VLCDA Data Set

• Demographic & Trends

• Environmental

• Workforce

• Taxation

• Government

• Leading Employers

• Education

• Utilities

Demographic & Trends

With a population around 113,941 Valdosta-Lowndes County’s labor force is drawn from 7 counties in the region and more than 177,719 workers live within a 45 minute drive of Valdosta-Lowndes County.

The following are a few key pieces of data for Valdosta-Lowndes County:

Environmental

In Valdosta-Lowndes County, we know the value of time. That’s why our local review and permitting processes are simple and straight-forward. It’s easy for us to offer expedited permitting, because that’s how we do business everyday!

Permitting & Zoning

When comparing us to metro areas and large cities, Valdosta-Lowndes County development review and permitting process is a substantial location advantage. Our zoning code is short and to the point. And, our review processes are efficient and timely.

Plan Review & Permit Issuance

Generally, plan review and permits can be issued in a matter of days. The following are estimated timelines for each type of review/permit. Timing assumes plan submitted by the applicant are complete.

• Site Plan Review is accomplished within 7 to 10 business days

• Building, Mechanical, Plumbing & Electrical Code Review is accomplished within 7 to 10 business days

• Permit issuance is accomplished within 5-7 business days after final plan review/approval.

• For a complete list of construction codes for the state of Georgia, Click Here.

For more information on obtaining a building permit please contact Valdosta-Lowndes County Building Inspections Department at 229-259-3506.

Plan Submittal and Review Process for the City of Valdosta and Lowndes County, Georgia, Click Here.

• Rick Mefford, Inspections Manager, City of Valdosta

Zoning

Valdosta and Lowndes County has multiple commercial and industrial zones. The following is a brief summary of each zone and a partial list of allowed uses. Please refer to the City/County’s zoning code.

Lowndes County

Zoning Districts for Lowndes County, Georgia are defined in the Lowndes County Unified Land Development Code, Click Here.

• JD Dillard, Lowndes County Zoning Administrator

City of Valdosta

Zoning Districts for the City of Valdosta are defined in the City of Valdosta Land Development Regulations, Click Here. 

• Matt Martin, City of Valdosta Planning and Zoning Administrator

Lowndes County page provides information for Lowndes County, including county services, property sales and tax information.

City of Valdosta provides downloadable permit applications, copies of policies and lists of licensed contractors in the area

Workforce

Available, Affordable Workforce

Valdosta-Lowndes County has a highly trained workforce both available and affordable. And, now is the time to seize on the opportunity to take advantage of more than 177,700 skilled workers.

Here, you’ll also find local job training programs offered through Wiregrass Georgia Technical College, as well as state and local incentives that can help you advance the skills your workforce needs to stay on top of the competition. Learn more about our workforce development opportunities and available incentives.                     

In Valdosta-Lowndes County, Georgia you’ll find a workforce advantage that will help you start faster and compete quicker!

Workforce Overview​

Available Workforce Characteristics

Source: Jobs EQ

Last Updated: January 2020

Taxation

Georgia has some of the lowest taxes in the nation. And, your company may qualify for added corporate income tax credits or property tax abatements. Below you will find information on our local sales and property tax rates, as well as links to information on state tax rates and credits.

Sales Tax

The sales tax in Valdosta-Lowndes County is 8.0%, which reflects a 4.0% state tax and a 4.0% local sales tax. Sales taxes on certain utilities associated with the manufacturing of goods are exempt from the State Sales Tax.

Leading Employers

Our leading employers continue to innovate and create new opportunities for growth in both business and jobs. Here is a short list describing some of our top employers.

More information about our leading employers.

Learn more about our key industries.