What to know when moving to Waycross, GA
Waycross at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A city where 50.1% of residents rent and the median household income is $37,203.
- The Major Draw:
- Median rent is $752, making it accessible for many.
- The Reality Check:
- A poverty rate of 30.6% indicates economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 0% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for an average of 359 days of sunshine a year.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
In Waycross, approximately 50.1% of the population are renters, with a median gross rent of $752, making it a feasible option for those looking to rent. The community is characterized by a relatively low education level, with only 17.8% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The median household income sits at $37,203, which may reflect the higher poverty rate of 30.6% in the area. With no public transit use, residents are likely reliant on personal vehicles for commuting.
Probably not your spot if you are seeking a highly educated community or robust public transportation options.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- With a population of 13,034, the median household income is $37,203.
- Median gross rent is $752, and median home value is $100,000.
- Approximately 50.1% of residents are renters, indicating a balanced housing market.
- The community has a poverty rate of 30.6%, which may affect local services.
Source: Census ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime statistics for Georgia show the following trends:
- Motor vehicle theft: State annual rate of 156.2 per 100k, which is 20.8% lower than the national rate of 197.3 per 100k.
- Homicide: State annual rate of 5.6 per 100k, which is 30.2% higher than the national rate of 4.3 per 100k.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate decreased by 35.9% from 2022 to 2025.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Georgia).
Schools & Higher Ed
Waycross has access to the following educational institution:
- Coastal Pines Technical College
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Waycross experiences an average high temperature of 80°F annually, with 359 sunny days a year. The climate offers a warm environment suitable for outdoor activities.
- Laura S. Walker State Park - 4.7 stars (1,671 reviews)
- The Lakes Golf Course at Laura S. Walker State Park - 4.5 stars (171 reviews)
- Fat Daddy's ATV park - 4.7 stars (169 reviews)
- Mary Street Park - 4.2 stars (153 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Ware County, the employment landscape includes:
- Unemployment rate: 4.0% as of December 2025.
- Employed individuals: 12,309.
- Total labor force: 12,825.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.