LaGrange just feels like home. For all its technological sophistication, there's a neighborly ambience that makes the community a warm and friendly place to live. And thrive.
The southern hospitality simply never stops. Whether you're a recent newcomer or a life-long resident, you're on a first-name basis with practically everyone you meet...merchants, teachers, doctors...the people next door and down the street.
Neighbors helping neighbors is part of our small-town charm. In LaGrange, you can still expect friendly assistance like when you call the repair service to have your lawn mower fixed. In some places, you'd be asked to bring it in; wait a week or two, then hope the repairman would get around to fixing it. Not in LaGrange. Chances are, you'll be greeted with the news that someone will come over that very day...take a look at it...and fix it on the spot.
It's one of the many little niceties that adds up to an exceptional quality of life.
A QUICK OVERVIEW
* County seat of Troup County: industrial center of west Georgia; incorporated 1828.
* Location: Approximately 60 miles southwest of Atlanta in the heart of the dynamic sunbelt.
* Population (2002 Census Estimate):
LaGrange Population 26,424
5-county area 216,593
Troup - 59,767
Heard - 11,340
Meriwether - 22,623
Harris - 25,092
Coweta - 97,771
* Median Age of Population - 32.6
* Median Household Income - $23,929
* Population mix: Diverse, with transplants from throughout the U.S. and foreign countries.
* Topography: Rolling hills typical of the Georgia piedmont region.
* Time zone: Eastern (10 miles east of the central time zone).
* Topography: Rolling hills typical of the Georgia piedmont region.
* Time zone: Eastern (10 miles east of the central time zone).
* Climate:
Average annual temperature - 64
Average winter temperature - 43
Average summer temperature - 80
Average annual rainfall - +/- 45"
Average annual snowfall - <1"
HOUSING AVAILABILITY
A comfortable range of housing options is available to LaGrange families from tree-lined neighborhoods of single-family residences to apartment complexes offering abundant styles.
COST OF HOMES FOR SALE
The average cost for a new home in LaGrange is $131,000. This typical 1,800 square foot residence includes three bedrooms/two baths, fireplace, standard built-ins and other features.
The average price of a 2,500 sq. ft. new home in LaGrange ($189,120) compares very favorably to the average price of a similar home in Atlanta ($223,370). Courtesy American Chamber of Commerce Research Association survey.
In addition, speculative builder developments provide ample housing choices ranging from the low $40s to high $200s. Contract housing costs range from $150,000 to more than $1 million.
* Median pre-owned home - $82,000
* Average pre-owned home (2,113-2272 sq. ft.) - $115,000
RENTAL HOMES & APARTMENTS
Currently, five major garden-style apartment complexes are home to LaGrange residents. Rents for two and three bedroom apartments with two baths and a fireplace range from approximately $545 to $790 per month. Single-family rental homes are also available for lease. Monthly rates are comparable to those for similar-size apartment homes.
The $585 average monthly rent for a garden-style apartment in LaGrange is much lower than the $728 average monthly rent for a similar apartment in Atlanta (American Chamber of Commerce Research Association survey)
COMPARABLE HOUSING COSTS
Housing values in LaGrange are a major plus for families locating here. Transferees are particularly pleased at the quality and spaciousness of homes available in their price range especially when comparing values from other metropolitan areas.
EDUCATION
The educational advantages offered in LaGrange are a source of pride and continuing improvement. Scholastic Aptitude Test scores in LaGrange and Troup County are among the highest in the state and are comparable to national averages.
The Troup County Public School System provides K-12 programs, preparing graduates for college or vocational/technical studies.
Distinctions:
* LaGrange High School - named by USA Today as one of the best high schools in the nation; #1 in Georgia (based on Advanced Placement classes)
* Cannon Street Elementary School named to the distinguished list of consistently progressing schools (eligible for National School of Excellence program)
* West Side Magnet School named #1 in national five year study of arts schools by Westat Foundation (Getty Trust and National Arts Education Foundation); State and National History Day Winners - State Science Fair Winners
* Unity Elementary School accepted into state pay for performance program (one of 58 schools in state)
* Troup High School - Character Education Program, Principal Bill Parsons and student recognized statewide (Georgia Magazine); Cheerleaders won National Championship
Private schools also provide K-12 education to LaGrange youth. LaGrange Academy, founded in 1970, has established a tradition of excellence in academics and athletics and offers an excellent college preparatory program with emphasis on strong academic courses.
COLLEGE & VOCATIONAL RESOURCES
LaGrange College, the state's oldest independent accredited 4-year liberal arts college founded in 1831, offers 24 undergraduate degrees and one post-graduate degree. Pre- professional programs include pre-medical and allied fields, pre-law, pre-theology and engineering.
West Georgia Technical College offers a comprehensive program of study ranging from statistical process control to computer-aided design. All of the institute's programs and services are focused on enhancing the overall competitiveness of the business and industrial base of the region.
Twelve colleges and universities, including Georgia Tech, Auburn University, Georgia State University, and Emory University are within a one-hour drive of LaGrange.
INTERNATIONAL ASPECTS
In a community where industry is concerned with world class standards and the global marketplace, the city of LaGrange is conscientiously building on multi-cultural experiences. LaGrange has three sister cities: Poti, Georgia (formerly part of the USSR); Aso, Japan; and Craigavon, Northern Ireland.
Additionally, when Atlanta was chosen as the site of the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, LaGrange was successful in locating a track and field training site here for aspiring Olympians. The training site promises to extend LaGrange's cultural diversity and presence in the international arena.
CULTURAL ARTS
From lively dramatic theater to symphonic classics and ballet, the arts are showcased in LaGrange College's $2.5 million drama theater, a facility that is greatly appreciated and enthusiastically attended. The theater is one of the many facilities that the college extends to the community. The works of outstanding and emerging artists are displayed at the college's Lamar Dodd Art Center, named for the renowned artist who once lived in LaGrange.
The Chattahoochee Valley Art Museum, one of the finest art centers in the Southeast, offers exhibits featuring internationally celebrated and regional artists.
The LaGrange College-Community Orchestra, the LaGrange Ballet Theater and the LaFayette Society for The Performing Arts also contribute to the city's rich array of cultural opportunities. Performances dot the calendar year round and receive energetic support from a strong local arts alliance.
HEALTH CARE
* LaGrange has the second highest number of medical specialists per capita in Georgia, and is home to regional in-patient and outpatient facilities.
* West Georgia Health Systems, a federally designated Rural Referral Center and fully accredited 276-hospital bed facility, 92 bed independent assisted living facilities, 16 bed Hospice independent care.
* Additional medical facilities include the Enoch Callaway Cancer Clinic, the Georgia Heart Clinic, the 150 bed Florence Hand Extended Care Facility, Twin Fountain 116 bed extended care facility, 3 Chronic Renal Dialysis Units, the Clark-Holder Clinic and, the Clinics of Medical Park.
The Association of Medical Park Physicians offers medical care ranging from general practice to various sub-specialties. Board-certified physicians are available in surgical and non-surgical specialties.
COST OF LIVING
Many factors contribute to LaGrange's attractive cost of living our mild and seasonal climate among them. When compared to major metropolitan areas, LaGrange's affordability looks better and better.
TAXES
A reasonable tax structure contributes to the area's favorable cost of living, as the following information suggests:
* Local city or county income tax rate - 0%
* State sales tax rate - 4%
* Local option sales tax rate - 1%
* Special purpose (local option) sales tax rate - 2%
* Property tax (2003 milage rate):
Total property tax for incorporated areas:
LaGrange: 30.86/$1,000 assessed value. (0.00 mils for City of LaGrange, 10.83 mils for Troup County government, 19.78 mils for Troup County Schools and .25 mils for the State of Georgia; plus 4.0/$1,000 assessed value in Downtown Development District, for commercial only). Total property tax for unincorporated areas: 30.86/$1000 assessed value.
SERVICES & SECURITY
LaGrange residents are assured that city personnel are dedicated to the safety and security of its citizenry. A recent survey reflects the efficiency of LaGrange's protective services.
* LaGrange vs. US Police officers/1,000 population - 3.15 vs. 2.5
* Violent crime arrest rate, (per 100,000 population) - 484 vs. 566
WELCOME
The people of LaGrange know that it isn't always easy to move to a new location leaving behind friends, familiar schools...sometimes even careers. Two organizations have been formed to make the transition easier for the area's newest residents. The Newcomers Club, established by the LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce, helps new residents quickly become an integral part of the community.
In addition, LaGrange's Partners in Transition Program provides one-on-one ambassadors to acquaint newcomers with the area and all it offers. The Partners are available to help employers, employees and employee families feel at home in their new community. Spousal assistance programs can be obtained locally.
RECREATION
Outdoor enthusiasts are never wanting for something to do in LaGrange. The area's abundant natural beauty and man-made facilities make for a year-round playground.
Located less than 15 minutes from the heart of the city, West Point Lake provides almost 26,000 acres of bass and game fishing, boating and camping, plus a 6,397-acre wildlife management area. A 500-plus mile forest shoreline provides excellent camping sites.
Just 17 miles away is Callaway Gardens, a four-star recreation and nature resort with 63 holes of golf, tennis facilities, display greenhouses, a 175-acre fishing lake, and a beach and swimming area all surrounding a conference center that hosts groups up to 1,000. One of the most spectacular attractions at the Gardens is the largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatory in North America, housing more than 1,000 butterflies. Also Callaway Gardens has a Birds of Prey Show that features many hawks and two bald eagles.
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, a half-hour's drive from LaGrange, includes a scenic 23-mile hiking trail, camping sites, cottages, a swimming pool, and a small lake.
Golfers are drawn to the Highland Country Club, a private club with full amenities that include an 18-hole golf course, and two additional private courses that are open to the public.
The city's convenient location also puts LaGrange within easy reach (some 2.5 - 5 hours away) of both the mountains and seashore.
PROXIMITY TO ATLANTA
Companies locating in LaGrange can also benefit from our area's close proximity to Atlanta. As the southeast's commercial and cultural center, Atlanta's offerings abound. Less than an hour away via I-85, you can enjoy world-class cultural and sporting events. Atlanta's symphony, ballet, High Museum of Art, and Fernbank Museum of Natural History are perfect for family outings.
Year-round, sports fans cheer professional teams that include the championship Atlanta Braves (baseball), the Atlanta Hawks (basketball) and the Atlanta Falcons (football). And Atlanta's hosting of the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games continues to present a world of opportunity for all sporting enthusiasts.
Close by urban education centers include Georgia State University, Emory University, and the Georgia Institute of Technology.
LAGRANGE GEORGIA. SMART MOVE.
We encourage you to discover all the factors that make LaGrange, Georgia a wise location. We'll be glad to answer any inquiries about our community, and welcome the opportunity to be of service.
CITY OF LAGRANGE
Community and Economic Development
Andy Camp
P.O. Box 430
LaGrange, GA 30241 USA
Voice 706.883.2064
Fax 706.883.2020
LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 636
LaGrange, GA 30241-0636 USA
Voice 706.884.8671
Fax 706.884.6388