Atlanta, Georgia, is famous for its southern hospitality, its high-performing sports teams and its busy airport. Music and the arts have great importance in this diverse city, too, and there’s always a new gallery or rising artist to check out on any given weekend.
| FUN FACTS ABOUT ATLANTA |
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| Atlanta hosted the 1996 Summer World Olympics. |
| Soda lovers appreciate that Atlanta is the Birthplace of Coca-Cola. |
| Atlanta is home to the busiest airport in the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. |
| Atlanta appeals to sports lovers with professional sports teams in football, baseball, basketball, women's basketball, and soccer. |
There’s a lot to love about Atlanta, but not everyone is ready to commit to the traffic and dense population of more than 500,000 residents. For those seeking a quieter life within driving range of the city, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best suburbs.
10. Carrollton
Population: 27,793
Median Home Value: $283,100
Mean Travel Time to Work: 16.8 minutes
School Ranking: A
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 567
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 77
Located approximately 45 miles west of Atlanta, Carrollton is the largest city in its county, with a population of over 27,000 residents. Life in Carrollton is never dull. Whether you’re hitting the many bike trails, watching a show at the amphitheater or learning more about the state’s textile history at the Southeastern Quilt and Textile Museum, we guarantee you won’t be bored.
This small town is filled with fun including parks with horse riding, fishing and camping opportunities. With two colleges and excellent public schools, education is stellar. Find your new home in Carrollton today!
9. Suwanee
Population: 22,913
Median Home Value: $439,700
Mean Travel Time to Work: 33.2 minutes
School Ranking: A
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 523
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 29
Suwanee is located approximately 33 miles northeast of Atlanta and is known for its great parks, ranging from Suwanee Creek Park to Suwanee Town Center Park, which includes a splash pad and an amphitheater. Residents also enjoy visiting the community garden at White Street Park by day and catching a bluegrass show at Everett’s Music Barn by night.
Suwanee was home for the Atlanta Falcons until 2001. It also has a strong focus on public art and excellent schools. An array of talented homebuilders are building across this city, so be sure to check out their home listings.
8. Sugar Hill
Population: 25,889
Median Home Value: $375,900
Mean Travel Time to Work: 34.1 minutes
School Ranking: A
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 237
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 21
Located just north of Suwanee, Sugar Hill is a thriving community of over 25,000 residents. This sprawling community has all of the delights of a larger city, from its shopping centers to its outdoor activities. E.E. Robinson Park is the play to be to watch a baseball game, and The Bowl is the spot for concerts and outdoor movies.
The cost of living is less giving you more for your money. With proximity to Lake Lanier, you can create precious memories enjoying all sorts of water recreation. Your sweet home in Sugar Hill is waiting for you!
7. Duluth
Population: 32,350
Median Home Value: $366,000
Mean Travel Time to Work: 31.3 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 400
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 49
There’s a lot to love about Duluth! Located 30 miles northeast of Atlanta, Duluth offers great restaurants, shopping centers and sources of entertainment. The Infinite Energy Center is a 13,000-seat venue for concerts, sporting events and conventions. Those wanting to test their ice skating skills can visit the Atlanta IceForum. Prefer historical activities? Swing by the Southeastern Railway Museum. What are you waiting for?
This small town is sure to impress with its arts and culture, parks and recreation and historic downtown. Families appreciate the excellent schools and easy access to the big city. Check out the homes available in Duluth!
6. Johns Creek
Population: 81,108
Median Home Value: $583,700
Mean Travel Time to Work: 33.1 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 451
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 40
Johns Creek is the most populous suburb on our list, with over 80,000 residents calling it home. Located just north of Duluth, Johns Creek is home to great parks and nature preserves, including a park just for dogs. Johns Creek also has multiple golfing ranges and a great shopping plaza complete with many restaurants and a movie theater.
This diverse community is consistently ranked high for safety. With recreation, a great location, and a welcoming community, your new home in Johns Creek is just around the corner!
5. Buford
Population: 18,273
Median Home Value: $346,400
Mean Travel Time to Work: 30.4 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 211
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 19
Located approximately 39 miles northeast of Atlanta, Buford is small in population but large in things to do. One highlight is the Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center, which features a bowling alley, arcade and restaurant. Avid shoppers will love the Mall of Georgia, which features a wide variety of stores and has grand architecture.
Of course, you’ll also find all of the other amenities you’d expect in a suburb, such as parks and coffee shops. The historic main street is home to Tannery Row Artist Colony featuring amazing local artists. Spend time outdoors at scenic spaces including Lake Lanier and Buford Dam Park. Look for your new home in Buford!
4. Alpharetta
Population: 67,056
Median Home Value: $605,700
Mean Travel Time to Work: 28.3 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 906
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 191
Alpharetta is another northeast suburb of Atlanta, with a sizable population of over 67,000 residents. Alpharetta has it all, from top-class education to beautiful parks. Days can be spent shopping at North Point Mall or tackling the Wills Park Recreation Center, which even includes an equestrian arena. Spend your evenings catching a show at the outdoor America Bank Amphitheater or getting a beer at one of the local breweries.
With a thriving culinary scene and a strong economy, Alpharetta is the perfect Atlanta suburb. Choose an upscale neighborhood and enjoy the vibrant economy. Take a look and find your new home in Alpharetta!
3. Peachtree City
Population: 40,193
Median Home Value: $461,000
Mean Travel Time to Work: 28.8 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 472
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 15
Peachtree City has all the Georgia spirit, both in name and in activities. Located approximately 30 miles southwest of Atlanta, Peachtree City is full of beautiful parks that have everything from jogging trails to golf ranges. It's known for being the "Golf Cart Capital" with more than 100 miles of paved cart paths.
The presence of Lake Peachtree means plenty of boating and swimming during the hot Georgia summer. There’s also the thriving downtown scene, which you can enjoy with peace of mind due to the city’s notably low violent crime rates.
Your peachy new life in Peachtree City awaits you; check out the house listings today!
2. Decatur
Population: 24,307
Median Home Value: $655,900
Mean Travel Time to Work: 26.7 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 560
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 21
Welcome to Decatur! Only about five miles northeast of downtown Atlanta, Decatur is a beautiful suburb to behold, particularly the Decatur Square, which features a variety of restaurants and shops, all with aesthetic decorations. History lovers will enjoy the DeKalb History Center, which is in an old courthouse featuring artifacts from the Civil War and other eras.
From farmer's markets to festivals to friendly people, this safe Georgia city is an excellent place to put down roots. Meet your neighbors at events including the Decatur Book Festival and Summer in The City. Discover your next home in Decatur!
1. Milton
Population: 41,383
Median Home Value: $712,200
Mean Travel Time to Work: 28.7 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 226
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 30
Milton, an affluent suburb located more than 30 miles north of Atlanta, is relatively new, as far as suburbs go. Created out of unincorporated parts of Fulton County, the city was formed in 2006. Life in Milton is peaceful and quiet, and residents love the suburban-rural feel of the city. There’s no shortage of parks to walk in and golf ranges to visit, not to mention various farms and stables. With remarkably low crime ratings, a leisurely lifestyle and plenty of the great outdoors, it’s easy to see why Milton is No. 1!
Milton is ranked consistently among the most safe cities in this state. It also has been recognized as "The Best City to Live in Georgia". This luxurious suburb is sure to check off your wants and needs list. Ready to move to the top suburb in Atlanta? Find your new home today!
Additional Suburbs
| Suburb | Pop. | Median Home Value | Mean Travel to Work | School Rank | Property Crimes | Violent Crimes |
| Peachtree Corners | 42,136 | $467,300 | 28.9 minutes | A- | 466 | 18 |
| Roswell | 91,706 | $520,500 | 30.3 minutes | A | 1,148 | 172 |
| Cartersville | 24,937 | $298,000 | 24.7 minutes | A- | 518 | 95 |
| Kennesaw | 34,683 | $291,300 | 33.4 minutes | A | 273 | 88 |
| Acworth | 22,379 | $309,800 | 31.8 minutes | A- | 277 | 11 |
| Lilburn | 15,862 | $278,600 | 31.1 minutes | A- | 404 | 24 |
| Woodstock | 38,473 | $387,300 | 37.7 minutes | A | 434 | 40 |
| Smyrna | 56,566 | $409,000 | 29.8 minutes | B+ | 909 | 164 |
| Lawrenceville | 31,015 | $335,100 | 33.7 minutes | B+ | 688 | 86 |
| Fayetteville | 20,083 | $331,700 | 32.7 minutes | A- | 521 | 21 |
| Canton | 36,857 | $369,700 | 34.4 minutes | A- | 283 | 57 |
| Loganville | 16,516 | $321,800 | 34.5 minutes | A- | 207 | 18 |
| Snellville | 22,067 | $293,400 | 44 minutes | B+ | 516 | 41 |
| Sandy Springs | 105,793 | $583,900 | 25.2 minutes | A- | 1,826 | 162 |
| Newnan | 44,940 | $327,800 | 27.6 minutes | A- | 884 | 277 |
| Marietta | 62,769 | $401,100 | 28.7 minutes | A- | 1,948 | 214 |
| Villa Rica | 18,703 | $250,700 | 31.2 minutes | A- | 260 | 18 |
| Powder Springs | 18,950 | $283,700 | 38.4 minutes | B | 285 | 33 |
| Dunwoody | 49,459 | $579,400 | 26.2 minutes | B | 1,877 | 116 |
| Monroe | 15,929 | $222,000 | 25.8 minutes | B+ | 335 | 66 |
| Winder | 19,669 | $251,700 | 31.3 minutes | B+ | 282 | 54 |
| North Druid Hills | 18,947 | $486,200 | 23.4 minutes | B- | 1,050 | 133 |
| Dallas | 14,985 | $234,700 | 32.2 minutes | B | 303 | 37 |
| Covington | 14,677 | $242,700 | 27.4 minutes | B- | 545 | 79 |
| Stockbridge | 35,452 | $248,000 | 32.3 minutes | B- | 623 | 90 |
| Druid Hills | 14,568 | $790,900 | 24.7 minutes | B- | 981 | 125 |
| Mableton | 37,115 | $306,200 | 33.9 minutes | B- | 973 | 140 |
| North Decatur | 16,698 | $459,000 | 27.3 minutes | B- | 1,050 | 133 |
| Douglasville | 39,049 | $313,500 | 31.3 minutes | B- | 1,889 | 185 |
| Gainesville | 47,265 | $337,000 | 21.9 minutes | B- | 1,196 | 174 |
| Conyers | 19,505 | $218,000 | 27.5 minutes | C | 586 | 122 |
| Brookhaven | 57,945 | $660,300 | 26 minutes | B- | 1,469 | 211 |
| Griffin | 24,044 | $195,100 | 25.5 minutes | C | 805 | 245 |
| Chamblee | 31,841 | $407,900 | 27.9 minutes | C+ | 1,279 | 210 |
| McDonough | 32,138 | $285,800 | 31.7 minutes | C+ | 847 | 94 |
| Tucker | 36,975 | $359,300 | 32.3 minutes | C+ | 1,085 | 111 |
| Belvedere Park | 15,152 | $266,000 | 36 minutes | C | 3,254 | 413 |
| Forest Park | 20,063 | $119,000 | 28.4 minutes | C- | 816 | 183 |
| Redan | 33,015 | $197,600 | 39.7 minutes | C | 3,672 | 467 |
| Lithia Springs | 16,644 | $199,500 | 29.7 minutes | C+ | 3,331 | 423 |
| Union City | 27,832 | $223,100 | 28 minutes | C | 461 | 74 |
| Fairburn | 16,661 | $249,200 | 24.7 minutes | C | 660 | 52 |
| Riverdale | 15,594 | $160,000 | 28.6 minutes | C- | 558 | 97 |
| College Park | 15,212 | $314,500 | 32.9 minutes | C- | 1,097 | 247 |
| East Point | 38,115 | $247,500 | 30.5 minutes | C | 4,260 | 441 |
| South Fulton | 110,920 | $270,600 | 33.8 minutes | B | 3,174 | 717 |
| Stonecrest | 60,677 | $223,100 | 37 minutes | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Candler-McAfee | 23,025 | $239,400 | 36.3 minutes | N/A | 3,674 | 467 |
Every Day Is an Opening Day
Atlanta is a vibrant city that draws in crowds of new folks each year. Likewise, Atlanta’s suburbs have also been growing and diversifying over the years, and there are many great choices for those wanting to live close to Atlanta without living in the city proper. Whether you choose the big city or suburbia, you’re guaranteed to find a great place to live!
NewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. These factors were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each suburb.
Other Georgia Resources
Best Suburbs Surrounding Macon, Georgia
Your complete guide to moving to Athens, GA
Your complete guide to moving to Macon, Georgia
Best Suburbs Surrounding Savannah, Georgia
Best Suburbs Surrounding Augusta, Georgia
Moving to Augusta? Read Our Relocation Guide
10 Best State Parks in Georgia
The Best Places to Live in Georgia
How to Build a House in Georgia
10 Most Affordable Cities in Georgia
Everything You Need to Know About Closing Costs in Georgia
The 10 Best Places to Retire in Georgia
Best Master Planned Communities Near Atlanta
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Georgia
Best Tiny Home Builders in Georgia
Best Suburbs Near Atlanta, 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.