Valdosta is located in southern Georgia near the Florida border. It has a population of about 52,000. The summers are humid with highs in the 90s, and the winters are mild with highs in the 60s. There is no snowfall. If you are considering moving to Valdosta, you would find a city that is progressive but proud of its southern hospitality and history.
Economy:
The economy of Valdosta has slowly evolved from agriculture such as tobacco, peanuts and cotton to more jobs in industry and technology. The median household income for Valdosta is quite a bit lower than the state average, and the cost of living is considerably lower than the national average. The unemployment rate is currently about 9.1 percent. The top employers in Valdosta are moody Air Force Base, Valdosta State University and the Convergys Corp. Valdosta is also the leading producer of naval stores, and logging is a major industry.
History:
The area was first inhabited by Creek and Seminole Indians. The area was first scouted by Hernando De Soto in 1540. The town was originally named Troupville after the Georgia Governor George Troup. Troupville was originally located a few miles from the site of Valdosta but was forced to move due to the railroad in 1860. Valdosta was incorporated at the end of 1860, and the name came from the name of an estate that Governor Troup owned, Valle d'Aosta. Following the Civil War, Valdosta experienced steady growth due to both railroad lines and the good farming in the area. Cotton was a major industry until it was devastated by boll weevils. Then agriculture expanded into tobacco, peanuts and other crops. Lumber is now a major industry as well. The city has grown and prospered well into this century.
Tourism:
Located within the city limits of Valdosta is Remerton, Georgia, a historic mill town converted to quaint shops. The Crescent House was built in 1898 and was the home of Senator William West. It has regular tours. The Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts has both permanent and rotating exhibits of art year round. The Lowndes County Historical Society Museum features historical documents and photographs of the history of the area. Wild Adventures Theme Park has over 50 rides including several roller coasters. It also houses over 500 species of animals. In March you can attend the Azalea Festival featuring food, entertainment and all types of vendors. In September there is the Calypso Music Festival. Valdosta has several award-winning golf courses. There are also many wildlife preserves and areas for fishing, hunting, camping and biking.