When considering the leap to Atlanta, my husband’s tales of 20+ years in the city painted a vibrant picture. Known for its phoenix emblem, symbolizing rebirth from ashes after being destroyed in the war of 1864 by General Sherman, Atlanta’s resilience is legendary.
Beyond its historical fire and rebuild, it’s a place of mild winters and affordable housing, making it increasingly attractive to an influx of residents, especially millennials. This city caters to whims with exciting city-wide projects and public spaces, a testament to its ability to continually attract folks from across the country.
Having witnessed its transformation firsthand, the comprehensive list of pros and cons we’ve compiled is deeply honest, aiming to share a local’s perspective. Should you find yourself pondering a move, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our experience, while personal, aims to answer questions and shed light on the living conditions in a place that’s both known for its hospitality and ever-evolving landscape.
Remember, not everyone feels the same way, but diving into this Local Living Series might just give you the insights needed, whether you’re drawn to its history or its future. And as always, we’re here to learn from locals who share their insights and from readers who add their thoughts and questions at the bottom of the post.
Atlanta, GA, Quick Stats
- Metro Population 6,307,261
- Median Home Price $388,158
- Median Monthly Rent $1,294
- Median Age 36.8 years old
- Average Annual Salary $59,100
- Unemployment Rate 7.2%
- Average Commute 31.8 minutes
- Average High Temps 71.83° F
- Average Low Temps 53.16° F
- Average Rainfall 49.71 inches
Pros of Living in Atlanta
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#1. The locals are genuinely friendly
Diving into the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, one can’t help but be enveloped by the warmth and Southern hospitality that define its essence. My favorite aspect of living here is undoubtedly the genuinely friendly nature of the locals. With a population nearing half a million, Atlantans have a unique way of making you feel welcome, with a friendly hello or a simple nod as you walk by.
Unlike my previous experiences in cities like Portland, Oregon, making friends in Atlanta has been remarkably easier, thanks to the open and enthusiastic conversations that strike up effortlessly. The city pride locals harbor is contagious; they love to share how great their home is, making it a very friendly city for anyone stepping out of their comfort zone.
This Southern hospitality is not just a cliché but a real, tangible part of the Atlanta experience, setting a welcoming tone that resonates deeply with both residents and visitors alike.
#2. Atlanta is a great millennial city
Atlanta stands out as a great millennial city, with millennials making up 25% of its population and this number is only rising. Businesses have been quick to catch on, adapting and evolving to meet the preferences of a generation that prefers to shop local and support small businesses as opposed to patronizing large chains.
This shift has led to an increase in small shops and boutique establishments, particularly around areas like the Ponce City Market, which has been met with great enthusiasm. Over the past ten years, Atlanta has transformed into a city that caters to the desires and needs of the younger demographic, something I’ve personally been impressed by.
The proliferation of new, cool shops and interesting restaurants adds to the city’s appeal, making it a vibrant, dynamic place to live for those who crave diversity and innovation in their everyday environments.
#3. The BeltLine
The BeltLine is an incredible project under construction in Atlanta, yet already usable and serving as a big pro for living in the city. This expansive network of multi-use trails not only unites in-town neighborhoods but also mirrors the HighLine in New York City by repurposing 22 miles of unused railroad tracks.
These tracks now encircle the city’s core, transforming into vibrant walking, hiking, and biking trails amidst lush green spaces. It’s an ode to Atlanta’s determination to rise from the ashes towards a better future, where locals take pride in their city’s resilience and innovation.
Many suggest walking portions of the BeltLine with friends as a way to pass time during weekends, highlighting its role in fostering community and outdoor activity. This project reflects Atlanta’s ambition and the collective desire for a greener, more connected urban life.
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#4. The food scene is incredible
Atlanta’s food scene is nothing short of incredible, often called one of the best food cities in the country. What sets it apart is the food diversity, quality, and accessibility, pleasing both visitors and locals alike. It would be a mistake to assume you’ll only find southern comfort food here. Over the years, the culinary landscape has diversified, offering a plethora of cultural cuisines that reflect the city’s melting pot of cultures.
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From bustling farmer’s markets to cozy restaurants and lively bars, you’re spoilt for choice and will never go hungry. Among my favorite spots is Cafe Intermezzo, a testament to the city’s rich culinary offerings. Whether you’re a foodie or just someone who appreciates a good meal, Atlanta’s food scene ensures a tantalizing journey for your taste buds.
#5. The Cost of Living is Reasonable
In Atlanta, the cost of living is often cited as reasonable and affordable, a refreshing change from the financial strain experienced in places like San Francisco and New York City. Here, you don’t have to scrape to make ends meet, allowing you to afford the comforts of life without the constant worry of empty pockets or maxed-out credit cards.
Whether it’s groceries that don’t cost an arm and a leg or decent eats that won’t lead to financial ruin, Atlanta offers a balance that’s becoming rarer in America. The real estate market is like stepping back in time, with decent homes that don’t demand a king’s ransom and often come with yards.
Even with a median price of a home at $325,000 — a 10% increase from last year — many folks find the city a breath of fresh air compared to the housing value surges in other metro regions. The niceties of life, like dining out, catching a movie, or a night out on the town, don’t feel like a financial restraint exercise but more like finding a twenty-dollar bill in your jeans pocket on laundry day. It’s not winning the lottery, but it’s a welcome surprise that makes your wallet take a long, satisfying sip of sweet tea on a warm, southern day, with just the right amount of sugar.
#6. Mild winters
In Atlanta, the mild winters are a delightful departure from the harsher climates up north. Forget the old saying, “Winter is coming,” because here, it’s less Game of Thrones and more like living in a cozy, Hallmark movie.
The city enjoys what’s fondly referred to as sweater weather, where there’s just enough chill to put a little color in your cheeks without the need for bundling up like an Eskimo. Unlike the northern winters that unleash a barrage of snow and sleet, battling arctic winds right at your front door, Atlanta’s version is more about Mother Nature gently reminding you to dust off your favorite sweater and maybe add a scarf for a dash of style.
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When a frost kisses your lawn, it’s more of a spectacle than a nuisance, with a rare, light dusting of white that looks like powdered sugar on a fresh beignet — magical, rather than burdensome. And driving? No need for those tank-like 4×4’s or carrying a shovel in your trunk. An occasional freak snowstorm might keep you indoors for a day, but it’s far from the norm.
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#7. Atlanta is diverse
Atlanta’s diversity is a great perk of living within its city limits. This metropolis is a melting pot, boasting a rich diversity with approximately 51% of its population identifying as black, making it the second largest majority black metro area in the country.
Additionally, it’s renowned for its inclusive atmosphere, being home to the 19th largest LGBTQ+ population per capita in the US, with 4.2% of residents identifying as gay, lesbian, or bisexual.
This inclusivity has earned Atlanta the title of the second best gay-friendly city in the US, showcasing that diversity is far from lacking here. Living in such a vibrant and accepting environment is truly a privilege, reflecting a community where everyone can feel at home.
#8. The Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport
Having access to the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, one of the largest airports in the world, is a big advantage of living in Atlanta. This airport is a hub of activity, employing a staggering 63,000 people and transferring 107 million passengers a year, consistently ranking as the busiest yet remarkably efficient airport globally.
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Whether you need to go on a sudden business trip or crave a spontaneous vacation, flying out of Atlanta is a breeze. Its efficiency and vast network make it great not just for those living in Atlanta but also position the city as a pivotal hometown for international travelers and professionals alike.
#9. Stable job market
The stable job market in Atlanta offers a beacon of hope for those moving to the city with the hope of finding a job. With luck on your side, you’ll discover that Atlanta hosts 16 Fortune 500 companies within its city limits, representing one of the highest concentrations in the country.
This city is home to a variety of large employers across sectors including hospitals, universities, and infrastructure, ensuring ample career opportunities. Whether you’re interested in joining renowned companies like Delta Air Lines, The Home Depot, or Coca-Cola, or are more inclined towards the burgeoning tech and entertainment sectors, Atlanta offers a steady stream of job prospects.
The city’s expanding reservoir of diverse roles caters to a wide range of skills and interests, making it an ideal place for living and building a career.
Cons of Living in Atlanta
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#1. Lack of public transportation
In Atlanta, the lack of public transportation is a striking aspect that anyone planning to move here needs to consider. While MARTA exists, its reputation for being inefficient and feeling unsafe has turned avoiding it into somewhat of a sport.
Living in this vibrant city almost certainly means you’ll need a car for daily life, which, without a doubt, will have a significant impact on your budget. The costs of gas, car insurance, and maintenance can add up quickly, making Georgia feel closer to California in terms of the expense associated with vehicle ownership.
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This is an essential factor to weigh, as it affects not just how you plan your commute but also the overall cost of living in one of the most expensive regions of the country.
#2. The summer heat and humidity
In Atlanta, the summer heat and humidity are notorious, making the city hot and muggy from June through August with temperatures averaging 88-90°F. This sneaky humidity gets to you, making living here a challenge during these months; no mistake, it’s a defining feature of the city.
Despite the hot summers, in the grand scheme of things, Atlanta is blessed with mild and pleasant weather most of the year, making it hard to complain about just a few uncomfortable months. However, Prepare for allergies and bugs that become rampant, making it nearly impossible to enjoy the outdoors for long periods of time.
#3. The urban sprawl
The urban sprawl of Atlanta, with its three downtown cores—Buckhead, Midtown, and Downtown—illustrates the city’s sprawling nature and significant dependency on cars. This layout leads to congested roads and lengthy commutes, making even short trips time-consuming.
The city’s notorious traffic, especially on I-285 and I-85, further complicates mobility. Atlanta’s spread-out design renders public transportation like MARTA less effective and efficient, often poorly connected and necessitating a car for access to work, shops, and recreational activities. Such sprawl also contributes to the fragmentation of communities, an increased environmental footprint, higher energy consumption, and more pollution.
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#4. Atlanta’s traffic is some of the worst in the country
Atlanta’s traffic is often cited as some of the worst in the country, a fact that newcomers quickly learn. My advice to friends considering moving here is always to live within the city limits or in a neighborhood close to work to minimize traffic woes.
Despite the charm of the city, traffic never lets up, turning what should be a short commute from Point A to Point B into a time-consuming ordeal, not just on weekdays but often throughout the weekend too. This constant congestion is a significant con of living in Atlanta and is largely due to its sprawling nature and urban expansion.
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The city’s intricate web of freeways is clogged with cars, and while MARTA, the primary transit system, exists, it cannot fully compensate for the car-centric design of the city. The heavy reliance on personal vehicles only makes the roads even more crowded.
#5. The bugs
In Atlanta, dealing with bugs is a significant part of the local lifestyle, making it the 4th worst city in the country for pests like ticks, mosquitos, cockroaches (yes, those with wings), and fleas. The quantity and variety of these critters are a major drawback to living here, especially when trying to enjoy the outdoors during the warm, humid climate of the summer months.
You might feel like you’re eaten alive without proper precautions. This environment, coupled with Atlanta’s abundant green spaces, creates a haven for these pests, much to the dismay of residents. The hot summers and mild winters serve as a perfect breeding ground, leading to a nearly year-round bug season.
Among the most notorious are the palmetto bugs or American cockroaches, which can reach an alarming size, and fire ants, known for their large, visible mounds and painful stings. Termites also pose a significant problem, causing property damage in homes and buildings. It’s no surprise that moving to Atlanta means windows will seldom be left open without screens, and screened-in porches have become a standard feature in homes here.
#6. Lack of variety in outdoor recreation
Despite what some locals might say about the ample opportunities for outdoor recreation in Atlanta, there’s a notable lack of variety in the outdoor arena. While there are certainly beautiful places nearby like Stone Mountain and the Chattahoochee River, not to mention a handful of healthy forests, the overall landscape can start to feel somewhat boring after a while.
This might be an unpopular opinion, and I’m prepared to catch some flack for it, but it’s an honest reflection on the lack of outdoor recreation and natural scenery that I felt living here. It wasn’t until I moved out west that I realized just how nutty folks get for outdoor activities. So, while hate to be the messenger of less-than-ideal news for the avid outdoorsman looking to relocate, this article aims to be helpful by setting realistic expectations.
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FAQ – Living in Atlanta
Is Atlanta a good place to live?
If you’re someone who can embrace the warmth of humid summers and appreciates the gentle chill of mild winters, alongside cherishing abundant greenery, exquisite culinary experiences, and a youthful atmosphere, then Atlanta could be your ideal home.
Is Atlanta an expensive place to live?
When compared to other major cities in the US, Atlanta stands out for its affordability, largely thanks to housing and grocery costs that fall below the national average.
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