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 58 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Thomaston, GA over the last 12 months is $196,750, down 4% 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
A timeless home that blends historic character, modern updates, and the convenience of living in the heart of Thomaston. 610 S Church Street, just a short stroll from Thomaston Square. This home 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
Opportunity awaits with this AS-IS ranch, situated on 3.8+ acres with valuable road frontage, offering a chance to customize and restore a property with strong land and infrastructure value. The original footprint of the home featured 3 bedrooms and 1 bath, and now has been demoed, providing a blank canvas for renovation or redesign. Improvements include tree removal, an updated electrical box
*This home qualifies for 100% financing through a USDA Loan Program* This home sits on nearly 6 acres of flat, cleared land in a quiet and highly desirable area of Upson County, this stunning property features 5 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. The heart of the home is the great family room, seamlessly connected to the kitchen-an ideal layout for hosting gatherings, celebrations, or enjoying
- 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 Hartsfield-Jackson International
A true architectural masterpiece on Potato Creek! Welcome to 177 Antler Drive, a one-of-a-kind retreat in the sought-after Curtlan Forest neighborhood, designed by renowned architect David Tyler as his personal residence. With dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows, soaring ceilings, beautiful natural views from all three levels, and a setting that feels private and peaceful, this home offers a rare
Welcome to your private retreat, secluded in the beautiful woods of Upson County on Logtown Road. Situated on nearly 22 acres, this property features a remodeled manufactured home offering 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The home has been thoughtfully updated with new flooring, fresh paint, custom cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances, creating a comfortable and modern living space. Outside,
This darling 2 bed 1 bath cottage in Silvertown East has been renovated and is ready for you to move in! Brand new appliances, flooring, fresh paint, new kitchen cabinets and counter tops are a few of the updates to this adorable home. Home contains brand new HVAC and a 5 year old roof. The porch floor and sidewalk have been newly refinished with epoxy. The bathroom has been updated. The backyard
Don't miss out on this one of a kind estate home with everything you could possibly desire. There are formal gardens where something is always blooming, multiple outdoor entertaining spaces, along with numerous indoor spaces that offer optimum recreation, entertainment, or relaxation options. Step inside and you'll notice hardwood and tile floors throughout. The newly remodeled kitchen will wow
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
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.
Apartment has been newly renovated. New kitchen tile floor, all others floors are newly restored hardwood floors. New kitchen sink and new countertops. All kitchen cabinets refurbished. Bathtub refurbished with new hardware.The requirements are proof of income, credit report, rental history and background check on all occupants over 17 years old. Pets are not all. If your are
Quietcountry living, open pasture, forest, and mountain views. Freshly painted 2 bedroom. Front and rear porches, beautiful views, sunset/sunrise. 8 miles from Walmart in Thomaston. No pets, no smoking. $1060 plus electric trash, and gas. Water and yard maintenance is included
Welcome to your charming country retreat! This inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath home not only has classic country charm but offers a serene escape. Though this cutie is in the country, its not so far from town that you couldn't quickly get take-out. The spacious galley-style kitchen is a cook’s dream, featuring ample counter space and easy access to all your cooking essentials. The home boasts a
Move-in ready 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home in Thomaston, GA — 616 sq. ft.Conveniently located with easy access to local shops, dining, and everyday amenities.— WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT —616 sq. ft. single-family home2 bedrooms / 1 full bathroomEfficient layout ideal for easy livingWasher/dryer hookups includedPet-friendly (up to 2 pets, restrictions apply)Manageable
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