What to know when moving to Brunswick, GA
Brunswick at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 56.8% of residents are renters and the median household income is $37,652.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to Jekyll Island State Park, rated 4.8 with over 4,200 reviews.
- The Reality Check:
- A poverty rate of 30.7% indicates economic challenges in the area.
- Commute:
- Only 0.5% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median rent of $936 per month.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Brunswick has a population of 22,743, with a significant portion of its residents (56.8%) renting their homes. Education levels are relatively low, with only 16.2% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, which may reflect the area's economic landscape. The median household income stands at $37,652, and a notable 30.7% of the population lives below the poverty line. With just 0.5% using public transit, the community is largely car-dependent.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a highly educated community or robust public transit options.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $936, which is relatively affordable compared to many urban areas.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $135,100, making homeownership more accessible.
- With a poverty rate of 30.7%, economic challenges are present in the community.
- 56.8% of residents are renters, indicating a strong rental market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Georgia's crime data shows some concerning trends, particularly in property offenses. In 2025, the state reported a motor vehicle theft rate of 156.2 per 100,000 residents, which is 20.8% lower than the national rate of 197.3. The homicide rate in Georgia stood at 5.6 per 100,000, which is 30.2% higher than the national average of 4.3, though this represents a significant drop of 35.9% since 2022.
- Violent crime: Homicide rate of 5.6 per 100,000 vs. national rate of 4.3, with a downward trend.
- Property crime: Motor vehicle theft rate of 156.2 per 100,000 vs. national rate of 197.3, showing improvement.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate has decreased by 35.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Georgia).
Schools & Higher Ed
Brunswick has access to educational opportunities with one postsecondary institution in the area.
- Postsecondary institutions: 1
- With College Scorecard data: 1
- Named institution: College of Coastal Georgia
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Glynn County experiences a warm climate, with an average high of 82°F and an average low of 57°F throughout the year. The area enjoys 348 days of sunshine annually, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Jekyll Island State Park - 4.8 stars (4,224 reviews)
- St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum - 4.7 stars (3,342 reviews)
- Driftwood Beach - 4.9 stars (1,125 reviews)
- Massengale Park - 4.7 stars (1,994 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Glynn County, the labor force consists of 42,451 individuals, with an employment figure of 41,283. The unemployment rate is relatively low at 2.8%, indicating a healthy job market.
- Unemployment rate: 2.8% (December 2025)
- Employed: 41,283
- Labor force: 42,451
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.