Rome, GA, United States Hero Image
Wikipedia Contributor, CC BY-SA

Rome, GA, United States

Data updated Oct 9, 2026

Follows United States Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →

📊 Scores

71
FIRE
70
Retiree
71
Digital Nomad

Best fit: FIRE / Geoarbitrage (score: 71)

Healthcare and education anchor Rome's economy—Floyd Medical Center and the two universities employ roughly 3,000 people combined. Manufacturing still matters (automotive parts, textiles), but it's shrinking. Retail and distribution fill gaps, leveraging I-75 access to Atlanta (90 min), Birmingham, and Chattanooga. Remote work is viable here; internet is solid. Wages lag Atlanta by 15–20%, but so does cost of living. You won't get rich, but you can live cheaply and work elsewhere.

Rent for a one-bedroom downtown runs $1,100/month; outside the center, $800–900 is normal. Car dependency is real—public transit exists but is minimal. Healthcare access is excellent (two hospitals, specialists). Bureaucracy is standard American small-town friction. No language barrier. Winters are mild (30s–40s°F), summers warm (80s–90s°F). Walkability downtown has improved, but you'll drive most days. Internet reliability varies by neighborhood; check before committing.

Rome's identity centers on its seven hills, river trails, and outdoor access—hiking, kayaking, and cycling are genuine weekend activities. Downtown has genuine character: local breweries, farmers markets, live music venues. The expat community is tiny (mostly remote workers and retirees), so don't expect built-in social infrastructure. Food scene is Southern comfort and chains; no culinary destination. Best for remote workers seeking affordability, outdoor recreation, and small-town stability without isolation.

Estimate the cost of moving to Rome, GA, United States

Get a free moving cost estimate for moving to Rome, GA, United States. Takes 10 seconds.

How much are you shipping?

When are you moving?

Powered by Sirelo. Free quotes from international movers.

🏚️ Cost of Living

💰 Budgets and Costs

$1,945/mo, one person, rent included
Selected: mid-range lifestyle

Rome, GA on a mid-range budget comes to about $1,945 a month for one adult, with $1,066 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $195 on groceries, $135 on dining out, $143 on entertainment and lifestyle, $365 on utilities and connectivity and $41.00 on transport.

Rent

$1,066/mo

1BR outside the centre

Groceries

$195/mo

Staples basket scaled to a full month

Dining out

$135/mo

10 inexpensive meals

Entertainment & lifestyle

$143/mo

gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos

Utilities & connectivity

$365/mo

utilities, mobile, internet

Transport

$41.00/mo

Monthly pass

Budgets (excl. rent)

Single person$879/mo

Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.

Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.

A 1BR in the center runs about $1281.33/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.

See low-fee transfers

We may earn a commission at no cost to you.

See how Rome, GA's cost of living compares with Nome, AK

Be the first to report costs in Rome, GA

Share

🛡️ Safety & Crime

85
Safety Index

(Higher is safer)

15
Crime Index

(Lower is safer)

Rome, GA is a genuinely safe small city with a strong community feel. Daytime walking is unremarkable and safe; nighttime strolls through residential areas pose minimal risk. The city's low crime rate reflects its small-town character—you'll encounter friendly locals and minimal street crime. This isn't a place where expats need to adopt defensive postures; the safety reputation matches reality.

Property crime (vehicle break-ins, package theft) occurs occasionally but remains well below national averages. Violent crime is rare. The main practical concerns are typical small-town issues: occasional petty theft and the need to lock doors. Solo female travelers face no elevated risk compared to other American small cities. Downtown and residential neighborhoods are equally safe day and night.

Rome, GA presents no geopolitical risks or corruption concerns—it's a stable American community with reliable local law enforcement and standard civic infrastructure. The city is an excellent choice for Americans seeking a quiet, genuinely safe retirement or remote work base. No special precautions beyond normal home security are necessary. This is one of the safer options for expats prioritizing security and community stability.

🏥 Healthcare

Excellent
Public Hospitals
Yes
Private Clinics
Yes
English-Speaking Doctors
Widely Available

See how Rome, GA's healthcare compares with Nome, AK

🌤️ Climate

Summer Temp
28°C
Winter Temp
6°C
Humidity
65%
Air Quality Index
52
Annual Rainfall
1251 mm

Best Months

AprMayOctNov

Climate Notes

Rome experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers (June-August) and mild winters, offering pleasant spring and fall seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

💻 Digital Nomad

Avg Internet Speed
75 Mbps
Internet (monthly)
$70/mo
Coworking Availability
Moderate
Coworking Spaces Nearby
0
Digital Nomad Score
71/100

Community Notes

Rome, GA provides a blend of Southern charm and modern amenities suitable for tech-savvy nomads.

Coworking Spaces

NameNotes
Regus - RomeLocated on Broad Street in downtown Rome, this Regus location offers a professional environment with flexible workspace options. It's a solid choice for digital nomads seeking a reliable and established coworking brand with standard amenities.
The Forum Office SuitesLocated in the heart of Rome, GA, The Forum Office Suites offers a professional environment with various amenities. It's a great option for digital nomads seeking a reliable and established coworking brand with standard amenities.

Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).

Working remotely from Rome, GA? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.

See nomad insurance

We may earn a commission at no cost to you.

See how Rome, GA's digital nomad life compares with Nome, AK

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Mountain View area
Banks Nearby
7
ATMs Nearby
2

Expat Life Notes

Regional hub in North Georgia. Safe and scenic but very conservative.

Pros

  • ✓ Stunning nature
  • ✓ Inexpensive housing
  • ✓ Friendly community

Cons

  • ✗ Conservative and religious
  • ✗ Isolated
  • ✗ Limited social scene

🏘️ Neighborhoods in Rome, GA

Areas of Rome, GA that expats often consider.

Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.

Downtown Rome

Historic, lively, walkable, improving

Downtown Rome is experiencing a revitalization, with new restaurants, shops, and apartments. It's walkable and offers cultural attractions, but can be noisy at night. While not a huge expat hub, English is widely spoken and it's easy to navigate.

Between the Rivers

Residential, historic, scenic, quiet

Located between the Etowah and Oostanaula rivers, this area features beautiful historic homes and a peaceful atmosphere. It's primarily residential, so a car is recommended. While charming, it lacks the amenities and international feel that some expats might prefer.

Mount Berry

Academic, green, family-friendly

Home to Berry College, Mount Berry offers a beautiful, green setting with a strong academic presence. It's a quieter area, ideal for those seeking a peaceful environment. Public transportation is limited, and it's not particularly geared towards international residents.

Horseleg Creek

Suburban, residential, convenient, growing

Horseleg Creek is a growing suburban area with newer housing developments and convenient access to shopping and dining. It's a car-dependent area, and lacks the charm of the historic districts. While affordable, it's not a common destination for expats.

Page 1 of 2

Could living/working in Rome, GA cut years off your work life?

With a 1-bedroom in the center at $1281/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.

Calculate My FIRE Date →

🛂 Visa Options for United States

US EB-5 Investor VisaUS O-1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability)

Many long-stay visas require proof of health insurance. Compare international health plans before you apply.

Compare health insurance

We may earn a commission at no cost to you.

🛂

Not sure which United States visa you qualify for?

Answer 11 questions and get a personalized match in under 2 minutes.

Find My Visa →

More Cities to Consider instead of Rome, GA

Nome, AK, United States↔ Compare with Rome, GA
Galliano, LA, United States↔ Compare with Rome, GA
Winnipeg, Canada↔ Compare with Rome, GA
Brampton, Canada↔ Compare with Rome, GA
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Rome, GA

Click any question to expand the answer.

Rome, GA has a population of approximately 37,713 people.
A single person can expect to spend around $3,203 per month in Rome, GA, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1281/month.
The nearest airport to Rome, GA is RMG, approximately 10.5km away.
Rome, GA is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 85.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.
Rome, GA has an average internet speed of 75 Mbps. It is considered a well-established digital nomad destination.
Not really. Floyd County Transit exists but covers limited routes and hours. Downtown is walkable for errands, but you'll need a car for groceries, healthcare, and entertainment. Public transit is not a viable primary option.
Local employment is limited to healthcare, education, retail, and manufacturing—wages are modest. Remote work is the realistic path. Healthcare professionals (nurses, doctors) have genuine opportunities. Most expats here work remotely for outside employers or are retired.
Rome, GA has a cost of living index of 66.8 (NYC=100), making it about 33% cheaper than New York City. Monthly expenses for one person excluding rent are $1050, and a 1BR apartment in the city center rents for $1261.
Yes, Rome has several reputable healthcare facilities, including Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center, with numerous English-speaking doctors and specialists. You shouldn't have any trouble finding quality medical care, though it's wise to research insurance options beforehand.
Areas like Mount Berry and parts of Horseleg Creek Road are generally considered safe and family-friendly. Downtown Rome is also relatively safe, but be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Research crime statistics for specific addresses before committing to a lease.
Internet service in Rome is generally reliable, with providers like Xfinity and AT&T offering high-speed options. You can expect download speeds suitable for video conferencing and other remote work tasks, but it's always wise to check speeds at a specific address before moving.
While Rome doesn't have a plethora of coworking spaces like larger cities, there are a few options, and many cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Check out local coffee shops downtown; some offer a conducive environment for remote work.
Climate data for Rome, GA is not currently available. The city has an overall score of 71 and a cost of living index of 66.8 relative to New York City.
Opening a bank account is straightforward with proper identification, such as a passport and proof of address. Local banks like Regions and Truist are common choices. Be prepared to provide a US tax identification number (SSN or ITIN).
For groceries, you'll find familiar chains like Kroger and Publix. For dining, try Harvest Moon Cafe for American fare, or La Famiglia Italian Restaurant. There are also many local BBQ joints and Southern cuisine options to explore.
While Rome doesn't have a large expat community, you can connect with locals through community events, volunteer opportunities, and local clubs. Check out the Rome-Floyd County Chamber of Commerce website for local events and networking opportunities.
Rome can be a viable option for early retirement due to its lower cost of living. If you have a passive income of $2,500-$3,500 per month, you can live comfortably and enjoy a relaxed pace of life. However, consider the limited public transportation and smaller-town amenities.
Even if you retire in Rome, GA, you're still subject to US taxes on your worldwide income. However, Social Security benefits are generally not taxed at the state level in Georgia. Consult a tax professional to understand your specific obligations.
Rome is a friendly Southern town with a slower pace of life than larger cities. Politeness and hospitality are highly valued. Be prepared for a more conservative culture and a strong sense of community.
Public transportation in Rome is limited, primarily consisting of the Rome Transit Department (RTD) bus system. While it can get you around, it's not as comprehensive as in larger cities. Walking and biking are options in some areas, but a car is generally recommended.
Yes, Rome can be a good choice for FIRE due to its low cost of living. Your passive income will go further than in many other parts of the US, allowing you to maintain a comfortable lifestyle on a smaller budget. Housing is particularly affordable.

Share This Guide

Compare visa routesIncome, fees, and residency paths for United States.