made for you. A
With over 3,200 square feet of living space, this 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home has room for everyone-and then some! From the spacious bonus room with a beautiful stone fireplace and gas logs to the separate office and formal dining room, every detail was designed with comfort and functionality in mind. The large eat-in kitchen is a standout with solid surface countertops, a beautiful island, plenty
Waterfront Retreat on Penholloway CreekThis beautifully renovated home offers the perfect blend of comfort, function, and outdoor adventure—nestled along the banks of Penholloway Creek, which flows directly into the majestic Altamaha River. Whether you're an avid hunter, fisherman, kayaker, or simply love the peaceful beauty of South Georgia’s wildlife, this property was made for you. A
3 bed, 3 bath plus an office/flex space Home for Rent in Wayne County! Property is 3 acres and completely fenced. All appliances including washer/dryer. Lawncare included and many "extras!" Contact Banks Real Estate for more info. (912) 559-2142
COUNTRY CLUB LIVING***Rent 2,500. Beautiful home located in the heart of Pine Forest Country Club, with covered back porch overlooking the 9th and 18th greens. Light-filled open floor plan offers an a spacious living, peaceful retreat, and is partially furnished. The vaulted Great Room is perfect for entertaining and family comfort with an added formal dining area. The two, large, master suites
Office Space for Rent – Prime Location in Jesup, GA Now available for lease – a spacious commercial office suite located at 895 S 1st Street, Jesup, GA, conveniently situated at the rear of the Allstate building and directly in front of Wayne Memorial Hospital. This is a fantastic location for medical professionals, business offices, or service providers looking to establish or expand their
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