Things to Know Before Moving to Atlanta

More than 6.3 million residents in Atlanta call this city home, and for good reason. Atlanta is a vibrant, fast-growing city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and booming job market. If you’re planning to move to Atlanta, there are a few things you should know to make your transition smoother.

The Cost of Living Is Quite Reasonable

The cost of living in Atlanta is quite reasonable compared to other big cities in the United States. While it’s slightly above the national average, it is cheaper in terms of groceries, utilities, and transport.

Also, compared to other major metro areas, Atlanta is usually cheap when it comes to buying or renting a house. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment will cost you an average of $1,592 per month.

Atlanta Weather Is Mostly Great

You get to experience all four seasons in Atlanta, and most of them are quite mild, except for summer. It can get really hot, humid, and sometimes oppressive in the summer, which explains why Atlanta is at times referred to as ‘Hot-lanta.’

The rest of the seasons, however, are quite pleasant. You’ll enjoy being outdoors and seeing the leaves change color during fall. Winter is fairly mild.

You may get snow a few times, but it doesn’t stick around with Atlanta temperatures. So if you can’t stand cold at all, then Atlanta is the best place for you.

The Transportation System Operates Smoothly

Navigating through Atlanta is a breeze, thanks to the transportation systems spread across the city. Atlanta’s Hartsfield Jackson International Airport is conveniently located 15 minutes away from the city center and can be easily accessed by both public and private means of transportation. Known for its bustling atmosphere and top-notch operations efficiency, the airport offers transportation to over 150 domestic and 70 international destinations.

The MARTA public transit system also comes in handy when getting around the city. The trains and buses operated by MARTA offer a convenient way to travel from one part of Atlanta to another. You can pay as low as $2 for one trip.

Education in Atlanta Is Quite Good

Atlanta boasts a good education system that has been recognized for its excellence across all levels of learning, from nursery schools to postgraduate programs. The city is home to three universities with colleges situated in the suburban areas surrounding Atlanta.

So, if you’re planning to relocate to Atlanta with your family and are considering schools for your children, you’ll find lots of options to choose from. The city is also known for its community and welcoming environment for students from around the world.

Altana Has a Diverse Population

Atlanta’s population is very diverse, making it an interesting city to live in. It’s the second largest majority-Black metro area in the United States, and about 51% of the population is Black. In addition, Atlanta also has one of the largest LGBTQ+ populations per capita in the nation, with about 4.2% of people identifying as gay, lesbian, or bisexual.

Sports Are a Big Deal in Atlanta

Sports are a big part of life in Atlanta, just like in many large U.S. cities. The city is home to professional baseball, football, basketball, and soccer teams, making it a great place for sports fans.

Traffic Is Intense

The biggest drawback of moving to Atlanta is the traffic. In fact, it’s been ranked as one of the worst cities to drive in in the U.S.

Being home to one of the busiest airports in the country, moving and leaving the city is incredibly time-consuming, especially during the tourist season. So, if you’re planning to drive to work or anywhere around the city, you should leave early to reach your destination on time.

Business Is Booming in Atlanta

Atlanta is a growing business hub with numerous big company headquarters in the area, including Delta Airlines, Coca-Cola, and The Home Depot. Every year, more top tech companies are moving their headquarters to Atlanta, offering great job opportunities to the residents. The city is also emerging as the most active growing tech and entertainment hub, establishing itself as a significant player in the global economy.

Atlanta Is a Safe Place to Live In

While Atlanta is generally considered a dangerous place to live, there are a lot of safe neighborhoods in the city. In fact, the city’s public safety has improved over the years. Some of the best neighborhoods to live in Atlanta include:

• Buckhead Forest: If you’re looking for a friendly neighborhood that’s perfect for raising a family, then Buckhead Forest should be on your list. Having been ranked as one of the top neighborhoods in Atlanta, Buckhead Forest is known for its luxury homes, high-end shopping, vibrant nightlife, and top-rated restaurants. It also has good schools and a strong job market.
• Cabbagetown: Cabbagetown has earned its reputation for having colorful houses, community gardens, artsy scenes, and unique vibes. The homes in Cabbagetown vary; they range from small bungalows to larger, renovated houses, and the cost is $350,000 on average.
• Midtown: Midtown is a great place for first-time home buyers in Atlanta. This area always has something going on with entertainment, restaurants, and shopping. The cost of homes in Midtown is, on average, $500,000, which is fairly reasonable for a place of this caliber in Atlanta.
• Candler Park: If you are a retiree in search of a quiet and secure area, Candler Park is the place to be. It’s easy to maintain a healthy lifestyle here, with amenities such as the Candler Park Golf Course, tennis courts, and swimming pools. Alternatively, you can go for a walk on the Freedom Park Trail and enjoy the birds and butterflies in the garden.

Are You Ready to move to Atlanta?

Moving to Atlanta is fun and exciting, but it’s always good to know what to expect before moving. Generally, Atlanta is a great place to live, work, and explore due to its strong job market, cultural diversity, and numerous recreational activities. However, be ready to deal with crazy traffic and unpredictable weather.