A revitalizing city between Atlanta, Columbus and Macon
Thomaston, Georgia, has been the seat of Upson County since 1825, but it did not experience its economic and population boom until the 20th century. While many manufacturing jobs left in the early 2000s, the city has been on the upswing as investments in downtown and a relatively modest cost of living have attracted new residents.
“We do have a lot of amenities that bigger cities may have, but it's just a slower pace, and it's almost like going back in time,” says Jeri-Lee Vermeer, a Realtor at Century 21 Adams-Harvey & Associates and a Thomaston native. “It’s a place where everyone knows everyone. If you walk into the bank, people will come out to shake your hand.”
In downtown Thomaston, you can spend the evening at The Ritz theater.
Big box stores can be found just north of downtown Thomaston.
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Industrial roots, healthcare in modern day
The textile industry dominated the city's industrial past, with companies such as Thomaston Mills maintaining factories in town. The B.F. Goodrich Company also had a large tire cord mill, but it closed in the mid-2000s. The closure of most textile factories had a considerable effect, says Taylor Smith, the city's first economic development officer. Thomaston ended up losing over 4,000 jobs in a town of 10,000 people. “When the mills closed, it was a place of no hope, and if you wanted to find success, you had to leave,” Taylor says. Today, Thomaston Mills, which makes linen for the hospitality industry, maintains a smaller factory in the city. Manufacturing is still prevalent as Green Georgia, a maker of sustainable building materials, established its headquarters in the city in 2024. Plots of land are also available for industrial development at the Central Georgia Business & Technology Park northeast of downtown.
However, Smith says sparks of economic revitalization have come in the past few years. Healthcare is now a significant force, with Upson Regional Medical Center employing over 700 people. The hospital continues to expand as it commits to a $40 million upgrade of its ICU and mother-and-baby unit.
Taylor added that the city's geography — 50 miles south of Atlanta and 40 miles west of Macon — and housing affordability have also attracted more residents and given it a second wind.
Factories like Thomaston Mills and a growing healthcare sector have revived Thomaston’s job market.
Many of the jobs in Thomaston are in factories.
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Affordable single-family homes and mansions
The median price for homes in Thomaston is $198,000, below the state median. The city's home styles vary from one-floor ranch, bungalow and craftsman styles to split levels and new traditional homes. Tutor and Gothic revival estates once belonging to mill executives dot the landscape.
Split-level homes are a charming feature of Thomaston, adding unique character to the neighborhood with their distinct architectural style.
Thomaston is home to charming bungalow houses that exude character and warmth.
Thomaston is dotted with charming ranch homes that add a unique character to the neighborhood.
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A revitalizing downtown with events, shops and restaurants
Downtown Thomaston has undergone a revitalization effort over the past two years, opening a 10-block entertainment district. Taylor, who has spearheaded the efforts, noted that the city changed its alcohol ordinance in 2021, allowing public consumption in approved containers. Several restaurants are in the area, including Sabrosos Mexican Restaurant and Slices Pizzeria, which makes hand-tossed New York-style pizza. Boutique shops, including French Kiss Boutique and Co. & Company Boutique, also occupy long-abandoned downtown spaces. Retail options such as Walmart and Ingles supermarket are on Church Street.
This area hosts many annual celebrations, including an Emancipation Day parade, celebrated in Thomaston since 1866, and the Art and Soul Fest, which started in 2022.
Historic Upson County Courthouse Square sits in the heart of downtown Thomaston.
In Thomaston square, French Kiss Boutique features men's and women's apparel.
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Thomaston’s schools and parks
Thomaston-Upson County Schools serve the city with a C-plus grade on Niche. Southern Crescent Technical College has a campus south of downtown. Greatest Generation Memorial Park north of downtown has pickleball and tennis courts, disc golf and a playground.
To the west of Thomaston is Sprewell Bluff Park, which has over 12 miles of trails, a campground and paddling in the Flint River.
Thomaston-Upson County Schools get a C-plus grade on Niche.
Further your education at Southern Crescent Technical College just south of downton Thomaston.
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Access to Georgia’s cities
Three Rivers Regional Commission offers on-demand bus service throughout Upson and surrounding counties. The main roads through Thomaston are US Highway 19 and state routes 74 and 36, which have connections to interstates 85 and 75. The city’s closest international airport is Atlanta-Hartsfield Jackson Airport, about 60 miles north.
Highway 74 can lead you from Thomastson to Macon.
Highway 19 can lead you out of Thomaston up to Jonesboro or Atlanta.
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Crime in Upson County
According to the latest data from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, violent crime rates have decreased, but property crime increased slightly in Upson County.
Written By
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On average, homes in Thomaston, GA sell after 59 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Thomaston, GA over the last 12 months is $194,000, down 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Step into this beautifully renovated farmhouse retreat set on 9.45 acres, fully fenced with breathtaking mountain views. The main home offers 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, thoughtfully designed with privacy in mind. Inside, you'll find freshly remodeled bathrooms, original hardwood floors, a charming antique stove, granite counter tops, and a metal roof-a perfect balance of modern comfort
Classic charm meets thoughtful updates at 610 S Church Street, just a short stroll from Thomaston Square. Built in 1947, this Colonial Revival cottage offers the kind of character and craftsmanship rarely found today - tall ceilings, original fireplaces, and wide windows that fill the rooms with natural light. The inviting living area features a decorative fireplace with detailed mantelwork,
Discover the perfect blend of privacy and potential on this stunning 20-acre property. Ideal for building your dream home, it features a 7-bay shop, providing ample space for storage or projects. With electricity, water, and propane already in place, development is made easy. The land offers a mix of wooded seclusion and partially cleared, level areas, ideal for future builds or recreational use.
- Property is within the City Limits of Thomaston, Ga - Sewer, Water, Power Available - Currently Zoned Residential (ES-2) - 200+ Acres of 10 year old pine ( planted 2015) genetically superior variety - Nice creek/ Hardwoods for recreational trail system on back of property. - R.E Lee Grammer School and Upson-Lee Middle School and High School. - 1 hr 10 min to
Charming, Fully Renovated Home Near Downtown Thomaston! Welcome to 417 Howell Street - a beautifully updated gem just a short walk from Upson Regional Medical Center and Thomaston's thriving downtown square. This move-in-ready home offers the perfect blend of modern updates and timeless Southern charm in a location that can't be beat. You'll love the convenience of nearby schools, shopping, and
Fully Renovated 2,500 sq. ft. Country Home on 1 Acre Corner Lot Step into modern comfort with timeless charm! This down-to-the-studs remodel feels like a brand-new home, offering 2,500 square feet of beautifully reimagined living space on a spacious 1-acre corner lot in a peaceful country neighborhood. Inside, you'll find: Open-concept (handicap accessible) floor plan with abundant natural light
Country Rustic Fixer-Upper in South Upson County Discover the potential in this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath country rustic home set on a peaceful .48-acre lot on the south end of Upson County. This property offers a wonderful opportunity for buyers looking to add their own touches or invest in a fixer-upper with great bones and plenty of character. Inside, you'll find a warm rustic layout with
Private country living at its finest! This 3 bedroom, 2 bath manufactured home , with a bonus room sits on 13.9 beautiful, wooded acres, offering peace, privacy, and endless outdoor possibilities. The land is an outdoorsman's paradise, ideal for hunting deer and small game, exploring nature, or simply enjoying the quiet of rural life. The home features a brand-new roof, and the sellers are
A True Architectural Masterpiece on Potato Creek! Discover a one-of-a-kind retreat in the sought-after Curtlan Forest neighborhood! Designed by renowned architect David Tyler as his personal residence, this stunning home seamlessly blends sophisticated design with natural beauty. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with light, offering breathtaking views from all three levels and creating
Discover the quiet beauty of rural Georgia on this 25acre wooded retreat tucked away in the heart of Upson County. This property offers the rare combination of privacy, natural beauty, and endless potential-making it an ideal setting for a homesite, recreational getaway, or longterm investment. As you enter the property, you're greeted by a canopy of mature hardwoods and pines, with sunlight
640.96 acres high-quality recreational property located in Upson County, GAApprox. 8 miles to historic downtown Thomaston; approx. 70 miles to Alanta; approx. 54 miles to Columbus; approx. 45 miles to Macon; approx. 50 miles to ATL airport (1.5 hours)816 sq ft cabin, 1 BD/1 Bath, built in 2010 with a metal roof; 476 sq ft guest cabin, 1 BD/1 Bath, built in 2020 with a metal roof; 168 sq
* Amazing Shoals on Potato Creek* Fantastic Homesite with Long Range Views* Mountain-Like Setting in Middle Georgia* Good Deer and Turkey Hunting* 3 Year Old Pine Stand on Approximately Half of the Land* Remainder in Mature Hardwoods with Large Red and White Oaks* Power Available along the County Road Frontage* 4 Miles to Downtown
West Valley Apartments offers one and two-bedroom apartment homes for rent in Thomaston, Georgia. You can enjoy the perks of small town living with Macon, Columbus, and Atlanta about an hour away.
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