Have you been searching for the ideal small town with a close-knit community, outdoor activities, and a rich history? Then maybe you’ll think Ringgold GA is a good place to live.
Ringgold is a city in the western corner of north Georgia, located near the Tennessee border. Ringgold, GA, is known for its historic depot, which played a pivotal role in several significant battles during the Civil War.
Initially settled by Scottish and Irish families emigrating from the Blue Ridge Mountains, the town’s founding dates back to 1846, and it was officially incorporated as a city in 1847. It was named after Samuel Ringgold, an officer in the Mexican-American War.
The Battle of Ringgold took place on November 27th, 1863, when a troop of Confederate soldiers under General Patrick Cleburne confronted a group of Union soldiers led by General Joseph Hooker in a mountain pass known as the Ringgold Gap.
Today, Ringgold, GA, is a good place to live for those seeking a small-town feel with affordable housing and a strong sense of community pride. Thinking about moving to Ringgold? Here is everything you need to know to decide if it will be a great place for you to start a new life.
Where Is Ringgold?
Ringgold GA is a good place to live if you want to be in close proximity to Chattanooga. Ringgold is in Catoosa County, Georgia, just south of the Tennessee border. It is located within the Chattanooga metropolitan area. Anyone with a car living in Ringgold GA has plenty of transportation options, as it offers easy access to major highways.
US Routes 41 and 76 pass through the center of town (known as Nashville Street), providing a route to Chattanooga and Dalton, GA. I-75 also passes through the southern part of town, providing a route southwest to Atlanta.
It’s situated in the Valley Ridge of the Appalachian Mountains, and Taylor Ridge runs directly through Ringgold. A gap in the ridge (known as the Ringgold Gap, where the famous Civil War battle was fought) can be found just east of the city center.
South Chickamunga Creek, a tributary of the Tennessee River, also runs through Ringgold. It’s surrounded by nearby communities, including Catoosa Springs, Tunnel Hill, Boynton, Indian Springs, and Graysville.
It’s 23 miles or an 18-minute drive from Chattanooga TN to Ringgold GA. It’s also 102 miles or a 1-hour 40-minute drive from Ringgold GA to Atlanta GA.
Ringgold Population & Demographics
According to the 2020 Census, the population of Ringgold, GA, is 3,414. The population of Ringgold, GA, has actually declined slightly in the past year, following rapid growth in the preceding decades. Between 1990 and 2000, the population of Ringgold increased by 44.6%, followed by an additional 47.8% growth between 2000 and 2010.
However, the number of people living in Ringgold GA decreased by 4.6% between 2010 and 2020. It has a very rural character with a population density of just 680 residents per square mile.
There is a large number of families and retirees living in Ringgold GA, with 23% of residents under 18 and 20% aged 65 and older. It isn’t the most diverse community, and most people living in Ringgold GA are white. However, it does have growing Black and Hispanic communities that have made great contributions to the local culture.
The racial and ethnic breakdown of people living in Ringgold GA is as follows: 90% are white (non-Hispanic), 4% are Hispanic or Latino, 3% are Black or African American, and 2% are of two or more races.
A few notable people who have had the pleasure of living in Ringgold GA include actress Barbara Leigh and NFL player Austin Davis.
Other Ringgold, GA Demographics
- The median household income is $45,083, which is 40% lower than the median household income in the rest of Georgia.
- 52% of people living in Ringgold GA are men, and 48% are women
- The median age is 41.9 years old.
- 87.5% of people living in Ringgold GA have a high school diploma, and 20.2% have a bachelor’s degree or higher
- The foreign-born population is 0.5%
Ringgold, GA, is generally safe, although it does experience some minor property crime. However, the violent crime rate is very low, and the town features a quiet, small-town vibe where everyone knows each other. Here is a look at how the Ringgold, GA crime rate compares to the Georgia crime rate and the national crime rate.
- Total crime: 44% higher than the rest of Georgia and 37% higher than the national average
- Violent crime: 67% lower than the Georgia crime rate, 68% lower than the national average
- Property crime: 65% higher than the Georgia crime rate, 57% higher than the national average.
So be sure to lock your doors if you plan on moving to Ringgold. But otherwise, crime won’t be much of an issue. The Ringgold Police Department is responsible for addressing crime in the community.
Cost of Living in Ringgold GA
Living in Ringgold GA is very affordable and budget-friendly compared to other areas, particularly in terms of home values. One way to gauge the cost of living in an area is to consult the cost of living index. It compares the price of typical consumer goods to the rest of the country, which is represented by 100.
The COLI for the Chattanooga area is 90.7. That suggests the cost of living in Ringgold GA is approximately 9.3% lower than the typical US city. The Family Budget Calculator created by the Economic Policy Institute, is also a great resource. It suggests that the typical family of four, with two adults and two children, needs to earn approximately $92,556 to afford the cost of living in Ringgold GA.
Typical expenses of living in Ringgold GA:
- 12oz bottle of water: $2.12
- Regular cappuccino: $5.00
- 1 gallon of regular milk: $3.90
- Loaf of fresh white bread: $3.22
- 1 gallon of gasoline: $2.84
- 1 pound of chicken fillets: $6.76
- 1 dozen regular eggs: $4.25
- Average Ringgold monthly utility bill: $158.64
Source: Numbeo
*numbers reflect the Chattanooga area but will be similar for anyone living in Ringgold GA
Housing costs and Ringgold real estate are also very affordable. According to Redfin, the median price of homes for sale in Ringgold, GA, is $155,000. That makes Ringgold, GA, real estate 63% less expensive than the typical home in the US. The median price per square foot of Ringgold homes for sale is $83.
You’ll also find a plethora of options if you’re a renter moving to Ringgold. Census data indicate that while 53% of homes are owner-occupied, 47% are rented out. Rentcafe suggests that the average rent in Ringgold, GA, is $ 1,477 per month.
Approximately 11% of rentals are located in large buildings with 50 or more units, while 61% are in small-scale complexes, and 28% are single-family homes. Rent prices start around $860 for a one-bedroom unit and range up to $ 2,200 for three or more bedrooms.
Best places to find apartments in Ringgold:
Ringgold Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Ringgold
Is Ringgold GA a good place to live?Throughout the community, you’ll find friendly neighbors, small-town living, and good homes in Ringgold, GA. However, naturally, some areas have more to offer than others. Here is a look at some of the best places to live in Ringgold.
Windstone | An Upscale Community With Fantastic Amenities
Windstone is an upscale subdivision and a place in Ringgold GA that is a good place to live offering spacious homes on large lots, along with access to exclusive amenities, including a golf course, clubhouse, swimming pool, sports courts, and more.
Whispering Creek | A Peaceful Neighborhood In a Central Location
Whispering Creek is another popular community for affluent homebuyers, offering homes in a range of architectural styles and easy access to Chattanooga for commuters living in Ringgold GA.
Alabama Highway Corridor | A Rural Community With Large Plots of Land
Located near Alabama State Route 51, the Alabama Highway Corridor is an ideal area for those seeking a more rural feel, offering spacious farmhouse-style homes with ample acreage. Anyone who thinks Ringgold GA is a good place to live because of its rural atmosphere will love the Alabama Highway Corridor.
Ringgold Weather & Climate
The weather in Ringgold is fairly mild throughout the year. It has a humid subtropical climate according to the Koppen Classification System. Summers tend to be hot and humid, while winters are generally mild and wet.
The temperature typically ranges from 32°F to 89°F, although it can drop as low as 19°F in winter and reach as high as 95°F in summer. The best time to visit a friend living in Ringgold GA is typically from mid-May to June or from August to October.
Prepare for rain if you plan on moving to Ringgold, as it receives approximately 49 inches of rain per year. Although rare, it does average about 1 inch of snowfall annually as well. So you might want to bring a parka.
Things to Do in Ringgold
Although it’s a small, fairly rural community, you’ll still find plenty of fun things to do in Ringgold, GA. Residents living in Ringgold GA will find a few convenience stores and boutiques scattered around Nashville Street, including Shabby Chic Boutique, A Fern and Feather General Store, and Welling Decor, Apparel, and Coffee Bar. Beyond shopping, here are a few of the top Ringgold, GA attractions to check out today.
Elsie A. Homes Nature Park
Elsie A. Homes Nature Park is a beautiful area on the South Chicamunga Creek that features picnic and barbecue areas, dog walking trails, fishing areas, a playground, and other outdoor activities. Ringgold GA is a good place to live if you like nature.
88 Ben Holmes Rd, Ringgold, GA 30736 (706) 935-5263
Georgia Winery
Specializing in locally grown Muscadine, the Georgia Winery is a vineyard and tasting room that showcases local wines, offers tours, tastings, and a gift shop. It’s a popular place for wine aficionados living in Ringgold GA.
6469 Battlefield Pkwy, Ringgold, GA 30736 (706) 937-9463
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The Colonnade
The Colonnade Civic Center is a premier event venue in the local area, offering a diverse range of entertainment options for those living in Ringgold GA, including live music, stand-up comedy, corporate meetings, and private events.
264 Catoosa Cir, Ringgold, GA 30736 (706) 935-9000
Additional Ringgold Attractions
- The Ringgold Playhouse
- Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park
- Chief Richard Taylor Nature Trail
- Rock City
Searching for more fun things to do while living in Ringgold GA? The Catoosa County Parks and Recreation Department has a list of athletic leagues, programs, public facilities, and community events on its website.
Ringgold Restaurants
Looking for a place to eat? From barbecue to Mexican cuisine, you’ll find a wide variety of dining options and delicious restaurants in Ringgold, GA. Here are a few of the top restaurants in Ringgold, GA.
Thatcher’s Barbecue and Grill
Thatcher’s is one of the best restaurants in Ringgold, GA, if you’re in the mood for barbecue, because they offer a wide selection of smoked meats as well as sides, sandwiches, hot dogs, and sweets.
2929 US-41, Ringgold, GA 30736 (706) 935-6465
Aunt Effie’s Restaurant
Aunt Effie’s is a cozy spot serving comfort food in a familiar setting with menu items like steak and gravy or fried chicken sandwiches. It’s a popular meeting place for people living in Ringgold GA.
7808 Nashville St, Ringgold, GA 30736 (706) 935-6525
Vallarta Mexican Restaurant
Vallarta is a laid-back Mexican restaurant serving traditional dishes, including tacos, quesadillas, and enchiladas, along with a happy hour menu and options for kids.
23 Legion St, Ringgold, GA 30736 (706) 965-4274
Jobs in Ringgold
Another benefit of living in Ringgold GA is its thriving economy and plentiful job opportunities. Most jobs in Ringgold, GA, are in industries such as accommodation and food services, manufacturing, and retail. Its affordable cost of living and close proximity to Chattanooga attract numerous companies seeking a pro-business environment and a growing economy.
Shaw Industries, one of the world’s largest carpet manufacturers, has a facility in Ringgold. There is also a notable tourism and hospitality industry centered around the fascinating history of Ringgold, Georgia, and its role in the Civil War.
Largest employers in Catoosa County GA:
- Costco Wholesale
- Five Star Food Service
- Food City
- Lake Winnepesaukah Amusements
- Lowe’s Home Center
Chattanooga is also easily accessible for anyone living in Ringgold GA who doesn’t want to commute. Payscale suggests that the average annual salary in Chattanooga is $67,000. From stocker to store clerk, you’ll find plenty of great Ringgold jobs available. City of Ringgold GA jobs with the local government are also available. So Ringgold GA is a good place to live if you’re looking for a stable economy.
Ringgold Schools
Parents will be happy to hear that children living in Ringgold GA will also get a fantastic education at the local schools. The Catoosa County School District is the Ringgold school district that serves approximately 9,800 students in Ringgold and Indian Springs, as well as parts of Fort Oglethorpe and Lakeview. The district consists of 10 elementary schools, three middle schools, and three high schools.
Elementary schools serving students living in Ringgold GA include Ringgold Primary School, Ringgold Elementary School, Tiger Creek Elementary School, and Woodstation Elementary. Ringgold Middle School serves students in grades 6-8, and the majority of kids in the community will attend Ringgold High School for grades 9 through 12. However, Heritage High is also in the community and serves students living in Ringgold GA and Fort Oglethorpe.
Providence Christian Academy is a private Baptist school in Ringgold serving students in grades 9-12. Georgia Northwestern Technical College – Catoosa County Campus, a two-year community college, is also located in the city limits. Anyone living in Ringgold GA is welcome to stop by the Catoosa County Library for books and community events.
Ringgold Statistics & Information
- Ringgold County: Catoosa County
- Ringgold area: 5.02 square miles
- Ringgold zip code: 30736
- Ringgold area codes: 706 & 762
- Ringgold elevation: 778 ft
- Ringgold time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC-4 and -5)
- Closest airport to Ringgold: The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) is 15 miles away.
Ringgold GA Map
Discover more about why Ringgold GA is a good place to live by viewing this map.
Find Out What Living In Ringgold Is Really Like
Ready to see for yourself what living in Ringgold is really like? When you’re ready to plan your relocation, you can trust the dedicated Ringgold movers at All Out Moving to make your upcoming relocation easy and efficient. Call (423) 716-3025 today for a free quote from the top Chattanooga moving company.
