A college town in every sense of the word, Athens appreciates its University population while recognizing its obligation to all residents to grow independently of the University.
The Clarke County population, according to a 2000 census estimate, is approximately 101,500.
Athens' elevation is 600 to 800 feet above mean sea level, and because of its geographic location, the city is sheltered from much of the extreme weather of the winter season. Mean temperature for January, the coldest month, is 43oF., and for July, the warmest month, 79oF. Average minimum and maximum temperatures for January are 33o and 53oF., and for July, 69o and 89oF. Average rainfall is 49.08 inches.
Athens is served by a daily newspaper and an independent student newspaper, The Red and Black. Athens also has a weekly newspaper and the Atlanta newspapers, as well as eight local radio stations and the University's radio stations, WUOG-FM and WUGA-FM.
Network television is available through direct reception or cable within a 100-mile radius of Athens.
Two hospitals offering comprehensive health care serve Athens, and there are more than 80 churches in the area.