Article Overview: Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta

Does a potential move have you scouting the best neighborhoods in Atlanta? If so (or if you’re just curious about the area in general) I’ve got you covered. As a lifelong resident of 30+ years I can say there’s a lot to love about the Peach State’s capital city.

Southern charm meets millennial boom town offering a really unique mix where there’s pretty much something for everyone.

I like to say neighborhoods in Atlanta are just about as diverse as the population (very). Here you’ll find everything from millions of dollar residences for folks like Elton John and Tyler Perry, on down as far as you want to go.

The best neighborhood in Atlanta for you could be historic and charming, hip and artsy, youthful and collegiate, skyscraper hustle and bustle, or a relaxed and quiet suburban setting. All of these exist here and are included on this list of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta.

Ready to get started? Let’s go!

What’s Covered In the Best Atlanta Neighborhoods?

For this list of the best neighborhoods to live in Atlanta, I’ve ranked neighborhoods based on a number of criteria and included important statistics along with other factors for each including:

• Median Age
• Median Home Price
• Median Household Income
• Walkability
• Affordability
• Beauty & Parks
• Schools

Note: This list is regularly updated based on changing statistics and comments from you. Your feedback directly impacts this article so please drop us a comment and let us know what you think!

The Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta

Top 15 Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta

Druid Hills

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: Upper-class families, high-quality education, history buffs, architectural buffs.

Probably one of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta for upper-class families, Druid Hills is a beautiful suburb that has maintained its historical architecture from the early 20th century. It’s a place where the residents truly embrace the country club glamour.

I love the charming coffee shops and well-maintained tennis courts. It’s also a great neighborhood for families with children, thanks to the abundance of high-quality educational options nearby.

The only downside is that the homes in Druid Hills sell for $500,000 or more easily – yikes – and renting is about ~$2,200, nearly double the national average.

Also, Druid Hills is a car-dependent neighborhood. While there aren’t many opportunities for walking around, it’s a haven for those who cherish the white picket fence life.

They do have a few parks and green spaces, although I must admit that the scenic score of Druid Hills isn’t particularly high. You’ll mainly be greeted by the sight of suburbs, schools, hospitals, and country clubs.

Sandy Springs

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: Career-driven professionals, families seeking high-quality education for their children, outdoor recreation

Just a short hop north from Atlanta’s bustling heart, you’ll find Sandy Springs. It’s renowned as one of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta, offering an appealing blend of career and recreational opportunities. With major corporations such as UPS and Cox Communications right on its doorstep, Sandy Springs serves up some promising job prospects. Yet, this corporate presence also raises the cost of living, a point worth considering if you’re budget-conscious.

Sandy Springs doesn’t just deliver on the job front. It’s also distinguished for its excellent school district, with notable schools like Riverwood International Charter School and Heards Ferry Elementary earning it a reputation as one of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta for families.

However, Sandy Springs isn’t right for everyone. Its uniform suburban feel may not hit the right note if you’re after a neighborhood teeming with urban diversity. But it’s not all houses and offices here. Sandy Springs is home to picturesque natural spaces, including the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, making it a paradise for outdoor lovers.

In a nutshell, if you’re a professional keen on building your career or a parent prioritizing top-notch education for your kids, Sandy Springs might just be your ideal pick. But if a lower cost of living or a more diverse cultural atmosphere is more your style, other excellent neighborhoods in Atlanta could be worth exploring.

Peachtree Heights East

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: Retirees, peace and quiet, exclusivity, safe neighborhood, friendly neighbors.

If you have the money to live there, Peachtree Heights East is a great neighborhood. Known for its population of retirees, it’s one of the best Atlanta neighborhoods for those who are 65 or older.

The cost of living in Peachtree Heights East is almost astronomical compared to most of the neighborhoods on this list, with the median price of homes being over $700,000. In fact, almost every home on the market right now in this area starts at one million dollars! Talk about a retirement plan.

Rent prices average around $1,500 per month but it’s worth noting that the opportunities to rent are quite limited. 

On the bright side, one of the standout features of Peachtree Heights East is its exceptional safety. With a remarkably low crime rate and a serene suburban ambiance, residents truly appreciate the sense of security this neighborhood offers.

The Peachtree Road Farmers Market offers a diverse range of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. The upscale dining and shopping experiences are nice here, too, and Buckhead is conveniently located just a stone’s throw away.

However, young families and professionals are not particularly prevalent here. As a result, the nightlife scene is not as great as in other areas. 

North Buckhead

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: Young people and families, nightlife, shopping and dining, lively atmosphere, and convenient highway access.

Known as one of the best Atlanta neighborhoods for young professionals and families, North Buckhead is a perfect mix of luxurious single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums.

With the highway cutting right through it, North Buckhead is situated in a prime location within Atlanta, with easy access to major highways, such as Georgia 400 and Interstate 285. If you want a convenient place to commute from, this is it!

Unfortunately, living here requires a medium household income of about $150,000+, and the housing market runs up into the millions. However, investing in condos and studio apartments is a viable option as these range in price from $280,000 to $600,000+.

Located just south of this suburb is the vibrant shopping and dining hub of Buckhead. If you didn’t know, Buckhead is a bustling center filled with hundreds of shops, hotels, and restaurants. You’ll likely never run out of things to do!

If you are seeking scenic spots that break through the suburban setting, check out the Little Nancy Creek Park and Blue Heron Nature Preserve. While they may not be huge, they provide charming green spaces for walking or bike riding.

Lake Claire

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: Historical significance, active community engagement, outdoor recreation, wealthy professionals, and empty-nesters.

Lake Claire is the best neighborhood for wealthy professionals or parents looking to “empty nest” in a quiet place.

It’s situated in eastern Atlanta, just south of the historic Candler Park neighborhood. It’s known for its vibrant art scene and public art projects with residents actively creating murals, street art, and community art installations.

You’ll find a variety of architectural designs, such as bungalows, cottages, and Tudors here. However, the cost of living is really high. Lake Claire houses straddle the million-dollar line, are mostly upscale, and are tightly packed. If you are someone looking to spend your hard-earned money in a nice place, this is it!

The best part is that Lake Claire is located within walking distance of popular local hotspots like Candler Park, the Edgewood Retail District, and Little Five Points, offering lots of dining and shopping options.

For outdoor enthusiasts the Candler Park pool, playground, and tennis courts are just a short walk or drive away. On nice days you can also explore the Cator Woolford Gardens or take a leisurely stroll around nearby Lake Claire Park.

If you’re a golfer, you’ll love the Candler Park golf course! It has a rich history in the area and is a favorite among the locals.

Hills Park

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: More affordable housing, easy access to downtown, student and professional commuters.

Home to where two Hollywood films were taped… Flight, starring Denzel Washington, and Keeping Up with the Joneses, starring Zach Galifianakis… Hills Park is one of the best Atlanta neighborhoods for students and young professionals looking to find a home near the city.

Why? Because it is more affordable!

The housing costs here range from about $400,000-$600,000, and the rent is around $1,200 monthly.

The only issue is that the lower price in Hills Park does come with its drawbacks. Several railroad lines intersect the landscape, and the historic Crest Lawn Memorial Park and cemetery occupy the entire northern corner.

On the bright side, Hills Park compensates for its lack of picturesque scenery by offering convenient access to downtown Atlanta, which is merely a 20-minute drive away. This is particularly advantageous for lower-income professionals or students who desire a shorter commute.

Peachtree Hills

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: Retirees, assisted living, walkable shopping, outdoor recreation.

Bordered by Peachtree Creek and home to assisted living and retirement communities, Peachtree Hills is the best Atlanta neighborhood for families and retirees looking to rent or live with assistance.

The median cost of living here is lower than most, at around $580,000+, but the household income is only around $98,000. Depending on your preferences or needs, you can live in a townhouse, single-family home, or assisted/retirement living facility.

Within walking distance from Peachtree Hills Place and The Terraces (retirement and assisted living) is J. Christopher’s Breakfast and the Treehouse Restaurant and Pub. Add two wine stores and a recreation center complete with tennis courts and a ball diamond, and you’ve got the makings of a great place to retire!

Families and parents can find some great housing here too, as well as access to great public and private schools. West of Peachtree Hills is a small shopping center with everything residents might need, such as a few restaurants, a Walgreens, a Publix, and a spa.

Candler Park / Little Five Points

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: Historical significance, shopping, dining, nature trails, golf course.

Candler Park is considered the best family-friendly neighborhood, with excellent public and private schools, playgrounds, and family-oriented community events. The Mary Lin Elementary School is situated just on the northeast side of Candler Park, a perfect walking distance from many houses in the area.

Although housing prices are usually in the millions, the median is around $650,000+.

It makes sense, though! Candler Park is a prime location in Atlanta, offering easy access to major transportation routes. It is in close proximity to Little Five Points, a trendy area known for its eclectic shops and nightlife, as well as other popular neighborhoods like Inman Park and Decatur.

On the southwest side of Candler Park, you absolutely must check out Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q or Hattie B’s Hot Chicken for a delicious night out on the town! 

The neighborhood is renowned for its pedestrian-friendly streets and sidewalks, making it a breeze for residents like me to walk or bike around the neighborhood.

Speaking of getting outside, the Freedom Park trail runs right behind the Candler Park Golf Course, taking you through the scenic Freedom Park Bird and Butterfly Garden and eventually leading you to the beautiful Walton Spring Park.

Imagine having a stunning nature trail just steps away from your doorstep—truly incredible!

Peachtree Park

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: Easy access to Buckhead Village, shopping and dining, community and volunteer opportunities.

Peachtree Park’s central location is the best neighborhood for those who want easy access to popular areas such as Buckhead, Lenox Square, and Phipps Plaza, offering locals convenient shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

The housing costs here are pretty expensive, and even though the median price is reported at almost $900,000, most on the market today average at least $1,000,000.

Peachtree Park, located just down the street from Frankie Allen Park, is right in the heart of Buckhead Village.

One of the standout features of Peachtree Park is its tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes, creating a charming atmosphere. The strong sense of community truly sets this place apart. Most residents actively engage in community events, social gatherings, and volunteer opportunities.

Even better, Peachtree Park has a reportedly low crime rate that contributes to a safe living experience. So you can enjoy the tranquility and security that come with being part of this wonderful community.

Brookwood Hills

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: Families and young professionals, affordable condos and townhome living, affordable rent.

The Brookwood area (also known as Brookwood Hills) is the best neighborhood for families or young professionals looking to invest in townhomes and condos. This makes for a more affordable place to live right near the heart of downtown Atlanta.

The neighborhood was initially developed as one of Atlanta’s first planned communities and has preserved much of its original character over the years.

You can find a few townhomes or condos within the $300,000+ range, and the median rent prices are around $1,600/month. That’s why the average income here is a bit lower.

However, if you want to purchase a house, the prices are way up in the millions.

Putting that price aside, Brookwood is a fantastic neighborhood located right in the heart of Buckhead, just north of Highway 75. This prime location means you’ll have easy access to upscale shopping centers, top-notch restaurants, exciting entertainment venues, and bustling business districts.

Let’s not forget that Brookwood is proud to be home to the prestigious Piedmont Hospital, one of Atlanta’s premier healthcare facilities.

When it comes to green spaces and outdoor activities, Brookwood doesn’t disappoint. You’ll find lovely areas like Ardmore Park, complete with a playground, and the scenic Tanyard Creek Park nearby. These spots offer residents the perfect opportunity for leisurely walks and enjoyable picnics.

Atlantic Station

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: Young professionals and students, nightlife, high energy, walkability, affordable rent, and housing.

Given its upscale nature and proximity to Georgia Tech, Atlantic Station is one of the best Atlanta neighborhoods for young professionals, graduate students, and faculty members associated with the university.

The heart of Atlantic Station is the renowned open-air Atlantic Station Mall, which boasts an impressive collection of fashionable boutiques and home decor stores. It’s the perfect place to indulge in some retail therapy or find unique items for your home.

While the neighborhood may not have abundant green spaces, The Commons is a nice outdoor area to relax and enjoy your surroundings.

Additionally, Atlantic Station is located near the Millennium Gate Museum, which hosts rotating art exhibitions, and the Robert C. Williams Paper Museum, a fascinating destination dedicated to the art of papermaking.

Being in such close proximity to the Georgia Tech campus, Atlantic Station offers a range of classic diners where you can treat yourself to hearty breakfasts and mouth watering burgers. It’s the perfect spot to grab a delicious meal and soak up the lively atmosphere.

The average cost of living here is around $200,000 for condos or townhomes right in the middle of the action! Pair that with a fantastic walkability score, a connection to culture and fine dining, and a bustling nightlife, Atlantic Station is a fantastic place to live outside Atlanta’s downtown.

Inman Park

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: those who appreciate a neighborhood with a strong sense of community, historic charm, walkability, access to parks and the BeltLine, and a vibrant local dining and shopping scene

Nestled just east of Atlanta’s downtown, Inman Park holds a distinct allure. Another area often touted as one of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta, Inman Park is perfect for those who desire a rich, cultural living experience combined with urban convenience. The neighborhood is renowned for its historic homes and tree-lined streets, lending a quaint, inviting atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the city’s larger commercial hubs.

Education in Inman Park is great, with access to quality schools, including the highly regarded Mary Lin Elementary School. Although not a corporate hub like Sandy Springs, Inman Park offers its own distinct professional opportunities, especially for those in the creative and tech industries, with several startup companies making their home here.

However, Inman Park may not appeal to everyone’s taste. Its thriving food, arts, and festival scene, including the famous Inman Park Festival, offers a decidedly hip, urban vibe that may not align with those seeking a more traditional, suburban lifestyle. Yet for those with a love for the outdoors, Inman Park’s proximity to the Beltline and Freedom Park provides ample opportunities for recreation and exercise.

In sum, Inman Park could be an ideal choice for those seeking a balance of historic charm and modern, creative energy. Yet, for individuals seeking a quieter suburban lifestyle or those looking for a major corporate hub, other neighborhoods in Atlanta might be a better fit.

Midtown

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: those who thrive in a dynamic urban environment with robust professional opportunities, a vibrant social scene, and quick access to cultural and recreational spots like theatres, restaurants, and parks

So, right smack dab in the middle of Atlanta, you’ve got Midtown. It’s the place to be if you’re into art, culture, and a city that never sleeps (well it’s not quite that city but not too shabby either). Midtown’s got a bit of everything – solid job prospects with all sorts of companies and startups, and a social scene that keeps the city buzzing.

When it comes to schools, you’ve got Georgia Tech right there in the neighborhood, which is a pretty big deal. But, just keep in mind, Midtown isn’t exactly what you’d call “family-oriented” like those suburban neighborhoods. So, if you’re looking for that traditional community vibe, this might not be your first pick.

Now, here’s the thing about Midtown, it’s got an awesome city vibe that’s just too cool for some folks to pass up. There’s a plethora of great restaurants, art galleries, and theaters (like the Fox –a must-see). Plus, you’ve got Piedmont Park right there in the middle of the city – it’s like having your own slice of nature in the urban jungle.

All in all, if you’re someone who loves the city buzz and you’re after some serious career opportunities, Midtown might just be your kind of place. But if you’re dreaming of a quiet, suburban neighborhood or a traditional family setting, there are other spots in Atlanta that’ll suit you better.

Vinings

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: those seeking a laid-back, upscale suburban lifestyle with proximity to career opportunities, quality schools, and outdoor amenities, despite a slightly higher cost of living

So, you’re thinking about Vinings, huh? Just a hop, skip, and a jump northwest of Atlanta, Vinings is like the chill cousin of the city. It’s this sweet mix of suburban comfort and city-like conveniences, which many folks find pretty appealing.

Here in Vinings, you’ve got some big-name companies (ever heard of Home Depot?). So, job-opportunity-wise there’s some major prospects. On the flip side, it’s worth mentioning that these opportunities come with a bit of a price tag – the cost of living here is higher than in other parts of Atlanta.

When it comes to education, Vinings has got some good schools. There’s not a ton of them, but the ones that are here, like Teasley Elementary, are solid. Just keep in mind, it’s not exactly a bustling college town or anything like it.

Now, Vinings has what I call a relaxed, upscale vibe to it. There are plenty of trendy shops, restaurants, and the Chattahoochee River is right there for all your outdoor adventures. So, if you’re looking for the comfort of a quiet suburb, but still want to be close to all the cool city stuff, Vinings could be your spot.

Virginia Highlands

The Best Neighborhood in Atlanta for/because: those who appreciate a blend of community vibe, historic charm, outdoor activities, and local businesses, all while being a short commute from downtown Atlanta

Virginia Highlands, nestled a stone’s throw northeast of downtown Atlanta, is one of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta for those seeking a blend of charm and city convenience. This neighborhood, with its historic homes, is like a snapshot of old Atlanta.

Virginia Avenue, the neighborhood’s lively heart, is brimming with local businesses, making it one of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta for foodies and indie film lovers – Murphy’s for brunch, Paper Source for unique crafts, and the iconic Plaza Theatre are just a few local gems.

While not a commercial center itself, it’s proximity to the city center makes it one of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta for easy commuting. Virginia Highlands is also known for its quality schools, like Springdale Park Elementary and Inman Middle School, but it still holds on to that residential, peaceful vibe.

Lastly, for outdoor enthusiasts, it could be one of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta, thanks to its closeness to the Beltline Eastside Trail and Piedmont Park. So, in summary, Virginia Highlands could be your ideal spot if you’re after a community vibe with city benefits. But those looking for a buzzing urban or college town atmosphere might want to explore other Atlanta neighborhoods. As always, the right choice hinges on your lifestyle and what you value most.

Map of the Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta

List of the Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta

1. Virginia Highlands
2. Candler Park / Little Five Points
3. Inman Park
4. Midtown
5. Vinings
6. Atlantic Station
7. Brookwood Hills
8. Peachtree Park
9. Peachtree Hills
10. Hills Park
11. Lake Claire
12. North Buckhead
13. Peachtree Heights East
14. Druid Hills
15. Sandy Springs

FAQ – Best Neighbhorhoods in Atlanta

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