The Pros and Cons of Living in Atlanta
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.
Are you contemplating a move to the vibrant and diverse city of Atlanta? Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, cultural diversity, or thriving job market, there are many factors to consider when deciding to call Atlanta home. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about living in Atlanta; from housing options to schools, neighborhoods, crime rates, commute times, and lifestyle. Atlanta is a city filled with opportunities! And we’re here to help you make the best decision about your new chapter in the dynamic “Peach State.”
Thriving Job Market
In WalletHub’s 2023 ranking of top U.S. cities for employment, Atlanta shines within the top 25, securing a position in the upper 15% tier, nationwide. Atlanta’s recognition stems from a mix of factors: an array of job opportunities in the metropolitan area, remarkable employment growth rates, and substantial starting salaries for professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in August 2023, the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA metropolitan area saw a notable 1.8% growth rate for total nonfarm employment, adding 54,000 jobs over the year. The largest gains were in the education and health services supersector, as well as leisure and hospitality, contributing to the area’s job growth exceeding the national average of 2.0%. This positive trend has carried into 2023, cementing Atlanta’s reputation as a thriving job market.
Affordable Cost of Living in Atlanta
When it comes to cost of living, is Atlanta a good place to live? According to a Q3 2023 analysis from Axios Atlanta, the cost of living in Atlanta is slightly lower than the national average, with the city’s cost-of-living index value standing at a solid 98/100 as of the third quarter of 2023*. When broken down into categories, Atlanta’s highest costs were in health care, transportation, and groceries, while housing and utilities remained more affordable. This relatively low cost of living is an appealing factor for both companies and individuals seeking the advantages of a major U.S. city without the associated high price tag. As the nation’s economy continues to shift towards the South, Atlanta’s competition for jobs and talent with other affordable cities in the region, such as those in Florida, Texas, the Carolinas, and Tennessee, is expected to intensify.
*Index of 100 represents the weighted average cost in 269 urban areas, excluding taxes, for households in the top income quintile.
Exceptional Atlanta Schools
Is Atlanta a good place to live for families? Without a doubt. Atlanta presents families with a diverse range of educational choices, spanning from top ranking elementary, middle, and high schools to esteemed universities. Within the city, you’ll find a selection of premier Atlanta schools, both public and private. Districts such as Decatur, Fulton County, and Gwinnett County are renowned for their exceptional public education systems, and Atlanta boasts a slew of prestigious private schools, many in the Buckhead area. Beyond the K-12 spectrum, Atlanta is home to a multitude of universities and colleges, including renowned institutions like Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Georgia State University. Furthermore, in 2024, Georgia will offer free college tuition to high school graduates and HOPE Scholarship recipients who meet certain academic requirements. These outstanding options provide students with a wealth of academic pursuits, further enhancing Atlanta’s reputation as an esteemed educational hub.
Culturally Rich. Abundance of Nature
Quality of life in Atlanta is exceptional with a thriving arts, music, culinary, and sports scene. ATLiens have the privilege of experiencing Broadway shows at The Fox Theatre, exploring world-class exhibitions at the High Museum of Art, and cheering for local sports teams like the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Hawks. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the diverse food scene, offering Southern comfort food to a wide range of international cuisines. Beyond the urban hustle, Atlanta’s “City in a Forest” nickname holds true with abundant green spaces, parks, nature reserves, and hiking trails giving Atlanta residents ample opportunities to connect with nature.
Commute Times in Atlanta
Is Atlanta a good place to live when it comes to commute times? Atlanta does have a reputation for traffic congestion and it’s confirmed by a U.S. Census Bureau study, ranking it ninth for some of the country’s worst average commutes. However, commute times in Atlanta do vary significantly depending on your location, but on average, workers should prepare for a commute of about 30 minutes, each way. Northern suburbs like Alpharetta and Johns Creek average around 30-45 minute drives to downtown Atlanta; while more inner city neighborhoods like Brookhaven and Buckhead can average 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Atlanta’s public transportation network, MARTA, is extensive, regular, and safe, offering a citywide alternative to driving. We recommend researching the best places in Atlanta for commuting as an essential read before moving to The A.T.L.
Hollywood of the South
According to a recent report by Creative Media Industries Institute at Georgia State University, Georgia’s film industry has experienced rapid growth, becoming the fastest-growing in the nation with a $4.4 billion industry that’s generated over $9 billion in additional investment. The growth is attributed to the state’s tax incentives, making it a global leader in entertainment. The report shows areas outside of Metro-Atlanta, including Northeast Georgia, the Georgia Mountains, the Heart of Georgia, and the Coastal region near Savannah, have seen the most significant growth. Georgia’s diverse topography, with mountains and beaches, allows for a variety of filming locations; and the quality of life in Atlanta attracts industry professionals who want to avoid the competitive environment of Hollywood. Additionally, the state’s workforce training programs are considered more diverse, contributing to Georgia’s leadership in broadening the film industry. Incentives have driven billions of dollars in private investments, with developments like Gray Television’s Assembly, in Doraville, poised to further boost the industry’s growth.
Is Atlanta Safe to Live?
Is Atlanta a good place to live when it comes to safety? According to crimegrade.org, Atlanta scores a C- in terms of overall crime, which indicates the city (overall) experiences a slightly higher-than-average crime rate compared to the national average. Property crime (theft, vehicle theft, burglary, and arson) is graded at C-, while violent crime ( assault, robbery, rape, and murder) receives a C grade. Generally speaking, however, crime rates differ significantly depending on where you’re located in Atlanta. For example, some of the safest places in Atlanta are located north of the city, such as John’s Creek, Alpharetta, and Brookhaven. Comparatively, some of the worst neighborhoods in Atlanta for crime include English Avenue, Vine City, Bankhead, Pittsburgh, and Mechanicsville, and are located towards the south and west of the city.
What’s Next?
If you’re looking to buy a home in Atlanta, Tomo.com provides free access to the most up-to-date real estate listings and can connect you with a home search advisor by phone or text today!
Moving to Atlanta? Check out our other popular guides: A Guide to Some of the Best Schools in Atlanta & Places to Take Dogs in Atlanta
