Apartments for Rent in Athens, GA
Living in Athens: Discover College Town Life in the "Classic City"
Home to the University of Georgia and renowned as one of the best college towns in the country, Athens combines Southern traditions with a rich history. Known as the "Classic City," Athens is regarded for its music scene (including being the hometown of R.E.M. and The B-52s), historic downtown, and Victorian homes. Located just over an hour northeast of Atlanta, the city attracts undergrad students, young professionals, and families alike. With friendly neighborhoods and a walkable downtown, Athens is an ideal place to call home. If you're looking for apartments for rent in Athens, find your dream home with Greystar!
Education and Innovation
The presence of the University of Georgia shapes Athens' academic identity, creating a youthful, spirited atmosphere that extends beyond campus boundaries. The city's commitment to learning reaches into the public school system, with Clarke County School District serving the community with several highly-rated schools like Classic City High School and Johnnie Lay Burks Elementary.
Arts and Entertainment District
The historic Downtown Athens offers a variety of entertainment options. The area's legendary music scene attracts performances at the city's many live venues and concert halls, like the 40 Watt Club and Flicker Theatre & Bar. The downtown area also serves as Athens' cultural hub, with public street art displays, the African American Heritage Pathway, and annual festivals like the UGA International Festival and Athens Wine Weekend. The Georgia Museum of Art is a popular attraction among residents, housing impressive collections of American paintings and decorative arts.
Distinctive Neighborhoods
Five Points — a popular neighborhood among students and families — offers tree-lined streets, charming shops, and historic homes in a quieter setting. The Boulevard area, known for its arts community, attracts young professionals, while the trendy Normaltown area provides convenient living options for healthcare workers and students alike near the UGA Health Sciences Campus. Downtown Athens is particularly popular among young people, with its vibrant nightlife scene, local events and festivals, and dining options.
Outdoor Recreation
Whether you're a student or a family with children, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors on weekends in Athens. The State Botanical Garden of Georgia spans 313 acres of themed gardens and nature trails, while the Oconee Rivers Greenway Trails System provides miles of paths for cycling and walking. Sandy Creek Park on Lake Chapman offers a beach, kayaking, fishing, and boating opportunities, hiking and horseback riding trails, as well as sports fields and athletic courts.
Culinary Scene
Athens' food landscape ranges from James Beard-recognized establishments to beloved local institutions. The Athens Farmers Market showcases regional produce and artisanal goods, while the Five Points area hosts some of the city's most celebrated restaurants and craft breweries.
FAQs About Athens, GA
What is the cost of living like in Athens?
Athens offers a moderate cost of living, at 10% below the national average. Though the price of rent will vary by property, Greystar offers a range of options in the area. From The Standard at Athens — a popular option for student housing — to upscale apartments like Flats at General Time, which are ideal for families and young professionals, Greystar has something for nearly everyone!
How accessible is public transportation in Athens?
Athens public transportation operates bus routes throughout the city, with frequent service to the University of Georgia campus. Bus times do vary by day and route, so residents will need to check the schedule(s) daily. Though most locals travel by car, the walkable downtown area and public transit system make it possible for those without personal vehicles to navigate the city.
What are the dining highlights in Athens?
Athens is home to some top restaurant attractions. Local favorites include South Kitchen + Bar for contemporary cuisine, The Place for Southern comfort food, and Catch-22, a travel-inspired gastropub. Residents also enjoy Mama's Boy for Southern breakfast staples and Osteria Olio for upscale Italian dining. Choco Coffee is also beloved by University of Georgia students.
What outdoor activities are available in Athens?
There are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors in Athens. The State Botanical Garden of Georgia, a 313-acre preserve, offers nature trails, bird watching, and themed gardens. Sandy Creek Park gives residents plenty of things to do, from hanging out by the beach to kayaking, boating, or fishing on Lake Chapman. The park also has several athletic fields and courts, hiking and horseback riding trails, and picnic areas. The Oconee Rivers Greenway Trail System is also popular for biking and jogging.
How pet-friendly is Athens?
Several Greystar apartments in Athens welcome pets, including The Standard at Athens and Flats at General Time. In addition to the city's numerous trail systems and green spaces, Sandy Creek Park has a designated dog park. Some restaurants with outdoor seating, like Ted's Most Best, will also allow leashed pets.
What's the culture like in Athens?
The University of Georgia dominates Athens' academic landscape, creating a vibrant atmosphere of artistic pursuits. The Georgia Museum of Art and UGA Performing Arts Center host world-class exhibitions and performances. The historic downtown area seamlessly blends student life with local culture, featuring independent bookstores, coffee shops, and nightlife entertainment. The community also holds regular events and festivals, from art walks to farmers' markets.
Which neighborhoods are best for young professionals?
Downtown Athens and The Boulevard area attract young professionals. With nightlife entertainment and a lively music scene, the area is ideal for young people. The area also features several creative workspaces, like Runway Cowork and Rabbit Hole Studios. Normaltown is also popular among young professionals, with historic architecture and local haunts.
What are the top shopping destinations in Athens?
The charming shops along Clayton Street showcase local artisans and boutiques like Community and Dynamite, while the Alps Road area offers a mix of local and national retailers. For more extensive shopping, residents often visit the Georgia Square Mall.
How are the schools in Athens?
The Clarke County School District is home to several highly rated public schools, like Classic City High School and Johnnie Lay Burks Elementary. There are also several private institutions in the area, including St. Joseph Catholic Parish, Downtown Academy, and Athens Academy. The University of Georgia is highly regarded, with an 86% graduation rate and a competitive 43% acceptance rate.
What's the nightlife scene like in Athens?
Athens' legendary music scene thrives at venues like the 40 Watt Club and Georgia Theatre. The downtown area has several cocktail bars and old-school pubs like Hi-Lo Lounge and Trappeze Pub. Athens also offers more laid-back evening options with intimate music spaces featuring acoustic and indie artists. For comedy shows and other live performances, locals often visit Flicker Theatre and Bar.
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