Locals Reveal 11 Insider Tips for Moving to Atlanta, GA

Welcome to the colourful metropolis of Atlanta, Georgia – a spot the place historical past meets modernity, and Southern hospitality intertwines with city power. Whether or not you’re contemplating a transfer to Atlanta or have lately turn out to be a resident, you’ll shortly discover there’s a lot extra to this metropolis than the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola. Town is stuffed with vibrant tradition, worldwide flavors, and historic neighborhoods to discover.

Nonetheless, making the transition to a brand new metropolis could be each exhilarating and difficult. When you’re seeking to purchase a home in Atlanta or lease an residence within the metropolis, you’re almost certainly eager about listening to what Atlanta residents must say in regards to the metropolis.  On this Redfin article, we’ll present ideas and recommendation backed by ATL locals to make sure a easy transition so you may dwell your finest life in Atlanta, GA.

1. Dwell close to the MARTA

MARTA, brief for Metropolitan Atlanta Fast Transit Authority, is town’s main public transportation system. It encompasses buses and a speedy transit community, together with heavy and light-weight rail providers. MARTA affords handy connectivity all through Atlanta, lowering visitors congestion and offering an eco-friendly transport possibility for residents and guests.

“When you’re an avid traveler or must be on the airport rather a lot for work, you’ll undoubtedly need to dwell close to MARTA,” suggests Jessica Camerata, Proprietor of An Indigo Day, an Atlanta-based way of life weblog. “Whereas Atlanta sadly lacks an incredible public transportation system, attending to and from the airport is a breeze if you happen to’re close to a Marta cease. It’s probably the greatest methods to keep away from our notorious rush hour visitors when it’s essential jet off.”

2. Neighboring cities are definitely worth the day journey

The Duluth group is exceptionally various with actions, occasions, and companies that meet all ranges of curiosity. Town has some distinctive thrifting experiences akin to Wellspring Residing Treasures, an upscale resale retailer with high-end clothes, high quality furnishings, and items. It’s additionally a hub for communities to have interaction with their work and be part of the answer to assist restore lives of survivors of exploitation and coercion.

Different close by cities price exploring embrace Decatur, Sandy Springs, Marietta, Alpharetta, and Roswell.

3. Perceive the price of dwelling

“Whereas town gives a variety of housing choices catering to various budgets, the price of dwelling in Atlanta can differ considerably from one space to a different,” explains digital content material creator, Arkeedah McCormick. “Analysis turns into a vital software in navigating this spectrum. By understanding neighborhood-specific prices and facilities, you may higher tailor your funds, making knowledgeable choices that align together with your monetary objectives. Whether or not you’re drawn to the guts of town’s pulse or searching for a quieter suburban haven, a well-researched funds ensures you may absolutely get pleasure from all that Atlanta has to supply with out sacrificing your monetary consolation.”

Whereas the median sale worth for properties in Atlanta reached $439,650 in June 2023, nearly 3.5% greater than the nationwide median sale worth, Atlanta dwelling costs are nonetheless a lot decrease than different main cities. For instance, Seattle and Boston each have a median sale worth over $800,000. Or, there are many inexpensive suburbs in Atlanta if you happen to’d moderately dwell on the outskirts of town.

Home in Atlanta, GA

4. Discover Atlanta’s neighborhoods

“Atlanta’s tapestry is woven with a wealthy variety of neighborhoods, every boasting its personal distinct persona,” explains digital content material creator, Arkeedah McCormick. “From the historic attraction of Inman Park to the inventive attract of Little 5 Factors, town caters to an array of life. It’s a canvas the place fashionable high-rises stand alongside quaint bungalows, and bustling business districts coexist with serene residential pockets. Researching the totally different neighborhoods turns into pivotal in discovering your ultimate match. Whether or not you search a vibrant city scene, a family-friendly atmosphere, or a tranquil retreat, diving into the character, facilities, and native points of interest of every neighborhood can information you towards a spot that resonates together with your preferences and way of life. Every nook of Atlanta is a world of its personal, ready to welcome you into its distinctive embrace.”

5. Atlanta loves native

“Atlanta has an extremely wealthy group round good, clear, and truthful meals,” shares Lisa Nguyen, Communications Co-Chair for Sluggish Meals Atlanta, a nonprofit group that promotes native meals and conventional cooking. “There are such a lot of methods to faucet into native agriculture and assist the area’s farmers and producers. Top off on native produce at one of many many group farmers markets in Atlanta’s circuit, or comply with the path of snail-approved meals and beverage companies.”

6. Be ready for the visitors and the subtropical local weather

“Put together to embrace Atlanta’s scorching summers, as town’s local weather infuses its vibrant character into each day life,” states Armanko Pictures Studio, specializing in enterprise branding. “The extreme heat turns into greater than climate; it’s the backdrop to outside festivals, picnics, and al fresco eating. Whereas exploring Atlanta’s neighborhoods and points of interest, brace for infrequent visitors congestion. As a bustling city middle, town experiences notably excessive visitors ranges throughout rush hours and occasions. Adapt by planning routes, utilizing public transport, or exploring on foot.”

Highway traffic reflected in a vehicle mirror

7. Familiarize your self with the Beltline

“When you haven’t but determined the place in Atlanta you need to put down roots, I’d advocate someplace close to the Atlanta Beltline,” says Malika Bowling, blogger at Atlanta Restaurant Weblog. “It’s tremendous distinctive to Atlanta. It’s a 33-mile paved path of strolling and bike paths that connects on the town neighborhoods in a loop across the metropolis with parks, avenue artwork, meals halls and neighborhood structure to glimpse alongside the way in which. I like to park and stroll to my favourite brunch spot after which stroll off brunch afterwards.”

8. Discover Georgia’s meals scene

Exploring the meals scene is a can’t-miss Atlanta bucket checklist merchandise for brand spanking new residents. “Georgia’s attract owes a lot to its wealthy and various culinary panorama,” says Danny Kim, Proprietor of Native Expedition Wooden Fired Grill. “It rivals any massive metropolis, providing an array of ethnic cuisines. The times of being restricted to hen wings and visits to the long-lasting Waffle Home are lengthy gone. As a substitute, newcomers will discover themselves moving into Michelin-starred eating institutions that seamlessly coexist with hidden gems tucked away in unassuming corners. From upscale venues to the standard but mouthwatering delights served at native “gap within the wall” institutions, Georgia’s meals scene guarantees a journey that caters to each palate and sense of culinary exploration.”

“One of many issues I like most about being right here is the meals,” explains Cristy Lenz, proprietor of Meals Excursions Atlanta. “I all the time say you could find good meals at any worth level within the metropolis and burbs. From tacos and pho, to Korean BBQ and Persian, Atlanta has all of it. What’s more durable to seek out is conventional southern meals like fried hen and mac n cheese. For that it’s essential go to The Colonnade, South Metropolis Kitchen, Busy Bee Cafe,or Matthews Cafeteria. A few of my favourite locations to eat within the metropolis are close to my very own neighborhood. I head to Krog Avenue Market for Little Tart, Jai Ho, and Ticonderoga Membership. Ponce Metropolis Market is dwelling to El Superpan, H&F Burger, Atrium, and Bottiwalla. Lyla Lia is my go-to for the brief rib ravioli, Kimball Home for the oysters, and Resort Clermont for Tiny Lou’s and the spectacular rooftop views.”

“After transferring to an Atlanta suburb 15 years in the past from the Northeast, we shortly grew to become infatuated with Southern delicacies,” says Adam, founding father of Ramble Atlanta, a useful resource for all issues Atlanta. “Lots of our favourite eating places are positioned in historic buildings, nestled within the many walkable metropolis facilities scattered across the suburbs of Atlanta. To call a number of, Milton’s Delicacies and Cocktails in Milton, Desk and Most important in Roswell, South Most important Kitchen in Alpharetta, and Century Home in Woodstock. These eating places mix historic attraction and easy, but scrumptious flavors that hold us coming again again and again. After all, the fried hen too.”

if you're planning on moving to Atlanta, you'll have great restaurants to try

9. Town caters to automotive fans

“For automotive fans, Atlanta ranks as one of many finest in America,” states Rod Worley, writer and editor at Vettes of Atlanta Journal. “The colourful automotive group showcases the total vary from purists to customized designers, racers to informal meetups. From the SAVOY car museum, Street Atlanta, NASCAR’s Atlanta Motor Speedway, and Atlanta Motorsports Park, there’s something right here for everybody. Additionally, for individuals who get pleasure from spirited driving, the world-famous “Tail of the Dragon” mountain move and the breathtaking North Georgia mountains are to not be missed.”

10. Don’t miss Amalfi Cucina & Mercato

Amalfi Cucina & Mercato is a standard Italian restaurant with areas in Downtown Atlanta ‍and Buckhead. House owners Stephen de Haan and Greg Grant skilled with Italian Pizzaiolo Maestros in Naples and studied within the Associazione Verace Pizza Napolentana. They launched refined Italian avenue meals to Atlanta by way of Amalfi Cucina & Mercato, providing basic Italian dishes like Rooster Parmigiano and conventional pastas, alongside shareable appetizers, salads, and authentic desserts. Their restaurant features a full bar, craft cocktails, and wines chosen by a sommelier. 

Identified for Neapolitan-style pizzas, their signature, Pizza Amalfi, is a standout. These pizzas start with dough created from D.O.P. components and are cooked in wood-burning brick ovens imported from Italy. Amalfi Cucina & Mercato’s pizzas earned recognition from the Meals Community and a spot in Affiliation Vera Pizza Napoletana. The Italian menu was reimagined by Govt Chef Santiago Echavarria, a 25-year veteran.

11. Be prepared for the unbelievable arts and music scene

“When you’re considering a transfer to Atlanta, you’re in for a dynamic city expertise with a wealthy cultural scene and various communities,” shares Grant Eshback, founding father of Open Dwelling Mortgage, Inc. “Atlanta’s arts and music scene vibrantly thrives with various galleries, theaters, and venues. From the Excessive Museum of Artwork to iconic phases just like the Fox Theatre, town affords a wealthy tapestry of cultural experiences. The music scene, spanning genres from hip-hop to classical, finds its dwelling in venues just like the Tabernacle and Selection Playhouse. Atlanta’s artistic pulse ensures each artwork fans and music aficionados can immerse themselves in an inspiring journey.”

Transferring to Atlanta: last ideas

“This metropolis is a melting pot the place totally different cultures intersect, making a wealthy tapestry of traditions, languages, and views that make Atlanta a very good place to dwell. Its cultural scene pulsates with power, inviting residents and newcomers alike to immerse themselves in a world of prospects,” shares Arkeedah McCormick. “From the soulful rhythms of its music to the charming strokes of its artwork, Atlanta’s artistic expressions replicate its cosmopolitan essence. Culinary fans can savor world flavors in each nook, as town’s various neighborhoods provide a pleasant array of worldwide cuisines. Embrace this melting pot of cultures, and permit your self to discover the rhythm of life in Atlanta by way of its thriving music venues, charming galleries, and a culinary scene that celebrates the world’s palate.”