Atlanta, Georgia, isn’t just the state capital; it’s a buzzing center of culture, career opportunities, and Southern charm.
With a strong job market, diverse economy, highly rated schools in the metro area, and must-see attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and the BeltLine, it’s no wonder people from all over want to call Atlanta home.
But big city life isn’t for everyone. The traffic, high rent in trendy neighborhoods, and fast-paced lifestyle can be exhausting. That’s why many families and young professionals are choosing nearby small cities and suburbs.
These areas often offer more space, quieter streets, and lower housing costs, while still keeping you close to Atlanta’s job market, nightlife, and amenities.
The Atlanta metro area has plenty of excellent options, from family-friendly suburbs with great schools and parks to vibrant towns perfect for networking and career growth.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the 10 best cities near Atlanta for families and young professionals, highlighting their housing markets, schools, recreation options, and the unique advantages that could make one of them your perfect new home.
Best Cities Near Atlanta for Families & Young Professionals
1. Alpharetta, GA
Alpharetta, often called the “Technology City of the South,” is home to over 700 tech companies, including Microsoft, Verizon, and Jackson Healthcare. With its thriving job market, young professionals have endless opportunities in IT, software, fintech, and startups.
Families enjoy festivals, concerts, and symphony nights at the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, and outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Big Creek Greenway for biking, jogging, or peaceful weekend walks.
Alpharetta stands out for its top-ranked schools within the Fulton County School System. Schools like Alpharetta High School and Milton High School consistently rank among the top in the state, with strong AP programs, diverse extracurriculars, and high college acceptance rates.
Here are the key living facts for Alpharetta:
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Value | $723,500 |
| Crime Rate | 25.26 per 1,000 residents in the typical year |
| Minutes Drive into Atlanta | ~28 min (26.0 mi) via US-19 S |
Here’s the rental market snapshot for Alpharetta:
| Apartment Type | Average Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | Around $1,100 – $2,050 |
| One Bedroom | Around $1,360 – $2,200 |
| Two Bedroom | Around $1,650 – $2,900 |
| Three Bedroom | Around $2,050 – $3,800 |
Note: Details in the table are based on the latest available data as of August 2025 and may vary due to market trends, local developments, and other factors.
2. Johns Creek, GA
Johns Creek has recently been named the No. 1 Best Place to Live in the U.S. for 2025–2026. This city is celebrated for safety, low crime, and a welcoming community.
Major employers in this place include Emory Johns Creek Hospital, Alcon Laboratories, and nearby corporate offices that provide diverse career opportunities.
The city’s community events, like the International Festival and Founders Week Parade, celebrate diversity and foster a strong neighborhood spirit. Outdoor lovers can stroll along the Chattahoochee River, explore Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, or enjoy golf and water activities.
Families moving to Johns Creek will appreciate its award-winning schools that consistently rank among the best in Georgia. Schools like Johns Creek High School and Northview High School are celebrated for high test scores, advanced academic programs, and strong extracurricular offerings, giving children a solid foundation for success.
Here are the key living facts for Johns Creek:
| Median Home Value | $700,500 |
| Crime Rate | 37.10 per 1,000 residents in the typical year |
| Minutes Drive into Atlanta | ~33 min (27.4 mi) via I-85 S |
Here’s how much you can expect to pay for rent in Johns Creek:
| Apartment Type | Average Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | Around $1,460 – $1,850 |
| One Bedroom | Around $1,670 – $1,940 |
| Two Bedroom | Around $1,830 – $2,330 |
| Three Bedroom | Around $2,150 – $2,740 |
Note: Details in the table are based on the latest available data as of August 2025 and may vary due to market trends, local developments, and other factors.
3. Roswell, GA
Roswell is famous for its beautifully preserved antebellum architecture, lively Canton Street dining scene, and year-round community events. With 13 parks and over 900 acres of green space, it’s ideal for active families and professionals who enjoy both work and recreation.
Employers like Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Avo Photonics, and growing small-to-medium businesses provide career opportunities in the city.
Educational institutions such as Roswell High School and Mountain Park Elementary, both recognized for academic excellence and extracurricular programs. There’s also a strong presence of private and charter schools, giving parents a variety of quality educational options. Its proximity to Atlanta also gives easy access to prestigious universities and professional training centers.
Here are the key living facts for Roswell:
| Average Home Value | $720,000 |
| Crime Rate | 14.64 incidents per 1,000 residents in the typical year |
| Minutes Drive into Atlanta | ~25 min (22.1 mi) via GA-400 S and I-85 S |
Here’s how much you can expect to pay for rent in Roswell:
| Apartment Type | Average Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | Around $1,100 – $1,550 |
| One Bedroom | Around $1,360 – $1,650 |
| Two Bedroom | Around $1,750 – $2,330 |
| Three Bedroom | Around $2,110 – $3,150 |
Note: Details in the table are based on the latest available data as of August 2025 and may vary due to market trends, local developments, and other factors.
4. Suwanee, GA
Suwanee has earned national recognition for its master-planned parks, award-winning Town Center, and miles of scenic greenways perfect for morning runs or weekend bike rides.
Suwanee itself has a growing business community. Key nearby employers include Siemens Industry, Ricoh Electronics, and Mitsubishi Electric. The proximity to the I-85 corridor makes Suwanee a strategic location for professionals in marketing, finance, and engineering.
The city is part of Gwinnett County Public Schools, one of the largest and highest-rated school systems in Georgia. Schools like North Gwinnett High and Level Creek Elementary consistently receive high test scores and parent satisfaction ratings. It focuses on academics, sports, and extracurricular programs.
Here are the key living facts for Suwanee:
| Median Home Value | $618,500 |
| Crime Rate | 38.89 per 100,000 people in the typical year |
| Minutes Drive into Atlanta | ~34 min (33.3 mi) via I-85 S |
Here’s how much you can expect to pay for rent in Suwanee:
| Apartment Type | Average Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | Around $1,250 – $1,680 |
| One Bedroom | Around $1,400 – $1,850 |
| Two Bedroom | Around $1,650 – $1,900 |
| Three Bedroom | Around $1,990 – $3,250 |
Note: Details in the table are based on the latest available data as of August 2025 and may vary due to market trends, local developments, and other factors.
5. Decatur, GA
Decatur is a vibrant, walkable city that is home to top-rated schools like Decatur High School, known for its strong academics and community involvement, and Agnes Scott College, celebrated for its empowering liberal arts education.
Career growth is just around the corner with major employers like Emory University and Healthcare, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offering stable, high-paying jobs in education, healthcare, and research.
At the heart of the city, Decatur Square buzzes with life, from boutique shopping and public art to weekend markets and the famous Decatur Arts Festival. Families love Glenlake Park for its playgrounds, tennis courts, sports fields, and shaded walking trails.
Here are the key living facts for Decatur:
| Average Home Value | $535,000 |
| Crime Rate | 25.84 out of 1,000 residents in the typical year |
| Minutes Drive into Atlanta | ~16 min (6.3 mi) via DeKalb Ave NE |
Here’s how much you can expect to pay for rent in Decatur:
| Apartment Type | Average Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | Around $750 – $1,900 |
| One Bedroom | Around $1,150 – $1,900 |
| Two Bedroom | Around $1,200 – $2,650 |
| Three Bedroom | Around $1,300 – $3,100 |
Note: Details in the table are based on the latest available data as of August 2025 and may vary due to market trends, local developments, and other factors.
6. Sandy Springs, GA
Sandy Springs offers fast commutes to the city, abundant green spaces, and a thriving local economy anchored by major employers like Mercedes-Benz USA.
The city is also home to highly rated schools such as Riverwood International Charter School, known for its strong International Baccalaureate program, making it a top choice for education-focused families.
At the heart of it is the City Springs, a vibrant hub blending culture and community with the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center, open-air greens, and an array of upscale dining, perfect for everything from date nights to networking lunches.
When you want a slower pace, Morgan Falls Overlook Park delivers scenic Chattahoochee River views, paddleboarding, playground fun, and peaceful walking trails, a reminder that life here isn’t just about the career perks, but also the quality of everyday moments.
Here are the key living facts for Sandy Springs:
| Average Home Value | $674,000 |
| Crime Rate | 49.1 per 100,000 residents in the typical year |
| Minutes Drive into Atlanta | ~20 min (16.3 mi) via GA-400 S and I-85 S |
Here’s how much you can expect to pay for rent in Sandy Springs:
| Apartment Type | Average Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | Around $1,150 – $1,400 |
| One Bedroom | Around $1,350 – $2,350 |
| Two Bedroom | Around $1,650 – $3,350 |
| Three Bedroom | Around $1,890 – $4,900 |
Note: Details in the table are based on the latest available data as of August 2025 and may vary due to market trends, local developments, and other factors.
7. Smyrna, GA
Smyrna, GA, is known as the “Jonquil City” for its golden spring blooms. Its booming job market is anchored by nearby headquarters like Home Depot, RaceTrac, and Floor & Decor, while top-rated schools such as Campbell High’s International Baccalaureate program draw families seeking quality education.
Young professionals are drawn to its walkable downtown and proximity to The Battery Atlanta, where sports, dining, and nightlife converge next to Truist Park. Families enjoy safe, vibrant spaces like Jonquil Park for weekend play and the Silver Comet Trail for outdoor adventures.
Here are the key living facts for Smyrna:
| Median Home Value | $469,000 |
| Crime Rate | 2.92 per 1,000 people in the typical year |
| Minutes Drive into Atlanta | ~20 min (16.7 mi) via I-75 S |
Here’s the rental market snapshot for Smyrna:
| Apartment Type | Average Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | Around $1,050 – $1,600 |
| One Bedroom | Around $1,100 – $1,900 |
| Two Bedroom | Around $1,200 – $2,350 |
| Three Bedroom | Around $1,400 – $3,200 |
Note: Details in the table are based on the latest available data as of August 2025 and may vary due to market trends, local developments, and other factors.
8. Dunwoody, GA
Dunwoody combines upscale living with easy access to Atlanta, thanks to MARTA rail access. This city is the home of corporate giants like InterContinental Hotels Group and State Farm, which make it ideal for career-minded professionals.
Families are drawn to its top-tier schools, such as Dunwoody High School, known for strong academics and diverse extracurriculars.
Recreation is a way of life here as Brook Run Park offers skate parks, dog runs, and community events, while Dunwoody Nature Center provides trails, a butterfly garden, and seasonal festivals.
One of Southeast’s largest shopping hubs, the Perimeter Mall offers everything from luxury boutiques to casual eateries, making it ideal for people who love to splurge on shopping and food on weekends.
Here are the key living facts for Dunwoody:
| Average Home Value | $669,000 |
| Crime Rate | 72.4 per 100,000 residents in the typical year |
| Minutes Drive into Atlanta | ~20 min (16.5 mi) via GA-400 S and I-85 S |
Here’s how much you can expect to pay for rent in Dunwoody:
| Apartment Type | Average Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | Around $1,100 – $1,600 |
| One Bedroom | Around $1,250 – $1,790 |
| Two Bedroom | Around $1,460 – $2,160 |
| Three Bedroom | Around $1,650 – $2,330 |
Note: Details in the table are based on the latest available data as of August 2025 and may vary due to market trends, local developments, and other factors.
9. Duluth, GA
Duluth offers the perfect mix of affordability, culture, and career opportunities. With quick access to I-85 and major employers like Primerica and Asbury Automotive Group, young professionals can grow their careers without giving up a comfortable lifestyle.
Families love the top-rated schools, including Duluth High School, known for its strong academics and active community involvement. At the heart of the city, Duluth Town Green hosts open-air concerts, seasonal festivals, and a lively dining scene, which is perfect for family outings and date nights.
Culture thrives at the Hudgens Center for Art & Learning, where workshops, exhibits, and its serene sculpture garden invite creativity.
Here are the key living facts for Duluth:
| Average Home Value | $510,000 |
| Crime Rate | 77.8 per 100k residents in the typical year |
| Minutes Drive into Atlanta | ~32 min (29.4 mi) via I-85 S |
Here’s the rental market snapshot for Duluth:
| Apartment Type | Average Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | Around $1,060 – $1,370 |
| One Bedroom | Around $1,200 – $1,770 |
| Two Bedroom | Around $1,360 – $2,070 |
| Three Bedroom | Around $1,780 – $2,580 |
Note: Details in the table are based on the latest available data as of August 2025 and may vary due to market trends, local developments, and other factors.
10. Fayetteville, GA – A Charming Blend of Southern Roots and Modern Growth
Fayetteville offers the perfect mix of small-town warmth and big-city perks. Families love its top-rated schools like Peeples Elementary School and Starrs Mill High School, both known for strong academic performance and community engagement initiatives.
Young professionals enjoy short commutes and a growing job market, especially with Trilith Studios, one of North America’s largest film studios, right next door. Home to Marvel blockbusters and other major productions, Trilith brings creative energy, high-paying jobs, and a vibrant live-work-play community.
Nature lovers can relax at The Ridge Nature Area, with 308 acres of trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas. Meanwhile, Downtown Fayetteville blends historic Southern charm with modern flair, offering boutique shops, farm-to-table dining, coffee houses, and lively events like outdoor concerts and farmers’ markets.
Here are the key living facts for Fayetteville:
| Average Home Value | $440,000 |
| Crime Rate | 49.9 per 100k residents in the typical year |
| Minutes Drive into Atlanta | ~34 min (23.7 mi) via GA-314/W Fayetteville Rd and I-75 N |
Here’s how much you can expect to pay for rent in Fayetteville:
| Apartment Type | Average Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | Around $980 – $1,350 |
| One Bedroom | Around $1,100 – $1,570 |
| Two Bedroom | Around $1,350 – $1,700 |
| Three Bedroom | Around $1,560 – $2,250 |
Note: Details in the table are based on the latest available data as of August 2025 and may vary due to market trends, local developments, and other factors.
Why Choose a City Near Atlanta for Your Next Move
Moving to a city near Atlanta gives you the best of both worlds: the energy of the city and the comfort of a quieter, more affordable lifestyle.
Housing costs, daily expenses, and commute times are often lower than living in the heart of Atlanta, while you still enjoy easy access to the city’s thriving job market, cultural attractions, and diverse dining options. This kind of convenience and comfort makes these nearby cities smart choices for long-term living.
Regardless of whether you’re a young professional seeking career opportunities or a family searching for safe neighborhoods and top-rated schools, suburbs just outside the city give you more flexibility with your moving budget.
When planning your relocation, understanding the benefits of hiring movers can make a huge difference, especially if you’re debating between a local or long-distance move.
Professional movers can help streamline the process, protect your belongings, and save you valuable time so you can focus on settling into your new community.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right place to call home is more than just finding a house; it’s about discovering a community that fits your lifestyle, goals, and future.
The 10 cities near Atlanta we explored offer the perfect blend of career opportunities, family-friendly neighborhoods, and easy access to the excitement of the city.
If you’re ready for your next chapter, whether you choose DIY moving or hiring expert movers, what’s best for your own judgment and needs will always be the right choice.
And if you do hire professional movers, take the time to find a reliable, trustworthy moving company to make your transition smooth and stress-free.
With the right plan, a trusted team of moving experts, and a clear vision for your future, your move can be less about hassle and more about the excitement of starting fresh in a place you’ll love.
FAQ
1. How can I make my move to one of these cities stress-free?
Partnering with a trusted local moving company ensures your transition is smooth from packing to unpacking, so you can focus on settling into your new community.
2. Can movers handle both small apartments and large homes?
Yes, a professional moving team can tailor their services to fit your space, whether you’re moving into a cozy apartment or a spacious family home.
3. How early should I book a moving company if I want to move near these cities?
Booking early helps you secure your preferred moving date and ensures the moving company has enough time to plan for a smooth relocation.
