The 11 Best Areas to Live Surrounding Atlanta, GA

While Atlanta, Georgia, has many beautiful neighborhoods and areas to live in, it can be daunting trying to decide where to settle down. After all, Metro Atlanta encompasses 13 counties, with a wide range of towns and neighborhoods, some more rural than others.

Don’t worry if space is on your wish list and city life isn’t for you; in Atlanta, you’ll have many alternatives for suburban living. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the 11 best suburbs around Atlanta.

Peachtree City

Located in Fayette County, Peachtree City is a beautiful suburb with plenty of amenities. Peachtree City has more than 100 miles of paved multi-use routes, so residents may leave their automobiles parked and travel around the area in golf carts. An accompanying extensive walking and biking trails network makes getting around town a breeze.

You’ll also find top-notch schools, a thriving business community, and plenty of parks and green spaces. Peachtree City’s crime rate is low, and it’s one of Georgia’s safest cities. Lake Peachtree’s proximity means plenty of boating and swimming during the hot Georgia summer. There’s also a thriving downtown area.

While this area does offer some shopping and local restaurants, many citizens recommend visiting Atlanta for more exciting things to do and places to shop.

Since it’s roughly 30 miles south of downtown Atlanta, you’ll get more room for your money. In February 2022, Peachtree City had 175 listings with the median list price of $475,000.

Brookhaven

Just north of Atlanta, Brookhaven is an excellent option for those who want to be close to the city but still have a sense of community. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Brookhaven is the best suburb of Atlanta, and it’s one to consider if you’re relocating to Atlanta.

This suburb has a small-town feel with plenty of shops and restaurants along its main street and excellent public schools. It’s also home to Atlanta’s famed Piedmont Park. A few of its advantages: a large number of parks in just 12 square miles, a wide range of chef-driven, locally-owned restaurants, and great accessibility.

Around 40% of its inhabitants are millennials, contributing to an up-and-coming atmosphere tough to match.

Brookhaven had 214 homes for sale in February 2022 with a median list price of $607,000.

Alpharetta

Alpharetta is a thriving suburb located in Fulton County, north of Atlanta, with over 66,000 people. It’s home to a number of large corporations and plenty of shopping and dining options, such as the North Point Mall and the Avalon outdoor mall. You’ll also find excellent schools here and a variety of parks and recreation facilities. Alpharetta has it all, from top-notch schools to lovely parks.

The equestrian arena at the Wills Park Recreation Center attracts visitors and residents for various equine events. Spend your evenings seeing a show at America Bank Amphitheater or drinking a beer at one of the area’s breweries.

Alpharetta is simple to get in and out of with excellent access to the freeway. If you can handle the higher cost of living in the area, it’s a great place to work, reside, and raise a family. Alpharetta had 613 homes for sale with a median list price of $569,900 in February 2022.

Buford

Buford is a small town located 39 miles north of Atlanta in Gwinnett County, just south of scenic Lake Lanier. It’s got a historic, vibrant downtown district with stunning architecture, a variety of shopping and dining options, a flourishing job market, and top-rated schools. It’s perfect for those who want a little bit of everything.

Although Buford isn’t particularly large in population, it has much to offer. The Mall of Georgia offers shoppers a wide range of stores. The Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center, for example, includes a bowling alley, arcade, and restaurant. Of course, you’ll find all the other goodies that come with living in the burbs, such as plenty of outdoor activities in the nearby parks and coffee shops.

Buford had 413 homes for sale with a median list price of $445,000 in February 2022.

Sandy Springs

Sandy Springs’ convenient location and big-city amenities make it ideal for suburban and city living. Sandy Springs is Georgia’s sixth-largest city, with a population of around 100,000 and continuously growing. Sandy Springs sits about 15 miles north of downtown Atlanta, close to I-285 and GA 400.

The town is just a 20-minute drive from downtown Atlanta and has beautiful parks to explore, plenty of stores to visit, a strong sense of community, and outstanding public schools. Residents enjoy the natural beauty of the 22 miles of Chattanooga river shoreline and 950 acres of parkland, which set it apart from other Atlanta suburbs.

The lifestyle has numerous activities, like the summer Lantern Parade and December’s Sparkle Sandy Springs. The Heritage Museum hosts a Farmer’s Market every Saturday.

The city’s center is “City Springs,” a multi-purpose development at the junction of Roswell Road, Johnson Ferry, Sandy Springs Circle, and Mt Vernon. In addition to offering more than 300 restaurants, world-class shopping, and plenty of nature exploration opportunities, Sandy Springs is one of Georgia’s finest places to live.

Sandy Springs, Georgia, is a pricey location when it comes to real estate. While it has a 19 percent lower crime rate than the national average, its housing prices are average national averages. There were 417 homes for sale in February 2022, with a median list price of $575,000.

Roswell

Drive on Highway 400 to Roswell for old southern charm. Roswell has a long history dating back to the Civil War; nevertheless, today’s Roswell retains its individuality while incorporating modern flair.

This Atlanta suburb in Fulton County’s known for its well-rounded lifestyle. The amenities offered by this riverfront city include a lovely and lively downtown with craft beer and local cuisine. One gorgeous area is the historic district, which has a slew of excellent restaurants, shops, and galleries along Canton Street.

Roswell has over 900 miles of parkland and seven miles of pathways along the Chattahoochee River.

Another bonus: the well-rated public schools, which are among the top in the state. Taken together, it’s easy to see why Frommers listed Roswell as one of the greatest cities in the country for families.

There were 363 homes for sale in February 2022, with a median list price of $500,000.

Decatur

The bustling city of Decatur, Georgia, in DeKalb County, is a great place to live in East Atlanta. Decatur is a small southern town only minutes from downtown and close to trendy Atlanta neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland, Grant Park, Inman Park, and Candler Park. While it has a more urban vibe than the other Atlanta suburbs on this list, you won’t find honking horns or high buildings here. According to Niche.com, it ranks No. 1 on “The Best Places to Live in Georgia.”

With a vibrant community and easy access to all that Atlanta has to offer (including many job opportunities), and its own attractions, Decatur is an outstanding location to call home. This suburb has a small-town feel with plenty of shops and restaurants along its main street and excellent public schools.

Decatur’s hip downtown areas are easily walkable and lined with world-class restaurants that will make your mouth water and charming boutiques that will leave your money in your pocket. Agnes Scott College is located in Decatur, drawing a youthful and progressive crowd.

While most of Decatur’s inhabitants are homeowners, rent is less expensive than other Atlanta suburbs, and there are plenty of nicely appointed apartments for rent. Another perk of living in Decatour is that it’s just 15 miles away from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

There were 715 homes for sale in February 2022, with a median list price of $300,000.

North Druid Hills

North Druid Hills is an Atlanta northern suburb located in Dekalb County, known for its high-quality schools, southern hospitality, and abundance of recreational activities. Despite being outside the city center, North Druid Hills has an urban feel that attracts modern millennials. You’re apt to find families and kids out walking around.

You’ll find plenty of shopping and dining options here and several cultural attractions. These include the Georgia Aquarium and the Olmstead Linear Park.

North Druid Hills has an urban feel that attracts modern millennials. Many new developments have gorgeous contemporary multi-family residents, and historic homes are available.

There were 67 homes for sale with a median list price of $499,900 and February 2022.

Avondale Estates

Avondale Estates in Dekalb County was founded as a planned community in 1924 by George Francis Willis, a landowner from Stratford-upon-Avon, England. The East Atlanta town was inspired by their time in England, so much of the old Avondale Estates remains reminiscent of a Victorian village.

It’s known for its quaint downtown area with shops and restaurants, tree-lined streets, and proximity to Emory University. The downtown street has maintained its small village appearance. The streets are lined with Tudor-style buildings.

Avondale offers a wide selection of art galleries, live theater and music venues, and dining options. It’s also home to Academy Theatre, Georgia’s longest-operating professional theater. In 1955, the first Waffle House opened in Avondale Estates; today, it’s the Waffle House Museum. The downtown was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986, so you’ll find plenty of history nearby if you pick an address in Avondale Estates.

Besides a unique look and culture, Avondale Estates includes excellent public schools. You’ll also find a numerous parks and recreation facilities here.

In February 2022, there were 45 homes for sale with a median list price of $525,000.

Dunwoody

Dunwoody, nestled in DeKalb County, offers a perfect mix of urban conveniences and suburban charm. With a median home price of $570,000, housing options range from spacious single-family homes to contemporary condos and townhouses. The renowned Perimeter Center area provides residents with extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Parks like Brook Run and Dunwoody Nature Center offer beautiful green spaces for outdoor activities. Dunwoody’s schools are highly rated, making it a great place for families. The community is also home to cultural attractions like the Spruill Center for the Arts.

Dunwoody’s strategic location offers easy access to major highways, enhancing its appeal for commuters. The suburb’s blend of amenities and community events, such as the annual Lemonade Days festival, foster a welcoming environment. Dunwoody continues to attract homebuyers seeking a vibrant yet relaxed lifestyle.

Johns Creek

In this Fulton County suburb, you’ll find a beautiful and peaceful community. Johns Creek residents value convenience and safety above all else, and everyone is welcome. What it lacks in big-city attractions, it makes up for with small-town enthusiasm and several festivals.

Additionally, the region is culturally varied, and it strives to emphasize this through a variety of international festivals. The Founder’s Day Parade and the Johns Creek Art Festival are two of John’s Creek’s most distinctive festivals. Visit for the events, but stay for the welcome in this city suburb.

If you’re seeking one of the safest places to live in Georgia, Johns Creek should be at the top of your list. The crime rate is extremely low, and 24/7 Wall St. has named this Atlanta outskirt zip code one of the best to live in America.

What are some of the qualities that make life here so appealing? The poverty rate is five percent, putting it among the bottom 10% of municipalities in the United States. Johns Creek public education is outstanding: about 88 percent of high school graduates obtain a four-year college degree.

Johns Creek is home to more than 50 parks and nature trails, plus golf courses and country clubs. Stellar amenities such as numerous restaurants, movie theaters, and the Chattahoochee River and National Park only add to the appeal.

Johns Creek’s real estate market had 203 homes for sale in February 2022 with a medium list price of $550,000.

Marietta

In Cobb County, Marietta is known for its rich history and family-friendly atmosphere. The median home price of $478,000 reflects its range of real estate options, from historic homes to new developments and townhouses. The historic Marietta Square is a focal point, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural events.

Parks like Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park provide ample outdoor recreation. The suburb is served by top-rated schools, making it attractive for families. Marietta also hosts numerous community events, including the popular Marietta Streetfest.

With its convenient location and vibrant community, Marietta is a top choice for homebuyers. Its historic charm and modern amenities blend to ensure a high quality of life. The suburb’s diverse real estate market caters to a wide range of preferences and budgets.

Milton

Milton is a newer and affluent suburb with 38,000 residents located more than 30 miles north of Atlanta. The city was established in 2006 from unincorporated parts of Fulton County. Milton was named #6 for Best Towns for Raising a Family in Georgia and the fourth safest place in Georgia (Niche).

With exceptionally low crime rates, a leisurely way of life, and lots of great nature surrounding it, it’s easy to see why Milton is a leading city! Residents enjoy Milton’s quiet and peaceful atmosphere, and life there is slow-paced. There are plenty of parks to stroll through, golf courses, equestrian stables, and various farms.

Milton is the most expensive suburb on our list. The town had 310 homes for sale with a median list price of $907,500 in February 2022.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Suburbs to Live Near Atlanta

What is the nicest suburb of Atlanta?

Alpharetta is frequently regarded as one of the nicest suburbs of Atlanta. It features a thriving downtown area with popular spots like Avalon and North Point Mall, top-rated schools, and a wide range of dining and entertainment options. Alpharetta’s mix of urban amenities and suburban charm makes it a top choice for families and professionals.

Another top contender is Johns Creek, known for its excellent schools, affluent neighborhoods, and strong sense of community. With beautiful parks, diverse dining options, and a safe environment, Johns Creek is particularly attractive to families seeking a high quality of life.

What is considered affordable housing in Atlanta?

In Atlanta, affordable housing generally refers to homes priced at or below $250,000. This price range is typically accessible for first-time homebuyers and those with moderate incomes. Affordable housing options can be found in various neighborhoods and suburbs, such as East Point, College Park, and Forest Park, which offer a range of single-family homes, townhouses, and condos.

What is a livable salary in Atlanta?

According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, the living wage for a single adult in the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta metro area is approximately $53,736 annually before taxes. This calculation considers basic living expenses such as housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities.

For a family of four with two working adults and two children, the required annual income before taxes is about $106,414 per adult, reflecting the higher costs associated with childcare and additional family needs.

Is it cheaper to live in Florida or Georgia?

Generally, it is cheaper to live in Georgia than in Florida. Georgia’s overall cost of living is lower, particularly in housing and utility costs. While some areas of Florida, such as smaller towns and rural areas, may offer lower costs, major cities like Miami and Orlando are significantly more expensive.

In Georgia, especially outside of Atlanta, housing is more affordable, and the state’s property taxes are relatively low. However, the cost of living in Florida can also be impacted by higher insurance premiums, particularly due to the state’s susceptibility to hurricanes.

Florida has no state income tax, which can offset some of the higher living costs for residents. Overall, Georgia offers a more economical choice for many, particularly when considering long-term living expenses.

Life in the Atlanta Suburbs

Atlanta remains a fast-growing part of the Sunbelt. It’s easy to see why– its diversity in the economy, real estate, and lifestyle amenities offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a small-town feel or a more urban environment, you’ll find it in Atlanta real estate.

With excellent schools, plenty of shopping and dining options, and ample recreational opportunities, the Atlanta suburbs are a great alternative to living within the city limit. Find the right place to call home.