Deciding where to spend your retirement is one the most important decisions you can make. If you’re seeking a destination that is both affordable and serene, you may want to take a closer look at the state of Georgia. With its delicious Southern cuisine, tax benefits for seniors, and mild climate, it’s no wonder that the Peach State is quickly making a name for itself as a top retirement location. “I’ve found that Georgia shares quite a bit of the hospitality and family-centric values that I was raised with,” said retiree Larry Thomas in an interview with the AARP. “You can see children playing in the streets or people going on walks with their family.” All of these attractive elements are on full display in the quaint, southeastern town of Waycross, Georgia.
Waycross is situated near the beautiful Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and less than 90 minutes from Driftwood Beach, an otherworldly beach consistently rated one of America’s best. Waycross offers the perfect blend of outdoor beauty, delicious food, and small town charm for retirees seeking a peaceful retreat.
Waycross boasts a soulful restaurant scene
Anyone who has had the pleasure of feasting on Southern comfort food knows it’s an experience like no other. Whether you crave smothered pork chops, mac and cheese like your grandma used to make, or deep fried chicken, Waycross has it all on the menu. Pop-Bellies Country Buffet is a favorite among residents for its all-you-can-eat spread of rotating dishes. “This is just good food from scratch, not a bunch of frozen stuff warmed up,” reads one review on Yelp. “You won’t be disappointed.” B-stro on the Bypass is another beloved spot for soulful Southern cuisine. “I haven’t had cooking this great since my granny was on this earth,” writes a customer on Yelp. “Not only was the food the best I’ve ever had, these folks treat you like family.”
With its close proximity to the coast, there’s no shortage of fresh seafood in Waycross. One of the town’s mainstays is Captain Joe’s Seafood Restaurant. This eatery has served the community since 1975 and its extensive menu includes a 70-year-old recipe for homemade deviled crab. While the dining options in Waycross add flavor to the town, there is so much more that makes it a perfect place to spend your golden years.
Perks of living in Waycross, Georgia
