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5 of the Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta From Nature to Cities

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Atlanta,Georgia Skyscape after sunset

About 70,000 people move to Atlanta annually. With a booming economy and job growth, it is no surprise that people want to come to Atlanta. However, the welcoming southern hospitality and plentiful amenities are what make people want to stay.

One of the first questions new residents face is where to settle down. For those wanting to experience all that Atlanta has to offer, they look to the neighborhoods in and around the downtown area. Choosing the right neighborhood is crucial for ensuring your new home is near the activities and amenities you value the most.

This in-depth guide will provide you with unique insight into the best neighborhoods in Atlanta.

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Criteria for Selecting the Best Atlanta Neighborhoods

When choosing the best Atlanta Neighborhoods, several factors were used. The best were chosen for the balance of amenities, accessibility, and community culture. These factors combine to create a micro-community within the greater metropolitan Atlanta area.

Additional factors that influence a neighborhood’s culture were also considered. This would include the quality of schools to attract families. Or the number of bars, nightclubs, and cocktail lounges to attract the socially mobile.

Each neighborhood’s real estate market also contributed to the determination. The best neighborhoods tend to be the most in-demand.

Because of this, home prices in these neighborhoods have seen notable increases over recent years. Even homes that are in need of repairs sell for decent prices.

Quantifiable and verifiable data was compiled to determine the performance of each neighborhood in these different categories. This included reviews, publicized amenities, community vents, and statistical data.

Current and former resident reviews also aided in creating an accurate picture of what life is like in each of these neighborhoods.

With information on each neighborhood compiled, analysis was possible to determine the neighborhoods with the most to offer. Unique features and qualities of each neighborhood were considered.

Overview of Top Atlanta Neighborhoods

The best neighborhoods in Atlanta include Buckhead, Midtown, Old Fourth Ward, Inman Park, and Virginia-Highland. These well-established neighborhoods were not always the best. Many have gone through periods of popularity and unfashionability in the Atlanta real estate market.

Buckhead is the epitome of luxury and sophistication. It is where you will find international design house boutiques, mansions, and exclusive social clubs. It is also the neighborhood with the most expensive homes in the city.

Midtown is affluent like Buckhead but has a culture that is more focused on the arts. You will find a vibrant upscale nightlife here. The housing in Midtown includes sleek high-rise apartments and lofts converted from old brick factory buildings.

The Old Fourth Ward is rich in history. You will find plenty of green spaces for outdoor activities. The housing here is a mix of historic shotgun, bungalow, and craftsman homes with new apartment complexes.

Inman Park embodies urban cool with a thriving street art culture. It also sits on the BeltLine, making it perfect for those who enjoy an outdoor lifestyle. This neighborhood is known for its Queen Ann Victorian and high-style Italianate homes.

Virginia-Highland is a small town community with big city convenience. This walkable neighborhood hosts family-friendly events and embraces a more laid-back lifestyle. You will find some of the most beautifully restored bungalows and craftsman-style homes in this neighborhood.

Explore the Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta

Before you enter the Atlanta housing market as a buyer, you need to know what neighborhoods might appeal to you the most. This will help you find your ideal home in Atlanta more easily.

Atlanta culture features southern hospitality, with many residents ready to give you a friendly smile. However, the neighborhoods within the loop each embody a unique personality. Like any large city, a neighborhood’s culture and personality will shape your experience.

Because Atlanta is one of the oldest cities in the south, you will find historical homes and a rich history in most of the neighborhoods. However, how you experience that history can vary significantly.

Exploring Buckhead will show you the most luxurious parts of Atlanta’s history. The Old Fourth Ward will show you Atlanta’s history with the Civil Rights Movement. Visiting Midtown can show you glimpses into Atlanta’s history with music, art, and culture.

The best way to explore the best neighborhoods in Atlanta is to visit them yourself. Experience the walkability. Imagine living in the neighborhood as you stroll through shops, dine at restaurants, and talk to the current residents.

1. Buckhead

It is well known that Buckhead is one of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta. It has a reputation for elegance and luxury, catering to the most affluent residents. Homes in this neighborhood are some of the most expensive in Atlanta.

The Buckhead Arts Festival is an annual event that perfectly defines the Buckhead culture. It is a two-day fine arts festival that features 100 of the best artists in the world.

Housing

The housing in Buckhead is some of the most impressive in the city. Sitting behind large gates are estates and mansions surrounded by rolling green hills. Perfectly manicured landscaping creates a peaceful atmosphere that makes you feel far away from the city’s hustle.

In addition to the sprawling mansions, you will find luxury high-rise apartment and condo buildings. These are the epitome of elegance and sophistication with plenty of amenities. Many come with valet parking, doormen, and pet spa services.

The housing market in Buckhead is competitive and high-priced. A certain cache comes with saying you live in Buckhead, and people are willing to pay top dollar for it.

Because of this, homes regularly hit the multi-million dollar price point. Apartments range from a few to several hundred thousand dollars.

Amenities

In such an affluent area, it should be no surprise that the amenities abound. Residents enjoy relaxing at exclusive country clubs and private member-only social clubs.

They can then spend time shopping at luxury designer boutiques or dining at world-class five-star restaurants.

Phipps Plaza and Lenox Square Mall in the Buckhead Village area are premier luxury shopping destinations. Lenox Quare is home to brands like Audemars Piguet, Carolina Herrera, Ferragamo, and Gucci. Phipps Plaza is home to Alexander McQueen, Balmain, Brunello Cucinelli, Christian Louboutin, and Saint Laurent Paris.

Schools and Family Life

Family Life in Buckhead centers around extracurriculars and spending time in the local parks. Parents of school-aged children have access to some of the best schools in the south.

Morris Brandon Elementary is regularly recognized for its strong community involvement. The North Atlanta High School has an impressive International Baccalaureate program. The Westminster Schools offer an elite private school experience.

Emory University’s Goizueta Business School sits within Buckhead’s borders for higher education.

Transportation and Accessibility

Even the transportation options in Buckhead have a luxury feel. The Buc on-demand shuttle service is the newest method of getting around the neighborhood. However, many residents use private transportation and their destination’s valet services.

You can also access the public transportation options of the MARTA and bus services.

Buckhead is most well known for its proximity to Peachtree Road. It is the main road corridor through the area and regularly gets heavily congested with vehicle traffic.

2. Midtown

The Midtown neighborhood of Atlanta appeals to the affluent of Atlanta but has a culture that centers less on luxury brands and more on art and culture. You will find business professionals walking to work next to street performers on any given workday.

When the sun sets, a vibrant nightlife comes to life with clubs, bars, and theaters. Midtown is where Atlanta comes to enjoy good music, creative food, and an active social culture.

Housing

The housing in Midtown is mixed with a little bit of everything. You will find historic homes sitting next to modern high-rise apartments. This gives Midtown broad appeal with something for everyone.

The sleek high-rise apartments feature large windows with sprawling city skyline views. These sophisticated apartments command a high price, offering plenty of amenities.

In contrast, historic bungalows give off a hidden affluence vibe for those not interested in Buckhead’s designer labels.

Then there are the converted lofts that breathe new life into the once-abandoned brick factory and warehouse buildings.

Amenities

Atlanta culture in Midtown centers around the arts. The Fox Theatre in Midtown is a world-renowned event venue and concert hall.

Its story began in 1929 with its first-ever showing, Steamboat Willie. Today, top performers from all over the world come to the Fox Theater.

The High Museum of Art is the largest museum for visual arts in the Southeastern US. It features over 300,000 square feet of exhibit space. You can spend the afternoon exploring the exhibits or attend one of the many museum-hosted events.

The Piedmont Park Conservancy offers residents a beautiful green space for escaping the city. The park offers educational programs, a pool, a splash pad, a green market, camps, a dog park, and wellness programs.

You also have your pick of over 150 restaurants serving everything from street tacos to Michelin-star dining.

Schools and Family Life

The schools in Midtown are some of the best in the city. Morningside Elementary stands out for routinely getting recognized for its student’s performance. Another stand out is Grady High School for its dedicated College and Career Center.

There is also the Georgia Institute of Technology, which has world-class STEM programs. Parents looking to set their children up for academic success will appreciate these specialized programs to propel their children’s future careers.

Higher education is also present in Midtown, with Georgia Tech and the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) having campuses in the neighborhood.

Community and Lifestyle

The lifestyle of Midtown is not a quiet one. If you want a peaceful escape from the city, then Midtown probably is not your ideal neighborhood.

During the day, you hear the hustle and bustle of the traffic and business operations. You hear the city come to life in the evening and night with late-night revelers. For some, this noise is the soundtrack of their life; for others, it is just noise.

A notable event that takes place annually in the neighborhood is the Music Midtown Festival. For three days, over 30 artists will perform on four stages. Food vendors from the best restaurants in the city also provide delicious bites and sips during the event.

Public transportation in Midtown is simple, with MARTA stations and lines connecting residents to the rest of the city. There are also bike lines, making it easy to get around locally.

3. Old Fourth Ward

The Old Fourth Ward got its name when Atlanta was divided into five wards after the city burned during the Civil War. Locals shorten the name and refer to it as “O4W.” It is the only ward to have its name still all of these years later.

Today, the neighborhood is popular with families and young professionals who want to immerse themselves in American history. Its proximity to downtown gives residents easy access to shopping outlets, dining, and the BeltLine.

Housing

The housing in the Old Fourth Ward is a mix of historic homes, new apartments, and industrial lofts. The condo and apartment market is quickly growing, with many competing by offering extensive amenities.

One notable housing option is the hospitality living apartments in Ponce City Market. These luxury living spaces are a blend of traditional apartments and hotels. Amenities include laundry service and housekeeping.

Historic homes in the neighborhood include Victorian homes, Craftsman bungalows, and shotgun houses.

Apartments and condos in Old Fourth Ward start between $100,000 and $200,000. Prices increase with more amenities included.

Single-family homes that were once affordable can now easily sell for over a million. The most in-demand are the recently renovated craftsman-style homes with luxury finishes and features.

Amenities

Throughout the Old Fourth Ward, you will find indie eateries serving up unique creations.

The Ponce City Market is a community space that was once a Sears, Roebuck & Co retail store and distribution center. The building is now home to various community-use spaces, housing, restaurants, amusements, and services.

Visit The Village Retail and support black-owned businesses. Located within the Ponce City Market is this unique shopping experience.

Cultural and Social Scene

The Old Fourth Ward neighborhood stands out from other Atlanta neighborhoods when it comes to history. The area is not just historic; it is home to historical significance. Visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site, Ebenezer Baptist Church.

The Old Fourth Ward was the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Tourists visiting Atlanta come to the O4W to take tours and see the places that inspired Dr. King during his lifetime. This is where you can immerse yourself in the Civil Rights Movement.

Green Spaces and Recreation

The Historic Fourth Ward Park is part of the BeltLine park network, connecting it to Freedom and Piedmont Parks. The park features a large amphitheater overlooking a lake. Residents enjoy concerts and events at the park throughout the year.

The park features plenty of activities for all ages, including a splash pad, skate park, rock wall, slides, and swings.

There is a quirky feel to the Old Fourth Ward. Visit The Roof on top of the Ponce City Market and enjoy a Coney Island style boardwalk with vintage-style games and amusements. Hop on the rides or take in the expansive view of the Atlanta skyline.

4. Inman Park

Located on the east side of downtown Atlanta, Inman Park is one of the most Instagramable neighborhoods in Atlanta. It has a hip, family-friendly, urban vibe with a strong sense of community. Young professionals and families with the income to afford the rising real estate prices find the trendy neighborhood appealing.

There is a creative energy in the air when walking around Inman Park. The balance between historic charm and modern cool creates a unique take on Atlanta culture.

Housing

The homes in Inman Park are a mix of historic Victorian homes and new suburban developments. It is one of the first planned suburbs in Atlanta.

The historic areas feature tree-lined streets that are perfect for walking the dog or going for a run. New developments feature homes, condos, and apartments along the BeltLine.

The most beautiful homes in the area are Queen Anne Victorians from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Complementing these grand homes are high-style Italianate homes that feature intricate details throughout.

Intermixed throughout Inman Park are bungalows of all sizes. They are characterized by their sloped roofs and open floor plans.

Foursquare homes offer a simplicity that focuses more on the American craftsman style. Finally, you will find long and skinny shotgun homes.

This blending of old meets new gives homeowners the option of choosing an older home that may require remodeling or new construction.

Amenities

Residents of Inman Park have all of the amenities they could want within walking distance of their homes. There are plentiful restaurants, bars, and shopping. Spend Sunday at one of the hip brunch spots.

Get a pick-me-up at one of the artisan coffee shops. Enjoy happy hour at the wine bars.

The BeltLine runs along Inmand Park. This once-defunct railway corridor is now a hub of activity, with people biking, running, and walking their dogs.

A noteworthy amenity is the Krog Street Market. The former factory building for Atlanta Stove Works is now home to community spaces, retail, services, fitness, food, and beverage.

Schools and Family Life

Affluent families enjoy living in Inman Park because of its walkability and parks that facilitate a vibrant outdoor lifestyle. In addition to the quiet streets, families can enjoy spending time in one of the many park areas.

Parents have access to quality schools, ensuring their children receive a quality education.

Community Events and Festivals

The most well-known event is the Inman Park Festival and Tour of Homes. The festival is a community event with something for everyone. There is an art, crafts, and market bazaar.

Three outdoor stages feature local artists playing jazz, country, rock, blues, and pop. Stay for the quirky and colorful parade. Then celebrate with the locals at the dance festival.

The Tour of Homes allows locals to walk through some of the most beautifully decorated homes in Inman Park. Stroll along the tree-lined streets as you participate in a tradition that has occurred annually for over 50 years.

5. Virginia-Highland

The Virginia-Highland neighborhood is perfect for singles and families wanting the best of both worlds. They can enjoy a walkable community with small-town charm. Downtown is easily accessible for the benefits of city living.

Just like a small community, you will find a mix of residents, from young professionals to established families, college students, and a few retirees.

You may hear locals refer to the neighborhood as Va-high.

Housing

The historic homes of Virginia-Highland are some of the most beautiful in Atlanta. Many were built in the early 1900s, giving the neighborhood a local charm. There are also plenty of classic charming bungalows and craftsman-style homes.

There is also new development, adding modern apartment buildings and condos to the area.

Houses in the Virginia-Highland neighborhood can vary significantly in price. Some are as low as $200,000. At the same time, others are a couple of million.

Amenities

Head to Virginia Avenue for the hub of this neighborhood’s nightlife, shopping, and restaurants. While the area is brimming with businesses, you won’t find the same energy level as Midtown.

This community is where you will find tables lining the sidewalks from the local cafes and restaurants. Clothing racks sit outside from the small boutiques.

You are also near Piedmont Park and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library. You could spend a lazy Sunday shopping at the farmer’s market and eating brunch.

Schools and Family Life

The schools in Virginia-Highland are decent, with many receiving respectable performance scores. Two schools considered high quality include Springdale Park Elementary and Inman Middle School.

Elementary, middle, and high schools have A or better ratings. There are also private schools in the area.

Community Vibe and Activities

Virginia-Highland’s culture is one of community, giving the neighborhood a small-town feel with city benefits. For over 35 years, the residents of this laid-back neighborhood come together to celebrate all things summer at the annual Summer Fest.

Enjoy live music, art, food, and shopping. There is fun for the whole family, making it a true community event.

Each year, the homes of Virginia-Highland open their doors and welcome the community in. The Tour of Homes is one of the most looked-forward-to events in the neighborhood. This is a perfect opportunity to get inspired on the best ways to stage your home.

Emerging Neighborhoods in Atlanta

The best neighborhoods in Atlanta tend to generate fierce buyer competition when a home enters the market. For many, this drives home sale prices beyond their budget. Getting priced out of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta means it is time to consider up-and-coming neighborhoods.

Grant Park, Cabbagetown, and Reynoldstown

Young families looking for easy access to Atlanta will like Grant Park, Cabbagetown, and Reynoldstown. These neighborhoods are on the southeast side of Atlanta between I20 and I75. Cabbagetown borders the Inman Park neighborhood.

In recent years, the area has seen noticeable redevelopment and growth. With new amenities, restaurants, and shops opening, there is always something to do. Cabbagetown is also famous for its street art scene.

The homes in these neighborhoods vary in size, style, and price. With such variety, buyers are more likely to find their ideal home in Atlanta.

West Midtown

The west midtown area was once abandoned and neglected. However, it was only a matter of time before neighboring Buckhead and Midtown residents spread into the area. It is quickly becoming one of the trendiest places to live.

There is a cool culture here with a mix of dive bars, breweries, and upscale cocktail bars. Old buildings are getting restored to be effortlessly cool commercial and residential spaces.

Morningside Lenox Park

North of the Virginia-Highland neighborhood is Morningside Lenox Park. Despite being in the middle of Atlanta activity, this neighborhood has a well-known peaceful park that brings Atlantians from all over.

The area’s proximity to Emory University means you will find plenty of nightlife activities here. Home prices in this area tend to scale higher but are well worth the investment for many amenities.

West End and Adair Park

If you love history, the West End and Adair Park neighborhoods will surely interest you as some of Atlanta’s oldest historic communities. Younger residents are bringing new life to the communities as they seek out a quieter lifestyle conveniently located in the city.

The bike-friendly streets and the flourishing of new businesses create a thriving community for those who seek an active lifestyle. These neighborhoods are also close to the Mercedes Benz Stadium.

You will find cute single-family homes at affordable prices.

Edgewood and Kirkwood

The Edgewood and Kirkwood neighborhoods are on the east side of Atlanta. They are about as far east as you can get before you are outside Atlanta’s inner ring.

The area is similar to Inman Park in that you will find a lot of street art. However, there are more hipster grungy places here. Some might consider the area a bit rough around the edges.

However, there is a thriving nightlife and music scene here. Living here is also more affordable than in other neighborhoods around Atlanta.

Living in Atlanta – Resident Perspectives

While Atlanta attracts new residents from all over the country, the city still has a southern charm. Atlanta’s culture centers around thriving food and music scenes. Because of this, you will find festivals and events happening every weekend.

Walkability

The residents of Atlanta appreciate the thriving economy and affordable cost of living. Affectionately known as The Big Peach, Atlanta has an impressive urban tree canopy for being a metropolitan city.

Atlanta is notorious for having heavy traffic. Because of this, residents value walkability and proximity to MARTA public transport. One resident’s sentiment exemplifies this:

“I love living in Inman Park! Great walkability, amazing restaurants. The homes are beautiful. Neighbors are incredibly friendly!”

Culture

Atlanta culture is varied and unique to each of the neighborhoods. It gives this big, sprawling city an intimate and close-knit feel. As one resident describes it:

“Midtown is a very nice place to live. There are many good restaurants, retail shops, and things to do that don’t cost much money. Even though the area is close to downtown, there is still significant green space for walks, jogging, and lounging. You can take the Marta train and easily get to other parts of Atlanta. Some disadvantages are that some parts of Midtown are very expensive to live in.”

Smaller Unique Communities

One unique feature of Atlanta is the Interstate 285 ring that surrounds the city. New residents quickly learn that locals have strong opinions about whether living ITP “inside the perimeter” or OTP “outside the perimeter” is better. Those who live in ITP appreciate the plentiful, high-quality amenities.

“North Buckhead is an amazing area. There are plenty of great restaurants and shopping. They also have some of the best schools in Georgia.”

When you move into one of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta, you join a smaller community within a larger city. Choose a community with the Atlanta culture that appeals to you the most.

Explore the Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta

While you can read about the best neighborhoods in Atlanta, the best way to learn about them is to experience them for yourself. Enjoy the street art of Inman Park.

Go shopping at the luxury boutiques of Buckhead. Take in the art and culture of Midtown. Experience the rich cultural history of the Old Fourth Ward.

Living in Atlanta offers the perfect balance of metropolitan and outdoor lifestyles. No matter what neighborhood you live in, there is plenty to enrich your life and allow you to explore new interests.

To take the first step towards your move to Atlanta, you need to sell your current home. With the iValuation online home value estimator tool from iBuyer.com, you can get an accurate value estimate and cash offer to buy your house.

Get a home value estimate for your home and take the first step towards your move to Atlanta.

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