Canton, Georgia, offers picturesque views, fresh mountain air, and close proximity to the bustling metropolis of Atlanta. If you’re considering retirement in Canton, you may be surprised by how many resources you can find in this growing rural paradise.
Thanks to a growing senior population — more than 16 percent of Canton residents are over the age of 65, and nearby Atlanta is the nation’s most rapidly aging city — the region has had to adapt quickly to the needs of its population. There are specialized services and resources designed to meet the needs of older adults throughout the area, and senior centers are abundant.
Retirement is an exciting time, but you want to be sure you choose the right city to enjoy. Could Canton be your next best move? We’ve compiled a few benefits and considerations of retiring here in Canton. Here’s what you need to know as you make your decision.
Weather in Canton
Temperatures in Canton are ideal for the senior who enjoys spending time outdoors. Highs average around 89 degrees in August, the hottest of the year, while January boasts comfortable temperature highs of 52. These weather conditions are perfect for maintaining a garden year-round, as well as enjoying some seasonal flux.
As for rain, the Canton area gets about 52 inches of rain per year, which is higher than the national average of 38 inches. However, this is hardly a dreary area. There is still plenty of sunshine to enjoy! Even better, with only an average of 2 inches of snow per year, you can confidently put away the snowblower.
People of Canton, GA — Population and Demographics
With about 28,000 residents, Canton offers the best of both worlds: a small-town atmosphere but with big-city amenities nearby. Canton is a charming suburb, and it feels less intimidating getting around here than it might feel 40 minutes south in Atlanta. The city is growing, which makes real estate here a wise purchase, but it retains its small-town atmosphere.
Don’t let its small size fool you, though. There are plenty of friendly neighbors and things to do throughout Canton.
Things to Do in Canton
Canton offers something for everyone, including a wide variety of activities to enjoy. No matter your interests, you are likely to find them here. If you love to explore the outdoors, Canton is a paradise. Here, you can hike, bike, kayak, or simply breathe in the fresh air in any of the area’s preserves or parks. Try out Etowah River Park, Hickory Log Creek Reservoir, or Hickory Trails Park to start. You’re sure to find your favorite picnic spot, hiking trail, or fishing hole in no time.
Thanks to the short drive to Atlanta, you are also able to take advantage of all the city’s hustle and bustle. Entertain visitors or wow the grandkids by visiting Atlanta’s favorite spots, such as Zoo Atlanta or the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
The Food
Whether you are a self-proclaimed foodie or not, Canton has a long list of local restaurants to choose from. You can pick up your favorite ingredients at the Canton Farmers Market or let someone else do the cooking by visiting unique restaurants such as Union Hill Grill or Queenie’s Southern Restaurant and Bar. The local Wing & Rock Fest is a popular festival, as is Taste & Brews Country Fest.
Cost of Living in Canton
Real estate costs, as well as general costs of living, are a bit higher in Canton than throughout most of Georgia. They are about 11 percent higher than the national average cost of living and approximately 18 percent higher than those of the rest of the state of Georgia.
Crime Rate in Canton
Recent reports indicate that Canton is one of the safest cities in Georgia. Crime rates are fairly low, especially when compared to those of the rest of the state. The safest neighborhoods in Canton include River Green, Grand Oaks, and Copper Hills.
Making the Decision
So how should you decide where to live? There’s no single region that can cater to everyone’s needs, and therefore no choice is right for everyone. As you weigh your options, think about how your needs might shift over the coming years. Some questions that can help guide your decision include:
- Does the area I’m considering moving to offer sufficient resources to meet my medical, psychological, and recreational needs?
- How is my health? Do I have a chronic or serious health condition that may eventually require transportation, medical care, or senior living?
- How do I want to spend my time? Is there enough to do in my neighborhood? Would senior living help me enjoy my life more?
- Where does my family live? Do my current living arrangements foster close relationships with them?
- When I envision the perfect retirement, what do I see? Where am I living? How do I spend my days?
- What is my retirement budget? How much can I afford to spend per month? Our Senior Living Cost Calculator can help you compare the prices of various living arrangements.
- What do the people I trust think? Your loved ones may be able to help you consider important factors that might otherwise escape your attention.
Retirement is unfamiliar terrain, and it’s natural to feel a little anxious as you weigh your options. The right option for you is one that honors your values and preserves your safety and independence while tending to your health needs as they evolve. Don’t rush the decision. And be open to the possibility that the right decision may change as your retirement unfolds.
Making the Transition
You’ve been dreaming of and saving for retirement your entire career, which means you are definitely looking forward to it. However, transitioning to a senior living community and an active retirement lifestyle can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, you can make your move and transition a bit smoother with a few of these tips:
- Begin downsizing as soon as possible. Downsizing quickly can be more overwhelming, emotional, and frustrating. Instead, take your time by committing to downsizing a room at a time and promising to pause your efforts when you become overwhelmed.
- Work with your family to make the downsizing and packing process easier. Host a few weekend get-togethers when family members can help you with large tasks.
- Work with your senior living community well in advance of your move; they are excellent resources for connecting you with senior-friendly moving services.
If possible, attend events at your new home before you move. You’ll love getting to know your new neighbors and a taste of the lifestyle that awaits you there.
Choosing the Right Senior Living
The Arbor Company has proudly served seniors for 30 years. We know how to nurture deep relationships, build quality communities, and support seniors at every stage of the aging journey. We believe in preserving independence and investing deeply in a retirement that’s filled with joy. From live music and magnificent celebrations to daily exercise classes and gourmet dining, we offer endless pleasure in an environment that keeps you active, healthy, and engaged. We’d love to help you assess your senior living options. Give us a call or stop by one of our many special events.
Other FAQs
Have lingering questions? Here are a few common questions about the area:
Is Canton a good place to live?
Yes! Canton has been listed as one of the best places to live in Georgia, and surrounding Cherokee County is revered as one of the best counties in the state.
What is the crime rate in Canton?
The crime rate in the area is quite low. In 2018, the rate was 118.53 per 100,000 people. The city’s crime rate has been decreasing steadily over the past five years.
What is Canton known for?
Canton is known for its outdoor preserves, parks, and trails. It’s an outdoor paradise that is also close to Atlanta.
Does it snow in Canton?
It does, but the average snowfall is only 2 inches per year.
Learn more about how to find a senior living community in Canton by downloading our free resource, “Finding a Safe and Comfortable Senior Living Community.”
