Is Cartersville Safe, Pros and cons of living in Cartersville
Cartersville, Georgia, offers a blend of Southern charm and growing economic opportunity. This city, located northwest of Atlanta, provides a more relaxed pace of life while still being within reach of a major metropolitan area. It’s a place where community values often take precedence, attracting families and individuals looking for a balanced lifestyle.
The city boasts a diverse economy, supported by a range of industries and a steady influx of new businesses. With its accessible location and developing infrastructure, Cartersville is poised for continued growth. This outlook makes it an appealing destination for those seeking a place to settle down and build a career.
Is it Safe to Live in Cartersville?
Cartersville presents a generally safe environment for its residents. The overall crime rate is reported to be lower than the national average, with specific categories like violent crime also showing rates below national figures (according to AreaVibes). This suggests a community where safety is a priority and generally maintained.
However, like any city, safety can vary by neighborhood. While some areas are noted as being particularly safe, residents should always remain aware of their surroundings. Property crime, while also below the national average, is more prevalent than violent crime, which aligns with national trends (according to AreaVibes and DoorProfit).
Crime Statistics
The crime rate in Cartersville is approximately 8% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). Specifically, violent crimes are reported at a rate of 262 per 100,000 people, which is about 27% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes and FBI data). Property crimes also show a favorable comparison, being 4.1% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes).
Despite these positive statistics, it’s important to note that larceny/theft is the most common crime type, with a rate slightly above the national average (according to DoorProfit). The chance of being a victim of any crime in Cartersville is approximately 1 in 52 (according to AreaVibes).
Cost of Living
Cartersville offers a cost of living that is generally considered more affordable than the national average. This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, making it an attractive option for many.
While some costs might be slightly higher than the state average, they remain competitive when compared to national figures. The overall cost of living in Cartersville is estimated to be around 4% lower than the national average (according to ERI Economic Research Institute and Livability.com).
Housing Costs
Housing expenses in Cartersville are notably lower than the national average. The median home value in Cartersville is approximately $305,028 (according to Livability.com). Renting a two-bedroom unit in Cartersville typically costs around $1,200 per month, which is about 6.7% cheaper than the state average (according to Sperling’s Best Places).
The median listing price for homes in Cartersville is around $369,900, with a median rental price of $1,800 per month (according to Zillow). These figures indicate a housing market that is accessible for many prospective residents.
Everyday Expenses
Beyond housing, other daily expenses in Cartersville are also relatively affordable. Utility prices are approximately 16% lower than the national average, and transportation costs are about 4% lower (according to PayScale). Grocery prices are marginally higher than the national average, by about 1% (according to PayScale).
Healthcare costs in Cartersville are in line with the national average, showing no significant difference (according to PayScale). These factors contribute to an overall cost of living that is generally favorable for residents.
Job Market and Economy
Cartersville boasts a robust job market with a positive outlook for future growth. The city is experiencing economic expansion, attracting various industries and creating numerous employment opportunities.
The projected job growth over the next decade is significant, exceeding the national average. This indicates a thriving economy that is well-positioned for sustained development and provides a stable environment for career advancement.
Major Employers
Several major companies operate in Cartersville, contributing significantly to its employment landscape. These employers span various sectors, including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare, offering diverse job prospects.
Key employers include Walmart, Cartersville City Schools, Surya Rugs, and Yanmar America Corp. Other significant companies present in the area are Shaw Industries, Toyo Tire North America Manufacturing Inc., and Anheuser-Busch (according to Cartersville-Bartow County Department of Economic Development and YouTube).
Unemployment and Salaries
The unemployment rate in Cartersville is currently favorable, often reported as slightly lower than the national average. As of February 2026, the unemployment rate in Bartow County was around 3.3% (according to the Cartersville-Bartow County Department of Economic Development). Earlier data from 2026 indicated an unemployment rate of 3.4% (according to Data Commons).
The average salary in Cartersville is approximately $67,394 per year (according to ERI SalaryExpert). Other sources indicate an average annual salary around $50,271 as of April 2026 (according to ZipRecruiter).
Climate and Weather
Cartersville experiences a climate typical of the Southeastern United States, characterized by distinct seasons. The weather patterns offer a range of conditions throughout the year.
Summers are generally hot and humid, while winters are mild with occasional cold snaps. The city also experiences a moderate amount of rainfall spread throughout the year.
Temperature and Rainfall
Throughout the year, temperatures in Cartersville typically range from an average low of 33°F in January to an average high of 89°F in July (according to myPerfectWeather and Weather Spark). The city rarely experiences temperatures below 20°F or above 95°F.
Annual precipitation averages around 51 inches (according to Livability.com and myPerfectWeather). The wettest month is typically December, with an average of 143 mm of precipitation, while October is the driest, with about 84 mm (according to Weather.com).
Education and Schools
Cartersville is served by a well-regarded public school system, offering quality education to its younger residents. The school district consistently ranks among the better districts in the state.
The schools in Cartersville are rated positively, reflecting a commitment to academic excellence and student development. This makes the city an attractive location for families prioritizing educational opportunities for their children.
School Performance
Cartersville’s public schools generally receive good ratings, with an average ranking of 7 out of 10 (according to Livability.com). Cartersville City Schools, in particular, has received an overall Niche grade of A, and is recognized as one of the most diverse school districts in Georgia (according to Niche).
Student proficiency in math and reading is generally in line with or slightly above the state averages. For instance, the average math proficiency is 42% and reading proficiency is 40% (according to Livability.com).
Demographics and Community
Cartersville is a diverse city with a growing population. The community is characterized by a mix of racial and ethnic backgrounds, contributing to its unique cultural landscape.
The city’s population is composed of various age groups, with a median age of 37 years. This demographic profile suggests a community with a balanced representation of young families, working professionals, and established residents.
Population and Diversity
As of 2024, Cartersville is home to approximately 24,074 residents (according to Point2Homes and Data Commons). The population is projected to reach around 26,014 by 2026 (according to US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey). The city’s population has seen a notable increase of over 12% since the 2020 census.
The racial composition of Cartersville is predominantly White, making up about 68.5% of the population. Other significant groups include Black or African American residents at approximately 15%, and Hispanic residents at about 15.2% (according to Data USA and Point2Homes).
Median Income and Household Data
The median household income in Cartersville is approximately $84,437 (according to Census Reporter and US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey). This figure is slightly higher than the median income reported by other sources, such as $77,466 (according to Livability.com).
Cartersville has an average of 3 members per household, with about 66.2% of households being families. The poverty rate in Cartersville is approximately 12.4%, which is slightly lower than the national average (according to Data Commons).
Pros and Cons of Living in Cartersville
Cartersville offers a compelling mix of advantages for potential residents, alongside some considerations to keep in mind. The city’s appeal lies in its affordability, job market, and community atmosphere.
However, like any location, it’s essential to weigh these benefits against potential drawbacks to make an informed decision about relocating.
The Pros
One of the primary advantages of living in Cartersville is its affordability, with a cost of living that is generally below the national average (according to ERI Economic Research Institute and Livability.com). This includes more affordable housing costs compared to many other areas (according to PayScale).
The job market is another significant draw, with projected growth exceeding the national average and major employers providing ample opportunities (according to Cartersville-Bartow County Department of Economic Development and YouTube). The city also benefits from a pleasant climate with warm summers and mild winters, and a generally safe environment with crime rates below the national average (according to AreaVibes).
The Cons
While Cartersville is affordable, some sources indicate that the cost of living can be slightly higher than the state average (according to Sperling’s Best Places). The climate, while generally pleasant, includes hot and muggy summers that may not appeal to everyone (according to Weather Spark).
Although crime rates are below the national average, property crime, particularly larceny/theft, is a concern that residents should be aware of (according to AreaVibes and DoorProfit). Furthermore, while schools are generally well-rated, specific performance metrics may vary, and some areas might have higher crime rates than others.