Living in Georgia: Is the Weather Really Hot and Humid?

One question I hear frequently from clients relocating from Korea—whether as corporate assignees or new green card holders—is: “Is Georgia really that hot? How humid is it?”

Having lived in Georgia for over 30 years, I can share my personal experience: overall, the weather here is quite pleasant. Summers aren’t unbearably hot, winters aren’t extremely cold, and the seasonal transitions are comfortable. That said, things have changed somewhat over the years, particularly with an increase in rainfall.

Of course, climate change is affecting weather patterns globally. Yet Georgia still enjoys a mild and livable climate, which is why people from other states often consider relocating here. Spring and fall tend to be long and enjoyable, winters are relatively short, and while summers can be warm, most homes and facilities are well-equipped with air conditioning, so daily life remains comfortable.

Sometimes I imagine: what if Georgia were the rainiest state in the U.S.? The construction of new homes, material choices, and home maintenance practices would all be very different. Fortunately, Georgia’s climate isn’t that extreme. Instead, it provides favorable conditions for both living and housing.

Georgia has clearly defined four seasons, experiences some climate variations, yet remains one of the most comfortable places to live compared to other states.

A Local’s Perspective: 30+ Years in Georgia

From my personal experience, living in Georgia is generally more comfortable than people expect. Compared to Korea, summers can be warm, but the temperature swings are less extreme, winters are milder, and overall, the weather is very pleasant.

Temperature Overview: What to Expect Year-Round (Atlanta)

• Average yearly high: ~70 °F (21 °C)
• Average yearly low: ~53 °F (12 °C)
• July average daytime temperature: ~80.2 °F (27.9 °C), occasionally exceeding 100 °F (37.8 °C)

During summer, high humidity is common, along with afternoon thunderstorms. Temperatures can drop suddenly after storms, providing a refreshing break from the heat.

Rainfall and Humidity: Afternoon Thunderstorms Explained

• Atlanta average annual rainfall: ~50 inches (~1,270 mm)
• Georgia state average: ~50.7 inches, ranking 7th in the U.S.
• Regional variations: Central Georgia ~45 inches; northeastern mountainous areas up to 75 inches
• Rabun County (northeastern mountains): over 100 inches annually, the rainiest part of the state
• Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, which helps cool the air and provides a refreshing break from the humidity.

Climate Change Trends in Georgia

In recent years (e.g., 2020), major cities like Athens and Atlanta have experienced:

• Slightly higher average temperatures (up 2–3 °F compared to past decades)
• Above-average rainfall
• Noticeable extreme weather during both summer and winter

These changes are in line with global climate trends, but Georgia’s climate remains mild and manageable.

Georgia vs. Korea: Weather Comparison for Newcomers

Final Thoughts: Why Georgia Still Offers Comfortable Living

Georgia’s climate is far from extreme and remains very livable. If you’re coming from Korea, you’ll find summers warm but manageable, winters mild, and spring and fall especially enjoyable. Coupled with well-prepared homes and facilities, Georgia offers one of the most comfortable living environments in the U.S.