What to know when moving to Covington, GA
Covington at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 37.8% of residents are renters and the median household income is $71,055.
- The Major Draw:
- Median rent is $1,199, making it relatively affordable compared to many areas.
- The Reality Check:
- 15.1% of residents live below the poverty line, indicating some economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Public transit usage is at just 0.2%, suggesting a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Expect 41.9 inches of rain a year, so invest in good rain gear.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Covington has a population of about 40,208, with a median household income of $71,055 and a significant renter population, as 37.8% of residents are tenants. Education levels are moderate, with 23.9% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The area experiences about 86 rainy days annually, which could influence outdoor plans.
Probably not your spot if you want to rely on public transit, as only 0.2% of residents use it.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,199, while the median home value is $253,900, making it relatively affordable compared to many nearby markets.
- 23.9% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, contributing to the community's educational landscape.
- The poverty rate is 15.1%, indicating some economic challenges within the community.
- With 37.8% of residents renting, the housing market has a notable share of rental properties.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Georgia, the annual homicide rate is 5.6 per 100,000 residents, which is 30.2% higher than the national average. The motor vehicle theft rate is 156.2 per 100,000, which is 20.8% lower than the national average. Notably, the homicide rate has seen a reduction of 35.9% from 2022 to 2025, indicating a positive trend.
- Violent crime: 5.6 per 100,000 vs. national 4.3
- Property crime data is unavailable due to an error.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 35.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer, Georgia.
Schools & Higher Ed
Access to education in Covington includes three postsecondary institutions, with one located in Newton County and two in nearby Rockdale County. Notable institutions include Emory University-Oxford College and Georgia Career Institute.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 3
- Institutions with College Scorecard data: 3
- Nearby options: Emory University-Oxford College, Georgia Career Institute, Georgia Military College - Rockdale
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES, College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Newton County sees an annual precipitation total of approximately 41.9 inches across around 86 rainy days, with no snowfall reported. This climate supports various outdoor activities, especially in the warmer months.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Georgia International Horse Park - 4.6 stars (1,147 reviews)
- Newton County Turner Lake Park - 4.6 stars (891 reviews)
- Pine Log Park - 4.4 stars (675 reviews)
- Academy Springs Park - 4.5 stars (592 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
Newton County has an unemployment rate of 4.2% as of December 2025, with a labor force of 59,739 people. About 57,241 individuals are employed in various sectors, indicating a stable job market for residents.
- Unemployment rate: 4.2% in December 2025
- Employed: 57,241
- Labor force: 59,739
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.