9 Best Places to Live in Marietta

If you’re considering moving near Atlanta, historic Marietta, Georgia, is definitely one of the best places to live. Residents appreciate its tranquil vibes, beautiful atmosphere, great schools, and proximity to downtown ATL. With a mix of the old and the new, the community has lots of Southern charm yet modern conveniences like excellent dining and community theaters. You’ll gain those advantages, and it’s still more affordable than other nearby neighborhoods, like Sandy Springs.

Read on to check out the city’s advantages and the best places to live in Marietta.

Why live in Marietta, GA?

Marietta was a 2006 “All-America City” recipient by the National Civic League and received the 2020 “All-America City Hall of Fame” award. The city has been listed in the “Top 100 Best Places to Live” by Livability since 2019, a “Best Place to Raise a Family in Georgia in 2020,” and a “Top 10 Best Place to Retire in Georgia in 2022.”

One benefit is its location right up I-75, about 20 miles northwest of Atlanta. The city is the seat of Cobb County and had a population of 60,687 in April 2020. It’s large enough to have excellent amenities for residents and diverse town cultural attractions, yet small enough to still have that classic Southern town feel.

Marietta has a fascinating history. The city was founded in 1834 at the hub of three major railroad lines. The Western and Atlantic, Georgia, and Chattanooga railroads all came through there, making Marietta a key site during the Civil War. The famous Battle of Kennesaw Mountain was fought just outside the city limits, and many of Marietta’s historic homes were used as hospitals for soldiers during the war. Town infrastructure and buildings were heavily damaged during General William Sherman’s march through the south, but historic properties remain. Nearby attractions for history buffs include Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, the Gone With the Wind Museum, and the Confederate Cemetery.

The old town center is particularly charming. At the center is the antebellum-period Glover Park and fun-filled Marietta Square, which has evolved into a thriving downtown center with a Broadway-style theater, museums, nightclubs, restaurants, and boutique stores. The Square hosts concerts and events throughout the year. Two blocks from the Square is the Marietta Square Market, a 18,500 sq ft food hall with 16 restaurants and two retailers.

Modern Marietta is an economic center with a solid foundation anchored by several Fortune 500 firms and a long history in the aeronautics industry. Growing economic clusters in health services, hospitality, tourism, and entertainment keep Marietta positioned for future private sector investment, new business creation, and industrial growth. Its top employers (based on the number of employees) include, but are not limited to, Kemira Chemicals, Dow Chemical Company, Accord Serves, Matthews Contracting, TASQ Technology, Mayfield Dairy Fields, Marietta Drapery & Windows, Publix, and Wellstar. Lockheed Martine Aeronautical Systems is also based nearby in Cobb County.

In recent years, Marietta has become known for its excellent public schools. Cobb County Schools consistently ranks well in Georgia, with several schools in Marietta receiving National Blue Ribbon awards. The Governor’s Office gave the district a “B” grade. Marietta City School District, a charter school district running 12 schools, also had a “B” grade, with its overall performance ranking better than 82% of school districts. Its Marietta High School was nationally recognized by The Washington Post in 2016 as one of the nation’s most challenging. It enrolls about 8,600 students.

Marietta is also home to The Battery and the Atlanta Braves stadium. The Battery is a mixed-use entertainment development centered around Truist Stadium with restaurants, office space, residences, and the stadium. The Atlanta Braves are a professional baseball team based in Atlanta and have won 14 division championships, 3 National League pennants, and 1 World Series title.

For more family-friendly entertainment, options include Six Flags White Water, Andretti Indoor Karting, Studio Movie Grill, and the Aviation History Museum.

Dining is no joke in Marietta. Have you heard of Alton Brown, host of Food Network’s “Good Eats,” plus other shows like Iron Chef? He’s from Marietta and filmed the show in town. And we can’t talk about dining without mentioning the famous The Big Chicken restaurant and landmark.

Outdoor lovers will appreciate that Marietta is located along the dramatic backdrops of the Chattahoochee River and the historic foothills of Kennesaw Mountain. Wander miles of scenic hiking trails or jump on the Mountain to River Trail, which is still being developed and accessible from downtown.

If you’re looking to live close to the city but still enjoy a smaller town feel, Marietta, GA, has the right combination.

About Marietta real estate market

There are many housing options, including new construction residences, historic homes, townhomes, condominiums, and urban lofts. Take a self-guided walking or driving tour to see all Marietta offers. Its architectural styles run the whole gamut, from antebellum, Victorian, Greek Revival, Queen Anne, and Plain-style.

In June 2022, the median listing price in Marietta was $460K, up 13.6% from the prior year. July 2022 had 1,352 homes on the market in the Marietta metro. The prices ranged from $6,800 to $4.4 million.

Narrow down your home search with these top neighborhoods.

The best neighborhoods in Marietta

Marietta is broken into smaller communities with their own distinct personalities. Although the neighborhoods have varying settings and cultures, they are all generally family-friendly. Find the right community options based on your preferences.

Chestnut Creek

Located in the heart of East Cobb County, Chestnut Creek is a popular neighborhood made up mostly of traditional homes on large, wooded lots. The community was developed in the 1980s and has 170 homes. Its amenities include tennis courts, a playground, a swimming pool, and a picnic area. The community has a tennis and a swim team. Its homeowners’ association is active and runs a social committee and women’s club.

Chimney Springs

Chimney Springs is another popular neighborhood with a strong sense of community, developed by the same company that owned the Boca Raton Hotel and Club and the Sawgrass Resort. Construction began in 1975 and continued through the 1980s with larger, single-family homes. You’ll find manicured lawns with mature trees, sidewalks, and ample green spaces. Community amenities include a swimming pool, tennis and basketball courts, a community lake, and many recreation trails.

HOA membership is mandatory. The association is active and recently renovated the clubhouse.

Windsor Oaks

This upscale Marietta neighborhood features 416 homes developed in different styles and sizes. Many have larger footprints. Residents enjoy a great location near three Cobb County parks, shopping, dining, and excellent schools. Mabry Middle School is beside one of the entrances. Some homes back against Sweat Mountain Park.

Inside the community are four tennis courts, a playground, a sand volleyball court, two event pavilions, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool. The lovely neighborhood has a sponsored swim and tennis team. Its HOA plans social activities for children and adults.

In July 2022, Windsor Oaks had four homes for sale with a median home price of $650,000.

Somerset

With 325 homes in East Cobb, this close-knit, socially active community developed in the 1970s. Home styles trend towards traditional and modern. The amenities include tennis courts, a swim-competition-sized swimming pool, clubhouse, community green space, and boat access to Turtle Lake. It has an HOA association.

In July 2022, Somerset had five homes for sale with a median list price of $665,000.

Downtown Marietta

This is the perfect place to live if you’re looking for a more urban environment with lots of things to do. Downtown Marietta comprises a mix of old and new construction, with many Victorian-style homes. You’ll be close to great dining options, shopping, nightlife, and entertainment. The historic Marietta Square is the center of activity, with a farmers market, live music, and festivals throughout the year.

Many housing options are available, from apartments and condos to single-family homes. You’ll find plenty of walkability and things to do within walking distance or a short drive.

Downtown had two listings in July 2022 with a median list price of $670,000.

Indian Hills

Want country club living? Then you’ll want to check out Indian Hills. This Marietta neighborhood is made up of 1,600 homes, many of which have been updated or remodeled in recent years. You’ll find a mix of home styles, including ranch, traditional, and contemporary. The master plan preserved tree-lined streets and spacious lots. It worked with the rolling hills and creeks and dotted pocket parks through its developments.

The community has its own country club (the Indian Hills Country Club) with an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a clubhouse. There’s an active social scene through the Civic Association, with events and activities for residents of all ages, like a community book club and Festival of Lights competition.

In July 2022, Indian Hills had 42 homes for sale across all subdivisions ranging from $375,000 to $1.9 million.

Forest Hills

This historic Marietta neighborhood dates back to the early 1900s. It’s located near shopping, dining, and entertainment amenities.

The community has 1,100 homes in a park-like setting with mature trees, sidewalks, and green spaces. You’ll find a mix of home styles, from bungalows and Victorians to ranch homes. Forest Hills had the highest median list price in July 2022, at $974,000.

North Landing

This community of 3,000 homes has a great location near the interstate and shopping and provides quality of life. Development began in the 1970s and continued into the 1980s. You’ll find a mix of home styles, from traditional to contemporary ranch. A typical property has 3-5 bedrooms and two bathrooms. Lots range from half-acre to full-acre and are primarily wooded, giving the area a park-like feeling.

Resident amenities include a saltwater pool, 14-acre lake, two lighted tennis courts, disc golf, green spaces, a rentable clubhouse, and children’s play areas. It has an active HOA association.

North Landing had six beautiful homes for sale in July 2022 with a median list price of $350,000.

The Villages of East Park

Designed as five separate villages, the 362 homes were constructed starting in the 1980s. The overall design inspiration came from Colonial Virginia. The developer aimed to preserve green spaces and make the neighborhood pedestrian-friendly with sidewalks throughout.

The Villages of East Park are located on Allgood Road and East Park Boulevard and feature beautifully created single-family houses. Amenities include a swimming pool, playground, and tennis courts. The HOA runs events during the year.

The community had four homes for sale in July 2022 with a median list price of $519,000.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Live in Marietta, GA

What’s the median household income in Marietta, GA?

As of the latest available data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in Marietta, GA, is approximately $67,589 per year. This figure reflects the economic status of residents in the area and is slightly higher than the national median, indicating a relatively stable and prosperous community. Remember: Income levels can vary significantly depending on Marietta’s specific neighborhood and other factors.

Is it expensive to live in Marietta, GA?

Living in Marietta, GA, is moderately priced compared to many other U.S. cities. The cost of living in Marietta is about 9.8% higher than the national average, reflecting slightly elevated prices in areas like housing, transportation, and utilities.

When it comes to housing specifically, the median home price in Marietta is $480,122, while the average rent for an apartment is around $2,300 per month.

While Marietta is not among the most expensive places to live, it does come with higher living costs than some other areas in both Georgia and the rest of the United States, particularly in housing.

What are the main major cities near Marietta GA?

Marietta is in Cobb County, in the northwestern part of Georgia, United States. It is approximately 20 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta, making it part of the Greater Atlanta metropolitan area. The main major cities near Marietta real estate include:

• Atlanta, GA: Located about 20 miles southeast of Marietta, Atlanta is the largest city in Georgia and serves as a major cultural and economic hub.
• Sandy Springs, GA: Approximately 15 miles east of Marietta, Sandy Springs is a significant suburban city known for its thriving business district.
• Roswell, GA: About 10 miles northeast of Marietta, Roswell is known for its historic sites and strong community atmosphere.
• Smyrna, GA: Just 8 miles south of Marietta, Smyrna is a rapidly growing city with a vibrant downtown and suburban feel.
• Kennesaw, GA: Located roughly 7 miles northwest of Marietta, Kennesaw is a smaller city with historical significance and a family-friendly environment.

Does Marietta GA have good schools?

Marietta is served by the Cobb County School District -one of the largest and most highly regarded school districts in Georgia- and by Marietta City School District. Several schools are recognized for their excellence here. Walton High School is one of the top-rated schools in the state, known for its rigorous academic programs and successful extracurricular activities. Lassiter High School also ranks highly, offering strong academic and athletic programs.

For younger students, Davis Elementary School stands out within the district and is known for its supportive learning environment and commitment to student success. In addition to these public schools, many families in Marietta opt for private schools, which are a popular choice due to their specialized curricula and smaller class sizes.

Overall, the local districts include a high percentage of schools rated as fantastic schools, making Marietta an attractive place for families seeking quality education.

What type of houses for sale can you find in Marietta, GA?

In Marietta, GA, the housing market offers a diverse range of homes that cater to various tastes and budgets. One of the standout features of Marietta’s real estate is its beautiful Antebellum Homes, known for their classic Southern architecture, grand columns, and expansive floor plans. These homes often reflect the area’s historical charm and are sought after by buyers looking for a piece of Southern history.

For those looking for a different style Brick Homes are also popular in the area. They are known for their durability and timeless style. These homes often have open floor plans and come in various sizes, from larger estates to more modest options, making them a versatile choice for many buyers.

For those seeking something more modern yet cozy, smaller Craftsman-style homes are also prevalent in Marietta. These homes are known for their detailed woodwork, inviting porches, and functional floor plans that cater to smaller, family-oriented living spaces. For more luxurious budgets, an enormous Colonial-style mansion can also be found in this housing market.

The median price for homes in Marietta hovers around $480,122, though this can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood and home style.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Marietta, GA?

Some of the safest neighborhoods in Marietta, GA, include East Cobb, Indian Hills, and Chestnut Creek, all known for their low crime rates and strong community ties. These areas have consistently lower crime rates than the city and national averages, making them popular choices for families and individuals seeking a secure living environment.

East Cobb, in particular, is highly regarded for its excellent schools and well-maintained neighborhoods, while Indian Hills offers a blend of safety and recreational amenities, including a golf course. Overall, these neighborhoods provide peace of mind with their reputation for safety and community-focused living.

What are some popular things to do around Marietta GA?

Marietta, GA, offers a variety of popular activities and entertainment options that cater to different interests. For outdoor enthusiasts, the neighboring Silver Comet Trail is a top choice. It offers over 60 miles of scenic biking trails that stretch from Smyrna to the Georgia-Alabama state line. This trail is perfect for biking, walking, and jogging, providing a beautiful and serene environment for exercise and recreation.

In terms of entertainment, Marietta Square is a vibrant hub in the heart of the city, known for its charming boutiques, restaurants, and the historic Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre, which hosts live performances, movies, and concerts.

If you are an old-movie aficionado, the Gone with the Wind Museum offers a unique cultural experience, celebrating the iconic film and its connection to the region. Six Flags White Water is nearby for families, offering a fun-filled day of water rides and attractions.

Moving to Marietta

Marietta is a great place to live, with plenty of things to do and various housing options, no matter if you decide to set residence in East Cobb or West Cobb. Whether you’re looking for an urban environment or country club living, you’ll find it in Marietta. You’ll be close to tons of shopping, dining, and entertainment, with a small-town feel. Marietta is also one of the most affordable places to live in the Atlanta area. So if you’re thinking of moving near Atlanta and have a strong sense of community, be sure to check out Marietta! Learn more about moving to Marietta.