Seven cities in Georgia will receive the Rural Zone designation starting January 1, 2026. The cities of Alma, Barnesville, Blairsville, Elberton, Folkston, Grantville, and Summerville are included in this new group. The designation is set to last through December 31, 2030.
The Rural Zone program began in 2017 as a partnership between the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and the Department of Economic Development. Its purpose is to encourage job creation and investment in historic downtown areas by offering tax credits during a five-year period.
Under this program, there are three main types of state income tax incentives available. Job Tax Credits provide $2,000 per year for each new full-time job for up to five years. Investment Credits allow for a credit equal to 25 percent of the purchase price of property within the designated area, with a cap at $125,000. Rehabilitation Credits cover 30 percent of qualified building rehabilitation costs within a Rural Zone, not exceeding $150,000.
Local communities are encouraged to develop strategies and inform businesses and investors about these benefits.
For more details on Rural Zones or information on annual applications, visit dca.georgia.gov.
“The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) partners with communities to build strong and vibrant neighborhoods, commercial and industrial areas through community and economic development, local government assistance, and safe and affordable housing. Using state and federal resources, DCA helps communities spur private job creation, implement planning, develop downtowns, generate affordable housing solutions, and promote volunteerism. DCA also helps qualified Georgians with low and moderate incomes buy homes, rental housing and prevent foreclosure and homelessness. For more information,” according to the department’s statement.