Boomers who once flocked to Florida are increasingly ditching the state for southern Appalachia. NEW LOOK Sign up to get the inside scoop on today’s biggest stories in markets, tech, and business — delivered daily. AdvertisementFor decades, Florida has remained a top destination for retirees looking to settle down roots as they enjoy their golden years. Many boomers moving into southern Appalachia have also bypassed Florida altogether. But some new residents fear Dawson County will simply become a northern outpost of the vast Atlanta metropolitan region, known for its suburban sprawl.

---

Persons: Boomers, —, Ed Helms, Johnnie, Billy Thurmond Organizations: Service, Street Journal, Northeast Locations: Florida, Appalachia, Midwest, Southwest Virginia, North Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee, Appalachian, Dawson County , Georgia, Dawsonville, Atlanta, Dawson, Pickens, Panama City Beach , Florida, Dawson County