If you're considering a move to the Southeast, you might be wondering: is Atlanta a good place to live? Known as the "City in a Forest," Atlanta is celebrated for its cultural wealth, diverse neighborhoods, excellent job market, strong real estate market, and reasonable cost of living compared to other major cities. The ATL is a vibrant city that combines southern charm with modern urban living. An added bonus, Atlanta is a welcoming community with notorious southern hospitality.
The city’s historical significance is highlighted by landmarks like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Whether you're interested in the tech scene or enjoying outdoor activities at Piedmont Park, Atlanta has it covered.
Atlanta's demographics reflect its cultural diversity. You'll find a blend of young professionals, families, and students from various backgrounds contributing to a rich community spirit. This Georgia peach is worthy of consideration and this comprehensive guide will provide insights into the pros and cons of living in Atlanta including its best suburbs, attractions, and more.
The Pros of Living in Atlanta
1. Cost of Living
Atlanta’s cost of living is 2-3% lower than the national average as seen in lower housing, utilities, and transportation. The median home price is about $420,000. As a large metropolis, Atlanta is an affordable place to put down roots.
2. Diverse Job Opportunities
Atlanta is a hub for various industries, including tech, film, healthcare, and logistics. Many Fortune 500 companies and major employers like Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, UPS, and Home Depot have headquarters here, providing ample job opportunities.
According to the government census information, Atlanta had a median household income of $81,938 in 2023.
3. Winter Weather
Enjoy a mild climate in the winter months. The relatively mild winters make Atlanta an attractive option for those who prefer to avoid harsh, snowy weather. Atlanta's coldest month is January.
Don't expect to get out the snow shovel as Atlanta typically experiences less than two inches of annual snowfall. Winter temperatures range from the low to mid-30s to highs in the mid-50s to lower 60s.
4. Rich Cultural Scene
Festivals, art, and dining options abound. From its vibrant music scene to its rich history and thriving arts community, Atlanta residents have a multitude of celebrations and dining choices. With an array of chef-inspired restaurants to mom and pop shops to soul food and seafood, the taste buds will be tempted in this city with its exciting menus.
Residents gather for a variety of festivals and celebrations. Popular festivals include the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, the Atlanta Jazz Festival, Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta Pride, and the Atlanta Film Festival. Don't miss out the colorful sights at the Atlanta Balloon Festival.
5. Abundant Green Spaces
Despite being a bustling city, Atlanta boasts beautiful parks such as Piedmont Park and the Atlanta BeltLine, providing plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. Golf enthusiasts can take advantage of approximately 60 courses in the metro area.
With over 500 parks and 3 national parks, Atlanta places a priority on communing with nature.
6. Access to Quality Education
Atlanta has great schools where students can thrive. The city is home to renowned institutions like Georgia State University, Georgia Tech, Emory University, and Spelman College. Public, private, and charter schools offer a diverse range of educational opportunities for students.
Rest easy knowing that exceptional educational experiences await students in and around Atlanta.
7. Professional Sports
From collegiate sports, golf tournaments, and motorsports to professional baseball, football, basketball, and soccer, Atlanta brings sports to its fans. The College Football Hall of Fame will impress with its traditions and artifacts.
Atlanta fans show strong support of their local teams at the stadiums and sports bars on game days. From colorful fan gear to tailgating, find a welcoming spirit at sporting events throughout the year.
The Cons of Living in Atlanta
8. Traffic
Atlanta is notorious for its heavy traffic. Traffic congestion can be overwhelming at peak times; thus, understanding commute patterns is essential. Long commutes are common.
While public transportation is an option, most Atlanta residents are dependent on personal vehicles translating to the heavy traffic wait times.
9. Public Transportation
While Atlanta has public transit through MARTA in the city, it has limited reach into the suburbs. Many residents rely on cars out of necessity.
10. Spring and Summer Weather
Atlanta does experience four seasons. Spring and summer are not without concerns.
Atlanta’s lush greenery comes with a downside—high pollen counts, especially in the spring. Allergy sufferers do not always enjoy this season. The summer heat and humidity can be intense. July is the warmest month of the year with temperatures averaging around 90 degrees. Bugs can become a nuisance.
11. Crime Rates
Atlanta comes in higher than the national average for its crime rate. Some central neighborhoods see more crime. Property crimes are similar to larger metro areas like Austin and Indianapolis.
12. Urban Sprawl
The city’s rapid growth has led to urban sprawl, making some areas feel disconnected. This sprawl has also contributed to traffic concerns and longer commutes for those buying in more suburban areas.
Atlanta Real Estate Market
The real estate market is strong in the Atlanta area. Property taxes are higher than the national property tax amount. On a property assessed for $350,000 expect a tax bill of $4,677 based on the median effective tax rate of 1.44%. Typical home prices in Atlanta run the gamut with a median home value of $420,600. Atlanta designates ITP and OTP as to whether you are in the perimeter or out of the perimeter of Atlanta.
Best Places to Live in Atlanta
There are numerous neighborhoods and suburbs offering unique vibes and amenities:
Piedmont Park Area: Great for outdoor enthusiasts, coveted zip code for new homes (median home value $742,000)
Old Fourth Ward: A historic district with a lively atmosphere (median home value $577,000)
Buckhead: Affluent area ideal for luxury living, upscale shopping, vibrant nightlife, and progressive restaurants (median home value $576,000)
Virginia-Highland: Trendy and filled with local restaurants (median home value $815,000)
Midtown: Cultural heart of the city with museums, parks, and a mix of residential and commercial spaces (median home value $450,000)
Alpharetta: Known for its excellent schools, parks, family-friendly atmosphere, and new construction homes and condos (median home value $606,000)
Decatur: A charming, walkable area with great schools, diverse dining, and a small-town feel. New homes available (median home value $656,000)
Sandy Springs: Suburban living with access to green spaces and quality schools (median home value $584,000)
Atlanta Trivia
| Interesting Atlanta Facts |
|---|
| Atlanta is the 6th largest metro area in the nation. |
| Coca-Cola was invented in Atlanta. |
| Atlanta, “Hollywood of the South”, is a popular filming location for tv shows and movies including Ozark, Stranger Things, and Hunger Games. |
| Along with "The City in a Forest" nickname due to its abundant tree coverage, Atlanta is also referred to as "Hotlanta" for its vibrant nightlife and hot climate. |
| Located in the Peach State, Atlanta has over 70 streets named with a variant of "Peachtree". |
Atlanta Activities
The ATL is full of activities that appeal to a broad range of residents, tourists, and potential residents. Atlanta is a true gem for those wanting to experience a multitude of fun in a metro area.
Museums
You can visit cultural hotspots like the High Museum of Art with works of art by Monet and van Gogh. The Delta Flight Museum offers experiences including a flight simulator. Explore the life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights as it continues to expand its offerings. Another exploration of our 39th president can be found at the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum showcasing his life, legacy, and philanthropic work.
Outdoors
With milder weather in the Southeast, Atlanta residents can be out enjoying many green spaces. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Chattahoochee River or ride bikes along the Beltline. The scenic Stone Mountain Park is a favorite for its hiking, museums, and laser shows. Stroll through the urban oasis at the Atlanta Botanical Garden found in Midtown.
Parks and green spaces allow you to enjoy the weather. From the farmers market and dog park Piedmont Park to fountains and ice skating at the site of the 1996 Olympics at Centennial Olympic Park to Grant Park, the oldest park in the city housing the zoo, Atlanta delivers on amazing outdoor experiences.
For an adventure farther to the north of Atlanta, head to the Cloudland Canyon. This is one of Georgia’s amazing state parks where a gorgeous deep gorge cut by Sitton Gulch Creek creates two waterfalls. Take a quick trip to hike and camp.
Family Favorites
Create family memories at the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest in the world. Learn about the iconic soda at the World of Coca-Cola. This is a top attraction for Atlanta as this intriguing brand was invented here. For hands-on experiences the Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a win for fun and education. The Atlanta Zoo with 40 acres of animal exhibits is a favorite for kids of all ages.
Nightlife
Atlanta is also known for its nightlife especially in Midtown, Buckhead, and East Atlanta Village. With an array of clubs, comedy venues, performance halls, restaurants, and sports bars, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
Sports
Atlanta is known for its commitment to sports from baseball to tennis and everything in between. The Braves, Falcons, Hawks, Atlanta United FC, the PGA Tour Championship, and the Atlanta Open allow fans to enjoy an array of sporting events throughout the year.
Final Thoughts
Atlanta offers a dynamic lifestyle with a rich cultural scene, job opportunities, and diverse neighborhoods. This fast-growing metropolitan city has its downsides, such as traffic and hot summers, but the benefits often outweigh the negatives for many newcomers.
Whether you’re seeking a vibrant urban experience or a quiet suburban life, Atlanta might just be the right place for you. Check out listings and resources on NewHomeSource for all the new homes available in and around Atlanta. From townhomes to sprawling homes with ample space to suburban new home communities filled with amenities, Atlanta has a home that will suit your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. Happy house hunting!
Other Georgia Resources
Best Suburbs Near Atlanta, Georgia
10 Most Affordable Cities in Georgia
Top 10 Safest Cities in Georgia
The 10 Best Places to Retire in Georgia
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Georgia
Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.