Area Info
YOUNG HARRIS, GA
Nestled in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, Young Harris is a scenic and welcoming town that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and resort-style amenities. In addition to being home to Young Harris College, the area is also known for the stunning Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa (right)—a local favorite for golf, horseback riding, and relaxing mountain getaways. Surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest and just a short drive from Lake Chatuge, Young Harris is a place where outdoor adventure meets peaceful living, making it an ideal spot to call home or escape to for a weekend retreat.
Area Info
Young Harris, GA
Nestled in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, Young Harris is a scenic and welcoming town that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and resort-style amenities. In addition to being home to Young Harris College, the area is also known for the stunning Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa (above)—a local favorite for golf, horseback riding, and relaxing mountain getaways. Surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest and just a short drive from Lake Chatuge, Young Harris is a place where outdoor adventure meets peaceful living, making it an ideal spot to call home or escape to for a weekend retreat.
HISTORY
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Founded around Young Harris College, the town grew up around the school, which was established in 1886 as McTyeire Institute and later renamed in honor of Judge Young L.G. Harris, a major benefactor.
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Historically part of Towns County, the area developed as a small mountain community focused on education, agriculture, and Appalachian culture.
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Maintains deep roots in faith and education, with the college and its Methodist heritage continuing to shape the town’s character and cultural identity today.
AREA EVENTS
- Young Harris hosts a variety of seasonal events and festivals, celebrating everything from Appalachian crafts and local music to holiday traditions and outdoor fun.
- The town benefits from events held at Young Harris College, including concerts, theater performances, and guest lectures that enrich the cultural life of the community.
- Nearby venues like Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa and local wineries often feature live music, art shows, and community gatherings, offering something for everyone throughout the year.
SCHOOLS
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Young Harris College: A private liberal arts college founded in 1886, Young Harris College brings energy, culture, and academic influence to the heart of the community.
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Public School Access: Residents are served by Towns County Schools, which offer K–12 education through nearby campuses in Hiawassee, known for small class sizes and strong community support.
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Educational Resources: The presence of the college enriches the area with access to lectures, performances, and cultural events, enhancing lifelong learning opportunities for local residents.
POPULATION
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Youthful community: With a median age of just over 20 years, Young Harris has a notably young population, influenced by the presence of Young Harris College.
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Modest population size: The town is home to just over 1,000 residents, offering a close-knit, small-town atmosphere where neighbors know each other by name.
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College-town dynamics: A large portion of the population consists of students, faculty, and staff, giving the area a lively yet laid-back feel with seasonal energy shifts throughout the year.
ACCESSIBILITY
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Proximity to Nearby Towns: Young Harris is just minutes from Hiawassee, Blairsville, and Hayesville, NC, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and healthcare options across state lines.
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Major Roadways: Located along US Highway 76, Young Harris connects directly to surrounding mountain towns and scenic byways throughout North Georgia and Western North Carolina.
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Regional Airports: The town is within driving distance of Asheville Regional Airport, Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, making travel convenient for both residents and visitors.
JOBS + BUSINESS
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Young Harris’ local economy is supported by small businesses, including cafes, boutiques, and service providers that cater to both residents and seasonal visitors.
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The presence of Young Harris College provides employment opportunities in education, administration, and campus services, while nearby towns offer jobs in healthcare, retail, and hospitality.
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The area’s natural beauty and expanding internet access make it ideal for remote work, attracting professionals and entrepreneurs seeking a quieter, mountain-based lifestyle.
RESIDENTS
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Residents of Young Harris enjoy a relaxed, small-town lifestyle surrounded by scenic mountain views, lakes, and abundant outdoor recreation.
-
The community has a warm, welcoming spirit, shaped by its college-town roots and a mix of lifelong locals and newcomers.
-
Many are drawn to Young Harris for its peaceful setting and strong sense of community, with easy access to the cultural events, dining, and attractions in nearby Hiawassee and Blairsville.
HEALTHCARE
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Local Clinics: Young Harris residents have access to nearby healthcare providers, including primary care clinics and wellness centers located in both Young Harris and Hiawassee.
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Hospital Proximity: Chatuge Regional Hospital in Hiawassee is just minutes away and offers a full range of medical services, including emergency care, imaging, and rehabilitation.
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Specialty Services: The surrounding area provides a variety of specialty services, such as dental care, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and integrative health options to support a wide range of needs.
CLIMATE
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Young Harris experiences a mild, four-season mountain climate, with warm summers ideal for hiking, boating, and exploring the outdoors, and winters that bring occasional light snow.
-
Spring and fall are especially scenic, with colorful wildflowers in bloom and vibrant foliage that draws visitors to the region each year.
-
With an average annual temperature around 58–60°F, Young Harris offers a comfortable and inviting environment for year-round living and outdoor enjoyment.
HISTORY
-
Founded around Young Harris College, the town grew up around the school, which was established in 1886 as McTyeire Institute and later renamed in honor of Judge Young L.G. Harris, a major benefactor.
-
Historically part of Towns County, the area developed as a small mountain community focused on education, agriculture, and Appalachian culture.
-
Maintains deep roots in faith and education, with the college and its Methodist heritage continuing to shape the town’s character and cultural identity today.
AREA EVENTS
- Young Harris hosts a variety of seasonal events and festivals, celebrating everything from Appalachian crafts and local music to holiday traditions and outdoor fun.
- The town benefits from events held at Young Harris College, including concerts, theater performances, and guest lectures that enrich the cultural life of the community.
- Nearby venues like Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa and local wineries often feature live music, art shows, and community gatherings, offering something for everyone throughout the year.
SCHOOLS
-
Young Harris College: A private liberal arts college founded in 1886, Young Harris College brings energy, culture, and academic influence to the heart of the community.
-
Public School Access: Residents are served by Towns County Schools, which offer K–12 education through nearby campuses in Hiawassee, known for small class sizes and strong community support.
-
Educational Resources: The presence of the college enriches the area with access to lectures, performances, and cultural events, enhancing lifelong learning opportunities for local residents.
POPULATION
-
Youthful community: With a median age of just over 20 years, Young Harris has a notably young population, influenced by the presence of Young Harris College.
-
Modest population size: The town is home to just over 1,000 residents, offering a close-knit, small-town atmosphere where neighbors know each other by name.
-
College-town dynamics: A large portion of the population consists of students, faculty, and staff, giving the area a lively yet laid-back feel with seasonal energy shifts throughout the year.
ACCESSIBILITY
-
Proximity to Nearby Towns: Young Harris is just minutes from Hiawassee, Blairsville, and Hayesville, NC, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and healthcare options across state lines.
-
Major Roadways: Located along US Highway 76, Young Harris connects directly to surrounding mountain towns and scenic byways throughout North Georgia and Western North Carolina.
-
Regional Airports: The town is within driving distance of Asheville Regional Airport, Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, making travel convenient for both residents and visitors.
JOBS + BUSINESS
-
Young Harris’ local economy is supported by small businesses, including cafes, boutiques, and service providers that cater to both residents and seasonal visitors.
-
The presence of Young Harris College provides employment opportunities in education, administration, and campus services, while nearby towns offer jobs in healthcare, retail, and hospitality.
-
The area’s natural beauty and expanding internet access make it ideal for remote work, attracting professionals and entrepreneurs seeking a quieter, mountain-based lifestyle.
RESIDENTS
-
Residents of Young Harris enjoy a relaxed, small-town lifestyle surrounded by scenic mountain views, lakes, and abundant outdoor recreation.
-
The community has a warm, welcoming spirit, shaped by its college-town roots and a mix of lifelong locals and newcomers.
-
Many are drawn to Young Harris for its peaceful setting and strong sense of community, with easy access to the cultural events, dining, and attractions in nearby Hiawassee and Blairsville.
HEALTHCARE
-
Local Clinics: Young Harris residents have access to nearby healthcare providers, including primary care clinics and wellness centers located in both Young Harris and Hiawassee.
-
Hospital Proximity: Chatuge Regional Hospital in Hiawassee is just minutes away and offers a full range of medical services, including emergency care, imaging, and rehabilitation.
-
Specialty Services: The surrounding area provides a variety of specialty services, such as dental care, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and integrative health options to support a wide range of needs.
CLIMATE
-
Young Harris experiences a mild, four-season mountain climate, with warm summers ideal for hiking, boating, and exploring the outdoors, and winters that bring occasional light snow.
-
Spring and fall are especially scenic, with colorful wildflowers in bloom and vibrant foliage that draws visitors to the region each year.
-
With an average annual temperature around 58–60°F, Young Harris offers a comfortable and inviting environment for year-round living and outdoor enjoyment.
Lake Life is Calling You
Lake Chatuge is one of North Georgia’s most beloved hidden gems, offering a peaceful yet adventure-filled lake lifestyle in the charming town of Hiawassee, a short 15-minute drive from Young Harris. Stretching across the Georgia–North Carolina border, this 7,000-acre reservoir is framed by the Blue Ridge Mountains, creating stunning panoramic views and an atmosphere that’s equal parts relaxing and invigorating. Whether you’re paddling along quiet coves or watching the sun set over the water from your dock, life on Lake Chatuge feels like an everyday getaway.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy a wide range of activities year-round. In the summer months, boating, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular ways to soak up the sunshine. Fishing is a favorite pastime too, with the lake stocked full of bass, trout, and crappie. There are several public access points and marinas that make it easy to get out on the water, whether you own a boat or rent one for the day. Lakefront parks like Towns County Beach and the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds also offer picnic areas, walking trails, and space for community events, making it easy to enjoy the beauty of the lake from shore.
Lake Life is Calling
Lake Chatuge is one of North Georgia’s most beloved hidden gems, offering a peaceful yet adventure-filled lake lifestyle in the charming town of Hiawassee, a short 15-minute drive from Young Harris. Stretching across the Georgia–North Carolina border, this 7,000-acre reservoir is framed by the Blue Ridge Mountains, creating stunning panoramic views and an atmosphere that’s equal parts relaxing and invigorating. Whether you’re paddling along quiet coves or watching the sun set over the water from your dock, life on Lake Chatuge feels like an everyday getaway.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy a wide range of activities year-round. In the summer months, boating, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular ways to soak up the sunshine. Fishing is a favorite pastime too, with the lake stocked full of bass, trout, and crappie. There are several public access points and marinas that make it easy to get out on the water, whether you own a boat or rent one for the day. Lakefront parks like Towns County Beach and the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds also offer picnic areas, walking trails, and space for community events, making it easy to enjoy the beauty of the lake from shore.
Shops + Restaurants in and Around Young Harris, GA
Shopping and dining in Young Harris, GA offer a charming blend of local flavor and mountain hospitality. While the town maintains a peaceful, small-town vibe, it features a handful of locally owned shops, cafes, and specialty stores that reflect the character of the community. From cozy coffee spots to unique boutiques, visitors and residents can enjoy a laid-back shopping experience without leaving town. Nearby towns like Hiawassee and Blairsville expand those options with antique shops, farmers markets, and regional retailers just a short drive away.
When it comes to dining, Young Harris delivers a surprising variety for its size. Whether you’re in the mood for casual comfort food, wood-fired pizza, or an upscale evening out, there’s something for every palate. Restaurants often highlight regional ingredients and mountain-inspired dishes, creating meals that feel both fresh and familiar. Many locals and visitors also enjoy dining at Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa, which offers both elegant and relaxed options with scenic views. With its inviting mix of down-home charm and elevated cuisine, Young Harris makes it easy to savor the simple pleasures of mountain living.
SHOWN: Brother’s at Willow Ranch
Shops + Restaurants in and Around Young Harris, GA
Shopping and dining in Young Harris, GA offer a charming blend of local flavor and mountain hospitality. While the town maintains a peaceful, small-town vibe, it features a handful of locally owned shops, cafes, and specialty stores that reflect the character of the community. From cozy coffee spots to unique boutiques, visitors and residents can enjoy a laid-back shopping experience without leaving town. Nearby towns like Hiawassee and Blairsville expand those options with antique shops, farmers markets, and regional retailers just a short drive away.
When it comes to dining, Young Harris delivers a surprising variety for its size. Whether you’re in the mood for casual comfort food, wood-fired pizza, or an upscale evening out, there’s something for every palate. Restaurants often highlight regional ingredients and mountain-inspired dishes, creating meals that feel both fresh and familiar. Many locals and visitors also enjoy dining at Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa, which offers both elegant and relaxed options with scenic views. With its inviting mix of down-home charm and elevated cuisine, Young Harris makes it easy to savor the simple pleasures of mountain living.
SHOWN: Brother’s at Willow Ranch
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