Bainbridge’s population boons along the Flint River
Bainbridge is a growing riverside community that has drawn new residents since the coronavirus pandemic and the rise of remote work. The population of 14,423 has increased 19% since 2019. New arrivals are attracted to the slower pace of life in reach of metropolitan areas. “There’s a quality of life that people just can’t find in the city,” says local Realtor Natalie Kirbo, who has been selling homes in the area for six years with Premier Group Realty. “It’s really charming and people liken it to Stars Hollow on ‘Gilmore Girls.’ It’s just a sweet little spot.”
The largest employers are the BASF Corporation, which has a petroleum cracking manufacturing facility, and Memorial Hospital and Manor. Taurus, a gun manufacturer, opened a 200,000-square-foot plant at its corporate headquarters in Bainbridge in 2019.
BASF, located in Attapulgas, is one if the largest employers in the Bainbridge area.
House boats are a different living option in Bainbridge.
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Bainbridge’s homes sell for well below the national median
The median home price in Bainbridge is $221,400, significantly lower than the national median. Prices are slightly below Thomasville’s median but are more than double those in Albany. Kirbo says prices began rising after investments following Hurricane Michael in 2018 and during the pandemic. Large oaks shade Shotwell Street, which is the main thoroughfare of a 125-acre historic residential district with architecture ranging from Queen Anne Victorian and federal-style dwellings to Craftsman cottages.
Newer modern and traditional homes can be found in neighborhoods throughout Bainbridge.
Traditional ranch style homes are common throughout Bainbridge neighborhoods.
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Larger cities surround Bainbridge
Interstate 10 travels west into Alabama and 200 miles east to Jacksonville. The largest nearby metropolitan area is Tallahassee, 40 miles away, while other cities include Dothan, Albany and Thomasville. “It’s about an hour from anything you need but with a slower pace of life,” Kirbo says. The Tallahassee International Airport has direct flights to seven major domestic hubs, including Atlanta and Charlotte. The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission provides bus rides that must be scheduled in advance.
Floating down the Flint River
Kayaks are a frequent sight from the banks of Flint River, where anglers cast lines in bass-filled waters that frequently host fishing competitions. “It’s awesome that you can be in downtown, and you go three blocks to put your boat in the river,” Kirbo says. A ramp at Chason Park leads to the River Walk’s paths along the Flint that connect to other waterfront parks. Lake Seminole also draws fishers and boaters.
The Bainbridge Boat Basin Park is a favorist local fishing spot.
The Flint River flows through Bainbridge, Georgia, where it joins Lake Seminole.
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Businesses surround Willis Park town square
A gazebo is surrounded by mossy oaks in Willis Park, referred to by locals as “The Square.” Along its edges are coffee shops, clothing boutiques and other local businesses, like Southern Philosophy Brewing. “If you’re looking for nightclubs, we’re not gonna be your jam,” Kirbo says. Publix and Aldi plan to locate in the city, which she says “is kind of a big deal here.”
Downtown Bainbridge has beautiful views, fun boutique shops, and delicious dining options.
The Southern Philosophy offers hand-crafted beers in Downtown Bainbridge.
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Festivities at Willis Park
The River South Music Festival takes place in the fall, starting with morning yoga in the town square and following with concerts throughout the day. In February, dozens of acts perform downtown on various stages at the Bainbridge Jazz and Blues Festival.
Students attend Decatur County schools
The Decatur County School District has a B rating on Niche. Kirby Smart was a star safety at Bainbridge High School before taking the field at the University of Georgia, where he later led the team as coach to two national championships. Southern Regional Technical College and Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College are two higher education options in Bainbridge.
Bainbridge High School serves grades 9-12 and offers sports and acdemic opportunities for students in Bainbridge.
Southern Regional Technical College is a public two-year college that provides access to learner-centered high-quality services.
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Muggy summers and mild winters in Bainbridge
The city gets hot and humid summers and mild winters. Although hurricanes are unusual, Hurricane Michael’s 100 mph winds downed trees and caused citywide power outages. “I’m originally from Florida, and I’m used to hurricanes there, but I did not expect a Category 3 hurricane here,” Kirbo says. “We are close enough to the beach for a day trip, but usually far enough to be insulated from tropical weather.”
According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Decatur County’s crime rate per 1,000 people decreased by 18% from 2022 to 2023, with figures slightly lower than those in nearby Thomas County.
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