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 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Thomaston, GA over the last 12 months is $209,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
- 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
Set on 1.5 secluded acres in Upson County, 2537 Barnesville Hwy offers a quiet setting, useful outdoor space, and plenty of potential for someone ready to bring new life to the property. This 2 bedroom, 1 bath home is an opportunity to renovate, restore, or reimagine to fit your needs while enjoying the privacy and flexibility that come with a larger lot. A workshop adds valuable space for
If you have been looking for a piece of land with a natural setting and room to make it your own, this 6-acre unimproved tract on Barnesville Highway in Thomaston is worth a look. The property is wooded, features a creek on site, and offers a peaceful backdrop with plenty of space to explore your plans. Located in Upson County, this tract gives you raw acreage with flexibility for future use,
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
Two residences on approximately 2 acres create a flexible setup on the east side of Upson County with easy access to routes toward Thomaston, Atlanta, and Macon. Located at 1412/1418 Yatesville Highway, the property includes a 3 bedroom, 1 bath home with 1,360 sq ft and a second 1 bedroom, 1 bath home with 1,372 sq ft. The first home offers hardwood floors, a living room with fireplace and
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
Charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home situated on 2 beautiful acres in Upson County! Enjoy the perfect blend of peaceful country living with the convenience of being just minutes from town. Located on the outskirts and near the Flint River, this property offers space, privacy, and a great setting to relax or entertain. Don't miss this opportunity to own your own slice of Georgia countryside!
Elegant Brick Home with your very own outdoor Oasis!! Nestled in a well-established neighborhood, this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home combines timeless charm with resort-style amenities. Featuring classic dormer windows, crisp white trim, and a manicured lawn, this home exudes curb appeal. This stunning 2-story residence offers over 2,500 square feet of beutifully designed living
Welcome to a private luxury estate designed for living well: Escape to a world where privacy, craftsmanship, and effortless elegance come together on 2+ pristine acres in Thomaston GA. This custom four sided brick estate is more than a home-it's a lifestyle statement, offering refined interiors, resort level amenities, and unforgettable spaces for entertaining and relaxation. Sophistication meets
This beautifully updated 3 bedroom 1.5 bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Featuring a fresh TOTAL renovation throughout the entire home. This one is truly move-in ready and waiting on the new owners. Enjoy relaxing on the covered back deck while looking over your spacious back yard. Conveniently located close to the Upson county school system, and only minutes to downtown
This 255-acre tract in Upson County, Georgia, offers a well-rounded combination of recreational use, mature timber, and a comfortable residence, all set within a private, scenic setting. Located off paved Jeff Davis Road, the property features a well-established internal road system that provides access throughout the tract, primarily running along the ridge tops for efficient travel and
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
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
3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home in Thomaston, GA — 936 sq. ft.Conveniently located with easy access to local shopping, dining, parks, and everyday amenities.— WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT —936 sq. ft. single-family home3 bedrooms / 1 full bathroomFunctional layout with comfortable living spaceWasher/dryer hookups includedPet-friendly (up to 2 pets, restrictions apply)Yard
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