When it comes to relaxing in a quiet town, nothing beats a good southern lake town. And Georgia is full of adorable lake towns to enjoy. In fact, according to a new report by Southern Living, 2 of the eight best lake towns are right here in Georgia. Keep scrolling to learn more.
Which Georgia lake towns rank among the best to live in?
According to Southern Living, Greensboro, Georgia and Clayton, Georgia rank among the best of the best when it comes to living in a small lake town. Let’s break it down as to why!
Greensboro, Georgia

Greensboro, which is on Lake Oconee, isn’t ~technically~ a small town. It is a city, but it’s got all the same vibes as a small lake town. And while this list is catered towards people who want to live in lake towns, it’s also a super inviting spot for a visit.
Greensboro’s town down area has a ton of cute shopping, coffee shops, restaurants, and outdoor lake activities!
Trey Daniels, a global real estate advisor at Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty, said in Southern Living’s publication,
It has a balance between a relaxed lake lifestyle and the perfect amount of refined luxury. Locals enjoy boating, fishing, championship golf courses, wonderful restaurants, and an array of outdoor activities to experience year-round due to its mild climate.
Something for everyone to enjoy!
Clayton, Georgia

Clayton, on the other hand, really is an adorable small town, and it’s sort of a lake hub. Even though the town itself isn’t directly on the water, it’s an easy drive to Lake Burton, Lake Rabun, Seed Lake, and Tallulah Falls Lake!
And to top it all off, Clayton also boasts an adorable downtown area with shopping boutiques, restaurants, and tons of charm!
Sarah Gillespie, a global real estate advisor with Mountain Sotheby’s International Realty, said to Southern Living,
Clayton, Georgia, is tucked in the foothills of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Only a two-hour drive from Atlanta, it’s convenient yet a world away from city life.
So whether you’re looking to settle down somewhere quiet on the lake or you just need a little getaway from the city… check out these awesome lake towns near Atlanta! See the full list on Southern Living’s website, here.