Community Overview

Exploring Our Community

A Charming River City in Northwest Georgia

As you fly into Rome, Georgia, you'll be struck by the picturesque landscape where two rivers—the Etowah and Oostanaula—converge to form the Coosa River, creating a stunning three-river system that defines this unique city. The rolling hills of the northwestern Georgia highlands create a verdant backdrop for this charming community nestled approximately 70 miles northwest of Atlanta. From above, you'll notice the distinctive clock tower rising from Broad Street, the vibrant downtown district flanked by water on multiple sides, and residential neighborhoods extending outward through gentle valleys and wooded hillsides.

Located in Floyd County in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Rome offers the perfect blend of small-city charm and metropolitan convenience. The community provides an exceptional quality of life that has earned it recognition as one of Georgia's most livable small cities. Unlike the congestion and anonymity often experienced in Atlanta's sprawling suburbs, Rome offers the rare combination of sophisticated cultural amenities, excellent healthcare infrastructure, and authentic community connections where professionals quickly become known and valued community members.

Named one of the "Top 100 Small Cities in America" by U.S. News & World Report
Designated as a "Bicycle Friendly Community" by the League of American Bicyclists
Featured in Southern Living magazine's "Small Towns We Love"
Recipient of Georgia's "Live, Work, Play" award from the Georgia Municipal Association

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Paradise

Your weekends in Rome will be filled with opportunities to explore remarkable natural areas. Berry College's 27,000-acre campus—the world's largest college campus—offers miles of hiking and biking trails minutes from downtown. The expansive Rocky Mountain Recreation Area is within a 30-minute drive, while Weiss Lake (known as the "Crappie Capital of the World") is just 45 minutes away. For mountain adventures, Lookout Mountain and the Chattahoochee National Forest are within an hour's drive.

Rome experiences the full beauty of all four seasons while maintaining a temperate climate that outdoor enthusiasts appreciate. Springs arrive early with vibrant blooms across the city, summers provide approximately 218 sunny days annually for water recreation, falls burst with spectacular color across the surrounding highlands, and winters remain mild with occasional light snowfall that rarely disrupts daily life.

Average high temperatures range from 52°F in January to 89°F in July
Approximately 54 inches of annual rainfall creates the lush, green environment
Sunny days exceed the national average by nearly 15%
Fall foliage season typically runs from mid-October through early November

Strategic Location with Excellent Connectivity

While enjoying the peaceful pace of Rome, you'll appreciate its strategic location within easy reach of major cities and attractions. Atlanta's world-class amenities are just 70 miles away, with Chattanooga, Tennessee a similar distance to the north. This means international cultural events, major professional sports, and global cuisine are all within a 90-minute drive. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport—the world's busiest airport offering direct flights to destinations worldwide—is accessible in under 90 minutes.

Rome's business community is anchored by its robust healthcare sector, with Adventist Health System of GA and other providers forming the economic backbone alongside education institutions like Berry College and Shorter University. The manufacturing sector remains strong with several international companies maintaining operations in the area, providing excellent opportunities for physician spouses in healthcare administration, education, or corporate sectors.

Direct highway access via U.S. Routes 27 and 411
Richard B. Russell Regional Airport serves private and corporate aircraft
90-minute drive to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport with 150+ non-stop destinations
Strategic location between Atlanta, Chattanooga, and Birmingham forming a regional triangle

For physicians tired of metropolitan congestion, excessive commute times, and the anonymity of large-city practice, Rome offers a refreshing alternative where your professional contributions will be immediately visible and your family can thrive in a community that balances cosmopolitan amenities with authentic southern hospitality.

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History Unveiled: A Journey Through Time

From Native American Crossroads to Thriving River City

When you walk Rome's historic streets, you're traversing land that has been a cultural crossroads for thousands of years. Long before European settlers arrived, this strategic location at the confluence of three rivers was home to indigenous peoples of the Creek and Cherokee nations. The fertile valleys and accessible waterways made this region particularly valuable, serving as important trading routes and settlement areas. As you explore the city today, you'll find numerous archaeological sites and place names that pay homage to this rich Native American heritage that forms the foundation of Rome's story.

The European settlement of Rome began in 1834 when the area was opened to white settlers through treaties with the Cherokee Nation—treaties later deemed unjust as they led to the tragic Trail of Tears. The city's founders were drawn to the same geographical advantages that had attracted indigenous peoples: the convergence of rivers providing transportation, power, and fertile soil. Three pioneer landowners—Daniel R. Mitchell, Zachariah B. Hargrove, and Philip W. Hemphill—named the new settlement "Rome" because its seven hills reminded them of the famous Italian city, establishing a classical connection that continues to influence the community's identity today.

Founded in 1834 and incorporated as a city in 1847
Named for its seven hills, mirroring the seven hills of Rome, Italy
Original town layout was planned around a central courthouse square
First courthouse was built in 1835, establishing Rome as a county seat

Civil War Era and Reconstruction

As you discover more about Rome's past, you'll find a community that persevered through the profound challenges of the Civil War era. Rome's strategic location and industrial capacity made it a target during the conflict, and in 1864, Union forces occupied the city as part of General Sherman's Atlanta Campaign. While many structures were destroyed, several historic buildings survived and remain standing today, providing tangible connections to this pivotal period. The Myrtle Hill Cemetery contains a sobering Confederate section where hundreds of soldiers were laid to rest, offering a poignant reminder of the human cost of the conflict.

The post-war Reconstruction period brought significant changes to Rome as the community rebuilt and reimagined itself. The arrival of the railroad in 1870 propelled Rome's recovery, establishing new economic connections and bringing an influx of visitors and residents. During this period, many of the historic homes and commercial buildings that now form Rome's charming architectural landscape were constructed, leaving a legacy that today's residents continue to preserve and celebrate.

Union forces occupied Rome from May to November 1864
Notable Civil War-era structures including the First Presbyterian Church (1856) survived the occupation
Between Town Clock was installed in 1872 as a symbol of recovery
The Rome Railroad was completed in 1870, connecting to the Western & Atlantic line

Industrial Growth and the New South

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked Rome's transformation into a thriving industrial center within the "New South" movement. Where the rivers once served primarily as transportation routes, they now powered textile mills, foundries, and other industrial operations. The Noble Brothers Foundry became one of the South's leading industrial establishments, producing machinery and equipment shipped throughout the region. As you drive through certain neighborhoods today, you'll notice grand Victorian and Edwardian homes that once belonged to the industrialists and merchants who drove this economic expansion.

During this era, Rome also established itself as a regional educational and healthcare hub—roles that continue to define the community today. The founding of institutions like Shorter College in 1873 and Floyd Medical Center in 1942 established traditions of excellence that Adventist Health System of GA now carries forward. These institutions have provided stability through economic changes and contributed to Rome's reputation as a progressive community.

Noble Brothers Foundry (established 1866) produced the "Improved Cotton King" cotton press
Martha Berry founded the Berry Schools in 1902, which evolved into today's Berry College
Downtown Rome Historic District includes over 80 buildings constructed between 1863 and 1930
The 1920s saw the construction of multiple landmark buildings including the historic DeSoto Theatre

Modern Rome: Preservation and Progress

Today's Rome reflects a community that has thoughtfully balanced historic preservation with forward-looking development. The revitalization of downtown Rome beginning in the 1980s has transformed the district into one of Georgia's most vibrant and authentic main street communities. As you stroll down Broad Street, you'll discover historic buildings now housing contemporary restaurants, specialty shops, and professional offices—creating an energetic environment that honors the past while embracing the future.

The healthcare sector has emerged as Rome's economic cornerstone, with Adventist Health System of GA and other providers building upon a long tradition of medical excellence. This healthcare foundation, combined with higher education institutions and a diverse manufacturing base, has given Rome remarkable economic stability compared to many similar-sized communities. Living in Rome, you'll be part of a community that values its rich history while continually evolving to meet contemporary needs and opportunities.

Rome's downtown revitalization has earned multiple Georgia Downtown Development awards
The Rome Area Heritage Foundation actively preserves historic properties
Between the Rivers Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983
The Rome History Museum offers interactive exhibits chronicling the city’s development

When you make Rome your home, you'll join a community with a profound sense of place—one that celebrates its multilayered history while confidently moving forward. Unlike communities that have sacrificed historical character for development, Rome demonstrates how thoughtful preservation enhances quality of life and creates distinctive environments that attract professionals seeking authentic community connections.

Population & Demographics: Understanding Our Diverse Community

A Thriving Community with Small-Town Connections

As you become part of Rome's close-knit community, you'll experience the perfect balance of small-city comfort and dynamic growth. The Rome Metropolitan Statistical Area, which encompasses all of Floyd County, has a population of approximately 100,000 residents as of 2023, creating a regional hub that serves as the economic and cultural center for Northwest Georgia. This size offers physicians the ideal practice environment—large enough to support specialized medicine with a diverse patient base, yet small enough to establish meaningful connections with patients and colleagues. Unlike anonymous practice settings in major metropolitan areas, Rome allows physicians to become recognized community leaders whose impact is immediately visible.

The city of Rome itself has approximately 38,500 residents as of 2025, reflecting steady, sustainable growth over recent years. This growth comes not from overwhelming population surges that strain infrastructure, but from thoughtful development that maintains the community's character while embracing new opportunities. The city's population density of about 1,150 people per square mile creates neighborhoods with genuine character and connections while avoiding the congestion and anonymity that plague larger urban centers.

Floyd County's population has increased by over 4% since 2010, demonstrating stable growth
Rome serves as a regional hub for approximately 400,000 people living in surrounding counties
Community growth has been steady and manageable, allowing for planned infrastructure development
Average age of residents is approximately 37 years, creating a balanced demographic profile

Diverse, Multigenerational Community

Rome offers physicians the opportunity to serve and live among a richly diverse community. The population reflects a blend of longtime residents with deep local roots alongside newcomers drawn by educational and professional opportunities. This creates a welcoming environment where new physicians quickly feel at home while benefiting from established community connections. Demographically, Rome features a diverse population with approximately 55% White, 25% Black or African American, and 20% Hispanic or Latino residents, creating a multicultural community that celebrates its diversity.

This diversity is particularly evident during community celebrations like the annual Rome International Film Festival, which draws filmmakers from around the world, the multicultural Chiaha Harvest Fair showcasing diverse artistic traditions, and the Rome Shakespeare Festival—the only one of its kind in Georgia. These events reflect a community that embraces cultural richness while maintaining its distinctive Southern hospitality and charm.

Cultural events throughout the year celebrate the community's diverse heritage
Multiple languages spoken, with approximately 16% of households speaking Spanish
Intergenerational neighborhoods where families often remain for multiple generations
Vibrant international community with approximately 13% foreign-born residents

Economic Stability Across Diverse Sectors

The socioeconomic landscape of Rome provides physicians with a stable practice environment supported by diverse economic sectors. With median household income around $51,000 and steadily rising (up 8% from 2022-2023), the community offers financial stability while remaining affordable compared to larger metropolitan areas. The economic foundation built upon healthcare, education, manufacturing, and technology creates multiple opportunities for physician spouses and family members across various professional sectors.

Healthcare stands as the cornerstone of Rome's economy, with Adventist Health System of GA joining Floyd Medical Center, Redmond Regional Medical Center, and Harbin Clinic as major employers. This healthcare ecosystem is complemented by educational institutions like Berry College, Shorter University, and Georgia Northwestern Technical College, which provide both intellectual vitality and employment opportunities. The manufacturing sector has successfully transitioned from traditional textiles to advanced manufacturing, including international companies like Pirelli Tire and Suzuki Manufacturing of America, creating a resilient economic base.

Major employment sectors include healthcare, education, advanced manufacturing, and technology
Healthcare represents approximately 20% of the local economy, providing stability for medical practices
Educational institutions employ over 2,000 professionals, creating opportunities for physician spouses
International manufacturing companies provide economic diversity and stability

As you establish your practice in Rome, you'll discover a community where physicians are integral to the social fabric—not just healthcare providers, but respected leaders who shape the community's future. Unlike metropolitan areas where physicians often feel disconnected from their impact, Rome offers the opportunity to witness firsthand how your professional contributions enhance quality of life while building meaningful relationships with patients across diverse backgrounds and generations.