Nelson, GA
Population 1,015 · Georgia
About Nelson, GA
Nelson is a small town located in Georgia with a population of 1,015 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $78,500 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Nelson features a median home value of $246,900, which is 1% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Nelson in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,072, 8% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 434 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (319 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (95 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Nelson shows an unemployment rate of 8.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 5.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Nelson have an average one-way commute time of 35.1 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
22.9% of Nelson residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 11.0% White, 8.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 7.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Nelson, GA
Compared to national averages, Nelson has a median household income of $78,500 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $246,900, which is 1% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,072 is 8% below the US average of $1,163. Within Georgia, Nelson's income is 29% above the state average of $60,815, and home values are 27% above the state median of $194,684.
Why Live in Nelson, GA?
Nelson offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $78,500, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,072/month, and a low poverty rate of 5.5%, better than the national average.
Nelson has a population of 1,015 with a median age of 39 years. Compare Nelson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Georgia.
Similar Cities Near Nelson
Cities in Georgia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flovilla | 1,013 | $46,058 | $200,800 | Compare |
| Cohutta | 1,018 | $73,894 | $200,500 | Compare |
| Dexter | 1,006 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Woodbine | 1,006 | $43,750 | $155,400 | Compare |
| Mountain City | 1,027 | $47,159 | $125,000 | Compare |
| Talahi Island | 1,028 | $110,573 | $508,400 | Compare |
| Crawford | 996 | $24,917 | $178,600 | Compare |
| Ellerslie | 1,036 | $104,040 | $276,300 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Georgia
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Nelson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Nelson
What is the population of Nelson, GA?
The population of Nelson, GA is 1,015 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Georgia.
What is the median household income in Nelson?
The median household income in Nelson, GA is $78,500 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Nelson?
The median home value in Nelson, GA is $246,900, which is 1% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Nelson?
The median monthly rent in Nelson, GA is $1,072, which is 8% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Nelson?
The unemployment rate in Nelson, GA is 8.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Nelson, GA a good place to live?
Nelson offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,015 and a median age of 39, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Nelson, GA?
22.9% of residents in Nelson aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Nelson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Nelson, GA: median home value is $246,900 (1% above national), median rent is $1,072/month, and median household income is $78,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Nelson?
The poverty rate in Nelson, GA is 5.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Nelson, GA?
Nelson's population is 11.0% White, 8.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 2.8% two or more races. 7.2% of residents are foreign-born.