Athens has a diverse economy which is powered by numerous sectors including tourism, healthcare, education, poultry processing, and timber. Other significant factors for the economy include the manufacturing of items such as electronics and electrical components, industrial machinery, textiles, apparel and transportation equipment. In addition, the city is regarded as the major center for trade in Northeast Georgia.
Praise for Athens from notable sources:
- Ranked #5 in Kiplinger's list of the 10 best cities
- Ranked #4 in the top 20 college towns for jobs list by Forbes.com
- Given a five-star ranking for its appeal to high-tech companies by Expansion Management Magazine
- Ranked #7 in Forbes.com's list of top 10 best small cities for jobs
Some of the occupations more common in Athens than the nation's other cities are coil winders, tapers and finishers; bio-technology technicians, law clerks, machine feeders and off-bearers, structural metal fabricators, veterinary technicians and technologists; and surgical technologists.
The major employers in the Athens area are shown below:
- University of Georgia
- Athens Regional Medical Center
- Goldkist
- St Mary's Health Care System Inc
- University of Georgia
- Walmart
- Merial Limited
- Carrier Corporation
- Harrison Poultry
- Doctors Hospitals
The major employment sectors in Athens are:
- Government
- Education
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Tourism
- Management, business and finance
- Administrative support
- Sales
Noteworthy data regarding Athens: In 2008 the cost of living index was 86.6. The nation's average is 100. Approximately 40% of the population over the age of 25 have a bachelor's degree or higher. In 2007 the estimated median household income was $36,000.
Companies located in Athens have access to business organizations such as:
- Athens Chamber of Commerce
- Downtown Athens Business Association
- Georgia Economic Developers Association
The Athens Banner Herald offers up-to-date information regarding the business activities in Athens.