FLOORPLAN INFO:
2, 050 SQ FT
TWO-STORY
3 BEDROOMS
2.5 BATHROOMS
2 CAR GARAGE
Green spaces and walking trails connect the 25 luxury townhomes in an air of tranquility and exclusion, enjoy a walkable neighborhood of eclectic local eateries, breweries, the historic Academy Theatre, artist workshops, parks and more.
HAPEVILLE GA
“A proper community, we should remember also, is a commonwealth: a place, a resource, an economy. It answers the needs, practical as well as social and spiritual, of its members.”
~American Novelist Wendell BerryWhen you talk to someone who lives in Atlanta, you’ll notice that they often direct the conversation to the community in which they live. Not necessarily the city. Or the county. Or the even neighborhood. The community. That’s because there is a true sense of community wherever you go in the 20-county region that comprises metro Atlanta. From our unique and diverse residential communities to our thriving business and educational communities, you have the chance to make real connections in so many different areas of life. And that’s what we focus on in this issue of KNOWAtlanta.
Thanks to the ever-growing business community throughout the entire State of Georgia, metro Atlanta has developed one of the most coveted job markets in the country; on page 22, we look at the people, businesses and industries that make up that market and what you need to know as you settle in and find your professional path. We also take an in-depth look at two of the area’s of the most beloved communities: Decatur and Powder Springs; check out our profiles of these outstanding cities on pages 12 and 20, respectively. Additionally, we give you the 411 on some of the area’s most highly anticipated annual community events starting on page 14. And, among so much more, you can’t miss our article about local private schools and the communities they have created for families across the metro region; you’ll find it on page 48.
Looking for a new residence is about so much more than finding a house. It’s about finding your place in the world and being embraced by a community that meets all of your needs. Fortunately, you’ve found Atlanta. Welcome. We’re so happy you’ve decided to call this community home.
Amy Meadows, Editor
If
you would
Publisher SHERRY GASAWAY sherry@knowatlanta.com
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One of metro Atlanta’s greatest assets is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Serving more than 100 million passengers each year, the airport boasts nonstop flights to over 150 domestic destinations and 70 international destinations in more than 50 countries. In 2020, the airport was recognized as the busiest airport in the world for the 22nd consecutive year. Of course, it makes sense that Atlanta, the leading city in the Southeast, offers such an incredible facility. Just as the city itself is a diverse locale with millions of residents who hail from all over the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a welcoming sight for passengers from all walks of life. Take a look at everything this outstanding airport has to offer.
70+ international destinations in 43+ countries with nonstop service
80 percent of the U.S. population within a twohour flight
724,145 Annual flights
1,984 average daily flights
94+ million passengers annually
275,000 daily passengers
107 million passengers annually
688,614 cargo metric tons
Seven concourses
156 domestic gates
41 international gates
Two terminals
Five runways
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a bona fide destination thanks to ATL Skypointe, a brand representing the world’s greatest shopping and dining experiences. Throughout the facility and across its seven concourses, there are more than 300 restaurants, shops and services. Some of the well-known offerings include:
RESTAURANTS:
• BeerCode
• Savi Provisions
• Cat Cora’s Kitchen
• Grindhouse Killer Burgers
• Longhorn Steakhouse
• Ecco
SHOPS:
• Duty Free Americas
• Brighton Collectibles
• The Goods @ ATL
• MAC
• Brooks Brothers
• Tumi
• #1 Busiest Airport
• #1 World’s Most Efficient Airport
• Home to the tallest air traffic control tower in North America and the fourth tallest in the world
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is an economic juggernaut. It is the largest employer in Georgia and is one of the world’s most well-known global transport centers. And the economic impact can be felt throughout metro Atlanta.
• The airport boasts more than 63,000 onsite jobs.
• More than 18,000 South Fulton County residents work onsite at the airport, accounting for 28.8 percent of the county’s workforce.
• The average income for an airport-based job is $71,500.
• The airport supports more than 448,000 jobs across
SERVICES:
• The Chiroport
• FedEx
• The Club ATL
• XpresSpa
• Be Relax
In addition to being the home of Delta Air Lines’ corporate headquarters, ATL welcomes flights from an array of domestic and international airlines:
DOMESTIC:
• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Frontier Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Southern Airways Express
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines
INTERNATIONAL:
• Air Canada
• Air France
• British Airways
• Copa Airlines
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
• Korean Air
• Lufthansa German Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• Turkish Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic
• WestJet
the Southeast, accounting for 20 percent of the jobs in the region.
• The facility provides a $51.5 billion economic boost for metro Atlanta.
• Overall, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport generates over $82 billion in annual economic impact for the entire Piedmont Atlantic Megaregion (PAM).
• More than 103,600 jobs support the airport’s cargo activity.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Economic Impact Study, released in 2020
With affordable housing and a low cost of living, Atlantans get more while spending less. To understand why more than five million people call metro Atlanta home, see below how it surpasses other major cities in almost every way that counts.
Save money on everything from movie tickets to a box of cereal with a move to Atlanta, one of America’s most affordable cities. This bustling metropolis offers world-class entertainment, shopping, sports and dining at a fraction of the cost of other cities. As your living expenses decline, relish your newfound access to the finer things — whether it be an Atlanta Braves game at Truist Park or a Broadway play at The Fox Theatre.
Metro Atlanta includes more than 50 cities. Compare some of these communities by median home prices, median household income, population and growth with the data below.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Do you want to live ITP? Or do you prefer to be OTP?
If you’re new to metro Atlanta, you may have no idea what either of those acronyms mean. Fortunately, KNOWAtlanta can help you be in the know when it comes to navigating the metro area’s most-loved locales and choosing the perfect place to call home.
If you’re ITP, that means you are Inside the Perimeter.
When you’re OTP, you’re Outside the Perimeter.
So, what constitutes the Perimeter? That would be Interstate 285, or I-285, a major interstate highway loop that encircles Atlanta and connects I-75, I-85 and I-20 to the city. Anything that falls within the loop is recognized as ITP. Areas beyond the borders of the loop are considered to be OTP.
Some of the most popular ITP cities, towns, districts and neighborhoods include Midtown Atlanta, Downtown Atlanta, Buckhead, Decatur, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Doraville, VirginiaHighland, Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward and East Point, among many others. The two main counties that fall ITP are Fulton and DeKalb counties, while small portions of Cobb and Clayton counties also fall within the Perimeter.
The ITP lifestyle is synonymous with urban big city life, complete with industry, entertainment, culture, high-end residential offerings and more. The bustling atmosphere inside the Perimeter is replete with places to go and people to see. The area is popular with young couples and professionals who enjoy condo and townhome living, yet single-family homes are becoming more prevalent in the area for those who want to enjoy the intown way of life.
The rest of metro Atlanta’s many counties fall outside the Perimeter, including Cobb, Cherokee, Forsyth, Gwinnett, Henry and several others. Sought-after OTP cities are such spots as Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Duluth, Suwanee, Cumming, Braselton, Gainesville, Woodstock, Kennesaw, Marietta, Smyrna, Fayetteville, Peachtree City and McDonough.
Those who choose the OTP lifestyle typically have an inclination for spacious homes with yards, local parks and green space and room to grow. And while these suburban spots often have been seen as providing a slower pace than metro Atlanta’s core, there has been an evolution in recent years, with many downtown areas undergoing redevelopment efforts that mix small-town charm with urban convenience. n
Small-town charm. A big-city vibe. Decatur—Atlanta’s Eastside gem—is 200 years young this year. With a fantastic 200th birthday bash planned for December, now is a great time to get to know this delightful locale. A visit begins on the lively downtown square, recognized as one of USA Today’s “Top 10” public squares and located just a quick trip via MARTA from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. From there, you can taste the best in destination dining, immerse yourself a thriving arts scene, stroll beautiful green spaces, festival it up all year round and so much more.
Chef-driven menus, buzz-
worthy cocktails and local brews. Decatur’s dining hotspots can always be found on “Best of” Atlanta lists for everything from ice cream to oysters. This year, two Decatur-based chefs, Terry Koval of the Deer and Dove (rustic American with duck, pheasant and venison on the menu) and Sahar Siddiqi of Chai Pani (authentic Indian street food), were named James Beard semifinalists for Best Chef: Southeast. Additionally, the city has earned a respected reputation for its critical ly acclaimed and popular restaurants. Kimball House (oysters and cocktails), No. 246 (inventive Italian) and The White Bull (house-milled pasta dishes) set the bar high as main stays of Decatur’s dining scene.
Newcomers Cereal Lab (nostalgic
sweet creations), Rebel Tea (bubble tea) and Opo Coffee have each quickly cultivated a devoted fan base. And brew enthusiasts will enjoy the new Eastside Hops Trail featuring Decatur’s hoppin’ breweries that include the pioneering Twain’s (with an outstanding menu and billiards), Three Taverns, Inner Voice and Sceptre Brewing Arts, Georgia’s first brewpub using 100 percent local malt.
From the talented buskers who bring music to the city’s tree-lined sidewalks to the stunning murals adding major pops of color around town, Decatur is a hub for public art. You can take a stroll downtown and explore the Decatur Artway, a rotating outdoor sculpture gallery through which five new large-scale works were installed this year. Art also can be found in unexpected places along the way, as you look down for miniature Secret Doors Decatur and #lookupDecatur for art installed on streetlight poles. And visitors shouldn’t miss the latest edition of the Decatur Box Project, which allows local artists to transform ordinary utility boxes into new whimsical works, giving more creators a chance to showcase their talent. In May, the annual Decatur Arts Festival fills the streets with artist booths and brings thousands of people to the city to enjoy music, dance
Decatur’s footprint may be small (just 4.7 square miles), but its big milestones are powered by a big vision to create a lasting legacy for future generations. Preserving and providing access to green spaces is a key part of the plan. Residents and visitors alike can experience the city’s newest and largest offering: Legacy Park, with 77 acres of woods, wetlands, meadows, a tranquil
pond and athletic fields. The locale is also home to a new playground and miles of trails that are perfect for walking, riding and running. Furthermore, the historic 56-acre Decatur Cemetery is the city’s second largest green space, located a block from downtown. The beautiful and peaceful grounds offer a glimpse into the city’s past; many of Decatur’s earliest residents are laid to rest on the property. And both Legacy Park and the Decatur Cemetery are connected to the Georgia PATH, which boasts 300 miles of trails throughout Georgia and beyond.
If the downtown square looks oddly familiar, it’s because Decatur is a top destination for major Hollywood productions like HBO’s “Watchmen”, Marvel’s “Falcon and the Winter Soldier”, Hulu’s “Candy”, and dozens of popular productions dating all the way back to “Zombieland” and “Scream II”. Thanks to its incredible setting, the city has helped metro Atlanta become recognized as the Hollywood of the South.
Fun can be found all year round on (or near) the Decatur Square. Author readings, live music, glassblowing workshops, standup comedy and trivia nights are weekly events. And from books to barbecue, Decatur has a festival for something you love. Summer brings the Decatur Arts Festival, as well as Jazz Nights, Truckin’ Tuesdays, the 4th of July Pied Piper Parade and fireworks and the Pan-African Festival. Fall is a fabulous frenzy of festivities, from Salsa on the Square to Oakhurst’s Porchfest, the Haints & Saints/Day of the Dead Halloween Parade and an array of wine and craft beer festivals. And throughout 2023, the city will weave the bicentennial theme into its special events for a yearlong celebration that will culminate the incredible 200th birthday bash as the grand finale in December. n
Discover Decatur for events, for shopping, food and fun. Start your planning at VisitDecaturGeorgia.com.
Nothing brings a community together like a beloved annual event. Fortunately, there are plenty of options all across the metro Atlanta area, from food and arts festivals to holiday parties, concert series and more. Be sure to check out these can’t-miss events that draw both locals and visitors to Braselton, Smyrna, Peachtree Corners and Marietta each and every year.
Braselton
Home to nearly 13,000 residents, the town of Braselton is where Southern hospitality thrives. And as locals say, “It’s better in Braselton.” The city beams with charm thanks to its historic downtown and scenic beauty. There’s also plenty to do year round, welcoming visitors from all across the Southeast.
Motul Petit Le Mans roadatlanta.com
For more than 20 years, Petit Le Mans has been the sporting event to experience in the Southeast. Drivers, teams and manufacturers from around the world compete each October at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in Braselton. The event also includes a kids zone, vendors, food trucks, displays, car corrals, camping, a
bar, a grid walk, autograph sessions and more. The best part? Kids 12 and younger get in free.
Braselton Antique and Artisan Festivals explorebraselton.com/antique-festivals
Looking for vintage and handmade finds? Look no further! Join 300 vendors and 25,000 attendees for three days of shopping during the semi-annual Braselton Antique and Artisan Festivals, held on the fourth weekends in April and October in downtown Braselton. Dealers from across metro Atlanta and surrounding states bring their best for this popular festival series, which has been held for 20 years.
chateauelan.com
For more than two decades, Vineyard Fest has been Chateau Élan Winery and Resort’s signature celebration. This highly anticipated event, which is held each November, offers full access to 100 domestic and international wines, regional craft beers and spirits and locally sourced cuisine. The professional culinary and winemaking teams also host demonstrations and seminars, and guests have an opportunity to appreciate the native Georgia Muscadine grapes that are part of North Georgia’s heritage.
Known as the Jonquil City for the thousands of jonquils that bloom in gardens and along the streets each spring, Smyrna boasts a long and colorful history. It is located just 10 miles northwest of Atlanta, and it is home to more than 56,000 residents who enjoy a bounty of events all year long.
smyrnaga.gov
The City of Smyrna’s 150th birthday celebration was such a hit last year that the city decided to host a similar event again in 2023! The downtown festival will begin at 11 am, with performances held on mul-
tiple stages throughout the day. This year’s festival also will include the grand opening of Smyrna’s redesigned Village Green and a featured performance on the Community Center stage in the afternoon.
smyrnaga.gov
Held at Taylor-Brawner Park in Smyrna, Food Truck Tuesdays have been a musteat event since the concept first began in 2012. Every Tuesday from May 2 to September 26, guests can enjoy food and live music from 5 pm to 9 pm. The park also includes a playground and dedicated restrooms, so it’s a great spot to enjoy an afternoon with family, friends, neighbors or colleagues after work.
Crafts and Drafts Festival
smyrnaga.gov
This beloved annual fall festival features
cold beer, football on big screen televisions and 150 arts and crafts booths, as well as food booths and plenty of fun activities for the whole family. In 2023, the event is scheduled for Saturday, October 28, and Sunday, October 29, on the Village Green in downtown Smyrna. In addition to the usual activities, the weekend will serve up a slice of the Halloween season for guests.
While Peachtree Corners didn’t officially become a city until 2011, locals have enjoyed its work-life-play balance throughout many decades. This includes an abundance of activities and festivals that draw many to the area throughout the year for celebrations, concerts and much more.
Nestled among lush trees, you’ll feel at home in our diverse neighborhoods. Residents and visitors enjoy access to indoor and outdoor amenities, from boating on the Chattahoochee, to biking, walking, or running along our trails, watching baseball at the Battery, or catching good vibes in our downtown.
We are a well-rounded community alive with community spirit, a touch of urban chic and plenty of down-home natural charm.
Night Music
peachtreecornersga.gov
An awesome concert series hosted by the City of Peachtree Corners, Night Music is a free event held the second Saturday of every month from May through October. Guests enjoy live music featuring local artists and a great way to spend the weekend with family, friends or neighbors in the city’s Town Center.
Summer Concerts Series
peachtreecornersga.gov
Also hosted by the City of Peachtree Corners, the Summer Concert Series is
a free event that features live music under the stars. The concerts are held on the last Saturday of each month from May through October. The series features popular tunes performed by original artists and cover bands, and fans are encouraged to eat at restaurants in the city’s Town Center or bring their own food to the concerts.
Holiday Glow
peachtreecornersga.gov
Held on the Town Green each year—and scheduled for Thursday, November 30 this year—Holiday Glow is
a festival that celebrates the holiday season with lights, music, singalongs, treats and a very special visit from Santa Claus himself. Guests are reminded to bring their lawn chairs so they can sit back and relax while sipping on hot chocolate and enjoying the holiday fun.
The City of Marietta is located northwest of Atlanta and is known for its
lively community and vibrant history. Marietta Square, which is the heart of the downtown area, features quaint shops, awesome eats, a beautiful park and theaters and is the perfect setting for an array of celebrated annual events.
tasteofmarietta.com
The Taste of Marietta is one of the largest and longest-running food festivals in metro Atlanta. The annual food event is held on the last Sunday in April and has become a favorite annual tradition among local residents and visitors. It’s an opportunity to showcase and highlight some of Cobb County’s most-loved restaurants and caterers.
Chalktoberfest
chalktoberfest.com
Enjoy a beautiful October weekend sampling craft beers, listening to live music, eating great food and watching professional chalk artists chalk the streets
on beautiful Marietta Square during Chalktoberfest. Always a big hit with locals and visitors, this event offers a fun outing for the family, and it’s free to attend. All proceeds benefit the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art.
Christmas Home Tour mariettapilgrimage.com
This December marks the 37th annual Marietta Pilgrimage
Christmas Home Tour, which is organized by Visit Marietta and the Cobb Landmarks & Historical Society and supports each of these nonprofits. The tour allows attendees to get a glimpse inside five lovingly restored private homes located in Marietta that have been beautifully decorated for the holiday season. n
At Chateau Elan Golf Club, our favorite color is bentgrass green—a color known to produce blissful feelings for avid golfers and induce yearnings for an immediate tee time. Experience bliss for yourself while playing 45 holes of championship golf on three unique courses. You’ll enjoy memorable views of sparkling lakes, contoured fairways, and tree-lined holes that showcase the beauty of the North Georgia foothills.
While you reconnect with your driver, discover Braselton’s luxurious accommodations, award-winning winery, world-class dining, and quaint historic downtown—all right at your doorstep.
For years, the City of Powder Springs has been known as the quaint rural town located 25 miles northwest of Atlanta that is home to 17,000 residents, a charming downtown area with delightful boutiques and eateries and outstanding access to the region’s beloved Silver Comet Trail. While all of this remains true
to this day, there’s so much more on the horizon for this burgeoning city, which has started to see a great deal of revitalization across its seven square miles over the last few years. The changes are a welcome sign of progress for both residents and visitors alike, who recognize the great potential of Powder Springs and are excited to see the development plans for this historic Cobb County city come to fruition.
In June of 2022, Powder Springs officially broke ground on a new 6.6-acre downtown apartment development. The highly anticipated event is the first step in a comprehensive redevelopment and expansion plan for the city, and this first phase of the project—launched by the Downtown Development Authority in conjunction with Novare Group, Batson-Cook Development Co. and PointeOne Holdings—includes the construction of 226 apartments in the heart of Downtown Powder Springs. The well-appointed multifamily units will span a mix of two-story carriage houses and three- and four-story apartment buildings across the development and feature a wide array of amenities for new
residents, from private garages and an impressive fitness center to a coworking lounge, a resort-style pool and more.
According to Al Thurman, mayor of Powder Springs, “Powder Springs could not be more excited and proud to partner with the Downtown Development Authority and the Novare Group-led partnership in creating a project that will revitalize and continue to reawaken downtown. Novare Group has transformed communities across the country, and their project will bring a renewed focus to the downtown as the physical and symbolic heart of the community.”
Of course, the new multifamily project, which is slated to open in late 2023, is not the only thing that has been attracting people of all ages to Powder Springs. For instance, in late 2021, the city unveiled its beloved “Welcome to Powder Springs” mural, located on the side of the building that houses Sweet Southern Coffee and Dessert on Marietta Street and painted by renowned artist John W. Christian. Its presence has added some real flair to the downtown area, which is home to a thriving business community with a unique mix of businesses both old and new, from the long-established Hand Me Ups consignment shop to the city’s first brewery, Skint Chestnut Brewing Company. And all of this is within walking distance of the $4.1 million Thurman Springs Park, which opened in 2021 and has become a can’t-miss attraction thanks to its ample green space, splash pad, playground and the Hardy Family Automotive Amphitheater, which hosts a variety of local events throughout the year.
One of those events is the three-day “Bringing the Sea to the Springs” annual seafood festival, held each May since 2021. The festival draws more than 10,000 people to Thurman Springs Park and the downtown area to enjoy an array of fresh seafood offerings from vendors across the country, a wine and beer garden, live bands, products and wares from regional artists and craftsmen and more. The popular event is just one of the activities that has shined a light on the city’s excellent quality of life.
While the downtown area undoubtedly is the heart of Powder Springs, there is so much to be explored just beyond the borders of the historic district. For instance, the downtown apartment development project is adjacent to a future direct trail connection to the 61.5-mile Silver Comet Trail, which allows local residents and visitors to get out in nature and explore everything
the area has to offer. The new trail connection will serve as an excellent complement to the Silver Comet Linear Park Trailhead in Powder Springs, located at mile marker 9.5 on the trail.
This type of distinctive recreational option is one of the many reasons why families, young professionals and so many others choose to call Powder Springs home. In addition, with median home prices in the high-$100s to low-$200s and access to the exceptional Cobb County school district, so many people are recognizing the city as an ideal residential option. With that in mind, another highly anticipated multifamily project also broke ground in June 2022: Heartwood Powder Springs, a 300-unit garden-style apartment complex from Selig Development. Located along Brownsville Road at the intersection of Oglesby Road, the one-, twoand three-bedroom units will be housed in 10 three-story buildings covering 20 acres of land. Upon completion in 2023, it officially will be the first apartment complex built in Powder Springs in more than two decades. As Mayor Thurman notes, “I am excited to see the construction underway. This type of development plays an important part in making Powder Springs such a great city to call home.”
With so much to offer and so much coming down the pike, it’s no wonder why there is so much excitement in and around the City of Powder Springs. It’s progress personified, making this growing rural town one of the metro area’s most interesting and inspiring locales around. n
For more information, visit cityofpowdersprings.org.
Recently, WalletHub released its list of 2023’s best cities for jobs. Atlanta —unsurprisingly—ranked among the top 25 cities on the nationwide list, placing it in the top 15 percent of cities across the country. Atlanta’s recognition was attributed to everything from the wide range of job opportunities available in the metro area to the impressive rate of employment growth to the considerable monthly average starting salary. In fact, in terms of the number of job opportunities alone, Atlanta ranked number three in the country; according to the Georgia Department of Labor, metro Atlanta
added 126,400 jobs in 2022 and helped the unemployment rate dip to an historic low. That trend has extended into 2023, as the local job market continues to thrive. Here, KNOWAtlanta takes an in depth look at the two key factors that have played the most significant role in making the local job market what it is today: the job creators and the job seekers. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect career fit or you are with a company that’s looking for the best candidates around, read on for the answers to all of your questions about the people and the businesses on the scene today.
There are no jobs without a welcoming business community that is home to flourishing businesses and ever-evolving industry sectors. In addition to Georgia being named the number one place to do business for nine years in a row, metro Atlanta’s business climate is ideal for business and industry, paving the way for myriad job opportunities to be generated at all levels. Here’s what you need to know about the job creators in the area.
1. Which industries are most drawn to metro Atlanta?
According to the Metro Atlanta Chamber, there are several key industry segments that stand out in the metro area: supply chain and advanced manufacturing, thanks to Atlanta’s recognition as one of the major transportation hubs in the country serving the Southeast; creative industries, such as film and art; technology, with Atlanta becoming one of the fastest-growing high-tech urban centers in the nation; life sciences and healthcare, anchored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and cleantech, which focuses on sectors like electric vehicles, battery tech and solar energy.
2. What kinds of companies comprise the local business community?
Atlanta is home to companies large and small representing some of the world’s most renowned brands as well as today’s innovative startups. As noted by the Metro Atlanta Chamber, 31 Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 companies are headquartered in the metro area, while more than 200 Inc. 5000 startups are located throughout the city and its surrounding areas. Distinguished names like Delta Air Lines, Home Depot, UPS and The Coca-Cola Company, among many others, have been part of Atlanta’s business community for many years. And when it comes to startups,
Atlanta Tech Village, recognized as the country’s fourth largest tech hub, reveals that it houses more than 300 startups, which, over the last decade, have been responsible for creating 6,500 jobs across the area.
3. Which companies are metro Atlanta’s top employers?
The top five employers in the area are some of the biggest global names: Delta Air Lines, Inc.; Emory University and Emory Healthcare; The Home Depot; Northside Hospital; and Piedmont Healthcare. (For more information about Atlanta’s top employers, be sure to check out the list of the area’s top 20 on page 26.)
4. What kinds of jobs are available in the metro area today?
The jobs available throughout the metro Atlanta area are as varied as the companies that create them. For instance, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statis-
tics, employment in the private sector includes opportunities in everything from professional and business services and leisure and hospitality to education and health services and manufacturing. As Construction Coverage Magazine noted, 20.2 percent of the Atlanta workforce held mechanically inclined jobs in 2022, with freight, stock and material movers among the most common opportunities. What’s more, Cushman & Wakefield reports that Atlanta overall saw 22.8 percent job growth in a two-year period with each industry sector in the city expanding; the most growth was seen in leisure and hospitality (80.2 percent), information (39.4 percent) and trade, transportation and utilities (23.5 percent). WorkSource Atlanta notes that the most in-demand jobs cover a range of industry segments, with positions like advertising sales agents, paralegals, carpenters, electricians, aircraft mechanics technicians, business operations specialists, dental hygienists, regis-
In many ways, the growth of metro Atlanta’s outstanding job market can be attributed to the business climate that has been fostered across the entire State of Georgia. Here are some of the rankings that set the state apart:
• #1 state for a work from home living environment (WalletHub)
• #1 state in the South Atlantic Region for total capital investment projects (Site Selection Magazine)
• #2 state for business incentive programs (Area Development Magazine)
• #2 most competitive state for economic development (Site Selection Magazine)
• #4 state for customized workforce training (Business Facilities Magazine)
• #5 state for Internet access (USA News)
• #6 state for best business climate (Business Facilities Magazine)
• #10 state for long-term fiscal stability (USA News)
Information courtesy of the Metro Atlanta Chamber.
Atlanta is home to companies large and small representing some of the world’s most renowned brands as well as today’s innovative startups.
tered nurses, chefs and firefighters among the most coveted professional opportunities. And when it comes to information technology, tech-savvy candidates are needed to fill a wide variety of positions, from data scientist and data engineer to UX designer and solutions architect, as noted by LinkedIn.
5. What are some of the newest opportunities in metro Atlanta?
The film industry has become one of the area’s fastest-growing sectors in recent years, with Atlanta often being referred to as the Hollywood of the South. In fact, in 2022, the State of Georgia received more
district, boasts 15.5 million square feet of Class A office space and is home to 65,000 jobs, according to the Midtown Alliance; it also has eight of the 10 largest law firms in the city, as well as a host of tech startups and some of the most renowned academic and research institutions, including the Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University Hospital Midtown. Buckhead is known for housing a wide variety of technology, commercial real estate and finance organizations and is known as Atlanta’s premier business district. Outside of the perimeter, locales like the City of Alpharetta, which has been recognized
across a wide range of industries, a large portion of local residents—and those seeking jobs today—are young professionals; in fact, the Midtown Alliance reveals that 50 percent of Midtown Atlanta’s residents are Millennials or Gen Xers. Nearly half of Buckhead’s residents are between the ages of 25 and 54. Fortunately, Rent.com names Atlanta as the number eight city for young professionals, and CNBC ranks it as the number nine city for recent college graduates.
2. Is metro Atlanta’s workforce ready to take on a wide variety of jobs?
than $4.4 billion in direct spending from film productions, according to the Metro Atlanta Chamber. Thousands of jobs have been created in this sector alone, with an array of crew and staff jobs opening up regularly. And with the metro area now being home to more than three million square feet of sound stages for film and television production, with the number expected to more than double by 2024, there are many more opportunities coming down the pike.
6. Where are most of the job opportunities found in the metro area?
Three locations inside the perimeter are key business centers: Downtown, Midtown and Buckhead. The downtown area is home to an array of global companies, such as Delta Air Lines and The Coca-Cola Company. Midtown, which boasts a 1.2-square-mile business
as the “Technology City of the South,” as well as counties like Cobb and Gwinnett, are helping to broaden metro Atlanta’s business reach and provide even more career opportunities.
Great job opportunities need great job candidates, and metro Atlanta undoubtedly has both. When it comes to the latter, people of all ages are finding that the Atlanta area is an excellent location for starting, upgrading or even changing their careers—and they come with impressive credentials. Here’s a glimpse at metro Atlanta’s impressive job seekers.
1. Who comprises Atlanta’s workforce? HIS Markit reports that, as of 2022, the regional workforce in metro Atlanta totaled approximately 3.2 individuals. While there are employees of all ages
Metro Atlanta is known for its highly educated and skilled talent pool. To start, the Atlanta region is home to more than 275,000 college and university students, who attend some of the most prestigious institutions in the country, including six top ranked Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In fact, as the Metro Atlanta Chamber notes, the metro area is home to 57 colleges and universities with more than 600 programs, and the Technical College System of Georgia has a 99 percent job placement rate. The Midtown Alliance reveals that, in Midtown Atlanta alone, more than 68 percent of local residents hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the Brookings Institute reports that the metro area has a 73 percent college graduate retention rate, which illustrates how many people want to remain in Atlanta’s workforce once they complete their education. What’s more, apprenticeship and on-the-job training programs are welcomed by students who want to prepare themselves for high-demand careers throughout the area.
3. Are long-time local residents the largest percentage of job seekers in Atlanta?
With a burgeoning population that’s expected to grow to more than eight million people by 2040, the metro Atlanta region sees both homegrown job seekers and
With a burgeoning population that’s expected to grow to more than eight million people by 2040, the metro Atlanta region sees both homegrown job seekers and those relocating from other metro areas.
those relocating from other metro areas. In fact, a recent article on Stacker.com noted that a number of popular cities are feeding the growing workforce in metro Atlanta, with job seekers coming from locales like Charlotte, North Carolina; Nashville, Tennessee; New York City, New York; Miami, Florida; and Dallas, Texas, among other metro areas.
4. What is the average annual salary in Atlanta?
According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary in Atlanta is just over $70,800. Of course, the type of job one accepts can make a significant difference when it comes to income. In the metro area, some of the highest paying jobs include hospi-
The talent coming out of the metro area’s many colleges and universities is unparalleled. And each school specializes in offering something unique to the students who choose to pursue higher education in Atlanta. Here are just a few of the local standouts:
• Georgia Institute of Technology: Engineering
• Kennesaw State University: Business
• Georgia State University: Research
• Life University: Chiropractic
• Emory University: Research
• Morehouse College: Medicine
• Oglethorpe University: Liberal Arts
• Clayton State University: Film Production
• Gwinnett Technical College: Technical Degrees
talists (between $227,000 and $309,000 per year), owner operators (as high as $247,000 annually), dump truck owner operators (up to $200,000 per year) and nurse practitioners (between $94,000 and $125,000 on average). According to Glassdoor, tech-based salaries average $53,000 annually, depending on the job itself.
5. What else are job seekers looking for in metro Atlanta?
In addition to excellent career opportunities, today’s job seekers are looking for an outstanding quality of life. Fortunately, metro Atlanta offers just that, with U.S. News ranking the area as one of the top 100 best places to live in the United States (coming in at number 95). The cost of living is reasonable compared to other large metropolitan cities; for example, the cost of living in Atlanta is 44 percent lower than that of New York City and
nearly 29 percent lower than Los Angeles. Additionally, Atlanta offers access to an array of cultural offerings, dining establishments, recreational opportunities, housing options and more.
6. Is metro Atlanta a good location for entrepreneurs?
For those job seekers who are ready to take the leap and start their own businesses (and become job creators), there’s no better locale than metro Atlanta. To start, Atlanta is recognized as a hub for startups, particularly in the technology sector, and CNBC has noted that more than a dozen companies based in Atlanta have grown to valuations of more than $1 billion over the last decade. And with organizations like Atlanta Tech Village having goals like creating 10,000 jobs in its first 10 years, there are many more jobs on the horizon for job seekers in the ATL.
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Atlanta, which has a reputation for being one of the most business-friendly cities in the nation, is proud to be a popular destination for many renowned companies that appear on the annual Fortune 500 list. In 2022, the City of Atlanta ranked 3rd in the country for the number of Fortune 500 firms and fourth for companies on the Fortune 1000 list. In fact, today, Atlanta is home to 17 Fortune 500 companies and 14 Fortune 1000 businesses. The attraction to the city makes sense, as Atlanta offers access to a booming economy, a low corporate tax structure, a highly educated and skilled workforce, one of the world’s largest travel hubs, a right-to-work status, a growing innovation ecosystem and much more. And every day, numerous companies are either launching in or relocating to the metro area.
The metro area also continues to draw many other top businesses in the nation, including State Farm, IHG, Porsche Cars North America and Mercedes-Benz, all of which have established headquarters here and often appear on the list of metro Atlanta’s top employers. Their dedication to being a part of the metro area’s business community, as well as ensuring solid job opportunities for the local workforce, is a testament to the city and its ongoing efforts to create a welcoming and robust economic climate.
It’s no secret that Georgia has been recognized for its exceptional business-friendly environment. In fact, Site Selection has named it the number one state for doing business for nine consecutive years. That kind of reputation undoubtedly attracts companies of all sizes to settle in the area every year, establishing headquarters, distribution centers, customer service operations and more, while other companies look to expand in the area. Here are some of the most recent big business moves to our fair city and its surrounding areas.
Qcells, a renewable energy solution provider, will build a new facility in Cartersville and add a third facility at its Dalton location, investing more than $2.5 billion to expand its solar module manufacturing operations in Georgia. The new facility and expansion are expected to increase the number of employees to more than 4,000 by the end of 2024. Qcells touts this expansion as the largest solar investment in U.S. history to build the only complete and sustainable solar supply chain in the U.S. The new manufacturing facility in Cartersville, located at Highland 75 Corporate/Industrial Park, will manufacture solar ingots, wafers, cells and finished panels.
The window replacement division of Andersen Corporation is expected to create 900 new jobs with a $400 million investment in a new manufacturing facility in Henry County.
The new Renewal by Andersen facility, the company’s first manufacturing facility in Georgia, will be located at The Cubes at Locust Grove, adding to the company’s other properties in Douglasville and Marietta. Construction is expected to begin this year, and operations are slated to begin in 2025.
Hyundai Motor Group and SK On, which produces lithium ion batteries, are expected to build a new electric vehicle battery
manufacturing facility in Bartow County to supply Hyundai’s U.S. plants, creating 3,500 new jobs from a $4 to $5 billion investment. The site is expected to be located at Bartow Centre, a zoned manufacturing and industrial site on Highway 411. The details of this partnership are still in the development stages, but the two companies signed a memorandum of understanding regarding the partnership to develop the new manufacturing facility. The facility may begin operations in 2025.
Becker Robotic Equipment, a cable and robotic machinery manufacturer specializing in individualized robotic equipment, will build a manufacturing facility to house its North American headquarters in Canton. The $30 million investment is expected to create 137 new jobs in Cherokee County. Located at The Bluffs at Technology Park in Canton, the facility is expected to consist of three buildings and be designed with clean energy solutions. Becker plans to hire sales and applications engineers, automotive and non-automotive project engineers, inside sales support staff, project engineers, office administrators, HR generalists, manufacturing technicians and customer and service technicians within the facility.
Archer Aviation Inc., an aerospace company advancing sustainable urban air mobility, will build a new electrical vehicle takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL) manufacturing facility located alongside the Covington Municipal Airport in Newton County. The facility is anticipated to create 1,000 jobs with an $118 million investment over the next 10 years. Three buildings will span 96 acres with eventual capacity to produce 2,300 aircraft per year. Construction will follow a phased buildout of eVTOL aircraft production with the facility slated to open in 2024. Hiring is expected to begin later this year. n
Over the last several years, Atlanta has garnered a reputation as one of the country’s fastest-growing and most prolific technology hubs. Forbes Magazine named the metro area as one of the world’s elite tech towns, placing it in the number three spot of cities poised to become tech meccas in the near future. Cushman & Wakefield included Atlanta on its list of America’s 25 leading high-tech metro areas. The city has even been called the “Silicon Valley of the South.” And that’s just the beginning of Atlanta’s story as it continues its rise to becoming one of the nation’s top tech destinations.
Atlanta is racking up an impressive list of accolades and acknowledgements in the tech arena. Here are just a few:
#1 METRO AREA TECH HUB (Business Facilities, 2021)
#4 STATE FOR PERCENT OF FEMALE WORKERS IN TECH OCCUPATIONS (CompTIA, 2021)
#4 METRO AREA CYBER CITY (Business Facilities, 2021)
#1 CITY FOR STARTUPS THAT IS NOT NEW YORK OR SAN FRANCISCO (FitSmallBusiness.com, 2018)
#1 GAMING ENVIRONMENT (WalletHub, 2019)
Atlanta also has the 11th largest tech talent labor pool nationally, as well as the highest growth rate of tech degree completion rates among the country’s leading tech hubs. (CBRE, 2021)
While the entire metro Atlanta area has the distinction of being integral to the growth of the local tech industry, there are a few locales that truly stand out.
Midtown Atlanta: Home to Technology Square, Midtown has become one of the key districts of the local technology community. The area boasts 15 corporate innovation centers, several tech incubators and accelerators and more than 150 startups.
Buckhead: Anchored by Atlanta Tech Village, a renowned technology incubator complex that is recognized as the fourth largest tech space in the nation, Buckhead is a major driver of Atlanta’s success in the tech arena.
Alpharetta: Located 30 miles north of Atlanta, Alpharetta has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the tech space. The metro city is home to 700 technology companies and has been called “The Technology City of the South.”
Peachtree Corners: One of the first suburban areas to be recognized for its technology opportunities, Gwinnett County’s Peachtree Corners is home to such innovative spots as Atlanta Tech Park, which features space for more than 100 companies.
Finding success in Atlanta’s tech sector begins with finding the best place to plant roots. The metro area is home to an array of incubators that are fostering the development of the city’s standout startups. Check out these innovative spaces:
Atlanta Tech Village
Located in Buckhead atlantatechvillage.com
Atlanta Technology Development Center (ATDC)
Located at Georgia Tech in Midtown Atlanta atdc.org
The Farm
Located at The Battery Atlanta thefarmatl.com
The Circuit
Located in Woodstock circuitwoodstock.com
In recent years, students have flocked to metro Atlanta to study a wide array of subjects under the technology umbrella. Here’s where they go to access some of the best information technology and computer science programs in the country:
Georgia Institute of Technology: gatech.edu
Morehouse College: morehouse.edu
Emory University: emory.edu
Georgia State University: robinson.gsu.edu
Kennesaw State University: ksu.edu
University of Georgia: uga.edu
Gwinnett Technical College: gwinnetttech.edu n
Before you put the key in the lock of your new home, you have to prepare the property for your arrival. This means getting your utilities up and running soon after your home closing. Here in metro Atlanta, there are a number of services you’ll need to set up. Be sure to put these on your list as you begin the process.
While metro Atlanta has a temperate climate, you’ll want to warm your home during the winter. Also, natural gas is used for water heating, cooking, clothes drying and more. You’ll need to select a natural gas provider, and there are several that serve metro Atlanta. You typically can research rates, customer service offerings and discounts and sign up online, making the process quick and convenient.
deregulated its natural gas market in 1998. Atlanta Gas
Light owns and controls the natural gas pipelines, and natural gas marketers work with it to access them. Companies like SCANA Energy offer both fixed rate and variable rate plans depending on your needs.
Accounting for 48 percent of household energy use in Georgia, electricity should be at the top of your utility service list. Depending on where your home is located, you have options. You can select a company like Georgia Power, which is the largest subsidiary of the Southern Company, or one of the Electric Membership Cooperatives (EMCs) that provide electricity to the area; these non-profit utilities serve more
than four million customers as part of the Georgia Electric Membership Corporation.
With metro Atlanta being comprised of so many cities and towns, it’s no surprise that there are various water and sewer service providers. Typically, your home will be serviced by either the county water authority or the city government. If you are moving into a previously
owned home, the former owners can provide you with information. For new homes, the builder can point you in the right direction.
These days, phone, cable and Internet service is just as important as every other utility. In metro Atlanta, major service providers like Xfinity and AT&T are going to be the most common options, as they cover the entire area. Some counties do offer alternatives, allowing you to personalize your service. As with all other utilities, a bit of online research can make the process fast and seamless.
To see which providers serve the county in which your home is located, be sure to check out KNOWAtlanta Magazine’s County Pages, starting on page 69.
There’s a lot of work that goes into coordinating an organized move, and it’s smart to get a head start on planning before the moving truck arrives at your door. Here’s a handy guide to help you streamline some of the most important activities associated with your move to Atlanta.
n Research your options for moving or truck rental companies and schedule your move.
n Collect and organize necessary school, medical and legal records.
n Complete a change of address with your local post office or online at usps.gov.
n Notify other important parties of your change of address, including your bank, credit card companies, insurance companies and subscription services.
n Schedule disconnection of services at your current home and reconnection at your new house, including phone, cable and Internet.
n Hold a garage sale or donate items that you decide not to keep.
n Confirm travel arrangements and pack a travel kit for you and your family members for the move.
n Confirm dates and time of packing and moving with the moving company. If you’re moving yourself, confirm moving truck arrangements.
n Finalize your packing and double-check that all areas (including closets, garage, attic and basement) are cleared.
n Pack a “First Open/Load Last” box; include items you’ll need on the first day in your new home.
n Complete a house check; defrost the freezer, drain the water hose and disconnect and prepare any major appliances you’re planning to move.
n Make sure to have cash on hand to tip the team from the moving company.
n Confirm hotel or temporary accommodations, if needed.
n Check the moving company paperwork to identify the USDOT number of the truck that is scheduled; the number appears on the side of the truck and should match on moving day.
Metro Atlanta is a very desirable place to live for many reasons. In fact, according to Money Magazine, Atlanta ranks as the number one place to live in the United States. From its exceptional job market and outstanding cultural offerings to the myriad educational opportunities and access to gorgeous natural attractions across the region, the city and its surrounding areas beckon buyers to find their forever home in the city of their dreams. And there’s no better time to start your search in Atlanta than the springtime. Here, Lori Lane, president of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division, explains why this season is the best time to have Atlanta spring to mind.
Why is spring the best time to house hunt in metro Atlanta’s new home market?
For several reasons, the spring market is recognized as one of the best times to purchase a new home in Atlanta. It is really no surprise that spring brings out the most buyers. Warmer temperatures and longer days make it an ideal time for potential buyers to look for a new home. We find many with children start their home search in the spring to ensure that they are in their new home by the start of the fall school year. Also, new homebuilders historically tend to increase their
inventory home levels during this time of year to meet the higher demand.
Do builders offer incentives in the spring?
To put it simply, yes. Many homebuilders are currently offering incentives, including interest rate buy-downs and 30-year fixed interest rates as low as 4.99 percent (which can reduce your monthly payment by hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars). In addition, some will pay towards closing costs so you need less cash up front. Others offer move-in appliance packages to help reduce the cost of big purchases.
Are some new home communities more popular than others in warmer months? New home communities that offer a variety of outdoor amenities or those with
great walkability scores tend to become very popular in warmer months. For instance, Long Hollow Landing on Lake Lanier, which features a private boat dock, attracts those who enjoy the lake and boating. Soleil Belmont Park, an award-winning active adult community in Canton, offers a resort-style amenity package for lovers of the outdoors; activities and amenities include swimming, tennis, pickleball, bocce ball, a health/fitness center, walking trails and a community garden, as well as a coffee and cocktail bar. There is even a lifestyle and travel director to help plan your next springtime adventure.
What should people know about the current local new home market in the metro area?
As the market resets and regains balance, it is important to remember that Atlanta is still a very active housing market. The National Association of REALTORS® named Atlanta as the housing market with the most potential for growth in 2023. The amount of new home inventory available is at its lowest level in five months with just under two months of supply.
For more information, visit Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division at BHHSgaNewHomes.com.
bhhsganewhomes.com
CHEROKEE COUNTY
CANTON
HORIZON AT LAUREL CANYON
Patrick Malloy Communities
Homes from the $700’s - $1M+
The Cottages from the $400’s
RIVER GREEN – LAKESIDE
JW Collection
Active Adult from the $500’s
RIVER GREEN – THE RETREAT
JW Collection
From the $400’s
SOLEIL AT BELMONT PARK
Patrick Malloy Communities
Active Adult from the $500’s
WOODSTOCK
COOKS FARM
Southwyck Homes
Active Adult from the High $500’s
SOUTH ON MAIN
JW Collection
From the High $600’s - $900’s
COBB COUNTY
MARIETTA
EAST HAVEN TOWNHOMES
The Avid Collection
Active Adult from the Mid $800’s
MOUNTAIN WALK TOWNHOMES
Cornerstone Associates, Inc.
From the $600’s
WEST COBB COUNTY
ACWORTH
THE ARTISAN AT VICTORY
Southwyck Homes
Active Adult from the High $400’s
THE HERITAGE AT ACWORTH
JW Collection
From the $500’s
WEST COBB
KYLE FARM
Patrick Malloy Communities
From the $600’s - $1M+
COWETA COUNTY
NEWNAN
THE GARDENS AT ARBOR SPRINGS
McKinney Builders
Active Adult from the $700’s
SENOIA
GIN PROPERTY
Senoia Enterprises
Single family homes from the High $700’s Brownstones from the High $900’s
DEKALB COUNTY
CLARKSTON
PARKSIDE
Southwyck Homes
Coming Soon
DUNWOODY
THE ENCLAVE AT DUNWOODY PARK
JW Collection | From the $900’s
TUCKER
THE ENCLAVE ON LAVISTA
JW Collection | From the $800’s
FAYETTE COUNTY
FAYETTEVILLE
THE CANOE CLUB
Reynolds Development Group
From the Mid $500’s - $900’s
TRILITH
Multiple Builders
From the $500’s - $4M+
PEACHTREE CITY
LAUREL BROOKE
Redwood Homebuilders
From $1M+
FORSYTH
CUMMING
KELLY MILL RESERVE
David Patterson Homes
From the $700’s
FIRESIDE FARMS
David Patterson Homes
From the High $600’s
GAINESVILLE
LONG HOLLOW LANDING
David Patterson Homes
From the $600’s - $1M+
N.FULTON COUNTY
ATLANTA
THE ENCLAVE ON COLLIER
JW Collection | From the $900’s
MILTON
CROSSROADS AT BIRMINGHAM
Southwyck Homes
Village homes from the High $800’s
Estate Homes from $1.5M+
N.FULTON COUNTY
MILTON
THE HOMESTEAD AT MILTON
Vision Development Partners
From $4M - $10M+
THE MANOR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
Loudermilk Homes
From $2.6M - $8M+
ROSWELL HILLANDALE
Patrick Malloy Communities
From $1M+
GWINNETT COUNTY
SNELLVILLE
SOLEIL SUMMIT CHASE
Patrick Malloy Communities
Active Adult from the $400’s
HALL COUNTY
GAINESVILLE
THE LAKE SOCIETY
Southwyck Homes
Active Adult on Lake Lanier
From the $600’s
PAULDING COUNTY
DALLAS
THE FARM AT EDENWOOD
Vine Creek Residential
From the Mid $600’s
Welcome to Traditions of Braselton! Brimming with scenic beauty, this 1,140-acre master-planned community in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains features an 18-hole championship golf course, opulent clubhouse, junior Olympicsized pool, six lighted tennis courts, an active HOA, highly revered schools, convenience to I-85 and more! Stunning new homes crafted by the South’s finest builders are priced from the low $400s to $800s. Traditions has it all!
(706) 684-0450
discovertraditionsbraselton.com/KNOW
From the $400s - $600s
Traton Homes, a locally owned award-winning builder for over 50 years strong, has won numerous awards for excellence in customer service and home design and was voted Best Builder in Cobb County in 2021, 2022 and 2023. We offer single-family detached homes, luxury townhomes and active adult homes in some of the metro’s best locations, with easy access to major thoroughfares, shopping, dining, recreation and healthcare. Discover “Altogether More” with Traton Homes.
(770) 427-9064
tratonhomes.com
The Homestead at Milton is a new private gated community located in the heart of Milton. This exclusive neighborhood will feature spacious, wooded home sites ranging from three to 10 acres, with a few lakeside home sites available. With the help of the award-winning design team of Stephen Fuller and top custom homebuilder Loudermilk Homes, you can design and build a luxurious homestead from $3.5 million and up. Here, we can effortlessly bring your dream home to life.
(678) 787-7949
thehomesteadatmilton.com
Rocklyn Homes is an award-winning, family-owned company with a unique vision and passion to build beautiful, awardwinning, single-family homes and townhomes at great prices in some of the most sought-after locations in Atlanta. Backed by years of experience, they will deliver quality, value and reliability in every home they build. Visit a Rocklyn community and discover the Rocklyn difference: “The Most Important Home We’ll Build Is Yours.”
(770) 817-2185
rocklynhomes.com
Toll Brothers has you covered in Atlanta’s most coveted neighborhoods. An award-winning FORTUNE 500 company founded in 1967, Toll Brothers is the nation’s leading builder of luxury homes. Our locations offer residents access to amenities including the Atlanta BeltLine, parks, local restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and public transportation. Toll Brothers is currently building throughout the Greater Atlanta area including Morningside, Decatur and Grant Park.
(855) 229-5676
tollbrothers.com/KNOWAtlanta
Soleil Belmont Park is a 55+ community from Patrick Malloy Communities. Located between Milton and Canton, it will feature 471 low-maintenance homes situated on large home sites. Soleil offers resort-style amenities, including a 9,800-square-foot clubhouse with a coffee and cocktail bar, health and fitness center, arts and crafts studio and community post office, as well as a pool, tennis and pickleball courts, bocce ball, a community garden and walking trails.
(770) 635-4080
soleilbelmontpark.com
From the $400s-$900s
For more than half a century, the name John Wieland has been synonymous with excellence in neighborhood design and homebuilding. The JW Collection is the legacy business of John Wieland and represents his 50-year commitment to building better homes—a promise he has kept for more than 30,000 homeowners and continues to uphold. New homes and townhomes by the JW Collection are ideally located in many of Atlanta’s best neighborhoods and most sought-after destinations.
(770) 809-6010
jwcollectionhomes.com
From the Mid $300s-$600s
Boasting nearly a century of combined experience in new home construction and an award-winning team of industry veterans at the helm, Paran Homes builds homes of uncompromised quality in many of Atlanta’s most sought-after locations while delivering a stellar home buying experience. Buyers can select from an array of move-in ready homes or personalize their home with the latest options from our Design Studio. Schedule an appointment and tour one of our models today!
(678) 726-9646
paranhomes.com/know
Since 1971, locally-owned Traton Homes had been giving Atlanta-area homebuyers “Altogether More!”…more desirable locations, more stylish home designs, more desirable features and more value! Visit our website to learn more about our beautiful new townhome, 55+ active adult and single-family detached home communities priced from the $400’s to $600’s. Now Selling in the Florida Panhandle!
Builder Magazine’s Biggest Mover in 2021, Davidson Homes is proud to offer homebuilding expertise to the fast-growing Atlanta market with a variety of incredible home plans in Bartow, Cherokee, East Cobb, East Paulding, Gwinnett, Henry and West Forsyth counties. Davidson Homes builds where you want to be. Enjoy professionally designed selections or customize your home with quality design options and upgrades, making it your dream home. Call or visit the website today!
(404) 999-1579
davidsonhomesllc.com
the low $400s
We want you to live a healthy, active lifestyle without even having to leave your community. We want you to have everything you want within walking distance, and we want this to be the best home you’ve ever owned. That’s why Artisan Built is simply a cut above the rest. Choose between 55+ active adult ranch plans and single-family two-story homes and townhomes.
(678) 515-9526
discoverartisan.com
Exceptional homes in an array of architectural styles and price points.
From low maintenance, ranchstyle living to spacious two- and three-story homes or even custom home offerings Traditions has it all.
• 18-Hole Golf Course & Clubhouse
• Private Owner’s Clubhouse with Catering Kitchen
• 24/7 Access to Fitness Center
• Six Lighted Tennis Courts with Stadium Seating
• Pickle Ball & Sports Court
• Junior-Olympic sized pool with zero-entry splash zone
• Open Green for Outdoor Events
• Sidewalks throughout
Find a Lennar home you’ll love in Atlanta! Lennar builds safe, amenity-rich communities all around the metro Atlanta area, and we have the perfect home for you! Enjoy our single-family or townhome designs with open-concept layouts and plenty of indoor/outdoor living space. Our Everything’s Included® package offers upgrades and appliances at no additional cost to you. We also offer a simplified homebuying experience through Lennar Mortgage, enabling you to make your lifestyle leap with ease.
(404) 931-7432
lennar.com/atlanta
Welcome to Lake Arrowhead, a gated mountain, lake and golf community outside of Canton. The private lake features 21 miles of shoreline, a marina, boat rental program, disc golf, 17 miles of hiking trails, pickleball and more. Long-range lake, golf and mountain views await you, and single-family ranch homes, lakeview townhomes and lakeside and golf villas offer something for everyone. Come see why Lake Arrowhead was voted the Best Place to Live in America.
(770) 720-2700
lakearrowheadga.com
From plentiful bocce ball and pickleball courts to beautifully designed homes and unmatched amenities surrounding neighborhoods, there’s a number of reasons to love the many 55+ communities popping up all across metro Atlanta. But don’t take our word for it—check out what onsite community agents and local active adult homeowners have to say about the communities in which they live, work and thrive each and every day.
HOMEOWNERS AND ONSITE AGENTS SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS ABOUT ACTIVE ADULT LIVING IN METRO ATLANTA
Onsite Agents:
Shelley Call and Kelly Forman
Hickory Bluffs by Lennar Canton, Cherokee County lennar.com/new-homes/georgia/atlanta/ canton/hickory-bluffs
What is your favorite part of serving this community as an onsite agent?
We are honored to be able to work with so many interesting and funny homeowners. They have amazing life stories, and we love hearing each and every one of them. It touches our hearts that they have chosen us to assist them in making their decision to live at Hickory Bluffs.
How do you describe the residences available in the neighborhood?
We offer one-level, well-thought-out ranch homes with an open concept for ease of mobility and stunning finishes. We also offer the option for a loft/bed/ bath upstairs for visiting guests, family or grandchildren.
What are some of the home features that really stand out for buyers?
It’s so easy and effortless to buy a home here. We include all the finishes. From quartz, granite, luxury vinyl plank flooring and tile in all the bathrooms to
stainless steel appliances, crown molding, beautiful baseboards, trey ceilings, fans, covered porches, zero-entry garages and connected home products by Ring, our homebuyers just have to choose which home is the best for them. We also add zero-entry showers and blinds as options. And they know what their price is on their first visit, as opposed to going to a lengthy, draining and potentially expensive design center appointment.
What are some of the community amenities that residents are excited about?
The clubhouse is absolutely stunning and features a zero-entry lap pool, fitness center, two kitchens, reading room, tech room, movie room, game room, main common social areas, elevator, offices, conference room, covered decks with rocking chairs and outdoor furniture. We feature three pickleball courts and four lighted tennis courts, as well as sidewalks on both sides of the streets, and we will have gated entrances. Our community will also feature lawn service, including mowing, weed control, trimming of bushes, edging and pine straw on a regular basis.
How do you describe the surrounding community in which the neighborhood resides? What kinds of resources are available nearby for homeowners?
Everything! Lennar was very selective to have this property as an active adult community due to all the necessary resources our homeowners want and need. The grocery store, U.S. Post Office, Home Depot, shopping, banks, drugstores, veterinarians and more than 65 restaurants are all within minutes of our community. Northside Hospital Cherokee is also located one exit up at Canton Marketplace behind Target, Lowes, Bed Bath & Beyond, Kirkland’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods and so much more. We are located in Cherokee County, where there are tax benefits for seniors.
What do you want people to know most about the community?
It’s about lifestyle and relaxation. Our homeowners have worked hard their entire lives, and now it’s about enjoying their time with their families, relaxing, so-
cializing and traveling worry-free thanks to access to extensive yard maintenance.
What is on tap for the future of the community?
We are currently developing our future phases and anticipate releasing them this year.
Onsite Agent: Joyce Schell
Echols Farm by Windsong Properties Hiram, Paulding County windsonglife.com/new-homes/ga/hiram/ echolsfarm
What is your favorite part of serving this community as an onsite agent? The part of serving in this community that I really love is helping the active adult buyer live the lifestyle of their dreams as they enter a new chapter of their life.
How do you describe the residences available in the neighborhood?
Echols Farm currently offers a choice of six beautiful floor plans. We build ranch homes with plenty of main-level living. If you need more square footage, we offer the possibility of adding additional living space with a second floor bonus room and bath.
What are some of the home features that really stand out for buyers?
When walking through a Windsong Properties home, the feature that I think buyers notice first is the amount of natural light brought into our homes by the use and placement of wonderfully sized windows. Our homes feel very welcoming and open. Another feature active adults love is our walk-in shower, complete with a bench seat. Wide doorways also make our homes accessible, and our attic space is accessed by a permanent stairway.
What are some of the community amenities that residents are excited about?
Echols Farm is rich in amenities. We have a two-story farm-style clubhouse sitting on a lovely pond with a water fountain and sidewalks circling the pond. Coming later this year is an event barn, which is a replica of the original farmhouse that today will be used as a makerspace, as well as two bocce ball and three pickleball courts.
How do you describe the surrounding community in which the neighborhood resides? What kinds of resources are available nearby for homeowners? Our community is conveniently located
close to a hospital and many medical offices. There are various grocery stores in proximity, plus big box stores and a lovely outdoor boutique area. Outdoor activities are nearby at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park and on the Silver Comet Trail, as well as on Allatoona Lake.
What do you want people to know most about the community?
Echols Farm is a welcoming community, where homeowners connect through the activities and common threads they share. It is a place you can take a deep breath and feel like they are taking a step
into the past when people sat on the front porch and visited.
What is on tap for the future of the community?
The future is exciting with such enthusiasm from our buyers at Echols Farm. We are about halfway through building out our community of 250 homes. We have recently opened phase three of our four phases, and we have released our final lots on the pond.
Homeowners:
Donna and Craig Lownes
Lake Arrowhead Waleska, Cherokee County lakearrowheadga.com
What drew you to this community? There were several factors. We wanted to be closer to the mountains yet still be close to conveniences. We had been to the area several times and really enjoyed our time here. And we were looking for a slower pace of life.
How would you describe your residence?
We found a floor plan and a builder that fit our goals for a new home. We wanted lots of natural light and space, but not too big of a home. We also wanted an outdoor area that took advantage of the trees that are around us.
What are some of the features in your home that really stand out to you?
The back of our house is filled with windows, so our home is filled with sunlight. Our kitchen has a wonderful island and bank of cabinets with tons of storage. The fireplace with the rough beam mantle makes a great focal point in the family area, and we can’t wait to sit on our screened porch and have the fireplace going.
What are some of the community amenities that you enjoy most?
While we were building our home, we ate at Highlands Grill and were impressed! We love the great festival area and options of the different hiking trails in the community. We are looking forward to using the lake. We met our neighbors while building our home, and they have been so welcoming and friendly. We can’t wait to meet more of the community.
How do you describe the surrounding community in which the neighborhood resides? What kinds of resources are available to you nearby?
We have yet to find a meal that disagrees with us. Canton has some of the best restaurants around. We have also gone to several of the performances offered at Reinhardt University and really enjoyed them. The town of Canton seems to have a lot of great activities going on yearround. We seem to find something new to try each week.
How do you describe your lifestyle now that you have selected Lake Arrowhead? It’s less stressful with a slower pace and more spontaneity. We are thoroughly enjoying our new home, and our friends and family say that we seem so content. We looked a long time for a new place to
call home. On a lark one day, we ended up in the Canton area and found Lake Arrowhead, and it seemed like home as soon as we came through the gate.
Homeowners:
Rich and Terri Miramonti
Soleil Belmont Park by Patrick Malloy Communities
Canton, Cherokee County pmcommunities.com/new-homes/canton-ga/soleil-belmont-park
What drew you to this community?
We were looking for an active adult community without the “cookie cutter” feel of tiny little homes on tiny little lots. We knew we wanted it to provide top-notch amenities so we could prioritize fitness and fun as a part of making new friends.
How do you describe your residence?
It is a stepless ranch with Craftsman influences.
What are some of the features in your home that really stand out to you?
The plan is so open and airy and perfect for entertaining. We don’t feel we have downsized our living areas. We love the tall ceilings, our covered porches and some high-end options that you usually don’t see in 55+ communities. Our dogs love the large, level backyard, too!
What are some of the community amenities that you enjoy most?
We are anxiously awaiting the construction of our five-acre amenities complex, including the large clubhouse, a pool with cabanas, tennis and pickleball courts and other gathering areas.
How do you describe the surrounding community in which the neighborhood resides? What kinds of resources are available to you nearby?
We love the location! We can easily access nearby towns like Canton, Alpharetta, Ball Ground and Cumming,
and shopping, parks and restaurants are only a few miles away.
How do you describe your lifestyle now that you have selected Soleil Belmont Park?
We no longer spend our weekends doing things like yardwork and home maintenance. We can prioritize spending time with family and neighbors in a beautifully planned and maintained community with all sorts of options to be entertained without leaving the neighborhood. n
Are you an active adult who’s ready to find your dream home in metro Atlanta? Check out these fantastic new home communities as you begin your search:
Soleil Belmont Park, Canton
Soleil Summit Chase, Snellville
Patrick Malloy Communities offers low-maintenance well-designed homes and resort-style amenities at two 55+ communities: Soleil Belmont Park in Canton (from the $500s) and Soleil Summit Chase in Snellville (from the $400s). Each community offers a clubhouse with a coffee bar, health and fitness center, catering kitchen, arts and crafts studio, club/card room and a community post office. Homeowners enjoy a resort-style pool, pickleball courts, bocce ball, a community garden and walking trails. PMCommunities.com
Lakeside at River Green, Canton
Lakeside at River Green is the newest development from John Wieland and his experienced team at the JW Collection. Located in Canton’s best master-planned community of River Green, Lakeside at River Green is a gated active adult community featuring luxury single-family homes from the $500s to the $700s. Homeowners will enjoy River Green’s wide array of resort-style amenities and exclusive access to Evermore, a new members-only, age-qualified clubhouse. JWCollectionHomes.com
The Artisan at Victory, Acworth
Homes are available now at this intimate, gated active adult neighborhood in Acworth offering home plans designed for main-level living. This charming neighborhood features sidewalk-lined streets with lake cottage-inspired ranch homes and offers a community garden, a gathering pavilion, a scenic walking trail around a small lake and bocce ball courts. Homes are available from the high $400s. SouthwyckHomes.com
This award-winning community was honored by the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association as the 2021 55+ Community of the Year. The Gardens at Arbor Springs features European courtyard homes built by award-winning McKinney Builders. Priced from the high $700s, buyers can downsize without downgrading in homes that include high-end features such as Geothermal heating and cooling and Pella Windows. TheGardensatArborSprings.com
Coming soon is The Lake Society, the first-of-its-kind active adult community located on the shores of Lake Lanier in Gainesville. This 211-acre development will feature 373 single-family homes and a marina with 130 boat slips. The proposed 12,000-squarefoot amenity package includes a state-of-the-art clubhouse with an indoor pool, crafts room, catering kitchen, boardroom, movement studio and cardio and strength training center. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a zero-entry pool, a lazy river, tennis courts, pickleball, bocce ball, an event lawn and onsite RV storage—all on the shores of Lake Lanier. SouthwyckHomes.com
For private schools throughout metro Atlanta, academics are only part of the school experience. In fact, offering access to a welcoming and extensive school community is a major draw for many families, who are looking for an environment that reflects their common values. Here, we look at schools across the area that offer a wide array of community-oriented activities and opportunities for family involvement.
annunciationdayschool.org
Students, parents and families of this
Catholic-based school have a host of options for gathering and feeling a sense of community. To start, ADS hosts an array of fundraisers and social events, including an international dinner, an ice cream social, spirit nights at local restaurants, a drive-in movie night, a daddy/ daughter dance, a mother/son recreation and fun event, the annual gala and the 5K Spartan Run. Additionally, the school’s Parent Volunteer Association nurtures the community atmosphere with opportunities for parents to volunteer at the annual book fair, the Atlanta Greek Festival and concessions at basketball and
soccer games, as well as chances to serve as parent ambassadors and talk to middle schoolers about their jobs and responsibilities during Career Week.
Within the community-at-large, several local businesses have partnered with ADS, including Chik-fil-A, Druid Hills, Oak Grove Market, Athens Pizza House and Atlanta Urgent Care. These businesses sponsor events, such as the 5K Spartan Run and annual gala. According to Sophia Tsiotsias, community and development director at ADS, “All of these events have built a great sense of community and fellowship among our student body,
parents and community partners. They have proven to build strong friendships and bonds even outside of the school. It’s important to foster these relationships to help build and develop our thriving school community.”
With 90 different nationalities and 65 languages represented at AIS, celebrating different cultures offers a great way to learn while building community. The school’s inclusive community is united by a spirit of intercultural understanding and academic excellence, says Emily Hands, director of communications. She explains, “For students, it means learning and growing in a unique environment, where they can develop real world skills and friendships that thrive on different perspectives.”
WorldFest, scheduled early in the school year, celebrates the nations represented at the school with homemade food and entertainment. United Nations Day, an authentic Weihnachtsmarkt (German Christmas Market), Lunar New Year, La Feria and Harambee celebrations also are organized and created by parents. And AIS further involves families with volunteer opportunities to perform charity work on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, create baskets at Thanksgiving or help at Horizons at AIS, a summer youth program. Parents share their experiences and expertise, whether by reading stories, speaking at lunch and learn events or assisting in co-curricular programs such as Mock Trial, Model United Nations or theatrical productions.
davisacademy.org
Students not only learn in the classroom through unique project-based programming and on field trips, but parents
and grandparents experience The Davis Academy’s “magic” through multiple celebrations, workshops, seminars and other interactive and collaborative programs.
For example, more than 300 people of all ages recently participated in the Davis Day of Service. That day, students, parents, grandparents, alumni and Davis friends packed 200 bagels to support Bagel Rescue, put together 200 snack bags in conjunction with The Sandwich Project and made over 500 bags of food items for children as part of Backpack Buddies. They also collected winter coats for the Atlanta Mission through Homeless at Heart, created thank you cards for soldiers in the U.S. military and those in the Israel Defense Forces and created 200 cards
for elderly residents at The Jewish Home.
As a school infused with Reform Jewish values, children, parents, faculty, grandparents and other community members work collaboratively to make the world a better place, according to Cristy Milrud, director of marketing and communications. She notes, “Schoolwide and grade-level community outreach activities and service projects allow our students to be hands-on with causes they care about and community organizations that serve the greater good.”
gallowayschool.org
Students and parents are made to feel right at home from the beginning of the school year as the school hosts an evening on campus for parents in all three levels with senior leadership, the Board of Trustees and faculty and staff members. The evening allows the entire school community to gather and meet other parents, faculty and staff. Families also are invited to Fun Fest in the spring,
featuring arts and crafts, musical performances, inflatables, face painting, a petting zoo, food trucks and more. Younger students enjoy bounce houses, while older students earn service hours by volunteering to provide an enjoyable day for their community. What’s more, Galloway families can get involved throughout the school year with toy and coat drives in the winter and cleanups of Chastain Park in the warmer months. Some of these events are classroom initiatives or are sponsored by parent groups such as Families of Color United for Success.
“Experiences like the Morning of Service give our families the chance to meet other Galloway families while serving our surrounding community, furthering
Galloway’s mission that our students grow to be culturally competent, enlightened contributors wherever they go,” says Meghan Stauts, director of marketing and communications.
“At Lovett, we are committed to building a culture of belonging that grows students of honor, faith and wisdom with the character and intellect to thrive in learning and life,” says Dr. Tommy Welch, head of culture and community. “Our core values of intellect, purpose, belonging, faith and love support our mission and are the foundation of what we believe and do.”
With that in mind, Lovett links classrooms to the neighborhoods and communities that comprise Atlanta’s unique culture through programs, courses and projects, “We are fortunate to have long-standing, mutually beneficial relationships with nonprofit partners across the city,” Welch notes. Students are encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities, including performing community service, with over 60 student organizations for students to show leadership, responsibility and initiative. Parents support the school by volunteering as grade representatives, team and club parents, parent association leaders and volunteers. Parent education and skill-building programs for families assist parents to understand their children’s needs. These relationships create meaningful connections to the school with counselors and chaplains and demonstrate dedication to “whole child education,” building cognitive, social and emotional skills and motivating, individual passion, self-discovery and collective purpose.
mtparanschool.com
MPCS promotes community and belonging through messaging, curriculum, instructional implementation, culturally relevant field trips and other activities and events, according to Catina Taliaferro, director of diversity and belonging. “We desire to create an environment that
unifies all of God’s people as one body in Christ. It is our goal and our desire to have the community of Mount Paran Christian School reflect the world as God truly intended it to be.”
Several activities highlight the school’s Christian faith, including weekly chapel, morning devotions, retreat and spiritual emphasis days and Family Serve Days, among others. Serve Saturdays, a month-
ly community service, allows students, families, faculty and staff a chance to support local nonprofit organizations. Families also host tables offering food, games and other information about countries and cultures at CultureFest, a biennial celebration. The entire family is involved in ParentEd, a parent education program, and the school hosts PreK Community STEAM days, which are free to preschoolers and their parents, to engage in a morning of STEAM activities. Finally, MPCS engages with the community through a private social platform, the MPCS Network, for users to link to job and internship opportunities, networking, business leads and mentoring.
mountvernonschool.org
Through the Mount Vernon Parent Network, families engage with the school
by volunteering at events, including participating in service projects and special events. Parents, grandparents and alumni share their stories, experiences and expertise with students often, which further builds connections and community. And families can experience a true sense of community through “milestone moments,” including a fall impact drive, a food collection drive in partnership with the Atlanta Mission, a Toys for Tots drive and the Week of Impact, featuring hands-on activities to benefit the Sandy Springs Food Pantry. A Christmas Arts Showcase and Mustang Rally also help build the school’s sense of community.
“Fostering deep relationships inside
the school and extending them beyond its boundaries is truly foundational to learning, service and engaged citizen leadership,” says Kristy Lundstrom, head of school. “Being more proximate, learners become story-informed and experience-informed which bridges the distance between me and we.”
Regularly, students attend chapel sessions on Wednesdays, with parents invited to hear inspirational messages and share stories of faith. Parents and grandparents also are invited to attend more than 20 informative courses on health and wellbeing, digital footprint
management, navigating teen years, substance abuse and technology advancements, helping them connect with their students on key topics.
ncchristian.org
North Cobb Christian invites parents into the learning experiences of their children. To start, grade levels in preschool and lower school host a family event with an academic tie-in at each grade level. For instance, first graders and their families participate in a Fairy Tale Ball, where students and parents dress in royal finery to enjoy dancing, fairy-tale themed snacks and a special storytime with their principal (Queen Titus), while fourth graders apply financial skills learned in math with their families in The Game of Life. Additionally, special family traditions fill the school calendar, including the Thanksgiving STEAM parade, during which floats and costumes are student designed or crafted utilizing STEAM principles, with many constructed with recycled materials. “Each grade level is given a different STEAM challenge to complete, from building a
AVERAGE SAT SCORE: 1366
AVERAGE ACT SCORE: 30
AVERAGE PSAT PERCENTILE AMONG JUNIORS: 94th
turkey trampoline to creating their own musical instruments for a Spanish song performance along the parade route,” says Todd Clingman, head of school.
At the community level, students work on the Great Kindness Challenge. In 2022, NCCS organized a supply drive to restock the family pantries at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, which provide snacks and drinks for families whose children are being treated there. Not only were the pantries filled, but additional donations also were contributed to the Ronald McDonald House in Atlanta.
paceacademy.org
From Friday night football games and the Pace Fall Fair to middle school musicals and alumni events, community is the heart at Pace Academy. The first of the academy’s four core values is to create success through partnerships with parents, students and faculty.
Pace Academy thrives through parental involvement through the Pace Parents Club. Club volunteers support students, faculty and staff through educational, financial, social and community engagement activities such as staff appreciation, parent education, on-campus volunteering and planning events like the fall fair and the club’s auction. The school’s Community Engagement program connects students, faculty and families to global issues through the work of local nonprofit organizations; the academy partners with more than 35 nonprofits to build cultural competency and promote cultural awareness and leadership skills. Students, parents, faculty and staff also can volunteer at frequent Family Engagement Weekends.
According to Caitlin Jones, director of communications, “We truly believe in the old proverb ‘It takes a village to raise a child,’ so there’s a place at Pace for every parent and caregiver to use their talents. We also believe that a diverse, equitable
and inclusive learning environment is key to a quality education and to fostering a sense of community.”
paideiaschool.org
Family involvement can be found on any school day, with parents helping the Booster Club, building a set for a drama event, setting up for a reception to follow a concert or attending a discussion group. Annual events have turned into traditions at the school, including Grandparents and Special Friends Day, the fall BBQ and an auction to raise money to support the financial aid program. Parental groups help build that sense of community and inclusion through the Black Parent Or-
ganization, Latino Parent Group, Paideia Asia Society and Rainbow Pi. The school also engages the entire community with the Art Visions Fine Arts and Craft Sale, while the Paideia Green Team hosts a
campus-wide cleanup, the Re-Use a Shoe program and an elementary Earth Day celebration.
Paideia School is committed to social responsibility. “Social responsibility encompasses compassion for others, responsibility for working on solutions to the problems of our immediate community and of the larger national and international community,” says Caroline Riebe, director of communications and marketing. As a highlight, Paideia’s high
school internship program strengthens the school’s commitment to the larger Atlanta community through volunteerism and civic involvement.
springmont.com
According to Julie Strickland, director of marketing and communications, “Being part of a welcoming and inclusive community has always been an important part of the Springmont experience, which
seems even more valuable and meaningful since the pandemic and divisiveness we have experienced in recent years.”
To make family part of the equation, Springmont hosts parents at the school’s orientation, back-to-school nights and parent education sessions. They also can join the Springfield Parents Association and can visit the school for gardening days or make cultural or expert-based classroom presentations as part of the school community. Additionally, the school hosts two major events for families: each October, families attend the Springmont Festival and Montessori Mile, a fun run, alumni reunion and on-campus festival run by students: and an off-campus performance for the entire school is scheduled each February. Families are invited to bring a potluck dish, join other families at community dining tables and contribute to a community weaving project. Families also are encouraged to perform acts of service on MLK Jr. Day.
As a school community, students have led bake sales, plant and farm-fresh egg sales, car washes and donation drives benefiting sea turtles, animal shelters, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and the International Rescue Committee. Springmont also partners with a local organization to provide Thanksgiving meals and makes 200 sandwiches for The Sandwich Project.
trinityatl.org
Parental involvement in their children’s education is a critical component of student success, according to Joe Marshall, head of school. That’s why family members are invited discuss their backgrounds during the annual Celebration of Cultures at the school. On Grand Day, grandparents or special friends are welcomed on campus for a special presentation. The annual Veterans Day program welcomes friends or family members, both current and
former members of the military, to an all-school assembly.
In addition, the entire community joins together for a Day of Service each year. Students develop social responsibility through community and service-learning projects and build relationships with many nonprofits and service organizations. Also, nearly 200 parents, alumni, teachers, staff and others volunteer for Spotlight on Art. This event raises money for the school through partnerships with Neiman Marcus and Atlanta Decorative Arts Center. And a series of events culminate with an on-campus Artists Market in January and February that is the largest market of its kind in the southeastern United States.
“Through our partnerships and programs with organizations in the local community, our students make real-world connections to what they are learning in the classroom,” Marshall says. “Every experience also helps us carry out our mission of helping each child develop the knowledge, skills and character to achieve their unique potential as a responsible, productive and compassionate member of the school and greater community.”
One of the Walker School’s hallmarks for families is serving its extended community. Even the youngest Wolverines can serve, whether it is primary school students assembling napkins and eating utensils for MUST Ministries or students assisting through Angel Tree through the Salvation Army, MLK Jr. Day of Service, Fair Oaks Elementary Partnership and others. Families also can socialize and get to meet at the Fall Festival, part of the homecoming activities.
The sense of community extends to the academic environment as well. Daily language classes and homestays help students apply language skills in authentic
contexts in the school’s language immersion programs. Students learn empathy, respect and understanding for other languages and cultures. Fifth through eighth grade students grow socially and academically on grade-level trips. Walker’s more than 40 clubs can engage students through a range of topics including coding, robotics, skateboarding, debate, finance. mock trial and several others.
“Academically, our students can intern through our Guided Scientific Research Program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Georgia Tech,” notes Karen Park, director of communications and marketing. “Our WISE internship program gives juniors the opportunity to intern with companies throughout the metro area in a variety of fields. These opportunities lead to greater academic aspirations for students and a chance to gain real-world experience.”
woodward.edu
Parents are very involved in Woodward Academy. First, they are invited to meet every Friday at the Primary School. Also, the school’s parent community hosts Super Goober Day, a fall carnival extravaganza for grades pre-K to sixth, and collaborates with the South Asian
Affinity Club to host a Holi celebration, a celebration of love and inclusion and commemorates the arrival of spring in India, known as the Festival of Colors.
Besides the parent community, family involvement is promoted through the breadth and depth of Woodward’s many programs. For instance, upper level students can perform in the spring musical, while one of their siblings might be interested in jewelry making. Others may want to join the robotics team and take the independent Scientific Research course, pairing upper level students with university researchers. Woodward Academy also partners with local organizations and schools in College Park and the broader Atlanta community so upper school students can obtain their required service hours. What’s more, the school often joins forces with the Draper Boys & Girls Club, Atlanta Community Food Bank and many others.
“For our students, service in the community is an important part of their education,” says Shaumond Scott, marketing strategist. “They learn empathy and leadership skills from opportunities to engage in service. Parents often choose Woodward for their children in part because of our strong emphasis on service leadership.”
Life University’s (Life U) flagship Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) program offers an exceptional educational opportunity to individuals looking to join a top-notch healthcare profession that gives them many choices. From working in private practice or in an integrated health center to caring for premier athletes in professional sports settings, a chiropractic education allows students to choose their future work environment, as well as their schedule and specialization.
From its inception in 1974, the D.C. program at Life U has provided an unparalleled learning experience, blending
the best of modern science and chiropractic principles to ensure students are well-rounded, knowledgeable and ready to make an impact in the healthcare industry right after graduation.
“At Life University, we are dedicated to helping our students, faculty and staff reach their highest potential in a culture of innovation and excellence,” explains Life U President Dr. Rob Scott. “Specifically, our College of Chiropractic faculty and staff are committed to inspiring our students to pursue health and wellness through an approach that emphasizes the amazing resilience of our bodies that work hard to express health, maintain health and recover from illnesses or
other conditions that threaten our health. Additionally, we strive to provide an environment that is conducive to learning and growth.”
This commitment to excellence is evident in Life U’s D.C. program, which is offered with rolling admission year-round and has enrolled the largest single-campus student population of all chiropractic colleges in the world for many years. The advanced degree program consists of 14 quarters of study, covering all the necessary topics for a successful career in the field. This includes courses on diagnosis, spinal biomechanics, clinical neurology and health promotion and wellness, just to name a few. Students also benefit from the
program’s imbued philosophy of Vitalism, which emphasizes the body’s innate ability to self-develop, self-maintain and self-heal. And once they progress to the clinical phase of their education, students receive hands-on experience in caring for the public through student clinics, externships and study abroad opportunities.
Overall, Life University is dedicated to pioneering innovation in higher education and research while providing students with a vitalistic approach to health and optimal performance. This is particularly evident in the D.C. program. Dr. Scott explains, “Our Doctor of Chiropractic program is designed to empower students to take on leadership roles in the chiro-
practic profession and make a powerful contribution to the health and well-being of people both locally and globally. We now have alumni running clinics in their native countries all over the world, providing much-needed care to the population. We are proud of the impact this ‘not-so-little’ university makes each and every day through the care our graduates provide and the impactful research they are conducting to move the chiropractic profession forward.”
Life U’s D.C. program ultimately gives students the opportunity to become leaders in the field of chiropractic care, a rewarding profession that makes a difference in the lives of others. By developing a strong foundation in both scientific and chiropractic principles, students are able to create meaningful change within the healthcare system. With its unique educational approach and top rankings, Life U’s D.C. program could be an excellent choice for anyone who is looking to pursue a career in chiropractic care and harness a powerful education to help patients reach their full potential.
Life University is located in Marietta, the fourth largest principal city of metro Atlanta. It’s just a short trip down I-75 to the attractions of Atlanta (sporting events, concerts, dining, plays and more), yet Life U’s campus offers a tranquil, nature-centric setting with ample green
space and miles of walking trails where its health-conscious student base can keep fit.
As one of the top-ranked chiropractic programs in the world, Life U’s D.C. program delivers a unique educational experience that celebrates diversity. In fact, Life U was ranked as the No. 1 most diverse college in Georgia and No. 18 in the country by Niche.com for 2023. The institution has a nearly 50-50 split between genders both schoolwide and within the College of Chiropractic. And with representation from more than 65 countries and all 50 states, students gain a global perspective while receiving the highest-quality education in the profession.
Dr. Scott encourages anyone who can to visit the Life U campus off of Cobb Parkway, just a short drive from the area’s renowned Truist Park. He concludes, “We invite everyone who hasn’t been to our campus to come and check us out. We might just surprise you. And if you are interested in learning more about what we offer, set up a tour or visit us for LIFE Leadership Weekend, our premier prospective student event that gives attendees a two-day snapshot into the chiropractic profession and Life U’s D.C. program.” n
Visit Life University’s website at life.edu/ academics for more information about the university’s Doctor of Chiropractic program, 14 undergraduate degrees and three graduate degrees. To schedule a visit or attend a LIFE Leadership Weekend event, visit life.edu/visit.
“Our Doctor of Chiropractic program is designed to empower students to take on leadership roles in the chiropractic profession and make a powerful contribution to the health and well-being of people both locally and globally.”
— Dr. Rob Scott, Life U President
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According to the Atlanta Regional Commission, the 20-county Atlanta region will be home to more than eight million people by the year 2040. The counties that comprise the area are as distinctive as the people who live within them, as each one has its own personality, features and resources. In the pages that follow, KNOWAtlanta will introduce you to more than
a dozen of the most sought-after counties in metro Atlanta. You’ll learn about each county’s proximity to the city of Atlanta, basic facts, the major cities and neighborhoods, school information and more. Consider it your primer for getting to know Atlanta and its beautiful communities. When you relocate, all of the information you need is right here at your fingertips.
Interstate 75
I-75 runs northwest to southeast straight through the City of Atlanta.
Interstate 85
I-85 runs northeast to southwest and converges with I-75 to form the Downtown Connector.
Interstate 20 I-20 is a major artery running east to west through the City of Atlanta.
Interstate 285
Known as “The Perimeter,” this interstate loop encircles Atlanta and connects I-75, I-85 and I-20 to the city.
Georgia State Route 400 GA 400 runs north to south through the north-central suburbs of Atlanta and is concurrent with U.S. Route 19.
Interstate 675
This auxiliary highway runs through the southeast part of metro Atlanta connecting Stockbridge to I-285.
Interstate 575
I-575 is a 30-mile spur route that branches off of I-75 and traverses the northwestern suburbs.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Bartow County Schools
bartow.k12.ga.us
Cartersville City Schools
cartersvilleschools.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
Distance from Cartersville to Downtown Atlanta 43 Miles
Distance from Cartersville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 53 Miles
POPULATION 110,843
MEDIAN HOME PRICE $334,000
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE bartowga.org
Bartow County features the best parts of big city life and small-town living with Civil War and Native American sites, excellent dining experiences, a business-friendly economy, unmatched arts, shopping and excellent educational opportunities.
• Shaw Industries, Inc.
• Toyo Tire North America
• Cartersville Medical Center
• Voestalpine Automotive Components
• Anheuser-Busch
• Red Top Mountain State Park
• Tellus Science Museum
• Booth Western Art Museum
• LakePoint Sports Complex
• Barnsley Resort
Adairsville adairsvillega.net
Recognized as one of the safest cities in Georgia, Adairsville was the first town in Georgia to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places in its entirety.
Cartersville cityofcartersville.org
Offering access to an array of North Georgia’s natural wonders and a beautiful historic downtown, Cartersville blends the best of yesterday and today.
Emerson cityofemerson.org
This growing city is quickly becoming one of the nation’s hot spots for youth travel sports thanks to the LakePoint Sports Complex, which spans 1,300 acres.
Euharlee euharlee.com
Euharlee is a small town located just west of Cartersville and home to the Euharlee Covered Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Georgia. Kingston cityofkingstonga.org
Kingston is a city steeped in Antebellum history and keeps it alive through a variety of artifacts and photographs in two museums.
Taylorsville
Taylorsville is home to Plant Bowen, a coalfired power station that has the second largest generating capacity of any coal-fired power plant in North America.
White cityofwhitega.com
A bedroom community of neighboring Cartersville, White covers one square mile of land—referred to as “The Friendliest Mile in Georgia.”
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Cartersville Electric System cityofcartersville.org
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
Greystone Power Corporation greystonepower.com
WATER
City of Cartersville cityofcartersville.org
Bartow County bartowga.org
H Select provider
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
Lyndon Academy lyndonacademy.org
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Reinhardt University reinhardt.edu
Ball Ground cityofballground.com
Ball Ground is a beautiful city in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains that’s home to quaint shops, eateries and a mix of residential options.
Distance from Canton to Downtown Atlanta 40 Miles
Distance from Canton to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 50 Miles
POPULATION: 274,615
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $475,000
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE cherokeega.com
Dubbed the place “Where Metro Meets the Mountains,” Cherokee County benefits from its status as a region that’s business savvy, environmentally alluring and undergoing tremendous growth.
• Northside Hospital Cherokee
• Inalfa Roof Systems
• Pilgrim’s Pride
• Chart Industries, Inc.
• Piolax Corporation
• Lake Allatoona
• Dixie Speedway
• Gibbs Gardens
• The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta
• Cherokee Arts Center
• Chukkar Farm Polo Club
Canton cantonga.gov
The county seat of Cherokee, Canton offers the perfect blend of historic charm and progressive opportunity, with a revitalized downtown that features a museum, arts center, heritage center and theater.
Holly Springs hollyspringsga.us
Recognized as one of the best places to raise a family in Georgia, Holly Springs is a beloved community that also was named the number three city for new families in the U.S. by Pennygeeks.com.
Nelson nelsongeorgia.com
Located in both Cherokee and Pickens counties, Nelson was established in 1891 and is the “First Georgia Marble City.”
Waleska cityofwaleska.com
Home to Reinhardt University, Waleska is a small community alive with industry, including the lumber and agriculture businesses. Woodstock woodstockga.gov
Once a farming village, Woodstock has transformed into a bustling and diverse community with a revitalized downtown, a worldclass trail system and excellent shopping and dining options.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Cherokee County Schools cherokee.k12.ga.us
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Windstream windstream.com
ETC Communications etcnow.com
Nelson-Ball Ground Telephone (770) 735-2000
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Amicalola EMC amicalolaemc.com
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
WATER
Cherokee County Water Authority ccwsa.com
City of Ball Ground Cityofballground.com
City of Canton canton-georgia.com
City of Holly Springs hollyspringsga.us
City of Waleska cityofwaleska.com
City of Woodstock woodstockga.gov
H Select provider
• Atlanta State Farmers Market
• Georgia Archives
CITIES OF CLAYTON:
Riverdale riverdalega.gov
Riverdale is located only about five miles south of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and serves more than 14,000 residents, deeming it the second largest city in the county.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Clayton County Schools
clayton.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
Distance from Jonesboro to Downtown Atlanta
18 Miles
Distance from Jonesboro to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 15 Miles
POPULATION: 297,100
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $259,900
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8% ONLINE claytoncountyga.gov
Located 30 minutes south of Atlanta, Clayton County offers easy access to Interstates 75, 85, 285 and 675, along with rail service from Norfolk Southern and CSX and HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport. It is the only county in the Atlanta area to be classified as a Foreign Trade Zone.
• Clayton Co. Public Schools
• Clayton Co. Board of Commissioners
• Southern Regional Medical Center
• Chime Solutions
• Fresh Express
• Porsche Cars North American Experience Center
• Road to Tara Museum
• Clayton County Performing Arts Center
• The Beach at Clayton County International Park
Forest Park forestparkga.gov
Forest Park was originally founded by farming families with an influx of railroad employees, but today is home to more than 20,000 people and has become a viable center for commerce.
Jonesboro jonesboroga.com
The county seat of Clayton, Jonesboro is known as the official “home” of Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone With the Wind” and maintains its historic atmosphere with stately homes and beautiful landscapes.
Lake City lakecityga.net
Lake City’s pride and joy is the Lake City Community Center, a nearly 5,000-squarefoot multi-use facility designed for weddings, birthday parties, reunions and city meetings.
Lovejoy cityoflovejoy.com
Lovejoy, known as “The City of Peace,” is growing rapidly but strives to maintain the small-town community atmosphere that continues to attract residents and businesses.
Morrow cityofmorrow.com
Morrow is home to Clayton State University, the Southeast Region Branch of the U.S. Archives, the Georgia Archives, Reynolds Nature Preserve and Spivey Hall, a stunning performance center.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Clayton State University
clayton.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
Central GA EMC cgemc.com
WATER
Clayton County Water Authority ccwa.us
H Select provider
• Truist Park/The Battery Atlanta
• Six Flags Over Georgia/White Water
• Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
• Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History
• Silver Comet Trail
• Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
CITIES OF COBB:
Distance from Marietta to Downtown Atlanta 20 Miles
Distance from Marietta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 30 Miles
POPULATION 766,802
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $434,900
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE cobbcounty.org
Long regarded as one of the best places to live in metro Atlanta, Cobb County captures the best of all worlds with growing businesses, neighborhoods and more just beyond the I-285 Perimeter. It provides easy access to recreation and entertainment opportunities, as well as a thriving commercial center.
• Wellstar Health System
• The Home Depot
• Kennesaw State University
• Lockheed Martin Corp.
• Publix Super Markets
Acworth acworth.org
Known as “The Lake City,” Acworth makes good use of its prime location on the banks of Lake Acworth with a full calendar of events centered around the water.
Austell austellga.gov
Although it’s located just 18 miles from Downtown Atlanta, Austell’s revitalized downtown and population of just over 7,000 still give it a small-town feel.
Kennesaw kennesaw-ga.gov
Kennesaw is a bustling business center in Cobb County known as a great place to raise a family, while also being home to more than 5,000 companies and Kennesaw State University.
Marietta mariettaga.gov
Historic Marietta Square serves as the city center for this vibrant and ever-growing community, boasting quaint shops, delectable eateries, numerous museums, green space and more.
Powder Springs cityofpowdersprings.org
The town motto, “Small enough to know you, large enough to serve you,” speaks volumes about Powder Springs. Once a gold mining town, the city now boasts several parks, as well as a museum that chronicles its rich history.
Smyrna smyrnaga.gov
One of the fastest-growing cities in metro Atlanta, the “Jonquil City” is home to a wealth of family-friendly neighborhoods, upscale dining establishments, pristine public parks and a vibrant Village Green.
Cumberland
Situated 10 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta, this unincorporated community serves as the region’s fifth largest business district and is home to the Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park.
Mableton
At more than 20 square miles, Mableton is the largest unincorporated community in the metro area, as well as the hometown of former Georgia Governor Roy Barnes.
Vinings
Unincorporated Vinings has become a go-to spot for a city-meets-the-suburbs experience, with upscale boutiques, exceptional restaurants and the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Cobb County Schools cobb.k12.org
Marietta City Schools marietta-city.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
GRACEPOINT School gracepointschool.org
Mount Paran Christian School mtparanschool.org
North Cobb Christian School ncchrisitan.org
The Walker School thewalkerschool.org
Whitefield Academy
whitefieldacademy.com
The Wood Acres School
woodacresschool.org
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Chattahoochee Technical College
chattahoocheetech.edu
Kennesaw State University kennesaw.edu
Life University life.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Acworth Power acworth.org
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com
Marietta Power mariettaga.gov
WATER
Cobb County Water System cobbcounty.org
Marietta Water marietta.gov
H Select provider
• State Farm
• AT&T Services, Inc.
• Stone Mountain Park
• Fernbank Museum
• DeKalb Farmers Market
• Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
• Eddie’s Attic
• Arabi Mountain
Chamblee chambleega.com
Chamblee is a vibrant city with a diverse community and plenty of international flair, with the Southeast’s only Chinatown and the Chamblee Motor Mile, a large antique district.
Clarkston clarkstonga.gov
Clarkston, known as a welcoming walking and biking community, is noted for its diversity, having been named “The Most Diverse Square Mile in America” by Time Magazine.
Decatur decaturga.com
Decatur Square is a hub for “indie” boutiques and galleries, as well as trendy restaurants and pubs that attract foodies for some of the best culinary experiences in metro Atlanta.
Doraville doravillega.us
Distance from Decatur to Downtown Atlanta
7 Miles
Distance from Decatur to Hartsfield-Jackson
Atlanta Int’l Airport 17 Miles
POPULATION: 757,718
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $395,000
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6%
ONLINE dekalbcountyga.gov
Access to suburban settings, a fast-paced city lifestyle, hip locales and one of the region’s most diverse populations makes DeKalb County a popular option for young professionals, students and established business executives. More than half of the Fortune 500 companies with a presence in Atlanta also have operations in DeKalb.
• Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
• Emory Healthcare, Inc.
• United Parcel Service
Avondale Estates avondaleestates.org
Known for its close-knit community, beautiful setting and diverse architectural styles, Avondale Estates has a large number of local businesses operated from homes and shops in the commercial district.
Brookhaven brookhavenga.gov
The urban town center of Brookhaven on Dresden Drive features many mixed-use developments and is bordered by residential neighborhoods.
With one of the largest concentrations of midcentury modern homes in metro Atlanta and located where interstates 285 and 85 meet, the city of Doraville is convenient for Atlanta commuters.
Dunwoody dunwoodyga.gov
Dunwoody is a bona fine shopping, dining and cultural hotspot in metro Atlanta, making it a
popular travel destination for both business and leisure.
Lithonia lithoniacity.org
Made up of less than one square mile, Lithonia includes some of the most affluent neighborhoods in DeKalb County.
Pine Lake pinelakega.sophicity.com
Pine Lake, the smallest city in DeKalb, is a community close to nature, where residents treasure and work diligently to protect the environment.
Stonecrest stonecrestga.gov
Stonecrest is the first majority-black city to form from the cityhood movement in DeKalb County, achieving its official status in 2017.
Stone Mountain stonemountaincity.org
Nestled on the west side of Stone Mountain Park, the City of Stone Mountain is known as a family-friendly place to visit and live.
Tucker tuckerga.gov
One of the largest and oldest unincorporated communities in Georgia, Tucker welcomes visitors year-round to its revitalized Main Street for outdoor events, activities and more.
Candler Park candlerpark.org
Candler Park is an area that hosts fancifully painted houses with yards, quirky shops and restaurants.
Druid Hills druidhills.org
Druid Hills is a beautiful urban neighborhood that is often referred to as Atlanta’s “second suburb” and boasts four National Register of Historic Places districts.
East Atlanta
The charm of East Atlanta is its ability to be eclectic and edgy, while also comfortably suburban.
Edgewood edgewoodatl.org
Edgewood’s unique housing, booming retail and entertainment sectors and diverse residents contribute to its vibrancy.
Kirkwood historickirkwood.org
Kirkwood is home to an array of quirky, locally owned shops, galleries, unique restaurants and more, as well as the Kirkwood Historic District.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
DeKalb County Schools dekalbschoolsga.org
City Schools of Decatur csdecatur.net
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
Annunciation Day School annunciationdayschool.org
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Agnes Scott College agnesscott.edu
DeVry University devry.edu
Emory University emory.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com
AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com
Walton EMC waltonemc.com
WATER
DeKalb County Water System dekalbcountyga.gov
H Select provider
• Sweetwater Creek State Park
• Clinton Nature Preserve
• Boundary Waters Recreational Complex
• O’Neal Plaza
• Ben’s Antique Mall
• L&R Alpaca Haven Farm
CITIES OF DOUGLAS:
Distance from Douglasville to Downtown Atlanta 27 Miles
Distance from Douglasville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 23 Miles
POPULATION: 145,814
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $349,900
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7%
ONLINE celebrateddouglascounty.com
With the lowest property taxes in the metro area and an energetic business environment to boot, Douglas County is an ideal place to work and live, and it’s located just 20 minutes from Downtown Atlanta.
• Amazon.com Services, Inc.
• Walmart
• Silver Line Building Products, LLC
• Gordon Food Service, Inc.
• Kroger
Douglasville douglasvillega.gov
Downtown Douglasville is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its rich Victorian, Romanesque and Queen Anne-style buildings and has become a destination for specialty shops and restaurants.
Lithia Springs
The crown jewel of this charming unincorporated community is Sweetwater Creek State Park, which is home to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill that was burned during the Civil War.
Villa Rica villarica.org
Villa Rica is home to the first gold strike in the United States and an historic downtown that has maintained authentic architecture, including Wick’s Tavern, the oldest commercial structure in West Georgia.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Douglas County Schools
dcssga.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com
WATER
Douglasville-Douglas County Water & Sewer Authority
ddcwsa.com
H Select provider
• Line Creek Nature Area
• The City Gardens of Southern Oaks
• Georgia Renaissance Festival
• Serenbe Farms
CITIES OF FAYETTE:
Tyrone
Peachtree City
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Fayette County Schools
fcboe.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
Landmark Christian School
Fayettville
Woolsey
Distance from Fayetteville to Downtown
Atlanta 25 Miles
Distance from Fayetteville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 15 Miles
POPULATION: 120,574
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $499,000
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7%
ONLINE fayettecountyga.gov
Fayette County combines rural beauty and urban convenience with a rich history and offers residents a variety of amenities and recreational activities, as well as the highest net worth index in the State of Georgia.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Panasonic Automotive Systems Co.
• Eaton Lighting Solutions
• Hoshizaki America, Inc.
• Osmose Utilities Services, Inc.
• Ply Gem Industries, Inc. (Window Division)
ATTRACTIONS:
• Atlanta Regional Airport
• Old Fayette County Courthouse
• Holliday-Dorsey-Fife Museum
Brooks brooksga.com
Brooks is well-known for its friendly people, active churches, wholesome and casual outdoor lifestyle and pastoral wide open spaces. Fayetteville fayetteville-ga.gov
Fayetteville has been recognized as one of the best towns in Georgia for young families, according to NerdWallet.com, as well as one of the best suburbs for retirement, according to Forbes.
Peachtree City peachtree-city.org
Georgia’s oldest and largest master-planned community, Peachtree City features a sprawling network of golf cart paths and family-friendly neighborhoods that are home to residents who enjoy a small-town feel near a global hub.
Tyrone tyrone.org
A high priority on finding a balance between smart economic development and functional green spaces in this small town of 7,000 people.
Woolsey woolseyga.com
The smallest town in Fayette County, Woolsey is primarily a residential community that offers a pastoral setting with quaint shops and small businesses.
landmarkchristianschool.org
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
Coweta-Fayette EMC utility.org
WATER
Fayette County Water fayettecountyga.gov/water
H Select provider
ATTRACTIONS:
• Sawnee Mountain Preserve
• Big Creek Greenway
• Cumming Fairgrounds
• Kinsey Family Farm
• Cumming Aquatic Center and Water Park
• Buford Dam
CITIES OF FORSYTH:
Distance from Cumming to Downtown Atlanta
38 Miles
Distance from Cumming to Hartsfield-Jackson
Atlanta Int’l Airport 49 Miles
POPULATION: 260,206
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $599,000
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE forsythco.com
Forsyth County has been recognized as the 13th wealthiest county in the nation, as well as the seventh-fastest growing county nationwide by Forbes magazine, largely due to the 8,000-plus businesses in the community.
• Northside Hospital-Forsyth
• Forsyth Co. School System
• Koch Foods
• Tyson Poultry, Inc.
• Target
Cumming cityofcumming.net
Cumming, the county seat of Forsyth, became one of metro Atlanta’s most popular commuter towns upon the completion of Georgia State Route 400 and continues to experience impressive growth year after year, welcoming both new residents and businesses regularly.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Forsyth County Schools forsyth.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
Georgia Natural Gas gng.com
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
WATER
City of Cumming Water Department cummingutilities.com
Forsyth County Water forsythco.com
H Select provider
South Fulton cityofsouthfultonga.gov
South Fulton elected its first mayor in March 2017 after the Georgia General Assembly voted in 2016 to approve the creation of this new city.
Chattahoochee Hills chatthillsga.us
Chattahoochee Hills is home to Serenbe, an agrarian community that is close to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport and makes it the ideal place to live, work and play.
College Park collegeparkga.com
Top employers in College Park include the Federal Aviation Administration and Woodward Academy, one of metro Atlanta’s top-performing independent schools.
East Point eastpointcity.org
Distance from Atlanta to Hartsfield-Jackson
Atlanta Int’l Airport 10 Miles
POPULATION: 1,065,334
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $450,000
COMBINES SALES TAX RATE 8.9%
ONLINE fultoncountyga.gov
Stretching across the heart of metro Atlanta, Fulton County is broken up into several main areas and offers an array of options for its more than one million residents. The county is home to an ever-growing economy, thriving industries, renowned universities, significant cultural opportunities and much more.
• Delta Air Lines
• United Parcel Service
• The Home Depot
• Randstad North America
• Arby’s
• Mercedes-Benz Stadium
• The Georgia Aquarium
• Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Zoo Atlanta
• Piedmont Park
• High Museum of Art
• The Fox Theatre
• Ponce City Market
Atlanta atlantaga.gov
As the Peach State’s capitol and county seat of Fulton, Atlanta serves as the regional, national and global headquarters for many Fortune 500 and 1000 corporations.
Alpharetta alpharetta.ga.us
Named one of the best suburbs to live in Georgia by Niche.com, Alpharetta offers a full spectrum of attractions, excellent schools, sensible housing costs and growing industries.
Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov
Nestled along the banks of the Chattahoochee River, Johns Creek’s beautiful landscape offers additional aesthetic appeal to an already beautiful metropolis.
Milton cityofmiltonga.us
A highly affluent city, Milton strives to maintain its rural heritage while looking to the future and offering residents an exceptional quality of life.
Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com
Mountain Park is an officially designated wildlife refuge that protects all wildlife, including birds, animals and reptiles — some rare.
Roswell roswellgov.com
With 13 parks, many well-preserved historical sites and a ranking as the 14th safest city in Georgia, Roswell is a family-oriented community. Sandy Springs sandyspringsga.gov
Located just outside of the 285 perimeter, Sandy Springs is the second largest city in the metro Atlanta area and offers varied real estate options, competitive schools, outstanding outdoor recreation and more.
In recent years, East Point has flourished due to its proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, restaurants, hotels and shopping.
Fairburn fairburn.com
Fairburn has a rich cultural heritage enjoyed by residents and visitors alike and has the feel of a city coupled with small-town sensibilities.
Hapeville hapeville.org
Hapeville is home to the busiest airport in the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, as well as being the location for Delta Air Lines’ corporate headquarters.
Palmetto citypalmetto.com
Palmetto is located 25 miles south of Atlanta right on the former Atlanta and West Point Railroad, which is now owned by CSX Transportation.
Union City unioncityga.org
Some of Union City’s leading national firms include Newell Rubbermaid, General Electric, Costco, Caterpillar, Dendreon and Kraft Foods.
Ansley Park ansleypark.org
An affluent residential neighborhood, Ansley Park sits astride Peachtree Street and is adjacent to the famous Piedmont Park.
Atlantic Station atlanticstation.com
With countless choices for apartments, condos, homes and Class A office space, as well as entertainment opportunities, Atlantic Station is one of the area’s most popular live-work-play developments.
Buckhead buckhead.com
Buckhead is rich with elegant high-rise hotels and complexes, beautiful homes and mansions and is one of the city’s most attractive areas for business.
Cabbagetown cabbagetown.com
Many murals and street art pieces, maintained by the Living Walls Street Art Association, keep Cabbagetown’s love of the arts alive.
Castleberry Hill castleberryhill.org
Known as Atlanta’s historic creative district, Castleberry Hill is made up of early 20th century warehouse buildings that have been converted into lofts.
Downtown atlantadowntown.com
Downtown Atlanta is home to many corporate and regional headquarters, government facilities, sporting venues and Georgia State University.
Grant Park grantpark.org
Grant Park’s Victorian neighborhood is home to Zoo Atlanta, which welcomes almost one million visitors each year.
Inman Park inmanpark.org
Known for its shops, public parks and dedicated Tree Watch, Inman Park comes alive with festivals, parades and a focus on all things local.
Little Five Points littlefivepoints.net
Little Five Points (L5P) is known at Atlanta’s hippest neighborhood and a popular alternative shopping and dining destination with consignment and costume shops, a local co-op and a diverse range of eateries.
Midtown midtownatl.com
Home to more than 200 acres of parks and gardens, as well as restaurants and shops, Midtown Atlanta is considered the city’s center for the arts.
Old Fourth Ward
Known as one of Atlanta’s most historic neighborhoods and the home and resting place of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Old Fourth Ward has become a bustling and diverse district since the opening of Ponce City Market.
Poncey-Highland ponceyhighland.org
Poncey-Highland is rich with urban living, quality restaurants, shops and galleries, great schools and a variety of housing options.
Virginia-Highland virginiahighlanddistrict.com
This vibrant neighborhood is a popular spot for Atlanta’s young professionals and families thanks to its seven distinct commercial villages full of upscale shops, restaurants and pubs, nightlife and local entertainment.
Fulton County Schools fultonschools.org
Atlanta Public Schools atlantapublicschools.us
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy davisacademy.org
Atlanta Academy atlantaacademy.com
Atlanta Girl’s School atlantagirlsschool.org
Atlanta International School aisschool.org
Atlanta Speech School atlantaspeechschool.org
The Cottage School cottageschool.org
The Galloway School gallowayschool.org
High Meadows School highmeadows.org
The Howard School howardschool.org
King’s Ridge Christian School kingsridgecs.org
The Lovett School lovett.org
Mill Springs Academy millsprings.org
The Mount Vernon School mountvernonschool.org
Pace Academy paceacademy.org
Saint Francis Schools saintfrancisschools.com
Springmont springmont.com
Trinity School trinityatl.org
Wesleyan School wesleyanschool.org
Westminster Westminster.net
Woodward Academy woodward.edu
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Clark Atlanta University cau.edu
Emory University emory.edu
Georgia Institute of Technology gatech.edu
Georgia State University gsu.edu
Morehouse College morehouse.edu
Spelman College spelman.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity
xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
City of College Park collegeparkga.com
City of Fairburn fairburn.com
City of Palmetto citypalmetto.com
WATER
Fulton County Water fultoncountyga.gov
City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management atlantawatershed.org
Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com
Roswell Water Department roswellgov.com
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• Coolray Field
• Infinite Energy Center
• Lake Lanier
• Southeastern Railway Museum
• Freeman’s Mill Park
• Château Élan Winery & Resort
Distance from Lawrenceville to Downtown Atlanta 31 Miles
Distance from Lawrenceville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 42 Miles
POPULATION: 964,546
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $429,900
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE gwinnettcounty.com
Continually listed as one of Atlanta’s fastest-growing counties, Gwinnett County is prized for its access to bustling city life, booming communities, a nationally recognized school system and gorgeously maintained natural spaces. Only 30 minutes away from Downtown Atlanta, Gwinnett’s economic opportunities span far and wide for area workers.
• Gwinnett Co. Public Schools
• Northside Hospital
• Publix
• Gwinnett Co. Government
• Walmart
Berkeley Lake berkeley-lake.com
In 2017, Berkley Lake was recognized among the Top 10 Best Suburbs to Live in Georgia by Niche.com.
Braselton braselton.net
Home to Château Élan Winery & Resort, Braselton rests in four counties, including Gwinnett, Hall, Jackson and Barrow.
Buford cityofbuford.com
A city where recreation and art abound, the streets of downtown Buford are filled with art shops that show off local talents in every medium.
Dacula daculaga.gov
Dacula is best known for its large Memorial Day Parade and Little Mulberry Park and has experienced immense growth over the years.
Duluth duluthga.net
Duluth is home to retail and cultural centers,
top-notch healthcare facilities and a high quality of life and was named the number six safest city in Georgia by the National Council for Home Safety and Security.
Grayson cityofgrayson.org
Grayson is a popular city for families, with excellent schools, quality housing, parks, restaurants and plenty of shopping.
Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org
Gwinnett’s oldest city, Lawrenceville’s mixture of recently established buildings co-exist with Antebellum homes, the town’s original square and the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse.
Lilburn cityoflilburn.com
Lilburn has a small-town, neighborly feel that sets it apart from other urban cities and was named the number one diverse place to live in Georgia by Niche.com
Loganville loganville-ga.gov
The unique blend of hometown feel combined with modern conveniences draws companies and organizations to open their doors and prosper in Loganville.
Norcross norcrossga.net
Norcross has restored many of the town’s historic sites to their full glory and boasts an array of businesses, restaurants and recreational venues that help the city remain dutifully progressive.
Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersga.gov
Known for its picturesque parks, lush green spaces and plenty of outdoor activity, Peachtree Corners offers residents unparalleled quality of life.
Snellville snellville.org
Snellville is a hub for arts and recreation, including the highly anticipated annual Snellville Days Festival, which draws crowds from all over the Southeast and has been ranked as one of the top 20 tourism events by the Southeastern Tourism Society.
Sugar Hill cityofsugarhill.com
Considered one of the premier communities in metro Atlanta, Sugar Hill is mere minutes away from Lake Sidney Lanier and the North Georgia Mountains.
Suwanee suwanee.com
With an array of housing options, the largest school system in Georgia, stellar green spaces, and more, Suwanee is a great place to work, play and live.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Gwinnett County Schools
gwinnett.k12.ga.us
Buford City Schools
bufordcityschools.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Georgia Gwinnett College ggc.edu
Gwinnett Technical College gwinnetttech.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity
xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Jackson EMC jacksonemc.com
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
Walton EMC waltonemc.com
City of Buford cityofbuford.com
City of Lawrenceville
lawrencevillega.org
City of Norcross norcrossga.net
WATER
Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources
gwinnettcounty.com
City of Buford Water Department Cityofbuford.sophcity.com
City of Lawrenceville
lawrencevillega.org
City of Norcross norcrossga.net
City of Loganville
Loganville-ga.gov
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for growth with a vision for the future known as “Oakwood 2030.”
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Hall County Schools hallco.org
Gainesville City Schools gcssk12.net
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Flowery Branch
Braselton
Braselton braselton.net
Distance from Gainesville to Downtown
Atlanta 54 Miles
Distance from Gainesville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 64 Miles
POPULATION: 207,369
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $450,000
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7%
ONLINE hallcounty.org
Bordered by the beautiful Lake Sidney Lanier and the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hall County is a vibrant, growing and diverse community that offers an unparalleled quality of life and a sound economic base for business and industry.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Northeast Georgia Medical Center
• Hall Co. School System
• Gold Creek Foods
• Kubota Manufacturing of America
• Fieldale Farms Corp.
ATTRACTIONS:
• Château Élan Winery & Resort
• Road Atlanta
• Lake Lanier Islands and Golf Resort
• Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville
• Buford Corn Maze
• Northeast Georgia History Center
Braselton spans four counties, including Barrow, Gwinnett, Hall and Jackson, and is home to Château Élan Winery & Resort, which attracts more than half a million visitors each year.
Buford cityofbuford.com
Home to more than 12,000 residents, Buford sits on the Hall-Gwinnett line with residents, employees and students from both counties. Buford is situated at the southern tip of Lake Lanier at Buford Dam.
Clermont clermontga.com
The rural farming community of Clermont comprises a total area of three square miles and is known for its many festivals that are held throughout the year.
Flowery Branch flowerybranchga.org
Flowery Branch is home to the Atlanta Falcons Training Complex and a revitalized historic downtown area known as Old Town.
Gainesville gainesville.org
As the county seat, Gainesville serves as the business, government and cultural center of the region with a daytime population of more than 150,000 commuters.
Gillsville gillsvillega.com
Gillsville is known for its iconic Hewell’s Pottery shop that began operating in 1850 as a family venture and is celebrated during an annual festival.
Lula cityoflula.com
Lula spans two counties, Hall and Banks, and once a railroad hub, it is well known today for its annual Railroad Days Festival.
Oakwood cityofoakwood.net
With more than 60 percent growth in the last 15 years, Oakwood city leaders are planning
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
Lakeview Academy lakeviewacademy.com
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Brenau University breneau.edu
Lanier Technical College laniertech.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
Jackson EMC jacksonemc.com
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
WATER
Gainesville Water Dept. gainesville.org
Flowery Branch City Hall flowerybranchga.org
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• Army Aviation Heritage Foundation & Flying Museum
• Southern Belle Farm
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
Distance from McDonough to Downtown Atlanta 30 Miles
Distance from McDonough to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles
POPULATION: 245,235
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $389,000
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7%
ONLINE co.henry.ga.us
With Southern neighborhoods, a solid education system and plenty of recreational and economic opportunities, Henry offers something for everyone and is recognized as one of the fastest-growing counties in Georgia.
• Henry Co. School System
• Luxottica Retail Group
• Piedmont Henry Hospital
• Henry Co. Government
• Federal Aviation Administration
• Atlanta Motor Speedway
• Panola Mountain State Park
• Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary
• Cubihatcha Outdoor Center
Stockbridge
McDonough
Hampton Locust Grove
Hampton hamptonga.gov
Best known as home to the Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton has more visitors than any other city in the county, and races draw more visitors than any other sporting event in Georgia. Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov
Located within 35 miles of Downtown Atlanta, Locust Grove offers a growing selection of retail, dining, lodging and business opportunities. McDonough mcdonoughga.org
Attractions in this Civil War-era town include Southern Belle Farm, a 200-acre working farm with seasonal family activities like a corn maze, pumpkin patch and strawberry picking. Stockbridge cityofstockbridge.com
Known as the “Gateway to Henry County,” Stockbridge offers excellent economic opportunities and public services coupled with small town hospitality.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Henry County Schools henry.k12.ga.us
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com
Central Georgia EMC cgemc.com
WATER
Henry County Water Authority Hcwa.com
City of Hampton hamptonga.gov
City of Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov
City of McDonough mcdonoughga.org
City of Stockbridge cityofstockbridge.com
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• The Dallas Theater
• High Shoals Falls
• Moonlight Stables Equestrian Center
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company Georgiapower.com
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com
Oglethorpe Power Corp. opc.com
Distance from Dallas to Downtown Atlanta
33 Miles
Distance from Dallas to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 37 Miles
POPULATION: 173,780
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $389,900
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7%
ONLINE paulding.gov
Once devoted to agriculture, including livestock, corn, oats, pecans and poultry, Paulding County has diversified and taken an industrial path in recent years, leading to substantial growth in the county.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Chick-fil-A
• Wellstar Paulding Hospital
• Interroll Atlanta, LLC
• Kroger
• Walmart
ATTRACTIONS:
• Paulding Northwest Atlanta Airport
• Silver Comet Trail
• Pickett’s Mill Battlefield State Historic Site
Braswell braswellga.org
With city limits in both Polk and Paulding counties, Braswell is a rural community of less than 500 residents that welcomes bicyclists, joggers and walkers along the Silver Comet Trail. Dallas dallasga.gov
Paulding’s county seat, Dallas is known for its quaint and friendly historic downtown community, as well as its reputation for being a great place to raise a family and start a business.
Hiram cityofhiramga.gov
Hiram was established in 1891 as a rural railroad town but has progressed into a commercial corridor for Paulding County with a downtown business district that offers dining, shopping and entertainment.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Paulding County Schools paulding.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
WATER
Paulding County Water Department paulding.gov
City of Dallas Water Department dallasga.gov/utilities
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ATTRACTIONS:
• Panola Mountain State Park
• Monastery of the Holy Spirit
• Georgia International Horse Park
• Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area
• Lewis Vaughn Botanical Garden
• The Dinky
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.comH
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Rockdale
Distance from Conyers to Downtown Atlanta
25 Miles
Distance from Conyers to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles
POPULATION: 94,082
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $348,500
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7%
ONLINE rockdalecountyga.gov
Despite being Georgia’s second smallest county, Rockdale County has experienced substantial growth in recent years. Twenty-five miles away from Downtown Atlanta, Rockdale offers commercial diversity for business and a variety of opportunities for families.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Golden State Foods
• Hill Phoenix, Inc.
• Pratt Industries
• DiversiTech Corp.
• Piedmont Rockdale Hospital
CITIES OF ROCKDALE: Conyers
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com
WATER
Rockdale Water Resources
Rockdalecountyga.gov
H Select provider
Conyers conyersga.com
Conyers is a combination of small town and big city, with rural scenes and urban shopping, and the community reflects an amazing legacy of progress, involvement and society.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Rockdale County Schools rockdaleschools.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 56 for the independent schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
With substantial job growth, world-class employers, and a wide variety of cultural and recreational experiences to enjoy, it's no wonder people are moving to Atlanta, Georgia. Enjoy nearly year-round sunshine, quintessential Southern food and culture, a top-rated international airport, and tree-lined natural beauty galore!
In a city with a million opportunities for success and fun, Lennar has all of your needs covered. Whether you prefer a modern townhome, a traditional single-family home, or a cozy ranch-style home, we have the perfect design for you, from the $300s to the $800s. Best of all, our signature Everything's Included® package preloads your new home with everything from upgraded finishes, fixtures and stainless steel appliances to the Connected Home by Lennar®.
Hickory Bluffs in Canton features a grand clubhouse with the most popular upscale amenities for active adults. A central community clubhouse is the hub of social and fitness activities for Hickory Bluffs homeowners.
To learn more, call 404-931-7462 or visit us online at Lennar.com/Atlanta.
