Is Calhoun Safe, Pros and cons of living in Calhoun

Calhoun, Georgia, offers a blend of small-town charm and developing opportunities, making it an attractive place for many. The city provides a cost of living that is notably lower than both the national and state averages, contributing to a more affordable lifestyle for its residents. This economic advantage is complemented by a generally pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers.

The community is growing, with a population that has seen an increase in recent years. Calhoun’s demographics show a diverse population, with White residents forming the largest group, followed by Hispanic and Black or African American residents. The city is also home to a significant percentage of foreign-born residents, adding to its cultural fabric.

Is it Safe to Live in Calhoun?

Calhoun’s overall crime rate is slightly higher than the national average, with property crimes contributing more significantly to this figure than violent crimes. Residents generally perceive certain areas, particularly the southeast part of the city, as safer than others. The chance of being a victim of crime can vary by neighborhood, with some areas offering a lower risk than others.

While the city’s crime rate is higher than the national average, it is important to note that violent crime rates are lower than the national average. The most common offense reported is property crime, and year-over-year crime in Calhoun has seen a decrease. Calhoun ranks in the 32nd percentile for safety, indicating it is safer than 32% of cities nationwide.

Housing and Cost of Living

The cost of living in Calhoun is approximately 11% less expensive than the national average and 5% less expensive than the average city in Georgia (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, including food, transportation, housing, and healthcare costs, which are all reported to be more affordable than the US average.

The median home price in Calhoun was approximately $251,000 as of 2024 (as reported by Data USA). More recent data indicates a median listing price of around $319,000 (as reported by realtor.com®). For renters, the median rental price is about $1,725 per month (as reported by Zillow). The homeownership rate in Calhoun is around 55.8% (as reported by Data USA).

Job Market and Economy

Calhoun’s economy is supported by a range of employers, with Mohawk Industries being a prominent company in the area (as reported by Zippia). Other significant employers include Shaw Industries, AdventHealth, and State Farm. The average annual salary in Calhoun is approximately $46,157, with most salaries ranging between $31,948 and $58,250 (as reported by ZipRecruiter).

The unemployment rate in Calhoun, GA, was reported at 3.7% (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). This figure suggests a relatively stable job market. The city’s economy benefits from diverse industries, including manufacturing and retail.

Climate and Environment

Calhoun experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, muggy summers and short, cold, wet winters. The average temperature ranges from a low of about 33°F in January to a high of around 89°F in July (as reported by Weather and Climate). Annual snowfall is minimal, with only about 1 inch of snow per year.

Total annual precipitation in Calhoun is around 53 inches, with December being the wettest month, receiving approximately 5 inches of rain (as reported by Weather and Climate). The city enjoys a considerable amount of sunshine, with approximately 2,775 hours of sunlight annually. Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable weather conditions.

Education and Schools

Calhoun City Schools serves the educational needs of the community, receiving an overall Niche grade of A. The district has approximately 4,280 students in grades PK-12, with a student-teacher ratio of 21 to 1 (as reported by Niche). State test scores indicate that 45% of students are proficient in math and 38% are proficient in reading.

Within the district, schools like Calhoun Elementary School and Calhoun Primary School have received B+ ratings. The quality of education is a significant factor for families considering a move to Calhoun, and the school district’s ratings suggest a commitment to academic achievement.

Demographics and Population

As of 2024, Calhoun is home to a population of approximately 18,200 people (as reported by Livability.com). The population has been growing, with a projected population of 18,717 in 2026 (as reported by US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey). The city’s racial makeup includes a majority White population, followed by Hispanic and Black or African American residents.

A notable aspect of Calhoun’s demographics is that about 10.6% of its residents were born outside the country (as reported by Data USA). The median age in Calhoun is around 36 years, with a nearly equal balance between males and females. The median household income is approximately $58,750 (as reported by US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey).