Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta, Georgia

By Julie Gordey

Apr. 16, 2025 at 2:30 PM CST

The metro area of Atlanta is a vibrant city full of entertainment, culture, and diversity. Dynamic neighborhoods appeal to a wide variety of buyers. Whether you're a young professional seeking walkable nightlife, a growing family looking for top-rated schools, or someone who simply craves historic charm and green spaces, Atlanta has a neighborhood to match your lifestyle.

In this guide, we’ve curated ten of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta according to Niche.com. We’ve highlighted everything from housing trends and school quality to crime rates and local attractions. Let’s explore the standout areas that make Atlanta such an incredible place to call home.

1. Atlantic Station

Atlantic Station area decorated for the holidays with red and white tree
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Atlantic Station, located in the northwestern portion of Midtown Atlanta, is a vibrant live-work-play community that has transformed from the former Atlantic Steel Mill into a bustling urban hub. With over 3,300 residents, Atlantic Station spans 138 acres. This neighborhood is in the top 5 ranking for best neighborhood, best neighborhood to buy a house and best neighborhood to raise a family.

What sets Atlantic Station apart is its master-planned design that seamlessly integrates modern living with accessibility. The neighborhood boasts a variety of shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues within walking distance of residential areas. Its pedestrian-friendly layout and community events make it a desirable location for those seeking an urban lifestyle.

The housing market in Atlantic Station offers a range of options, from modern apartments to stylish condos and townhomes. The median home value is $391,192, allowing for diverse preferences and budgets.

Reputable schools including the top-rated Atlanta International School, which boasts a low student-teacher ratio of 7:1, have appeal to families. Live close to esteemed higher education institutions, such as the Georgia Institute of Technology and Savannah College of Art and Design Atlanta. Additionally, discover nearby High Museum of Art and Piedmont Park.

Access to quality healthcare is readily available, with facilities like Piedmont Physicians at Atlantic Station offering comprehensive primary care services. Additionally, the recent relocation of Piedmont Healthcare's office staff to the area underscores the neighborhood's growing prominence as a healthcare hub.

Safety is a priority for many considering a move to Atlantic Station. The neighborhood experiences a crime rate of 46.39 incidents per 1,000 people, which is 15.5% lower than the Atlanta average. This positions Atlantic Station as one of the safer neighborhoods in the city.

Embrace an Atlanta lifestyle that combines urban convenience with community charm. Atlantic Station is worthy of the #1 position on this list. Discover new homes in and around Atlantic Station.

2. Midtown

Colorful Midtown Sign surrounded by buildings
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Live in a vibrant neighborhood in the heart of Georgia’s capital city. Midtown is known for its blend of urban sophistication and Southern charm, Midtown serves as a cultural and economic hub, offering residents and visitors an array of amenities and attractions.

Midtown delivers a rich cultural scene, featuring numerous art galleries, theaters, and museums. The neighborhood is also recognized for its walkability and green spaces, including the expansive Piedmont Park. As of early 2025, Midtown continues to experience growth and development, with new residential and commercial projects enhancing its appeal.

A competitive housing market has the median home value at nearly $450,000. The area offers a mix of housing options, including modern apartments, historic homes, and high-rise condominiums.

Safety is always a key consideration. Midtown ranks in the 50th percentile for safety, indicating it is safer than 50% of neighborhoods but less safe than the other half. CrimeGrade.org purports the crime rate is approximately 36.32 incidents per 1,000 residents annually. The west part of Midtown is generally perceived as safer.

Find excellent public schools including Springdale Park Elementary, Inman Middle School, and Midtown High School all from the Atlanta Public Schools system. The nearly 29,000 residents have easy access to higher education as well. Midtown provides residents with access to quality healthcare services, with several medical centers and clinics located within or near the neighborhood.

Enjoy a plethora of amenities, including diverse dining options, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. The neighborhood is home to cultural landmarks like the High Museum of Art and the Fox Theatre.

Take advantage of residing in a culturally rich and centrally located neighborhood. Midtown is a great choice for a new home, especially for families and young professionals.

3. Morningside/Lenox Park

ornate concrete bridge over water in park
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The #2 Best Neighborhood to Raise a Family, Morningside/Lenox Park is a picturesque and established neighborhood located in northeast Atlanta. Tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a vibrant community atmosphere, make this a sought-after residential area.

Discover a mix of architectural styles, including Tudor, Craftsman, and colonial homes. The neighborhood features two main commercial strips along Highland and Piedmont Avenues, hosting a variety of small businesses and eateries that contribute to its charm. Median home values are close to $835,000.

CrimeGrade.org ranks Morningside/Lenox Park in the 41st percentile for safety with a crime rate in the area is 41.66 incidents per 1,000 residents annually. Residents generally consider the southeast part of the neighborhood to be the safest. The neighborhood's central location in Atlanta ensures residents have access to numerous medical centers and hospitals in the surrounding areas.

The neighborhood's commercial areas along Highland and Piedmont Avenues offer numerous small businesses and eateries, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. Find some of Atlanta's finest public and private schools. The neighborhood is served by Morningside Elementary School, which has been a cornerstone.

Morningside/Lenox Park is conveniently located near several of Atlanta's top attractions. Take a short drive to Stone Mountain Park for fun, family memories. This northeastern neighborhood is sure to check off all the boxes. Join the more than 11,000 residents and find a beautiful new place to call home in this welcoming part of the ATL.

4. Buckhead Village

exterior of the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta
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Buckhead Village is an upscale neighborhood located in the heart of Atlanta. Its reputation for luxury shopping, vibrant nightlife, and fine dining translate to urban sophistication and suburban comfort. Ranked #1 Best Neighborhood for Young Professionals, Buckhead Village is a great place to put down roots.

The median home value in Buckhead Village is $418,000. The neighborhood is home to nearly 2,700 residents. The neighborhood earns a C+ for safety with a crime rate of approximately 36.66 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, with the northwest part of Buckhead generally considered the safest.

Buckhead Village is served by several highly rated public schools. Notable institutions include Atlanta Classical Academy, North Atlanta High School, and Jackson Elementary School. These schools contribute to the neighborhood's appeal for families seeking quality education for their children.

The nearly 2,700 residents of Buckhead Village enjoy high-end shopping experiences at venues. Top-rated restaurants and a vibrant nightlife scene add to the area's allure. Additionally, the neighborhood offers easy access to beautiful outdoor spaces such as Chastain Park.

Beyond shopping and dining, Buckhead Village is close to the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola. The neighborhood itself hosts various events and has a lively social scene that caters to diverse interests. Find a new home that speaks to you in this lively neighborhood.

5. Buckhead Forest

grassy hill in park overlooking skyscrapers
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Buckhead Forest earns an A+ for families. This Fulton County gem is home to nearly 3,000 residents. From highly rated schools to a great location, this neighborhood hits high on the list.

Find this neighborhood to the west of Hwy 400. Live close to great schools rated A- from Niche. Some of the schools serving this area include Atlanta Classical Academy, North Atlanta High School, and Charles B. Drew Charter School.

This diverse area is also good for families and a vibrant nightlife. The median home value of nearly $423,000 makes this another viable option for new homebuyers. Convenience to major employers, services, and amenities give Buckhead Forest an edge over other neighborhoods.

With nearly 3,000 residents, give this community some serious consideration for your next new home abode.

6. Lake Claire

Young children sitting on the floor in a school setting; one child has his hand raised
Photo courtesy: Adobe Stock

Let’s move to the east side of Atlanta. Lake Claire is a charming and historic neighborhood known for its abundant green spaces. If you’re looking for a serene suburban atmosphere, this neighborhood is bordered by Candler Park to the west, Kirkwood to the south, Decatur to the east, and Druid Hills to the north.

Comprising approximately 1,200 homes, this DeKalb County neighborhood is home to nearly 4,500 residents. The median home value here is nearly $775,000. This higher price point brings its share of great perks.

The first perk is excellent schools including Lin Elementary School, Druid Hills Middle School, and Midtown High School. Additionally, private institutions such as The Paideia School and Midtown International School offer alternative educational options.

Lake Claire Park is another bonus. This newly renovated space features play structures, green areas, and a canopy for shade, making it ideal for families. The Lake Claire Community Land Trust offers communal gardens and hosts events, fostering a strong sense of community. The #1 ranking for Best Neighborhood to Raise a Family is the cherry on top.

Nearby attractions include the Fernbank Museum of Natural History and the variety of dining and shopping options in the neighboring areas of Candler Park and Decatur. Residents find easy access to everything they need.

Reside in a historic neighborhood with a strong sense of community. Lake Claire is an attractive option for families and professionals seeking a balanced urban-suburban lifestyle. Discover new homes.

7. Home Park

Choose the northwest side of Atlanta to live in Home Park. Known for its proximity to educational institutions and diverse housing options, House Park is a great choice. Residents can also access amenities including restaurants and shopping in Midtown and Downtown Atlanta.

Situated adjacent to Georgia Tech, public schools, and charter schools like Centennial Academy. Home Park offers residents easy access to educational and commercial hubs. The neighborhood features a mix of small to medium-sized apartment complexes, high-rise apartments, and single-family homes. The median home value is approximately $428,000.

Home Park receives a C- for overall crime. The crime rate in Home Park reported by CrimeGrade.org is approximately 46.93 incidents per 1,000 residents annually. Residents generally consider the southern part of the neighborhood to be safer.

Consider joining a neighborhood of more than 6,800 that earned an A+ for families and nightlife from Niche. With proximity to educational institutions, commercial centers, and entertainment venues, this neighborhood holds appeal for students, professionals, and families with its home offerings.

8. Candler Park

Landscaped entrance with sign to Candler Park
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Candler Park is one of Atlanta’s most beloved intown neighborhoods. If you are looking for a laid-back vibe, tree-lined streets, and historic charm, check out Candler Park. The neighborhood is anchored by the 55-acre Candler Park itself. This green space offers a golf course, playground, swimming pool, and open fields. The area has a distinctly eclectic and artsy personality, blending Victorian-era homes with bungalows and Craftsman-style architecture. Appealing to families, young professionals, and longtime residents is its strong sense of community and walkability.

Housing in Candler Park is a mix of well-preserved historic homes, charming bungalows, and thoughtfully renovated properties. It’s a competitive housing market due to the area's popularity, walkability, and school zoning. Buyers can expect prices on the higher side for Atlanta but often see strong long-term values. There are also a few condo and townhome options for those seeking lower-maintenance living. Median home values fall at just above $692,000. Find a new home in this zip code.

Candler Park is considered one of Atlanta’s safer neighborhoods, especially compared to more urban parts of the city. It maintains a relatively low crime rate and has an active neighborhood association and a community watch program. The streets are well-kept, and the atmosphere is both family-friendly and welcoming.

Atlanta Public Schools district serves the area with highly rated schools. In terms of higher education, Emory University and Georgia State University are both within a short drive, providing easy access to world-class education. This might be part of the reason this is the #3 Best Neighborhood to Raise a Family.

Candler Park offers a laid-back but vibrant lifestyle with plenty of local amenities. Residents enjoy easy access to organic markets, coffee shops, yoga studios, and neighborhood bars. The PATH trail and the Freedom Park Trail make it easy for bikers and joggers to navigate the area. The Marta Candler Park/Edgewood station also provides public transit options into the city.

One of the biggest draws is the neighborhood’s proximity to Little Five Points, an eclectic shopping and entertainment district known for its record stores, thrift shops, live music venues, and alternative culture. The annual Candler Park Fall Fest is a popular event that features live music, food vendors, and art displays. Residents also enjoy easy access to the Edgewood Retail District for larger chain stores and everyday conveniences.

Whether you're catching a concert in the park, grabbing coffee at a local café, or biking the Freedom Trail, Candler Park offers a little slice of urban serenity in the heart of Atlanta.

9. Pine Hills

lady with various shopping bags
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In northeast Atlanta, Pine Hills is a distinguished neighborhood, straddling the eastern edge of Buckhead and the western boundary of Brookhaven. This community uniquely spans both Fulton and DeKalb counties and is ranked #4 Most Diverse Neighborhoods in Atlanta.

Pine Hills is renowned for its rolling hills, mature trees, and peaceful cul-de-sacs, creating a serene environment despite its proximity to bustling commercial centers. The neighborhood's landscape features a mix of architectural styles, including mid-century modern homes, expansive single-family residences, and various condominium complexes along Lenox Road. This diversity in housing caters to a wide range of preferences and lifestyles with a median home value of close to $385,000. Single family homes can go for $1,000,000+ due to the area's desirability and upscale character.

The Pine Hills Neighborhood Association works hard to maintain the area's reputation as one of Atlanta's safest neighborhoods. With increased police presence through the hiring of off-duty officers, surveillance measures, and community education, Pine Hills residents can rest easily.

Reputable schools and esteemed higher education institutions including Emory University and Oglethorpe University add to the allure of this neighborhood. Excellent parks including Shady Valley Park and Indian Creek Park get residents outdoors.

Pine Hills' strategic location is near some of Atlanta's premier shopping and entertainment destinations. Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza are just minutes away, offering upscale retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.

Choosing to buy a home in Pine Hills offers the advantage of residing in a neighborhood that combines suburban tranquility with urban accessibility. Take a look at this inviting Atlanta neighborhood.

10. Virginia Highland

Manicured path with an array of plants at a botanical garden
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Virginia-Highland—often affectionately shortened to “VaHi”—is one of Atlanta’s most beloved and iconic intown neighborhoods. The neighborhood gets its name from the intersection of Virginia Avenue and North Highland Avenue, the hub around which a tight-knit, active community thrives. Its walkability, independent shops, and trendy eateries make it a favorite for young professionals, creatives, and families alike.

Virginia-Highland remains a highly desirable neighborhood, with strong property values and a vibrant sense of community. The median home value is just over $815,000. The area is bustling with activity thanks to popular cafes, bars, boutiques, and farmer’s markets. Residents frequently engage in local events, from block parties to the annual Summerfest arts and music festival.

Overall, Virginia-Highland is considered a safe neighborhood by Atlanta standards. Families appreciate the strong academics at Springdale Park Elementary, Inman Middle School, and Midtown High School, which are part of the Atlanta Public Schools system. In addition, several private schools are located nearby.

Virginia-Highland is a walker's paradise. Locals enjoy boutique fitness studios, coffee shops, yoga centers, parks, and cozy brunch spots all within a few blocks. Grocery options include neighborhood markets as well as larger stores just minutes away. The BeltLine Eastside Trail runs nearby, providing easy access to other neighborhoods, parks, and breweries via bike or foot.

Entertainment in VaHi is abundant. You’ll find live music, artisanal cocktails at rooftop bars, and cozy outdoor patios perfect for people-watching. The neighborhood borders Piedmont Park, one of the largest and most popular green spaces in the city, and is just minutes from the Atlanta Botanical Garden and Ponce City Market for food, shopping, and fun.

Single-family homes dominate, though some townhomes and condos are available. Prices tend to be higher due to the neighborhood’s popularity, historic charm, and central location. New luxury homes are available.

Virginia-Highland offers an authentic Atlanta experience, combining the feel of a quiet residential enclave with the vibrancy of a bustling commercial corridor.


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.