Fayette, Forsyth among nation's most affluent counties

WASHINGTON - Happen to live in Fayette or Forsyth?

The two north Georgia counties are ranked among the top 20 in the nation for median household income.

According to an analysis of U.S. Census figures, high-income households distinguish Fayette and Forsyth counties from others in the state.

In Fayette County -- which ranked tenth -- the median is $70,352. Forsyth County ranked 12th -- with a median household income of $67,385.

Doug Bachtel -- a University of Georgia demographer -- said ``They are the nouveau riche -- more Lexuses than El Dorados.''

The ratings are based on 1998 poverty and income estimates. More recent income figures are due later this month.

A Denver suburb -- Douglas County -- has the nation's highest median at nearly $85,000.