Nestled within the coronary heart of the South, the bustling epicenter of Atlanta provides a novel mix of historical past, numerous tradition, and thriving job market, charming newcomers searching for a brand new place to name dwelling. From its iconic landmarks and numerous neighborhoods to its culinary delights, there’s no denying that Atlanta holds an alluring appeal.
Nonetheless, like all metropolis, it comes with its share of trade-offs. Earlier than you make the leap and purchase a house or hire an house in Atlanta, it’s important to weigh the professionals and cons of dwelling in Atlanta. From its vibrant neighborhoods to visitors congestion, this Redfin article provides helpful insights into what life in Atlanta actually entails.
Professionals of dwelling in Atlanta, GA
1. The handy location
Atlanta’s strategic place serves as a significant transportation hub, with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Worldwide Airport being one of many busiest airports globally. The town’s intensive freeway community, together with the intersection of main interstates, makes touring to neighboring states and cities remarkably accessible. Moreover, Atlanta’s central location allows residents to take pleasure in quite a lot of day journeys to charming cities, scenic mountains, and serene coastal locations. Right here’s a couple of spots locals advocate:
Blue Ridge Mountains
“Glamping within the Blue Ridge Mountains is all the time an important year-round getaway about 2 hours from Atlanta,” explains Phnewfula, proprietor of Blissful Mango, a child boutique positioned in Atlanta, GA. “Bainbridge, GA can also be a improbable weekend journey. You’ll be able to keep on the Willis Park Lodge and go to one of many Seven Pure Wonders of Georgia on the Little Grand Canyon State Park. Helen GA, is like little Germany in Georgia, and is such a enjoyable expertise.”
Chattahoochie Hills, Birmingham, Charleston, and Savannah
“For a fast weekend getaway, I like to recommend exploring the idyllic Serenbe in Chattahoochee Hills, GA, soaking within the vibrant tradition of Birmingham, AL, and indulging within the historic appeal of Charleston, SC,” shares Atlanta Influences Every part, a artistic consulting company. “Alternatively, immerse your self within the coastal attract of Savannah, GA, or unwind on the serene shores of St. Simmons Island or Tybee Island. Every of those picturesque locations guarantees a pleasant escape stuffed with unforgettable experiences.”
Dahlonega
“Dahlonega, GA, boasts distinctive wineries and charming wine excursions, together with native breweries producing pleasant Beer and Meade,” suggests Michelle Dunbar, Administrative Accomplice at Clutch Bicycle Store. “For a coastal escape, head to Savannah, the place pristine seashores and wealthy historical past await. And if mountain vistas name to you, enterprise north of I-75, close to the Tennessee state line, the place cozy cabins supply an ideal retreat amidst awe-inspiring surroundings that stretches so far as the attention can see.”
2. Issues to do
From exploring the colourful Atlanta BeltLine and savoring Piedmont Park’s city oasis to immersing in tradition on the Excessive Museum of Artwork or Fox Theatre and spending time at Little 5 Factors’ distinctive outlets and bustling nightlife, Atlanta has an countless checklist of issues to do.
Georgia State Parks are extremely really useful by Atlanta native and Spa Director at D’LOR Salon & Spa, Kym Anderson, who praises the varied landscapes, from mountains to waterfalls, good for romantic getaways or lunch break escapes. Anderson additionally shares, “Atlanta’s leisure scene is a treasure trove for making connections. The town hosts occasions the place going solo is embraced, permitting you to mingle and forge friendships with individuals from throughout the globe. So, whether or not you search pure wonders or a vibrant social life, Atlanta has one thing actually particular to supply.”
A can’t miss occasion is October Delight. Finca to Filter, an ATL based mostly espresso store centered on celebrating humanity’s best by impressed drinks and celebratory occasions, explains “This occasion takes place throughout Nationwide LGBT Historical past Month, and it showcases the town’s welcoming and inclusive spirit. From colourful parades to participating cultural occasions, October Delight embraces range, advocates for equality, and fosters a robust sense of group.”
Atlanta-based beverage firm Eleven TLC cherishes the abundance of greenspaces and nature trails Atlanta, “The Metropolis within the Forest,” has to supply. “As somebody who loves mountaineering, I discover it pleasant that there’s all the time a mountaineering path close by to discover. From tranquil city parks to scenic trails nestled within the lush woods, Atlanta’s numerous landscapes supply countless alternatives to attach with nature and benefit from the metropolis’s distinctive mix of city and pure environments.”
3. Tradition
Atlanta, GA, boasts a vibrant and numerous tradition that displays its wealthy historical past and dynamic current as the town embraces a mix of conventional Southern hospitality and up to date city power. Residents contribute to a thriving arts scene, celebrated music traditions, and a booming movie trade. The town additionally values its civil rights legacy, with landmarks just like the Martin Luther King Jr. Nationwide Historic Park, serving as a reminder of its pivotal position within the American civil rights motion.
“Atlanta is a playground for the humanities,” states Dee-Ann Woolridge, proprietor of Clowning for You, providing quite a lot of leisure choices for events and occasions. “The town is dwelling to world-class museums, theaters, and music venues that can go away you awe-struck together with the Excessive Museum of Artwork, Fox Theatre, and a powerful music scene – from hip-hop and R&B to jazz and indie rock – with reside performances at iconic venues just like the Tabernacle or the Terminal West.”
“Through the years, Atlanta has remodeled right into a remarkably multicultural metropolis, and whereas many people are newcomers, we have now embraced it as our cherished dwelling,” says Michelle Dunbar, Administrative Accomplice at Clutch Bicycle Store. “The town provides considerable alternatives for numerous communities, and our development is aware of no bounds. Atlanta proudly carries the moniker of ‘the gateway to the South,’ symbolizing its welcoming spirit and pivotal position as a crossroads of cultures and concepts.”
4. The unbelievable meals scene
Atlanta’s meals scene is a tasty melting pot of flavors and cultures. From upscale eating institutions helmed by famend cooks to vibrant meals markets providing numerous worldwide cuisines, the town caters to each palate. Southern consolation meals, farm-to-table delights, and progressive fusion dishes are only a style of what awaits keen foodies in Atlanta. Beneath are some native favorites:
La Parilla for mexican meals
“Right here in Atlanta, there may be only a selection to fulfill anybody’s meals palette, states Shawn Brown, proprietor of CheeseCaked recognized for his or her hand-crafted cheesecakes – from cheesecake egg rolls and deep fried cheesecake to the Over The High Cheesecake Milkshakes. “I personally love Mexican meals and La Parilla has the perfect number of tacos, enchiladas however my favourite dish is their Fiesta salmon salad. Atlanta additionally hosts quite a lot of festivals starting from ice cream festivals to mac and cheese festivals which might be a can’t-miss occasion.”
Chef Moe’s Lunchbox
“Atlanta is the right metropolis for almost anybody,” says Jayde Mauldin, CEO and co-founder of the Deal with Truck serving scrumptious desserts throughout Atlanta. “Should you’re a foodie like me, there’s an countless quantity of wonderful meals from 5 star eating places to native meals vans. My private favourite, other than the Deal with Truck, is Chef Moe’s Lunchbox.
Atlanta satisfies all cravings
Blissful Mango provides a number of suggestions for eating choices in Atlanta. “For these in search of soul meals, the Busy Bee Cafe provides scrumptious Atlanta soul meals. Should you’re within the temper for quite a lot of cuisines, The Chattahoochee Meals Corridor supplies a little bit style of all the things. For these searching for upscale soul meals, South Metropolis Kitchen is a improbable choice. If you wish to discover completely different ethnic meals, Buford Freeway is the place to go. Lastly, Kamayan is a extremely really useful Filipino restaurant within the space.”
Consulting Company, Atlanta Influences Every part, additionally compiled a listing of their prime eating suggestions in Atlanta. “Soul Vegetarian provides quite a lot of plant-based dishes. Magic Metropolis Kitchen serves a number of the greatest wings. Slutty Vegan is very really useful for plant-based burgers. Poor Calvin’s is the place for wonderful mac and cheese. Zaddy’s or Humble Mumble are nice decisions for giant and attractive sandwiches. Native Inexperienced provides artistic vegan bites to fulfill your cravings.”
5. Atlanta’s neighborhoods
Atlanta boasts numerous neighborhoods, every with its personal appeal. Buckhead, recognized for luxurious dwelling and high-end procuring, contrasts with the inventive and bohemian vibe of Little 5 Factors. Historic Grant Park provides stunning parks and Victorian houses, whereas Midtown buzzes with cultural points of interest. East Atlanta is widely known for its hip and eclectic environment. Right here’s a couple of extra choices to contemplate from locals’ views.
West Finish
Finca and Filter want the West Finish neighborhood, and never simply because their store is positioned there. “Identified for its numerous tradition and powerful sense of group, West Finish boasts stunning historic houses, charming streets, and a thriving arts scene. It’s a spot the place historical past meets creativity, making it a novel and interesting vacation spot.”
Midtown
“Dwelling in Midtown is really like dwelling in an inclusive utopia,” says Mitchell Anderson, Founder and Government Chef at MetroFresh, a diner providing recent and wholesome meals. “The kaleidoscope of cultures, ethnicities, ages, sexual identities/expressions, and numerous vary of professions are throughout you right here. To be a part of this vibrant cultural life, to eat wonderful meals, to listen to unbelievable music, to stroll in stunning parks and neighborhoods, makes dwelling within the middle of Atlanta wonderful.”
Higher West Aspect and East Atlanta
“The Higher West Aspect has change into a cherished haven, providing an array of facilities and a full of life environment,” says Blissful Mango. “In the meantime, East Atlanta, with its numerous neighborhoods like East Atlanta Village, Little 5 Factors, and the Krog Road District, has gained my coronary heart as the last word place to reside. These areas current an eclectic mix of points of interest, catering to a variety of pursuits and tastes. From quirky boutiques to vibrant artwork scenes and culinary delights, this vibrant mixture of experiences is exactly why my household and I’ve chosen to name this a part of Atlanta our dwelling.”
Buckhead
“My favourite neighborhoods in Atlanta embody Buckhead, the place I attended Ok-12,” shares Atlanta Influences Every part. “Identified for its luxurious and upscale ambiance, Buckhead provides a charming mix of southern appeal and up to date aptitude, attracting celebrities and providing a glimpse of the town’s evolving panorama.”
Right here’s a brief description of a number of extra neighborhoods in Atlanta price trying out:
- Virginia-Highland: Quaint, walkable streets, fashionable boutiques, and eating places.
- Inman Park: Historic appeal, stunning Victorian homes, and the BeltLine path entry.
- Previous Fourth Ward: Artwork, eating, and the historic Martin Luther King Jr. website.
- Cabbagetown: Inventive neighborhood with murals, lofts, and a vibrant group.
- Poncey-Highland: Full of life space with nightlife, the Atlanta BeltLine, and Ponce Metropolis Market.
- Reynoldstown: Rising neighborhood, mixture of historic and trendy houses, and BeltLine proximity.
- Atlantic Station: City mixed-use growth with procuring, eating, and leisure.
- Candy Auburn: Wealthy historical past, Civil Rights landmarks, and cultural significance.
- Grant Park: Residence to Zoo Atlanta, historic houses, and Grant Park Conservancy.
- Ansley Park: Upscale neighborhood with tree-lined streets and Ansley Golf Membership.
- Little 5 Factors: Bohemian district with eclectic outlets, music venues, and various tradition.
- Chastain Park: Upscale space recognized for Chastain Park Amphitheatre and inexperienced areas.
6. Climate
“Due to Atlanta’s delicate and accommodating local weather, there may be all the time a wide selection of actions and occasions to take pleasure in all year long, explains Michelle Dunbar, Administrative Accomplice at Clutch Bicycle Store. “The town’s 4 distinct seasons supply a stability of heat summers, nice springs, colourful autumns, and delicate winters, catering to numerous preferences and pursuits.
In the course of the hotter months, you possibly can discover the quite a few parks and out of doors areas, bask in water sports activities at close by lakes, or attend full of life out of doors festivals and concert events,” says Dunbar. “Springtime welcomes blooming flowers and superb situations for mountaineering and biking within the surrounding nature reserves. Fall brings a tapestry of vibrant colours, creating an ideal setting for scenic drives and visits to native orchards and pumpkin patches. Even throughout the cooler months, Atlanta has indoor points of interest reminiscent of museums, theaters, and artwork galleries to maintain you entertained.”
7. Price of dwelling
“Amid the nationwide enhance within the price of dwelling, Atlanta stands out with a variable and comparatively inexpensive housing market,” shares Dunbar. “Potential residents can discover a vary of choices that swimsuit their wants and funds, from budget-friendly residences in bustling neighborhoods to extra spacious suburban houses. This flexibility in housing decisions permits people and households to find a dwelling association that aligns with their preferences with out breaking the financial institution.”
Whereas the median sale value for houses in Atlanta reached $439,200 in June 2023, about 3% greater than the nationwide median sale value, Atlanta dwelling costs are nonetheless a lot decrease than different main cities. For instance, Seattle and Boston each have a median sale value of over $800,000.
8. Parks, historic websites, and points of interest
“Centennial Olympic Park is a favourite spot in Atlanta, providing year-round actions like concert events, festivals, and sports activities,” shares Chetter Galloway, President at Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia. “Close by points of interest embody the School Soccer Corridor of Fame, The Georgia Aquarium, and the Coca Cola Museum. The Nationwide Middle for Civil and Human Rights is a current addition, leaving a profound influence. Piedmont Park in Midtown hosts out of doors actions, concert events, and festivals, attracting newcomers to its charming environment. The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Nationwide Historic Website showcases his delivery dwelling, museum, and Ebenezer Baptist Church, chronicling his outstanding journey.”
“Irrespective of the place I spend time on planet earth, this metropolis is all the time someplace I’m excited to return to and name dwelling,” shares L’Angela Lee, Pure Pores and skin Therapist herbalist, and proprietor of Honeysuckle Moon Self Care & Spa. “There’s a wealthy vegan meals group often called Historic West Finish that’s superior to any metropolis I’ve ever explored. Moreover, because it pertains to festivals and tradition, Atlanta’s many artists, thought leaders and inhabitants by no means disappoint in coming collectively to have a good time and help each other. Two of my favourite metropolis festivals are One MusicFest and Vibrant Moons Pure Wellness Pageant for the Indigenous Ladies. Merely put, ATL is the place it’s at.”
Cons of dwelling in Atlanta, GA
1. Sizzling and humid summers
Atlanta experiences sweltering summers with excessive temperatures and excessive humidity ranges. The warmth might be uncomfortable for some residents, necessitating greater power utilization for cooling and making out of doors actions much less gratifying.
2. Excessive property taxes
Whereas Atlanta’s property taxes aren’t excessively excessive in comparison with different main cities, it’s essential to analysis and perceive the long-term prices for knowledgeable choices on homeownership or renting in Atlanta. Atlanta’s property taxes can pose a major monetary burden for householders and renters, impacting housing affordability and general price of dwelling. Increased property tax charges may end up in elevated mortgage funds for householders and not directly have an effect on renters by potential hire will increase.
3. Site visitors congestion
Atlanta is infamous for its heavy visitors, particularly throughout rush hours. The town’s sprawling structure and dependence on automobiles can result in irritating each day commutes and prolonged journey occasions, impacting general high quality of life.
4. Air high quality
Atlanta often experiences poor air high quality as a consequence of visitors congestion and industrial actions that contribute to smog and particulate matter, which can pose well being dangers for delicate people, particularly these with respiratory situations. Residents could have to take additional precautions throughout days with poor air high quality, which can additionally influence out of doors actions and general well-being.
In the end, whether or not you select to maneuver to Atlanta or not, the professionals actually outweigh the cons when calling this dynamic metropolis dwelling.
