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 44 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Thomaston, GA over the last 12 months is $211,500, up 3% 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
Back on market no fault of the Seller. 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
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,
Come to the country. Bring your vision. Make it yours. There's something different about coming home to the country-the quiet surroundings, open space, the smell of cut grass, and the fresh air of opportunity to create a place that feels distinctly YOURS. Set on 2 peaceful acres in rural, this spacious 3,480-square-foot home offers 6 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and an invitation to leave the traffic,
Discover a private Southern retreat where gracious living, beautiful surroundings, and exceptional space come together on 5.41 picturesque acres just outside Thomaston. From the moment you arrive, 274 Goshen Road makes an impression. A welcoming front porch, mature landscaping, and a peaceful wooded backdrop create a setting that feels tucked away from it all while remaining convenient to town.
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
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
If you're looking for a tract with excellent recreational and hunting potential, this 56.42-acre property in Upson County deserves a look. The property features several hardwood draws that create natural travel corridors for deer and turkey, while Marry Creek crosses the northeast corner of the tract, providing a year-round water source for wildlife. The property also offers approximately 1,150
Located in Upson County sits this 43+/- acre tract. This property offers excellent road frontage and a peaceful,natural setting ideal for recreational use, hunting, or a homesite. This tract includes 2,178 feet of paved road frontage along Highway 19 as well as 1,728 feet of paved road frontage on Allen road. The property consists of pines as well as natural hardwood drains. This diverse habitat
Firefly Farms is an exceptional 190.97 acre recreational and income-producing property in Upson County, Georgia, offering a rare combination of quality improvements, established wildlife habitat, and year-round outdoor opportunities. Conveniently located along Yatesville Highway between Yatesville and Thomaston, the property features two gated entrances from paved highway frontage, providing
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.
Property Id: 2843293 SPACIOUS 2 BEDROOM / 1 BATH HOME — CASH OR RENT-TO-OWN! Spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bath home Refrigerator included Microwave included Big yard for your kids to run and play! CASH PRICE: $20,000 RENT-TO-OWN $3,500 down $1,000/month $27,000 total purchase price Your $1,000 monthly payment includes: • Lot rent •
AVAILABLE FOR LEASE - 1958 MILLER ST., THOMASTON, GA Welcome home to 1958 Miller St.! This comfortable rental is offered at $950.00 per month and includes refrigerator, stove, washer and dryer. Monthly Rent: $950.00 Rental Restrictions: * No smoking inside the home. * No pets permitted. * No parking on the lawn. This property offers an excellent opportunity for someone seeking an affordable and
Discover the charm of this inviting 1,057 square foot home nestled in the heart of Thomaston, GA. Built in 1979, this residence combines classic design with modern convenience, making it an ideal retreat for anyone seeking comfort and functionality. With a spacious layout, this home offers ample room for relaxation and entertainment, featuring a cozy living area that seamlessly flows into the
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