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An Unequalled Quality of Life

No matter which direction you come into Towns County, breathtaking scenery awaits you. Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia, is visible throughout most of the county. Bordering North Carolina, Towns County residents enjoy the added beauty of high peaks to the north. Although one of Georgia's smallest counties in land area, Towns scores mightily in quality of life. Many sought-after factors are here in abundance. Beautiful surroundings, recreational opportunities, reasonable cost of living, low crime, moderate climate, excellent schools, and quality healthcare are only a few of the areas in which Towns achieves high marks. Twice named in national media as a top retirement setting, Towns is also increasingly popular with families. The county seat of Hiawassee, with a population under 850, is scenically situated on the shores of Lake Chatuge. A community hospital and comprehensive county school are located here, as well as a new Recreation Complex and the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Upscale second homes, as well as vacation cottages, can be seen dotting the mountainsides and lining the lakeshore. Single-family developments, apartments, and condominiums can also be found. Westward, the community of Young Harris is located in a beautiful mountain valley. Home to United Methodist-affiliated Young Harris College, the community's year-round population, including students, is slightly less than Hiawassee. Former Georgia Governor and U.S. Senator Zell Miller has his boyhood home in Young Harris, across from the college which is his alma mater. The setting for homes in Young Harris is primarily rural, with single family and upscale developments located nearby. Both Hiawassee and Young Harris have access to excellent golf courses, with at least four being located within a close proximity. Cultural events such as live theatre, dance, and musical performances are regularly scheduled at Young Harris College and the Peacock Playhouse in neighboring Hayesville, North Carolina. Additionally, miles of trout streams, hiking trails, 7,000-acre Lake Chatuge, and over 57,000 acres of national forest give Towns County residents a big backyard in which to play. Climate cooperates, with year-round temperatures moderate enough to enjoy outdoor activities anytime. Houses of worship for a wide range of denominations flourish in Towns County, where over 65% of residents profess religious affiliations. Towns is centrally located approximately two hours distance from major metropolitan areas in Georgia, Tennessee, North and South Carolina, including Atlanta, Chattanooga, Asheville, and Greenville. Now is an excellent time to plan a visit to Towns County. Not only is it a great year-round getaway destination, but also a very attractive community for anyone seeking a relaxed lifestyle or new business opportunities. Come and see why the enchanted mountains and valleys of Towns are "centrally located between heaven and earth but maybe a little closer to heaven!"