In 2024, Atlanta became the sixth-largest metropolitan area in the United States.
Home to more than 6.3 million residents, The Big Peach grows by the tens of thousands each year with its steady economic growth and reasonable cost of living.
Wondering where to live in Atlanta? Whether you’re a young professional looking for a new start, a new parent searching for the best neighborhood for families, or a retiree looking for a more relaxed lifestyle, there’s an Atlanta neighborhood for you.
With over 240 neighborhoods to choose from, here’s a look at some of the best places to live in Atlanta based on your lifestyle.
Best Neighborhoods for Young Professionals in Atlanta
Midtown
Midtown is where to be if you want to stay close to events and nightlife.
Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, you’re super close to Piedmont Park, art galleries, comedy clubs, bars, and restaurants.
Plus, residents enjoy easy access to MARTA, Atlanta’s staple transit service.
Buckhead
Social butterflies, this one’s for you.
Nicknamed the Beverly Hills of the South, Buckhead is one of the best places to live in Atlanta, and one of the 8 best districts for shopping in Atlanta, GA. This lively neighborhood offers a walkable, secure vibe where modern living meets commerce. With its mix of walkability, green spaces, and housing variety, Buckhead offers a balanced lifestyle. Pair that with nearby upscale dining, nightlife, and shopping, and your social calendar will stay full.
Old Fourth Ward
Old Fourth Ward, also known as O4W, has a rich and sometimes somber history.
This Atlanta neighborhood got its moniker from being a smaller version of the original Fourth Ward, one of five political wards in Atlanta established in the 1850s. It was also the home of Martin Luther King Jr., a must-see historical site.
O4W is also popular for trendy shopping, including the Ponce City Market as well as up-and-coming restaurants. It’s also very close to ATL’s iconic BeltLine.
Top Family-Friendly Neighborhoods
Decatur
Beautiful Decatur is right up there with Buckhead in terms of liveability. Home to top-rated public schools and a strong sense of community, it’s a go-to for families.
Decatur is very walkable, and the sidewalks are plentiful. It’s also conveniently on the MARTA line and is only 6 miles from downtown Atlanta. Residents also enjoy various restaurant options, museums, galleries, and much more.
Alpharetta
Alpharetta is known for its great schools, parks, shopping, and job opportunities. Outdoor recreation opportunities are plentiful (we recommend the beautiful Webb Bridge Park), and the crime rate is low.
One thing to note is that residents occasionally struggle with traffic flowing into Atlanta. If you need to commute to work, it might be worth looking closer to the city.
Brookhaven
Brookhaven is quiet, but this neighborhood is the perfect urban and suburban combination.
With plenty of bigger homeownership opportunities, you also reap the benefits of proximity to shopping, restaurants, bars, and great schools.
Best Neighborhoods for Retirees
Sandy Springs
Sandy Springs is one of the best places to live in Atlanta for retirees. This neighborhood offers a comfortable mix of urban and suburban living. It’s walkable, filled with parks, and provides housing options from condos to single-family homes.
Sandy Springs also offers residents several healthcare services, including renowned hospitals and specialized facilities. Seniors can choose from at-home care or assisted living facilities.
Peachtree City
Are you looking for a southern spot with a small-town feel and a strong community of residents who adore where they live? Peachtree City is for you.
Crime is low, and relaxation is high in Peachtree City. Active seniors can enjoy the several parks, lakes, and trails to fish and hike. Golf culture is huge here, too, with miles and miles of golf cart paths that make it easy to scoot around the city.
Emerging and Affordable Neighborhoods
West End
Don’t let the small population fool you. West End is another perfect blend of suburban and urban.
If you’re after a renter-friendly neighborhood with character, West End delivers. It offers historic architecture, walkable parks, and a strong sense of community.
West End is also quite affordable, with two-bedroom apartments for rent ranging from $1,200 to $2,200 monthly.
Hapeville
Looking for an affordable, artsy spot with close proximity to the city? Hapeville has it all. Livability puts the average monthly rent at less than $1,400 per month and the average home value at just shy of $310K.
In 2023, readers of Urbanize Atlanta voted Hapeville the Best Atlanta Neighborhood. Bars and restaurants are within walking distance, local art exhibits are frequent, and parks are aplenty.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Atlanta Neighborhood
Choosing where to live in Atlanta will depend on your age, income, personal preferences for the community, and so much more.
Here are a few core considerations to keep in mind:
- Cost of living: Home prices and rental rates vary widely between neighborhoods
- Schools: If you have kids, research public and private school rankings
- Commute: Consider your daily travel needs. Some areas have better transit access than others
- Lifestyle: Want walkability? Nightlife? Peace and quiet? With so many things to do in Atlanta, it has something for everyone, you just need to find your match
Find Your City in Atlanta
Atlanta has long been a city of neighborhoods. The rich history, food, and culture make for a living experience unlike any other.
Whatever your living needs are, you’ll find the right fit here. From the pristine suburbs of Buckhead to the artsy community in Midtown, there’s something for everyone in The Big Peach.
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