Calhoun, GA Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Calhoun, GA: What You Need to Know

Calhoun, the seat of Gordon County, is known as northwest Georgia’s textile center. Mohawk Industries, a leading flooring manufacturer, is based in Calhoun.

Local History

The town was first called Oothcaloga Depot and then Dawsonville before it was renamed Calhoun in 1850 after John C. Calhoun, a former U.S. vice president and senator from South Carolina. That year, Calhoun became the seat of Gordon County. It was incorporated as a city in 1852. The Battle of Resaca in Gordon County on May 14-15, 1864, was the first major engagement of the Atlanta campaign during the Civil War. The Confederate Army failed to stop the advance of Union forces into Georgia. Union Gen. William T. Sherman established his headquarters in Calhoun for a while as Union troops advanced south during the Atlanta campaign.

Cost of Living

Not all small cities are as affordable as Calhoun (population: 17,271). Its cost of living rate, food, and housing costs are 7.3%, 23.2%, and 21.2% higher than the national average, respectively. The median gross rent is $688. Georgia residents pay 1% to 5.75% in income tax and 4% to 9% in statewide sales tax.

What Is Unique About Calhoun?

Located between Atlanta and Chattanooga, Calhoun became known as the region’s textile center beginning with the establishment of Echota Cotton Mills in 1907. It was Calhoun’s first major textile company. By 1945, the company had quintupled in size. Soon other textile companies were established in Calhoun, including CM Jones & Co. (chenille bedsheets), Dixie Belle Bedspread Co., Mount Alto Bedspread Company (one of the area’s first modern tufting factories), Sequoyah Textile Co. (chenille bedspreads), and Shaw Industries (carpet). Today, tourists visit important textile landmarks in Calhoun as part of the West Georgia Textile Heritage Trail. 

What Kind of Weather-Related Problems Are Common in Calhoun?

The Peach State is one of America’s 10 most hurricane-prone states. Georgia also gets about 18 tornadoes annually. On Dec. 22, 2011, an EF3 tornado with winds of 150 miles per hour hit Calhoun and Gordon County. It damaged some houses, downed power lines and trees, and injured four people. 

Where Do You Go for Shopping in Calhoun?

The Calhoun Premium Outlets is a popular destination for shoppers seeking great discounts. The outdoor mall features 44 stores with all the major designer brands. As an alternative, visit Gordon Hills Shopping Center for regional retailers. For unique items, downtown Calhoun has an array of locally-owned clothing and accessories boutiques, furniture stores, antique stores, and consignment shops. Calhoun also has a seasonal farmers market.