7 Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta

The Only Guide You’ll Need

Susie Chow, Tomo’s Lead Writer & Atlanta resident, combines exclusive on the ground local insights with real estate expertise and economic data from Greg Schwartz, Tomo CEO & former Zillow President; Emanuel Santa-Donato, Head of Capital Markets & Interest Rate Forecaster; and Joel Monge, Head of Digital Production.

Moving to Atlanta and wondering about the best places to live in Atlanta? Welcome to the heart of the South, where Southern charm meets metropolitan allure. Atlanta is brimming with diversity, history, and a vibrant cultural scene that rivals any major metropolis. Nestled within this sprawling urban landscape are a plethora of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality and charm. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a newcomer looking to put down roots, or simply curious about relocating to this Southern gem, we’ve curated a helpful guide to help you discover the very best neighborhoods in Atlanta. So, get ready to explore, as we unveil the crème de la crème of the city’s real estate landscape, where Southern hospitality meets cosmopolitan sophistication.

Best Places for Trendsetters: Buckhead

Arguably the richest neighborhood in Atlanta, and often referred to as the “Beverly Hills of the South”, Buckhead is the epitome of sophistication and style. Here, just north of the city, you’ll find lush tree-lined streets winding their way past stately mansions, designer shopping nooks like Buckhead Village, and some of the city’s finest restaurants such as the newly one Michelin star-minted, Atlas. Known for its luxury real estate — in which celebs such as Cardi B, Elton John and Kenny Rogers have invested— Buckhead features a mix of high-end condominiums, grand estates, and ultra-modern apartment buildings. The perfect blend of upscale living and Southern charm, Buckhead is well situated too, with easy access to major highways and arterials, such as Peachtree Road, that can get you downtown in 15 minutes and the airport in 30 — if traffic cooperates.

Best Place for Young Professionals: Midtown 

If you’re moving to Atlanta, you won’t want to overlook Midtown — the city’s dynamic hub for arts and culture. This bustling neighborhood embodies the essence of urban living where young, sophisticated millennials enjoy a tapestry of art, culture, green open spaces, and loads of diversity. If you’re a creative soul or an academic nut, this might just be your spot. In Midtown, The High Museum of Art, Fox Theater, and Piedmont Park are right at your doorstep; as well as the Savannah College of Art and Design, Georgia State University, and the Georgia Institute of Technology. Midtown seamlessly blends creativity with down-to-earth practical living, offering a modern lifestyle that resonates with the young, savvy, and trendy homebuyer.  

Best Place for Millennials: Old Fourth Ward

A hidden gem that’s bursting with creative energy and historic charm, Old Fourth Ward has recently exploded into one of the most popular neighborhoods for folks relocating to Atlanta. Steeped in history, this eclectic enclave bears witness to a rich past — it’s home to The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, a place where the legacy of civil rights activism continues to inspire today. A hub of artistic expression, OFW is celebrated for its colorful street art and a bustling community spirit. Residents are spoiled for choice with a myriad of historic apartment buildings, new condos, and oh-so trendy industrial lofts-turned-apartments. With the city’s renowned Beltline right at your doorstep, you’re just a short stroll from trendy rooftop bars, artisanal coffee shops, a skate park, a playground, and even a fun splash pad for the littles in the summer months.

Best Place for College Students: Inman Park

Creative, quirky, upscale. What’s not to love about Inman Park? A true neighborhood gem, Inman Park is a combination of mid-rise apartments, chic townhomes, as well as a smattering of quaint Victorian-era homes. Home to Atlanta’s most anticipated annual festival, The Inman Park Festival, this neighborhood is duly dotted with cool coffee shops, bespoke bakeries, and an array of hip restaurants and bars. A top choice for the artistic and trendy, the greenies amongst us will also love Inman Park for its walkability and easy access to the Beltline and all your favorite digs. With everything you’ll need in one attractive neighborhood, you’re not likely to want to leave. But if you do, downtown Atlanta is just 10-15 minutes away, and the airport 20-30 via I-20 East, depending on traffic.

Best Place for Young Families: Virginia Highland

If you’re looking for a neighborhood with a strong sense of community, Virginia Highland delivers. It’s a green walkable enclave where residents relish in the camaraderie of a tight-knit community. Affectionately known as “Va-Hi” or “The Highlands”, this neighborhood is a cool mix of cozy bungalows, historic homes, and newly renovated apartments and condos. The feeling of Sunday afternoons strolling the quaint tree-lined avenues and mingling with neighbors at the Highland Tap can only be described as one big neighborhood hug! In terms of commuting, it’s super easy to get to and from The Highlands via several main arteries such as Ponce de Leon and Briarcliff Road; and the MARTA bus service is also available.

Best Place for Nature Lovers: Grant Park

Atlanta isn’t just skyscrapers and concrete — it’s also a city that embraces nature. With its stunning parklands, the Atlanta Zoo, and a collection of historic homes, Grant Park is a great spot for the young outdoorsy home buyer who loves the best of both worlds — the vibrant pulse of the city plus green open spaces. Grant Park, the neighborhood’s namesake, is loved by the environmentalists amongst us with its 131-acre recreational park, the Grant Park Farmers Market (voted Atlanta’s #1 farmers market!), and lush walkable trails. Although, recently, rents have been on the rise, Grant Park is known as one of the more affordable Atlanta neighborhoods and its reputation for safety has improved greatly over the last decade. To get in and around Grant Park, you can take MARTA to King Memorial station and then a 15-minute walk into Grant Park, take the bus, or hop on major Interstates 20 or 85 to connect to the rest of the city.

Best Place for Families: Decatur

Ask any ATLien, and they’ll confirm Decatur is an inspiring hub for education, culture, and intellectual stimulation. Relatively one of the safest areas, Decatur is a popular choice for folks moving to Atlanta. Nestled close to Emory University and Hospital, this neighborhood thrives as a haven for academics, the medical profession, and culture aficionados alike. Its iconic town square buzzes with activity, playing host to a bevy of charming bookshops, vibrant music festivals, contemporary dining, and a flourishing arts milieu. Renowned as one of Atlanta’s premier places to reside, Decatur is celebrated for its safety, diversity, and a vibrant sense of community with easy access to Atlanta’s major highways, such as Interstates 285 and 20, as well as MARTA.

What’s Next?

For those of you looking to buy a home in one of these Best Neighborhoods, Tomo.com provides free access to the most up to date real estate listings. You also can connect with a free home search advisor to get your journey started – by phone or text. 

Next Guide:  Some of the Best Schools in Atlanta, 7 Best Suburbs & Nearby Cities