In the middle of Georgia is Macon, home to about 156,000 people. With the Ocmulgee River dividing the city in two, Maconites have access to a blossoming city with an increasing number of employers, housing options and downtown events. “It’s a small town growing into a big town,” says Matthew Griffin, who grew up in Macon. He has been a Realtor since 2019 and works with Keller Williams Realty Intown Atlanta. “The last five years have been pretty popular.” With a slogan that Macon is “Where Soul Lives.” NewTown Macon is one of the groups that is helping to change Macon, focusing primarily on downtown. The city has also been the set for multiple movies, including upcoming ones like “Superman” set to be released in 2025. Macon’s biggest employers include GEICO, Navicent Health Medical Center and Mercer University. YKK, Inc., the world’s leading producer of zippers and other fastening products, has a manufacturing center on the outskirts of the city. Macon has mild weather throughout the year, with “an occasional snowfall every couple of years,” says Griffin. “There was the Flood of ’94 where all of downtown was covered in 3 feet of water.”
Macon's visitor center proudly showcases the city's slogan: "Where the Soul Lives."
The Ocmulgee River's serene waters and historical depth are a part of Macon's identity.
Navicent Atrium Health Medical Center, located in Macon, is the 2nd largest hospital in GA.
Macon is home to significant businesses like GEICO.
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Lower cost than Atlanta with new developments and lofts planned in downtown
Homebuyers are leaving nearby Atlanta in favor of smaller towns like Macon because of “affordability,” says Griffin. “Atlanta is about $300,000 more in pricing.” Meanwhile, the average home prices in Macon sit around $200,000. There are plenty of historical homes in Macon with smaller lot sizes, some of which are eligible for loans specifically meant of historical homes. In 2021, the mayor of Macon implemented Blight Fight, where residents can report suspicions of blighted buildings. The city will go in and investigate before giving property owners a chance to fix the building. Since the implementation of Blight Fight, over 700 buildings have been demolished. “Over the past five years [the amount of] new housing has increased,” says Griffin. “Eight new apartment complexes have been built.” Additionally, downtown Macon has built several new lofts. For the 2024 to 2027 strategic plan, NewTown Macon is aiming to build an additional 600 new lofts. “They’ve turned every vacant brick building downtown into these beautiful lofts,” Griffin says.
Pleasant Hill Historic District, Macon, features charming Craftsman bungalows from the 1920s.
Pleasant Hill Historic District is a historically Black community with roots in music.
Tudor Revival style homes in Macon’s North Highlands boast intricate brickwork and gables.
Cottage-style homes in Macon’s North Highlands offer quaint charm and distinctive features.
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Magnet high schools in Bibb County School District and multiple universities
Macon is covered by the Bibb County School District, which operates 21 elementary schools, six middle schools and six high schools. The district serves over 21,000 students within the city and is graded a C overall by Niche. Bibb County School District offers magnet schools and programs that students can apply to, regardless of where they may live in the city. There are five private Christian schools within Macon as well as two state-run public charter schools. Mercer University was founded in 1833 and is the oldest university in Georgia. There are three other post-secondary institutions within the city. Wesleyan College is a private women’s college that was home to the first sororities. Macon is also home to the Georgia Academy for the Blind, run by the state of Georgia.
Williams Elementary School has an overall C grade on Niche.
Central High School serves in the Bibb County School District.
Miller Fine Arts Magnet School is located in Macon, Ga.
Tindall Heights is only a few minutes from Mercer University.
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Carolyn Crayton Park and Amerson River Park
Macon has 26 parks, trails and green space throughout the city. Caroline Crayton Park was renamed from Central Park in 2020 and was built as the city’s first public park. For its name change, the city looked to the founder of the Georgia International Cherry Blossom Festival, which first started in 1982. Amerson River Park covers 180 acres. The park has a handicap-usable playground for children of all ages. It also offers access to the Ocmulgee River. “The Amerson water park and Carolyn Crayton Park are the two biggest outdoor options,” Griffin says. Outside the city is Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, officially designated as a national historical park in 2019. The park is currently trying to become Georgia’s first national park. There are also several lakes, including Lake Tobesofkee with three public parks along its 35-mile shoreline.
Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in Macon includes significant archaeological sites.
Caroline Crayton Park was built in 2020 as Macon's first city park.
Amerson River Park is one of Macon's most beautiful parks with walking paths and scenic views.
Amerson River Park boasts a stone crafts welcome arch.
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Downtown Macon wins the Main Street America award
Macon’s shopping centers tend to be on the outside of the city, with more local boutiques and businesses lining downtown. “The mayor is pushing revitalization and offering incentives,” says Griffin. “Downtown has really changed.” According to NewTown Macon, about 82% of storefronts in downtown are now occupied. “This past year, it was one of the nationally ranked main street award winners,” says Griffin. Main Street America awarded NewTown Macon the 2024 award alongside two other cities around the country. Additionally, five farmers markets and flea markets run year-round. Macon has both indoor and outdoor shopping malls as well as other strip malls for national and regional stores.
Macon Mall features a popular line-up of retail stores.
Macon features over 5 farmer's and flea markets that run year-round.
Macon residents can explore fresh produce and locally made products every Wednesday.
The Shoppes at River Crossing is a premier shopping & entertainment in Macon.
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Cherry Blossoms and downtown events
As Carolyn Crayton Park turns pink with cherry blossoms, the International Cherry Blossom Festival occurs. First started in 1982 by Carolyn Crayton, the festival has grown from a three-day festival to a month-long celebration that includes free concerts, carnival rides and the Cherry Blossom Trail. The Cherry Blossom Trail showcases the trees throughout the city, as well as some of the historic districts and buildings within Macon. There are more than 350,000 Yoshino Cherry trees throughout Macon. Downtown hosts several different events, including a Macon Burger Week, the newest event from the city. “Essentially all the restaurants downtown create a[n original] burger,” says Griffin. “One year they had a fried green pimento burger.” Macon doesn’t have national sports but does have a hockey team, the Macon Mayhems, part of the minor league SPHL. The Macon Bacon is a baseball team that primarily helps college students who are aiming to get signed to a professional team. Downtown is also home to several museums.
Recent revitalization projects have transformed downtown Macon into a hub for entertainment.
Carolyn Crayton Park in Macon hosts the annual International Cherry Blossom Festival.
Macon Bacon is a collegiate summer baseball team based in Macon, Georgia.
The Macon Mayhem plays at the city's largest indoor venue, the Macon Colliseum.
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Interstates leading to Atlanta and smaller airports within Macon
Two interstates pass through the city itself, I-16 and I-75. I-475 is an auxiliary interstate that bypasses Macon itself before rejoining I-75. I-16 starts in Macon before ending east in Savannah. Macon-Bibb County Transit Authority operates buses through Macon. While primarily a commercial airport, Middle Georgia Regional Airport does offer 12 passenger flights a week to the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. Macon Downtown Airport is for private planes only, while also acting as a training location for Middle Georgia State University students interested in aviation.
Crime in Macon
The FBI Crime Data Explorer reports that in October of 2023 there were 215 violent crimes per 100,000 people, higher than both the state and national average. Property values sit at 289 property crimes per 100,000 people, again higher than both state and national average. According to Macon’s news station 13WMAZ, they compared the crime from April 2024 to April of 2023 and found that crime had decreased over the last year.
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On average, homes in Macon-Bibb, GA sell after 54 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Macon-Bibb, GA over the last 12 months is $205,000, up 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
The McAfee - New Construction Townhome - 3BR/2.5BA, approximately 1467 sqft. This thoughtfully designed home features an open-concept main level with an open kitchen with island, granite countertops, stainless steel oven, stove, microwave, and dishwasher, and a walk-in pantry, with a dining area overlooking the family room. Upstairs you'll find all bedrooms, a laundry closet, and an inviting
Welcome to 1029 Ash Street - a rare opportunity to enjoy modern living in a historic Macon neighborhood! On the main level of this stunning Beall's Hill property, you will find TWO living areas, one of which features built-in cabinets and bookshelves. The well-appointed kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting a large island, stainless steel appliances, and a corner pantry. The adjacent dining area
This home offers a spacious living area designed for comfortable everyday living. With four well-sized bedrooms and two full bathrooms, there is plenty of room for family, guests, or a home office. The spacious yard provides ample outdoor space, while the fenced-in backyard offers added privacy and security for pets or children. A chicken coop is located on the property, adding a unique feature
Rare opportunity to live on the 9th fairway of the Country Club golf course. Custom built home with extensive walk in attic space. Extra shop area in the 2 car garage. Natural gas in patio for outside cooking. Original owner. 10 year old roof. HVAC 5 years old. Gently lived in. Come and see.
Investor special with major upside! Located less than 5 minutes from Mercer University and close to Macon's revitalized downtown district, this property sits in one of the city's fastest-improving areas. The home needs renovation, but the structure and layout give you a great foundation to build equity. Nearby renovated homes are selling in the $140K-$150K ARV range, making this a perfect
Updated home on 3.26 Private Acres! Sitting on a large 3.26-acre corner lot, this property gives you the room to spread out and enjoy some peace and quiet. The home has been completely remodeled with new appliances, granite countertops, fresh flooring, a new hot water heater, and updated electrical panel. The HVAC is only four years old, so you're good to go there too! Outside, you'll find a
Great opportunity for an investor or buyer looking for a fixer-upper in Macon. This 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom home offers 828 square feet and a functional layout ready for renovation. Property is being sold as-is and provides a blank canvas for updates and improvements. Ideal for a rental, flip, or personal project. Conveniently located near downtown Macon, shopping, dining, and major roadways with
Seven Townhomes on one parcel in good condition. Six are rented and one tenant is in process to move in with Macon Housing Authority (MHA). Properties are part of the MOD Rehab Program of HUD managed by MHA. Total rents are $4,854 per month and owner is also reimbursed for vacancy and repairs after tenant move out. Research the program for specific details. Tenants provide and maintain their own
Updated and Move-In Ready! , this remodeled home offers peace of mind with an HVAC system that's approximately 3 years old, a good roof, and new appliances. Special financing incentives ranging from $6,000 - $7,500 are available through select preferred lenders, with potential 100% financing and $0.00 DOWN options- 1% Rate reduction with a no cost refi is another option - contact the listing
6.25 Acres + Two Homes = Endless Potential Welcome to 456 Horseshoe Circle, a rare opportunity in Twiggs County offering acreage, privacy, and versatility. Just minutes from I-16 and Sgoda Road, this property features two homes - a 1,488 sq ft 3-bedroom, 2-bath home plus a 960 sq ft 1982 Horton Homes mobile home ready for renovation or rental. With over 6 acres of private land, this property is
Take a look at this diamond in the rough, new roof, almost new central heat. New water heater. You don't want to miss this one. This one has tons of potential. **Photos Coming Soon**
Welcome home to this **recently renovated** property that offers a fresh start and lasting value. Featuring an **all-new interior**, this home has been thoughtfully updated to provide a clean, modern feel that's easy to move right into. The **large lot** offers room to enjoy outdoor space, future expansion, or added privacy-something that's increasingly hard to find. This home is an excellent fit
Move in ready. Renovated kitchen. New windows. LVP in the kitchen. Hardwood throughout the rest of the house. Private patio deck and fire pit. Backyard fenced.
The white house on the hill. This charming brick home sits on iconic Ingleside Avenue across from Henry Burns Park. Featuring 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths, plus a den or office that could serve as a third bedroom, the home offers timeless character and flexible living space. Hardwood floors, gas fireplaces, and inviting living areas create warmth throughout. The updated kitchen is both functional
Three Lots being sold together. 1949 Deerwood lot does have a poured driveway. 1949,1957 and 1965 sold together for $40,000.00. The total of the lot sizes is an estimate.
This thoughtfully planned townhome community by Rocklyn Homes offers spacious new construction three-bedroom residences with modern interior finishes and attached garages, designed for everyday living. Enjoy community amenities including a swimming pool, clubhouse, fitness center, and playground, along with professionally maintained landscaping for a low-maintenance lifestyle. Ideally located
Just Renovated 3 Bedrooms and 2 Bathrooms home with Lakefront view.Features includes: New Roof, HVAC, New Kitchen cabinets, Quartz Countertops, Backsplash, Microwave, Dishwasher, Custom Bathrooms with tile shower and tile surround, luxury vinyl flooring and so much more.Apply at www.midgarentals.net
Located at 645 Ell Street, Macon, GA, this home stands ready to welcome its new owners. With 1080 square feet of living area, this single-family residence features three bedrooms, providing comfortable and private spaces for rest and rejuvenation. Two bathrooms offer convenience and functionality for everyday living. The property includes a porch, offering a perfect spot to enjoy the outdoors.
Pointe Grand Macon proudly presents two-bedroom apartments offering 1,170 square feet of open living space. These apartments feature upscale interior amenities, including wood-inspired flooring, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, oversized kitchen islands, LED lighting, and keyless entry. Residents also enjoy community amenities such as a 24-hour fitness center, a resort-style pool
This 3 BD / 2.5 B Townhouse is Located in Heath Lake Village, less than 1 mile from Middle Georgia State University, very Convenient to I-475 and I-75. The Home has a Spacious Open Floor Plan w/Fireplace Insert, Kitchen includes granite countertops with SS Appliances, including Fridge, LVP in Main Living Areas and Bathrooms. All Bedrooms are upstairs and quite Large. Nice Privacy Fenced Backyard
Beautifully remodeled 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch home in quiet safe neighborhood with private fenced in backyard. Everything about this home states "class". While you're renting show your friends that you have great taste and high ambitions! This home spells who you are and that's someone on his way up! Contact Wikipedian "COUSIN VINNY" AGNELLO for your opportunity. Income qualifications must be met
Welcome to Estates at Barrington, located at 301 Barrington Hall Drive, Macon, GA 31220. Our pet-friendly community offers spacious 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments ranging from 815 to 1,362 sq.ft., thoughtfully designed for modern comfort.Each home features central heating and air conditioning, walk-in closets, vinyl flooring, and private patios or balconies. Located in the peaceful 31220 ZIP
Renovated, two bedroom, one and half bathroom, two story townhome. The unit has an interior washer and dryer hookup. Property comes with refrigerator and stove. Owner is willing to accept a Section 8 voucher.
Pointe Grand Thomaston proudly presents brand-new two-bedroom apartments offering 1,170 square feet of open living space. These apartments feature upscale interior amenities, including wood-inspired flooring, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, oversized kitchen islands, LED lighting, and keyless entry. Residents also enjoy community amenities such as a 24-hour fitness center, a
Washer/Dryer/Refrigerator included This home features a bright, open layout and has been well maintained with modern updates throughout. Designed for easy living, it offers low utility costs, minimal upkeep, and a comfortable, manageable space. The spacious yard provides ample room to relax, garden, or entertain. Located on a quiet street with convenient access to shopping, groceries, schools,
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