KNOWAtlanta Relocation Guide Winter 2023

lifestyle?

Stratford at NatureWalk in Dallas GA

Our residents can enjoy a private adult-only pool & clubhouse plus access to all the other amenities (tennis, pickleball, volleyball, nature trails, water park, dog park)

Stratford is our community specifically-designed to match the lifestyle needs of active adults (55 and better), featuring single level living options with access to adultonly amenities, as well as access to the full suite of awardwinning Seven Hills amenities.

discoverartisan.com/stratford-at-naturewalk

Heritage Pointe at The Georgian in Villa Rica GA

If you’re one for golf, you’ll be excited to know about Artisan’s 55+ or Better community, Heritage Pointe, located in West Paulding Georgia. In a similar “Resort-style” community-culture as Stratford, Heritage Pointe includes all of the same incredible amenities, although is located on award-winning golf course, The Frog. Heritage Pointe homeowners enjoy the extremely easy access to golf at The Frog, as the clubhouse is accessible via golf-cart, and there are golf course home sites available.

discoverartisan.com/heritage-pointe

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City Mouse, Country Mouse

There’s something so alluring about the big city. The hustle and bustle, the great attractions and the electricity in the air just give you a feeling that you can’t get anywhere else. Of course, there’s something to be said for the more rural or suburban landscape outside of the city, where wide open spaces beckon you and small town charm makes you feel entirely at home. I’ve never been able to decide if I’m a city mouse or a country mouse. I love aspects of both environments, and I just can’t decide between the two. Fortunately, because I live in metro Atlanta, I don’t have to. Here, you typically can get the best of both worlds no matter where you choose to settle within the 20 counties that comprise the region.

That unique opportunity is exactly what we look at in this issue with our feature on page 12. With so many cities and towns across the metro area offering the perfect mix of urban excitement and suburban flavor, you too can be both a city mouse and a country mouse. In fact, we highlight five cities in particular that bring those settings together in a seamless way, allowing local residents to access everything they could possibly want or need, whether they lean towards the city vibe or the suburban mood. Of course, if you want to learn more about the counties in which those cities reside, you can get to KNOW them in our counties section starting on page 69.

In the pages that follow, we also cover a wide array of additional topics, from the distinctive co-curricular courses and activities that you can find at metro Atlanta’s private schools (page 50) and the best ways to finance your college education (page 64) to the many reasons why Atlanta has become a bona fide hot spot for active adult living (page 43). And, as always, you can learn about the area’s new home market, the big businesses making moves across the city and the surrounding areas, the tips you need to make your move go smoothly and much more.

Our metro area truly offers something for everyone. Whether you want to the fastpaced liveliness of the city or the serene family-friendly atmosphere of the suburbs, you’ll undoubtedly find what you’re looking for. It’s all waiting for you right here in Atlanta.

Editor

Publisher

SHERRY GASAWAY sherry@knowatlanta.com

President

LARRY LEBOVITZ lebovitz@knowatlanta.com

Vice President JOHN HANNA hanna@knowatlanta.com

Editor

AMY MEADOWS ameadows@knowatlanta.com

Associate Editor CORY SEKINE-PETTITE cory@knowatlanta.com

Writers

KEN ABRAMCZYK, ALEXANDRA MCCRAY, CHRISTINA MIMMS

Digital Marketing Coordinator COURTNEY ROGERS courtney@deninmarketing.com

Art Director JACK SIMONETTA jsimonetta@knowatlanta.com Advertising Coordinator MEGAN WILLIS production@knowatlanta.com

Circulation Manager AMY FINE afine@knowatlanta.com

Controller MARILYN WALKER walker@knowatlanta.com

NEW SOUTH PUBLISHING INC. 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210 Atlanta, GA 30350 (770) 650-1102, (800) 536-5669 knowatlanta.com

Direct all advertising, circulation and editorial inquiries to sherry@knowatlanta.com, (770) 650-1102, ext. 145.

KNOW ® Atlanta, Winter 2023, Volume 37, Number 1, 145th Edition. Published quarterly by New South Publishing Inc., 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350. All information herein has been checked for accuracy to the best of the publisher’s ability. No responsibility is accepted for deletions, omissions, errors and/or inaccuracies. Unless special placement within the magazine is specifically purchased, publisher reserves the right to place any ad on a first-come, firstserved basis. No materials contained herein may be reproduced without the exclusive written permission of the publisher. © Copyright 2023 by New South Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

Cover photo: Paul Daniel Photography

Amy Meadows,

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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

One of metro Atlanta’s greatest assets is HartsfieldJackson 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.

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

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:

• Atlanta Stillhouse

• Papis East Cuban Cuisine

• Cat Cora’s Kitchen

• Grindhouse Killer Burgers

• The Varsity

• Bantam & Biddy

SHOPS:

• Brookstone

• Brighton Collectibles

• Buckhead Books

• 5th & Sunset

• Brooks Brothers

• Michael Kors

SERVICES:

• UPS

• FedEx

• The Club ATL

• XpresSpa

• Minute Suites

PASSENGER AIRLINES

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

• Boutique Air

• Delta Air Lines

• Frontier Airlines

• JetBlue Airways

• Southwest Airlines

• Spirit Airlines

AIRPORT ACCOLADES

•

Busiest Airport

• United Airlines

INTERNATIONAL:

• Air Canada

•

World’s Most Efficient Airport

• Home to the tallest air traffic control tower in North America and the fourth tallest in the world

• Air France

• British Airways

• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

• Korean Air

• Lufthansa German Airlines

• Qatar Airways

• Turkish Airlines

• Virgin Atlantic

METRO ATLANTA’S ECONOMIC ENGINE

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

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

for Your Money

KNOW Where to Go

NAVIGATING METRO ATLANTA’S ITP AND OTP LOCALES

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.

Name That Acronym!

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.

Location is Everything

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.

Savor Your Surroundings

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.

The College Football Hall of Fame STEAM Playbook

The best way to engage students is to find a way to connect learning to the things they love. The Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame has done just that with its new STEAM Playbook, which provides resources for educators to combine the passion for football with learning in an interactive and immersive way. With the hands-on “T.E.A.M.S.” (Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Mathematics and Science) curriculum, students can experience the unique exhibits and interactives at the Hall of Fame from anywhere, from the classroom and the football field to their very own homes. Kids of all grade levels learn while having fun as STEAM is brought to life through real-world applications and the best of football

history is blended with interactive technology. Educators can access the student-friendly curriculum online. The Playbook also includes a special financial literacy experience and social justice curriculum for students. Visit cfbhall.com/groups to learn more.

Smyrna

Braselton

Peachtree Corners

Photo by Ron Baker

By Amy Meadows

One of the biggest decisions you have to make when you begin a new home search is what type of lifestyle you want to enjoy day in and day out. Are you looking to be in the middle of a walkable big city atmosphere, complete with access to coveted job opportunities, cultural attractions, top-notch restaurants and more? Or would you and your family prefer a more serene suburban environment, where the community feels like family, tree-lined streets lead to welcoming parks and outstanding schools are close to a wide variety of single-family residential options? Well, if you’re considering a

move to—or even within—metro Atlanta, you’ll actually discover that this is one decision you simply won’t have to make. In fact, the area boasts a number of cities and towns that offer a unique blend of both urban and suburban elements, giving you the best of both worlds. Here, we take a look at some of the most popular and celebrated options across the region that give residents this distinctive duality. From strong economic development and significant cultural opportunities to inviting neighborhoods and lower tax rates, among many other features, these bona fide hot spots will provide you with everything you’re looking for in one single locale.

Peachtree City

Decatur

Smyrna

smyrnaga.gov

Noted as one of the fastest-growing cities in metro Atlanta, Smyrna has become a huge draw for home buyers of all ages. It is located only 16 miles from Downtown Atlanta, is home to more than 56,000 residents and has been named by Money Magazine as one of the 50 Best Places to Live in the United States. According to Jennifer Bennett, community relations director for the City of Smyrna, which is known as the Jonquil City, offers the

following to current and prospective residents.

Urban Appeal

On the urban side of the equation, Smyrna’s proximity to major office markets such as Cumberland, Perimeter and the City of Atlanta means a shorter commute for residents. Additionally, the city’s proximity to regional cultural venues, such as nearby Truist Park, The Battery and the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, means that Smyrna is at the center of

sports and art in metro Atlanta. It also is an attractive community for young adults, families and baby boomers due to its walkability and quality of life.

What’s more, several large employers call Smyrna home, including GLOCK, Kenny’s Key Lime Pies, United Distributors and global pharmaceutical company UCB, allowing for myriad job opportunities close to home. And economic development continues to thrive, with projects such as the new StillFire Brewery slated to open in 2023.

Of course, with strong economic development comes a wide array of tourism opportunities. In addition to such regional attractions as The Battery and Cobb Energy Centre, Smyrna has Market Village, a downtown area that hosts such events as the Spring Jonquil Festival, the Culture and Spirit Festival/City Birthday Celebration, the fall Crafts and Drafts festival, summer concerts, Taste of Smyrna, the weekly Handmade Market series and the Coming Home for the Holidays annual community tree lighting—all of which draw visitors from locales across the region.

Suburban Charm

In recent years, Smyrna has become one of the most popular places to reside in the metro Atlanta area because there truly is something for everyone—especially in terms of residential offerings. The most recent addition to the city’s collection of neighborhoods is Riverview, an 82-acre mixed-use project along the Chattahoochee River; the project includes the first housing constructed along the river in 40 years, as well as a five-acre city park with amphitheater, trails, a boat launch and restaurants including Reformation Brewery, Chattahoochee Coffee Company and Grand Champions BBQ. And while Smyrna does offer mixed-use and higher density housing options, the majority of the community consists of single-family neighborhoods. What’s more, the city offers access to award-win-

Photo courtesy of The Eddy at Riverview Landing

Riverview Landing

The Battery

ning Cobb County schools and boasts a lower cost of living due to lower tax rates than more urban areas.

Smyrna also has a strong community spirit. Many people experience Smyrna for the first time through the city’s community events and attractions and ultimately realize that everything available is an incentive to invest in the community— not only a household or business, but also through a connection to the people and places in the community.

Decatur decaturga.com

The City of Decatur, located just east of Atlanta and home to nearly 25,000 people, is the most densely populated city in Georgia. It is characterized by worldclass big-city business assets, progressive attitudes, highly educated people, an accessible government and superb quality of life. Sherry Jackman, tourism manager for the City of Decatur, offers the following thoughts on the city’s magnetism.

Urban Appeal

Decatur is one of the most walkable cities in the metro area with sidewalks, bike lanes and access to three MARTA stations easily accessible within its 4.5 square miles. For those who want to live the city lifestyle, Decatur has a downtown “neighborhood” that includes a vibrant commercial district with over 100 shops, restaurants, pubs and more (including numerous well-known chefs and mixologists). The city is renowned for the value it places on being welcoming, inclusive and open to all.

When it comes to economic development, Decatur boasts 1.5 million square feet of commercial office space concentrated in the downtown core. In addition, the city is home to organizations such as Emory Nursing Learning Center, Agnes Scott College, Columbia Seminary, the Task Force for Global Health and a vibrant mix of small, local professional firms looking to make the world a better place. And because Decatur is surrounded by exceptional and well-regarded academic institutions, it benefits from a pipeline of talent; 82,000 students are within a 20-minute drive of downtown Decatur ready to join the workforce.

In terms of tourism, Decatur has more than 100 local shops, restaurants, cafes, pubs, craft breweries, galleries, salons and services, along with year-round events, festivals and activities. There is always something to enjoy, including the Arts Festival, the Book Festival, the Pan African Festival, Placita Latina celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and more. A thriving arts community has become a distinctive feature of Decatur, which is also home to a variety of murals, sculptures, painted electrical boxes and secret doors along with other surprise pop-up arts activities throughout the year.

Suburban Charm

For those who want a more suburban lifestyle, Decatur delivers here as well.

Downtown Decatur

Downtown Decatur

Downtown Decatur

The city has a variety of traditional residential neighborhoods, as well as Decatur mailing addresses for some locations outside of Decatur in unincorporated DeKalb County. The city also is home to the City Schools of Decatur system,

an independent public charter school district that features six schools serving approximately 4,200 students; the system has been recognized for the schools’ consistently strong test scores and community involvement.

Decatur also is known for its multiple green spaces and community gardens, including Woodlands, Oakhurst Community Garden and the Decatur Cemetery, which is the oldest burial ground in the metro Atlanta area and features a self-guided tour of some of the most famous people buried there. What’s more, the city regularly hosts an array of fun festivals and family-friendly events— which cater to families of all shapes, sizes and types.

Peachtree City

peachtree-city.org visitpeachtreecity.com Peachtree City is one of metro Atlanta’s most acclaimed master-planned communities. Located only 30 miles south of Atlanta in Fayette County, the city attracts residents and visitors alike for a wide variety of reasons. Mayor Kim

Braselton’s classic, small-town charm truly shines during the holidays. Explore unique shopping, award-winning restaurants, traditional holiday events and beautiful Christmas lights.

FERNGULLY GARDEN & GIFTS

Peachtree City Mayor Kim Learnard

Learnard notes both the urban and suburban appeal of Peachtree City with the following insights.

Urban Appeal

First and foremost, walkability has become a hallmark for Peachtree City. The community was designed in the 1950s and created to highlight specific features, from ample amounts of green space to an array of neighborhood commercial centers, which are accessible via more than 100 miles of golf cart paths, giving people the opportunity to get around town without ever having to get in their cars.

The unique nature of the city has allowed for a great deal of economic

development in recent years. In fact, Peachtree City’s economic development is booming, with industries expanding by the hundreds of millions of dollars and companies increasing their manufacturing capacity, which has attracted more workers to the community. Storefronts are full, and the city has an array of initiatives in place to attract more business to the area, including the adoption of a popular tax incentive plan, which has brought in companies from a host of sectors like aerospace, film and creative media, life sciences and more.

Tourism also is thriving in Peachtree City, with the area being home to sports and recreation facilities like the re-

nowned Tennis Center, soccer fields, a BMX venue, an aquatic facility and more. Additionally, The Fred (Frederick C. Brown Amphitheater), a 2,100-seat outdoor amphitheater, welcomes some of today’s most celebrated musical acts, ensuring that music enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite pastime close to home. And with myriad holiday events, including a can’t-miss Fourth of July parade and fireworks spectacular, Peachtree City draws visitors from across the region.

Suburban Charm

Quality of life is at the heart of Peachtree City, which is known as a great place to live, work and play. Local residents enjoy shopping, restaurants, parks, recreation venues and a host of family-oriented activities, all within a short golf cart ride from home.

Comprising 25 square miles, Peachtree City has remained relatively small since its founding, but it has everything residents could possibly want, including a robust residential market with diverse housing options in both established and new neighborhoods, as well as one of the strongest school systems in the State of Georgia. Locals can take their bike or golf cart to grocery shop, drop off the kids at school or even head to work, making life in the resort-style city unlike anything found anywhere else in metro Atlanta.

Braselton Festival on the Green

Frederick C. Brown Amphitheater

Michelin Roadway Atlanta

Braselton

braselton.net

Over the last 20 years, the population of the Town of Braselton has tripled to more than 12,000 residents. To this day, people

flock to become part of this bustling North Georgia hamlet, located 43 miles northeast of Atlanta at the convergence of Barrow, Gwinnett, Hall and Jackson counties. Town Manager Jennifer Scott

reveals the many attributes that make Braselton an ideal urban/suburban setting.

Urban Appeal

Residential development in Braselton has surged in recent years, and the town has encouraged the development of more housing options that appeal to younger workers and retirees, such as higher density homes that are withing walking distance of shopping and dining. In 2020, the first traditional apartment complex in Braselton was completed and quickly became fully occupied; that led the town to consider requests for additional multifamily housing options. The town’s exceptional economic development is partly to thank for these newer residential opportunities, as people from all over are moving to Braselton to take advantage of exceptional job opportunities.

Château Élan Winery & Resort

Braselton is at the crossroads of several transportation corridors that lead to Atlanta, Athens and Greenville, which has proven to be a logistical advantage for industrial warehouses and major companies. This has provided thousands of jobs for Braselton and the surrounding area. In terms of major brands and businesses, Braselton is home to names like Amazon, Havertys, Whole Foods, Hitachi, Williams-Sonoma, Year One, Peachtree Tooling and more. It also has become a mecca for the healthcare sector with the completion of the Northeast Georgia Medical Center’s hospital. And the hospitality and tourism arena is well-represented by the renowned Château Élan Winery & Resort and Michelin Roadway Atlanta, two of the state’s largest and most visited attractions.

All of this development has been complemented by even more small business growth, particularly in downtown

Braselton, which was prompted by the rehabilitation of the landmark Braselton Bros. Department Store building. Job opportunities surpassed 8,000 in the last few years, and that number that is projected to increase by 40 percent by 2040. And in recent years, Braselton has moved forward with implementing a comprehensive planning process that addresses land use and zoning, transportation and mobility, community facilities and services, housing, parks and green infrastructure, fiscal responsibility, community leadership and more.

Suburban Charm

There has been a reemergence of residential development in Braselton over the past decade due to its small-town attributes, which are appealing to those who want to enjoy the local area’s suburban environment. For instance, a residential

development located adjacent to the downtown area is currently underway, and a second development comprising 500 lots near the historic core of town was approved in 2021. What’s more, a large single-family residential neighborhood is being built off of State Route 211 just across from the Château Élan resort entrance. And every day, local housing professionals are meeting to discuss and plan for innovative infill residential options, including condos and townhomes.

In fact, Braselton actually has been one of the fastest-growing areas in the country for two decades, and it is a mecca for active adults and families. Many retirees move to the town to be closer to their children’s families in the metro Atlanta area, and while most of the tourist amenities are adult-focused, the community itself is more family friendly. For example, families living in Braselton have access to Gwinnett County’s highly rated school system, covering Pre-K through grade 12. There also are a number of exceptional private and independent schools in the area. And when it comes to family-based activities, there is no better place than Braselton, which is home to the Mulberry Riverwalk, a 2.3-mile natural trail that the town constructed along the Mulberry River in 2001. The path winds through a hardwood forest, located close to shops, restaurants and neighborhoods on GA 211. Additionally, Lake Lanier is only a 15-minute drive away, allowing residents to enjoy a waterpark, the beach, boating and golf. And within the town itself, there is much to see and do, with downtown Braselton’s shopping and dining options, the Town Green’s festivals, concerts and movies and much more.

Peachtree Corners

peachtreecornersga.gov

Gwinnett County’s newest official city, Peachtree Corners has a population of about 45,000 residents. It

located with easy access

Interstate 85,

Interstate 285 and GA 400 and sits just 30 minutes northeast of Atlanta. Louis Svehla, communications manager for the City of Peachtree Corners, shares his thoughts about the unique features that attract people to this fast-growing locale.

Urban Appeal

Peachtree Corners offers a variety of housing types, with roughly 59 percent single-family homes and 41 percent multifamily residences. Many of the areas of the city are quite walkable, and the city is focusing on expanding pedestrian

mobility by continually adding sections to its multiuse trail system. Peachtree Corners has its own Town Green that includes trails, playgrounds, concerts and a fitness trail, and the surrounding Town Center offers retail, service and restaurants. Across the street is the Forum, the largest retail shopping center in the area. The city is clean, safe, has nightlife and much more.

Peachtree Corners has taken a couple of approaches to economic development, investing in entrepreneurs with the creation of Curiosity Lab, where startups can grow and branch out, and actively focusing on community development. The lab, which makes Peachtree City the only city in the world with a publicly funded autonomous vehicle testing lab on an actual city street, has attracted several partners several partners, including T-Mobile, Cisco, the Georgia Institute of

Technology, Bosch, UPS, Georgia Power and many other corporations. Domestic and international companies are testing mobility and smart city systems and other technologies free of charge, making the lab a very exciting part of the growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Proactive, visionary leadership has positioned Peachtree Corners as a strong competitor in the metro Atlanta marketplace for years to come. Numerous public and private initiatives are bringing new energy, residents and other businesses to the market, and the city is a job hub for metro Atlanta with 45,000 jobs within the city limits. Businesses large and small can plan on long-term, profitable investments with minimal risk, which is remarkable since the city has a zero-millage rate. Several

notable companies—such as Intuitive Surgical, ASHRAE, Mizuno, Fusus, and Siemens—are headquartered or maintain

operations in the city. Peachtree Corners also is home to a thriving technology and health sciences district and is focused on attracting technology partners to the area, especially with such locales as Technology Park, a 500-acre innovation center commonly called “Silicon Orchard” that attracts general business activity and conferences.

Suburban Charm

Peachtree Corners is an innovative, progressive community with lush landscape, mature trees, access to the Chattahoochee River, exceptional schools, several parks and more. The city is focused and improving the quality of life for residents by offering free weekend entertainment and activities at the Town Green and is seeing a real renaissance, with an increase in retail and dining options. The upscale Forum shopping center that was recently purchased by North American Properties is a popular place for shoppers.

For families with children, the school system is a definite plus. The Georgia Department of Education named all Gwinnett high schools as AP Honor Schools. The educational options include Norcross High School, the top International Baccalaureate school in the State of Georgia; Paul Duke STEM High School, which was established in 2018 and is the one and only STEM-themed high school in Gwinnett County Public Schools and Wesleyan School, a private college-preparatory nondenominational Christian school for grades K through 12.

Peachtree Corners’ leaders have been working hard to grow, but to grow wisely. They are controlling sprawl with good policy decisions and investing in the creation of attractive places for people to get together and socialize, creating a real community feel for residents and visitors from all across the region.

Atlanta: The Tech Mecca of the Southeast

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.

The Rankings

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)

Metro Atlanta Incubators

Atlanta’s Tech Hot Spots

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

Information Technology Programs

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

Big Business in Atlanta

THE METRO AREA’S FORTUNE 500 COMPANIES AND TOP 20 EMPLOYERS

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.

Atlanta Fortune 500 Companies Company Rank

The Home Depot 17

United Parcel Service 34

The Coca-Cola Company 73

Delta Air Lines, Inc. 113

The Southern Company 153

Genuine Parts Company 191

WestRock 192

PulteGroup, Inc. 267

Norfolk Southern 332 AGCO 334

Newell Brands Inc. 348

Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. 350

Intercontinental Exchange 384 Global Payments 407

Graphic Packaging Holding Co. 466

NCR Corporation 467

Veritiv 477

Atlanta’s Top 20 Employers Company

Full-Time Employees

Emory University 32,482

Delta Air Lines, Inc. 31,834

Northside Hospital Inc. 25,296

Piedmont Healthcare 25,110

The Home Depot 25,000

Gwinnett County Public Schools 22,096

Cobb County School District 17,881

United Parcel Service 11,600

Fulton County Schools 10,900

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta 8,052

State Farm 7,366

Cox Enterprises Inc. 7,298

Northeast Georgia Health System 6,920

Grady Health System 6,886

Georgia Institute of Technology 6,279

Georgia State University 5,263

Cherokee County School District 5,000

Warner Bros. Discovery 4,947

Argenbright Holdings LLC 4,843

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co. 4,700

Source: Atlanta Business Chronicle, December 2021

On the Move

COMPANIES OF ALL SIZES CHOOSE METRO ATLANTA AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS

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 eight 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.

Duluth Trading Company

Wisconsin-based Duluth Trading Company, a workwear and casual wear clothing retail company for men and women, will be building a new distribution facility in Adairsville, creating more than 300 jobs with a $53 million investment in Bartow County. The facility, a first-of-itskind automated distribution and fulfillment center, will be located at the Ashley Capital building at 400 International Parkway in Adairsville. The company’s investment in the center contributes to its digital growth and expansion and will serve customers and the company’s stores, including one in Kennesaw. The company will be hiring full- and part-time warehouse associates.

Profile Products

Profile Products, a sustainable agriscience company, will build a campus in Monticello in Jasper County, investing $35 million and creating 80 new jobs. This agriscience technology manufacturer will produce wood-based erosion control technologies and horticulture substrates. Based in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, Profile Products develops and manufactures engineered specialty agriscience materials designed to enhance and protect the natural environment. The company’s solutions serve horticulture, erosion control, sports turf and other applications to improve vegetation growth, water conservation and carbon sequestration, including establishing sustainable vegetation at business parks, housing and commercial developments and shopping centers.

SungEel Recycling Park Georgia

SungEel Recycling Park Georgia, a lithium-ion battery recycler and raw materials provider, will be recycling end-of-life batteries and battery manufacturing scrap at its first U.S. recycling center in Toccoa in Stephens County as Georgia’s electric vehicle industry continues to grow. This subsidiary of Korea-based SungEel HiTech is expected to create 104 jobs in Stephens County with this $37 million investment. SungEel Recycling Park Georgia specializes in complete recycling technology with a 100 percent full circulatory system that recycles nickel, cobalt and lithium. The new facility will be located at the Haystone Brady Business Park in Toccoa.

Denkai America

Denkai America will locate its North American headquarters and new manufacturing facility on a 115-acre site in Augusta to establish an electrodeposited copper foil production facility that will focus on electric vehicle battery foil. The company’s goal is to create 250 new jobs over the next five years with the $430 million investment. Denkai America’s materials are used in printed circuit board applications in the aerospace and defense industries and now will be used in lithium-ion batteries powering electric vehicles. The facility is expected to be fully operational by December 2024, and the company will hire skilled industrial technicians, production managers and engineers.

AFB International

Missouri-based AFB International, a manufacturer of pet food ingredients, is expected to create 100 new jobs in the next five years with more than $79 million invested in a new facility in Columbus. AFB develops, manufactures and sells palatant ingredients, which are designed to improve the taste of pet food for dogs and cats. AFB’s new facility will be located at Muscogee Technology Park with operations expected to begin in 2024. AFB is expected to hire for positions in management, operations, engineering and administrative support.

HOMES & LIFESTYLES

Metro Atlanta Guide to Utilities

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.

Natural Gas

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.

Did You Know? Georgia 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.

Electricity

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.

Water

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.

Phone, Cable and Internet

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.

COBB Creekwood 55 or Better

From the Mid $300’s Powder Springs

GWINNETT Seaboard Junction 55 or Better From the Mid $300’s Loganville

JACKSON Traditions of Braselton Golf Community From the Mid $300s - $700s Jefferson

PAULDING Oakleigh Pointe From the Mid $400s Dallas

High Shoals Coming Soon Dallas

HOMES & LIFESTYLES

Moving to Atlanta Timeline

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.

TWO MONTHS BEFORE

n Research your options for moving or truck rental companies. Get onsite, written estimates and references from multiple companies — for moving and storage, if necessary.

n Take inventory of everything in your home, room by room. Decide what you’d like to get rid of and determine what’s worth keeping, and make a list of all of the items you plan to take with you.

n Start a binder of all paperwork, estimates and receipts related to your move. These costs can later be taken as tax credits and deductions.

SIX WEEKS BEFORE

n Schedule a moving date or reserve a truck if you’re moving yourself.

n Complete a change of address with your local post office, or do it online at usps.gov.

n Start packing seasonal clothing and any other items not in immediate use.

n Use up or give away food and supplies that can’t be moved, like frozen or perishable foods and cleaning supplies.

FOUR WEEKS BEFORE

n Send your new address to friends and family members.

n Notify important parties of your move and provide your new address, including your bank, your employer’s HR department, magazines and subscription services, credit card, insurance and utility companies.

n Schedule disconnection of services at your current home and reconnection at your new house, including phone, cable and internet.

n Collect necessary records from your child’s school and your pet’s veterinarian, as well as family medical, dental and legal documents and keep them organized together.

n Host a garage or moving sale for the items you decide not to keep, and give away leftovers to charitable organizations.

n Contact insurance companies to obtain moving coverage and to transfer policies to your new home.

n Research new medical professionals for you and your family, including family doctors, dentists and veterinarians.

2-3 WEEKS BEFORE

n Don’t leave it in the landfill. Research how you can recycle old electronics, plastics, metals and anything else you won’t be bringing with you that won’t naturally decompose.

n Transfer your automobile registration and driver’s license if you’re moving out of state.

n Create a folder of important information about your house for the next homeowner. Be sure to include your new address so that future residents can forward any mail.

ONE WEEK BEFORE

n Confirm dates and time of packing and moving if you’re using a mover. If you’re moving yourself, confirm moving truck arrangements.

n Confirm travel arrangements and pack a travel kit for you and your family members with whatever you need, including cash, credit cards, travel documents, medications, etc. Don’t forget activities and toys for the kids!

ONE DAY BEFORE

n Finalize all packing. Double-check that all closets, garage, attic and basement are cleared.

n Complete a house check. Defrost the freezer, drain the water hose, disconnect and prepare any major appliances you’re planning to move.

n Pack a “First Open/Load Last” box. Include items you’ll need on the first day in your new home.

n Confirm hotel or temporary accommodations, if needed.

n Arrange for childcare and pet services.

MOVING DAY

n Verify the moving truck that shows up is the one you hired. The USDOT number on the side of the truck should match the number on the estimate/ confirmation paperwork. Scams can happen!

n Sign the bill of lading/ inventory list before the movers leave, making sure to check boxes and note any missing items or damage. Keep a copy in a safe place.

n Be on hand for movers to answer questions and show where furniture and boxes should go.

n Be prepared to pay the mover and have cash on hand to tip workers.

WELCOME TO ATLANTA

Save money on your natural gas with SCANA Energy. Schedule your new service up to 90 days in advance by calling 1-866-280-6236, or visit SCANAENERGY.COM/MOVER60.

In the Market

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM METRO ATLANTA’S NEW HOME MARKET IN 2023

By Amy Meadows

When the ball drops at midnight, there’s often a great deal of discussion about creating a new you in the new year. How about a new home in the new year? If you’re making a move to metro Atlanta, or even looking to relocate within the area, you’ll be glad to know that the city and its surrounding areas boast the kind of market that could make 2023 the perfect year for a new home purchase.

“Atlanta is a very strong housing market with robust economic growth and job creation. And as a Sunbelt state, [Georgia] attracts home buyers seeking our warmer southern climate,” says Carol Morgan, founder and president of Denim Marketing. “Additionally, the rate of appreciation on homes in Atlanta is above the national average. The fourth-largest new home market in the nation, it’s a great time to buy in Atlanta.”

Here, Morgan shares her top insights about what to expect from the local home buying market during the next 12 months, as well as tips for navigating the process successfully so you can make a sound financial investment. With this information in hand, you will be able to make the best decision when it comes to purchasing the new home of your dreams.

• Housing affordability has improved, and price acceleration has slowed. Price increases are at the lowest we’ve seen since the beginning of the pandemic, coming in now at just five percent. Year-to-date, home prices are up 14 percent over 2021, but higher interest rates are putting downward pressure on those home prices.

• The market is expected to stabilize, so we’ll stop seeing the historic price spikes.

We predict that home prices will start to moderate during the year and be up anywhere between six and eight percent. By 2024, price appreciation should be back to the long-term normal of four to five percent. As far as interest rates, the Federal Reserve at some point will have to pivot, and rates will moderate down in 2023 to around five percent, which is sustainable long term.

• Marry the house, date the rate. Interest rates have started to come down. We expect them to moderate some throughout 2023; however, rates are closely tied to the Federal Reserve’s actions. Whether they are going to take a break and give the economy a chance to adjust before making further increases is yet to be seen. However, when rates do come down, you can refinance. You aren’t stuck at the current rates for the life of the loan.

CHEROKEE COUNTY

CANTON

HORIZON AT LAUREL CANYON

Patrick Malloy Communities

From the $600’s - $900’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

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 Low $800’s

MOUNTAIN WALK TOWNHOMES

Cornerstone Associates, Inc.

From the $600’s

WEST COBB COUNTY

ACWORTH

THE HERITAGE AT ACWORTH JW Collection

From the $500’s

POWDER SPRINGS

KYLE FARM

Patrick Malloy Communities

From the $600’s - $1 Million+

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 $600’s Townhomes from the High $900’s

DEKALB COUNTY

DUNWOODY

THE ENCLAVE AT DUNWOODY PARK JW Collection

From the $800’s

TUCKER

THE ENCLAVE ON LAVISTA JW Collection

From the Low $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 - $3 Million+

PEACHTREE CITY

LAUREL BROOKE Redwood Homebuilders

From $1 Million+

FORSYTH

DAWSONVILLE

FIRESIDE FARMS

David Patterson Homes

From the $700’s

GAINESVILLE

LONG HOLLOW LANDING

David Patterson Homes

From the High $600’s - $1 Million+

N. FULTON COUNTY

ATLANTA

THE ENCLAVE ON COLLIER JW Collection From the $900’s

MILTON

THE HOMESTEAD AT MILTON

Loudermilk Homes From $3.5 Million - $8 Million

THE MANOR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Loudermilk Homes From $2.6 Million - $10 Million+

ROSWELL

HILLANDALE

Patrick Malloy Communities From the $900’s - $1 Million+

GWINNETT COUNTY

SNELLVILLE

SOLEIL SUMMIT CHASE

Patrick Malloy Communities Active Adult from the $400’s

PAULDING COUNTY

ACWORTH

THE RESERVE AT GOVERNORS TOWNE CLUB Patrick Malloy Communities From the $600’s

DALLAS

THE FARM AT EDENWOOD Vine Creek Residential From the Mid $600’s

visit bhhsganewhomes . com for more information , or scan the qr code below

Lori Lane | President, Executive Luxury Strategist

New Homes Division, Luxury Collection

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices GA Properties

BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.

KNOWAtlanta’s Guide to New Homes

Artisan Built Communities

From the High $300s

Welcome to Stratford NatureWalk. Looking for a more active adult community? Stratford is our community specifically designed to match the lifestyle needs of active adults (55 and better), featuring single-level living options with access to adult-only amenities and the full suite of award-winning Seven Hills amenities. Homes at Stratford offer plans ranging from 1,607 to 2,358 square feet of impressive living space with up to four bedrooms and four bathrooms.

(678) 515-9526 discoverartisan.com/naturewalk

Lennar

From the $300s-$800s

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

Soleil Belmont Park

From the $500s-$800s

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

Davidson Homes

Low $400s-$1.6M+

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

Lake Arrowhead

From the $300s-$800s

It is possible to live the life you have dreamed. 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, lakeside park, hiking trails, fishing, pickleball, disc golf and more. Lake, golf and mountain views are captured in all new townhomes, villas and single-family ranch neighborhoods. Come see why Lake Arrowhead was voted the Best Place to Live in America. (770) 720-2700 lakearrowheadga.com

Paran Homes

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

for Over 50 Years Strong!

— Voted Cobb County’s Best Builder —

Brock Built Homes

High $200s – $1.7M

After nearly four decades of experience building new homes in Atlanta’s best communities, we can confidently say that it’s in the details. That’s why we emphasize quality, craftsmanship, location and service above all else. It’s what better living is all about. Founder Steve Brock brings nearly 40 years of homebuilding experience to the marketplace. To date, he has built over 2,900 homes, creating innovative and comfortable places to live in Atlanta, Florida and Alabama. (404) 351-7555 brockbuilt.com

The Homestead at

Milton

From $3.5 Million

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

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

Traditions of Braselton

From the Mid $400s-$900s

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

David Weekley Homes

From the Mid $400s-$800s

David Weekley Homes has been delighting customers in Atlanta for more than 15 years with four decades of building experience across the country. Weekley is one of the most sought-after builders for home buyers seeking a quality home and unmatched customer service. David Weekley Homes is currently building in communities throughout the Atlanta area, including beautiful homes in Flowery Branch, Marietta, Woodstock, Alpharetta and Canton.

(844) 819-6045 davidweekleyhomes.com

JW Collection

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

Rocklyn Homes

From the Low $300s-$2M

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

Artisan Built Communities

From the $400s

Welcome to NatureWalk, where resort-style living is just around the corner. Cool off on those hot Georgia afternoons with the kids in our exclusive onsite 13-acre water park, which puts most of the local theme parks to shame. Other amenities include a magnificent clubhouse, tennis, basketball and volleyball courts and more. Homes at NatureWalk offer plans ranging from 2,520 to 3,590 square feet of impressive living space with up to six bedrooms and five bathrooms. (678) 515-9526 discoverartisan.com/naturewalk

J5

From the High $500s

Welcome home to our new condominiums, located in Midtown’s Garden District. From quality construction to full-service amenities and unmatched lifestyle, residents have access to all Midtown has to offer. Enjoy open-concept living spaces, complete with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops and wide-plank hardwood flooring. Your evening wind-down awaits on our sunset viewing terrace where you can enjoy fireside chats. J5 welcomes you to a place as unique as you. (470) 589-5055 ownj5.com

Need more information when making your move?

Visit knowatlanta.com to learn more about metro Atlanta, including information on healthcare, housing options, educational opportunities, city and county details and maps to help navigate your way around the area.

Windsong Properties

From the $400s-$600s

Windsong Properties was founded by two local builders with a shared vision and purpose: to improve the lives of active adults. We build homes with innovative floor plans that combine luxury and accessibility in communities that encourage social engagement and outdoor activity. Our award-winning homes incorporate quality low-maintenance materials, open floor plans, abundant natural light, storage and outdoor living areas—all designed to improve your quality of life. (770) 516-3409 windsonglife.com

Traton Homes

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 and 2022. 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

Rocklyn Homes/ Hawthorne Station

Mid-$400s

Perfect for Atlanta residents looking to relocate near the airport for easy travel, Hawthorne Station presents the latest in standard luxury features, as well as brand new floor plans. The community will highlight single-family homes boasting three to four bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms on floor plans ranging from 1,800 to 2,000 square feet. Gourmet kitchens also boast stainless steel appliances and kitchen islands. (404) 855-1785 rocklynhomes.com

The Dillon Buckhead

From the $800s

Located on Peachtree Road in the heart of Atlanta’s most prestigious residential neighborhood, The Dillon Buckhead is inspired by history and designed for modern living. From sweeping panoramic skyline views and luxurious, modern interiors with designer curated finishes to unparalleled amenities and social offerings, The Dillon is modern living reimagined. Now under construction. Schedule your private presentation today. (404) 777-6295 thedillonbuckhead.com

The Best Time to Buy in Atlanta is Now!

By Irene Hall, REALTOR® with Keller Williams Atlanta North, and Reid Clark, Senior Branch Manager for Silverton Mortgage

Listening to the media or following your social feed gives the impression that it is doom and gloom for the housing market. Your initial reaction would be to sit on the sidelines and wait. However, doing so could mean missing your opportunity to get the best home at the right price.

With the Federal Reserve trying to slow inflation by multiple interest rate hikes to date, you probably think you missed your window of opportunity if you didn’t

purchase earlier in 2022. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Right now, homes on the market are more competitively priced than they were back in the summer of 2022. Now a seller, if they want to compete, must price their home based on what the current market demonstrates, make updates versus selling “as is” in many cases and be willing to negotiate with buyers on closing cost, points or other buyer concessions. Additionally, inventory continues to be tight in Atlanta with

a 2.3-month supply*, and housing prices will continue a more normal increase of four percent versus the 35 percent price increase we saw last summer. So, if you are ready to purchase a home now, it isn’t prudent to wait the market out with the hopes that you’ll get a “deal.” Home pricing isn’t predicted to decline, and you may miss the opportunity to buy that perfect home.

Yes, rates are higher now than they have been recently, but they are about average for the years since rates have been monitored. The good thing is that most experts believe that rates will tick down in 2023, creating an opportunity to refinance. How about planning to marry the house, date the interest rate? Price appreciation won’t be what it was in 2020 and 2021—a good thing since it’s not sustainable and would price home buyers out of the market. Normal appreciation is a great way to build wealth over the years. We all know that housing costs overall are up, whether one is renting or purchasing. Consider this question: “Would I prefer to be buying my own home and gaining equity over the years, or would I rather be helping a landlord pay for his property?” If the time is right in your circumstances, buying real estate has always been beneficial over the years. n

*FMLS data is for single-family detached residences through Q3 of 2022. Data is believed to be accurate by not warranted.

For more information, visit hallhomespecialist.com and silvertonmortgage.com.

The Place to Be

METRO

ATLANTA IS A BONA FIDE HOT SPOT FOR ACTIVE ADULTS

By Christina Mimms

While Florida has long been recognized as a retirement capital, metro Atlanta is well poised to compete for that title given all that area offers. With proximity to an international airport for the travel many retirees anticipate, a mild-to-moderate climate that offers all four seasons of the year, a thriving culinary and arts scene, a number of major corporations’ headquarters, golf courses, boating opportunities, access to several major hospitals, housing options to suit every lifestyle and more, metro Atlanta can easily attract—or keep—residents age 55+ seeking an active lifestyle as they age. Additionally, in recent years, North Georgia as a whole has become a very attractive option to active adults who felt the effects of the pandemic. The

many parks and walking trails, as well as proximity to the mountains, allowed older adults to avoid complete isolation and maintain a healthy lifestyle. And with the rise of remote work, many Americans living in expensive coastal cities—including those over 55 who remain in the workforce—departed for markets with myriad job opportunities, a lower cost of living and a better quality of life. Combined, these features have made the local area an undeniable hot spot for the active adult population.

Location, Location, Location

“Sunbelt cities such as Atlanta are popular destinations for these movers,” says Judie Woodall, a managing member of Strategic Real Estate Advisors. “They

offer warmer climates and tend to have comparably lower tax rates. Population growth in 2021 had 10 of the top cities located in the Sunbelt. With more active adults still working, Atlanta offers many remote and in-office opportunities for older employees.”

What’s more, according to Lori Lane, president of Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, many older home buyers are moving to be near their children and grandchildren. “They are looking forward to a relaxed luxury resort-style lifestyle and are ready for their next chapter in life,” she explains. “They are looking forward to making new friends and memories.”

Lake Arrowhead is one such community that offers the best of all possible

worlds to active adults. Located among the beautiful golf courses, mountains and lakes north of Canton, the area is in close proximity to Northside Cherokee Hospital, the Wellstar Health campus, fabulous dining and shopping in downtown Canton and the premiere Cultural Arts Center at Reinhardt University. Residents who want to venture into the city to attend a sports event or a fine arts performance can do so easily.

Also located near Canton is Soleil Belmont Park, which features 471 low-maintenance homes situated on large home sites. The community is known for its resort-style amenities, including a 9,800-square-foot clubhouse, a health and fitness center, tennis and pickleball

courts, an arts and crafts studio, community gardens, a coffee shop and cocktail bar, billiard and card rooms and more. Conveniently located between downtown Canton and Milton, the community provides access to some of the metro area’s most coveted locales, from Gibbs Gardens and the North Georgia Mountains to a wide array of local outdoor shopping and dining establishments.

Bring It Home

Equally important to the area of residence is the type of home a buyer can select. In planned communities for the active 55+ adults, residents will likely find the home features they seek, such as less square footage, single-level living or master bedrooms on the main floor, stepless entries, curbless showers, security features like onsite security officers and minimal landscaping.

For instance, Hickory Bluffs, a new active adult community located in Canton and developed by leading homebuilder Lennar, offers low-maintenance ranch-style homes with spacious kitchens designed for open entertaining, as well

as plenty of storage space and connected home technology. The community boasts five floor plans with anywhere from two to four bedrooms and space for optional bedrooms as well. The plans are open and welcoming and provide the perfect amount of flexibility to allow buyers to create the active adult home of their dreams.

At Traton Homes communities, buyers not only have access to onsite amenities like clubhouses, pickleball courts, pools and dog parks, but also open floor plans with an adequate family and dining room space for hosting extended family gatherings and overnight guests. “Storage is also high on the priority list for everything from holiday decorations to family keepsakes,” said Kimberly Garwood, director of marketing for Traton Homes. “And having a clubhouse to gather and play cards, join a book club or watch the big game without having to host the event makes getting out and meeting new people easy and fun. Homeowners always say they wish they had made this move sooner.”

Additionally, new homeowners in communities offered by Windsong Properties have the opportunity to work with designers to personalize their home prior to construction. Windsong home features include quality low-maintenance materials, open floor plans, abundant

Lake Arrowhead

Traton Homes

Windsong Properties

natural light, plentiful storage and comfortable outdoor living areas.

Making Connections

Moving out of a home of 25+ years full of memories to a new community, perhaps in a different part of the metro area, represents a major life decision, often full of emotion as well. But the positive gains from this lifestyle change can bring peace of mind and great opportunity.

“Quite a majority of our new 55+ residents are moving to improve their quality of life—whether it means downsizing to something more manageable, being close to extended family or making new friends who are in a similar stage of life,” Garwood explains. “The low-maintenance lifestyle affords them more time to travel and en-

joy the activities that they had postponed before. Our homeowners love their new lifestyle and access to social activities.”

The latter has become a huge draw for active adult home buyers across metro Atlanta. For example, in the 55+

communities built by Windsong Properties, a clubhouse is a central point at each location to serve as a hub for community gatherings, social events and other activities that bring neighbors together to socialize and form friendships.

“Our amenities and community designs offer places to play, relax and thrive,” says Kris Johnson, chief revenue officer. “A clubhouse is truly the heart of every active adult community and central to its success.”

The same can be said for Hickory Bluffs, which boasts a pool, tennis courts, fitness center, clubhouse, sport courts and more. “Neighbors are eager to meet one another, form new friendships and groups like ‘walking with wine,’ enjoy friendly competition on the courts and not have to worry about lawn maintenance,”

Soleil Belmont Park

says Nikki Raines, marketing coordinator for Lennar Atlanta. “They love having more time to devote to their families, new friendships and new or renewed interests.”

Put It All Together

Making the leap to a 55+ community can be a life-changing decision. As the process begins, it’s important for home buyers to do some research to find the perfect community fit. As Woodall advises, “Learn about the reputation of the developer and the builder to ensure they execute with high standards and consistently do what they say they’re going to do. Look for a community that offers a safe environment in a guarded or gated-entry environment so when you’re visiting family or traveling, you have the added peace of mind. And embrace a community with an ongoing calendar of activities which allows you to be as social as you wish.”

Are the days of visiting Grandma and Grandpa in Florida or other coastal communities in the past? For some couples or individuals nearing the latter part of their careers or retirement age, moving far away from family and friends doesn’t make sense. Fortunately, they can take advantage of metro Atlanta’s many offerings while aging in place and finding a community where they can truly feel at home. n

For more information, visit:

• Hickory Bluffs by Lennar, lennar.com

• Lake Arrowhead, lakearrowheadga.com

• Soleil Belmont Park, soleilbelmontpark.com

• Traton Homes, tratonhomes.com

• Windsong Properties, windsonglife.com

Your Dreams Realized…

A lifetime of experiences, evolving tastes and enthusiasm for each new chapter brought you here. As you embark on the next exciting chapter and create a backdrop for all the beautiful memories yet to be made, you want to partner with a seasoned homebuilder that shares your enthusiasm for the future and specializes in homes and communities artfully crafted for Active Adults. You’ll find that… and so much more… with Windsong.

For information on our homes and communities visit windsonglife.com/knowatlanta

Lennar

New 55+ Active Adult Community Coming To East Cobb

THE RESERVE AT BELLS FERRY COMBINES THE CHARACTER OF A SMALL TOWN WITH THE CONVENIENCE OF CITY LIVING

According to Forbes magazine, interest in age-restricted communities (they’re not called retirement communities anymore) hasn’t been this robust since the National Association of Home Builders started compiling an index in 2008. These neighborhoods are attracting everyone from empty nesters looking to downsize, to older adults seeking a lifestyle change, to actual retirees.

One of the newest 55+ developments currently under construction in Georgia is The Reserve at Bells Ferry in East Cobb. This is the first active adult community from Atlanta’s Brock Built, a premium homebuilder with nearly four decades of exceptional design, quality, and craftsmanship. Each of its communities are intentionally placed amongst the best attractions and amenities, says Brock Built. Not only will its homeowners enjoy an amazing lifestyle, but their family and

friends will also look forward to an unforgettable experience during every visit.

So, what can homeowners (and their guests) expect at The Reserve at Bells Ferry? First, the community is in East Cobb just minutes from outdoor attractions such as the Noonday Creek Trail, Kennesaw Mountain and numerous local golf clubs. Additionally, there are the exciting shops, dining and activities in lively downtown Woodstock. Stroll Main Street’s boutiques, grab a bite to eat and listen to live music with neighbors, friends and family. This welcoming suburb escape combines the character of a small town with the convenience of city living—just a short drive away from metro Atlanta’s most popular destinations, including The Battery Atlanta and Truist Park.

Here you’ll find a lifestyle with charming design, convenience for you and your

visitors and plenty of comfort to spare. The homes (some of which are available to purchase now) here are loaded with style features and elevated finishes, all among beautiful, lush landscaping where you’ll never need to lift a finger to maintain and enjoy. The Reserve at Bells Ferry is your opportunity to find a home where life matches your pace, Brock Built says.

When you are living in The Reserve at Bells Ferry, you will have exceptional opportunities to stay active and to entertain friends. Not only does this neighborhood feature an incredible collection of amenities, but homeowners can enjoy it all without having to keep up with landscaping. Meet new friends in a gorgeous dog park; catch up over a friendly game of cornhole; picnic with family under the pavilion or by the outdoor prep kitchen and grills; and unwind together around the community’s formal gardens, ample

green spaces, pickleball courts, fire pit and community garden. With amenities like these, you can stay active and spoil your guests in style.

Key floor plan features for The Reserve at Bells Ferry include 2+ bedrooms with 2+ baths (second level available), 1,600to 2,690-square-foot floorplans, two-car garage and covered patio. To learn more and to see currently available homes, visit brockbuilt.com/community/the-reserve-atbells-ferry.

Brock Built says this unique location offers much more than a quiet retreat. Here you’ll have everything at your door, from shopping at the Outlet Shoppes of Atlanta to quick-stop conveniences around the corner at Publix or Kroger. Enjoy lunch in one of Woodstock’s cozy cafes and finish the afternoon with a sweet slice of pie at the local Pie Bar.

Downtown Woodstock’s activity calendar is full of family-friendly festivals, nightly live music and arts and entertainment events that keep neighbors gathering throughout the year. n

About Brock Built

Brock Built’s strong roots in metro Atlanta have given the builder the opportunity to provide unparalleled living experiences in some of the Southeast’s most desir-

able locations in Georgia, Florida and Alabama. The company combines decades of experience and best-in-class materials, appliances, and fixtures to construct homes of lasting quality that have earned Brock Built a stellar reputation. Its promise is to develop communities that provide a sense of belonging, to provide homeowners with modern comforts and personalized details and to back it up with incomparable craftsmanship. Learn more at brockbuilt.com.

Beyond the Basics

Atlanta International School

STANDOUT CO-CURRICULAR OPTIONS AT METRO ATLANTA PRIVATE SCHOOLS

By Alexandra McCray

In classrooms, performance halls, art studios and more across metro Atlanta, you’ll find students furthering their academic learning through complementary co-curricular courses and activities created to encourage them to discover their passions and apply their knowledge. Offered as part of the school day and beyond, these programs reflect the unique style and approach of the institutions behind them. Here, we take a tour of co-curricular options at local private schools.

Atlanta International School aischool.org

A 3K through 12 school following the renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) system, Atlanta International School (AIS) features many co-curriculars that continue to get children thoughtfully interacting with the world around them. Field trips and events gradually take students farther from their regular environments, starting with simple outings to the “big school” library for story time in students’ immersion languages like Spanish and Chinese. As students mature, these journeys evolve into trips around and out of the country, such as theater visits to Broadway and Model United Nations team voyages to The Hague.

According to Director of Innovation Peluchi P. Flores, PhD, “All of our co-curricular programs are designed to expand our student’s experiences beyond the classroom. As an IB school, we value the important role they play

in developing IB learner attributes—and as an international school, we know that trips and visits give students a wider perspective of culture and society, connecting their classroom learning to the world outside.”

One co-curricular offering AIS especially treasures is its formalized two-week STEAM internship program. Rising juniors and seniors can receive first-hand experience in a field that’s piqued their curiosity. Through the associated STEAM Parent Organization, parents also help match the school with internship hosts. “We partner with over 24 institutions and companies in Atlanta, making it a true community-wide partnership,” explains Flores. Other programs built into the curriculum of grades six through 12 put students in leadership roles, requiring them to devise, participate in and reflect on projects first centered around service, then also focused on creativity and activity.

Lakeview Academy

Lakeview Academy

lakeviewacademy.org

At Lakeview Academy, the goal is for students to think and advocate for themselves in addition to believing in their abilities. Available for all ages at the pre-K through grade 12 school, co-curriculars are designed to give students the tools to achieve all of the above while forging strong interpersonal and leadership skills. The additional programming mainly takes the form of an abundance of before and after school offerings, such as a selection of clubs and activities like continental math league, student council, literary team and interscholastic athletics. Specific co-curricular classes—like innovation in the lower school, public speaking in middle school and theater in upper school— are also woven throughout the day. And every offering is carefully curated to meet the needs of its age group.

For example, Wade Hanse, Ed.D., director

The Lovett School

of curriculum and alignment, says, “For our youngest learners, we keenly recognize the connection between gross and fine motor development and writing and literacy development. In addition to bolstering the linkage between early physical and academic growth, we design lower school co-curricular programs to help develop resiliency and self-efficacy from an early age.” Hanse also considers the school’s size—558 students—an advantage. That advantage not only allows it to have an 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio, but also enables it to be adaptable to students’ changing needs and interests, especially when it comes to co-curricular offerings.

The Lovett School

lovett.org

Among co-curriculars at The Lovett School, fine arts offerings shine bright. Through collaboration with classroom teachers, fine arts faculty at the K-12 school develop programming that reinforces what students are taught during

other parts of the day—one way the school emphasizes learning through doing.

“There was recently a wonderful collaboration between visual arts, orchestra and STEAM teachers in the lower school where students built their own instruments which they could play. In middle school this year, sixth grade pre-algebra teachers partnered with visual arts to design a Piet Mondrian fraction project,” notes Janie Beck, chief marketing officer.

A plethora of fine arts opportunities before, during and after school are available. Chorus, stage design and production, student art exhibits hosted by the High Museum of Art and more are offered. These activities prepare students for and pair well with honors-level fine arts courses like photography and the Lovett Singers. Those more interested in STEAM can join groups such as the Society of Women Engineers (SWENext) and an architecture club. Lower school students are also exposed to coding, engineering and technology through

InGen classes, and middle and upper school students can take STEAM electives.

Finally, a robust selection of civic and global engagement co-curriculars, including more than one dozen upper school student-sponsored service clubs, are poised to get youngsters thinking about their fellow world citizens. On top of that, community visits and a service day built into the academic year further connect students to the city around them.

Mount Paran Christian School mtparanschool.com

Out to help children find and grow their divinely given talents, Mount Paran Christian School (MPCS) offers a range of co-curriculars, including service clubs and multiple state championship-winning sports teams. Academically driven co-curricular activities, many of which harmonize with the school’s Project Lead the Way® STEM/ STEAM curriculum, are available for all school divisions. Offerings include fishing club, Eagle

Guided by our distinctive approach to the whole child education, Lovett faculty immerse students in intellectually rigorous, hands-on learning environments that spark character development, individual passions, and social awareness By design, we offer students experiences that deepen their cognitive, emotional, and social skills while inspiring an enduring enthusiasm for learning

students find joy and purpose in learning by doing.

Mount Paran Christian School

Robotics First® LEGO League and more for kindergarten through fifth graders; Black History Bowl, National Junior Honor Society and beyond for middle schoolers and astronomy club, French National Honor Society and others for high school students.

To complement its rich in-school arts programs, the school, which is located in Kennesaw, also features clubs such as the International Thespian Society, National Art Honor Society and drumline. The latter offerings are likely especially appreciated by high school students pursuing a specific concentration within the arts through the Dozier School of the Arts magnet program at MPCS. Afterschool music, dance or drama training is also available through the school’s Murray Arts Academy.

For families seeking co-curricular activities that focus on Christian life, the school includes programs such as weekly chapel, daily bible study and spiritual retreats. Clubs like Christian Life Council and Fellowship of Christian Athletes are offered as well.

The Mount Vernon School mountvernonschool.org Incorporated into learning at The Mount Vernon School beginning in third grade, three signature co-curricular programs— iProject Mini, Impact Design Lab and Interim Term— embolden students to be change-makers.

The initiative starts in lower school with iProject Mini, a weekly gathering for third through fifth graders that gets students to initially identify and form groups around their interests, direct their exploration of those subjects and then share with fellow pupils what they’ve learned. In eighth grade, the daily Impact Design Lab (IDL) course comes into play. Focus expands to include pinpointing problems and creating solutions that benefit the community. Students can then move on to the optional upper school successor of the IDL program called the Innovation Diploma, where teens further

“Building future leaders through a commitment to excellence.”

develop their skills and put them to use in projects for the professional world.

“We believe students have big ideas that grow from their sense of wonder. When teachers encourage and connect with their students’ curiosities and developing passions, incredible things happen,” explains Kristy Lundström, head of school. “Building on a strong foundation of core educational methodologies, we pair an inquiry-based learning approach with a design thinking process guiding students to be solution seekers and problem solvers through work that has direct application to an actual challenge.”

All upper school students participate in an advanced iProject program. They also take part in Interim Term, where students experience activities such as cultural expeditions, service opportunities or language immersion while embarking on a oneweek domestic or international trip.

The Mount Vernon School

Pre K3-12th grade Small

Award-winning

lakeviewacademy.com 770-531-2602

A Christ-Centered College Preparatory School

At Whitefield, we understan importance of community. we are dedicated to bolster Christian families in rearing young people who go on to college and life with a passion for learning, for others ahead of self, and for the living and active Jesus.

Get to know us at whitefieldacademy.com

PreK - 12th Grade Located in Smyrna, GA 678-305-3027

Springmont School

springmont.com

Child empowerment is at the heart of co-curricular programming at Springmont School, which serves children 18 months through eighth grade. Students ages 4 and above are encouraged explore their interests, participate in hands-on learning and practice cooperation through afterschool programming. Elementary and middle school learners can also enjoy open art and music studios designed for solo and small group work throughout the school day. Additionally, the school features an accessible outdoor education department and a before school strings program included in tuition.

Students also can participate in a host of afterschool enrichment classes and clubs, which cover categories ranging from sports such as ultimate frisbee and basketball to more creative endeavors like carpentry and video production. Youngsters interested in Spanish, STEM or gardening are also in luck.

To give students the time and space to discover what truly excites them, four afterschool sessions are held throughout the academic year, allowing them the freedom to follow multiple passions. Program leadership is also kept within the school community for the most part, with dedicated staff, faculty and parents often taking charge.

Trinity School

trinityatl.org

Creating a win-win for parents and students is what it’s all about at Trinity School. Along with summer camps, more than 60 co-curricular activities are available after school for Trinity’s 600 students ages 3 through sixth grade. Offerings are created to enhance social, emotional and academic growth while providing pickup time flexibility.

Within the school’s Extended Programs (EP) are two plans parents can

choose from based on their needs and goals. Special classes allow students to pursue one or more specific interests through offerings such as Vet Academy and Cooking with Ms. Fine. Core classes provide a variety of activities based on age and can last until 6 pm. Students can also drop into an EP class. The familiar faces of EP instructors also appear during abbreviated school days. On those occasions, students can participate in a half or full Camp Day, during which EP teachers host art projects, games and special guest visits for students.

“At any point throughout the year, you can peek into Extended Program classrooms or playgrounds and see additional foundational layers being laid for a lifelong love of learning,” says Kayleen Whitmer, director of extended programs. “Whether students cross the monkey bars for the first time, program their team

Springmont School

Learning should be an Adventure!

robot through an obstacle course, create and play their stop motion animation video or use their creativity and negotiation skills as they battle to win World Domination during a Camp Day, they are having fun and growing their knowledge at the same time.”

The Walker School

thewalkerschool.org

At The Walker School, a PK3 through grade 12 school in Marietta, co-curricular programs are offered for all ages and contribute to the development of students as empowered, whole, healthy beings, in addition to complementing academics. Beginning with young learners, in- and afterschool programs are created to help students further build foundational skills like problem-solving, integrate their studies and uncover their interests.

For middle schoolers, co-curricular programming extends beyond standard afterschool offerings and also covers social-emotional learning daily so they better understand and treat themselves and others. Michael Arjona, assistant head of school, academics, says, “We have weekly assemblies that hit on a variety of different topics, from appropriate humor to being an upstander to addressing gossip and rumors to digital citizenship. In advisory, students have intentional programming around everything from substance abuse prevention to brain science around how we learn. Healthy relationships, self-care, mental wellness and consent and boundaries are intentionally taught.”

The school’s emphasis on well roundedness sets students up for success as they progress to upper school and continue to participate in activities outside of the classroom, such as the award-winning robotics team, an internship with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or local volunteering. These programs allow them to further their learning and

utilize their social-emotional proficiency as leaders and team members.

Woodward Academy

woodward.edu

As part of its goal to produce conscientious leaders of tomorrow, Woodward Academy offers an extensive number of co-curriculars to its 2,568 students. Options at the pre-K through 12 school include special interest clubs such as affinity groups like Equity Alliance, private music lessons, intramural and varsity sports, broadcasting activities with WALive.TV and more both after the school day and during it.

“As students progress, co-curricular offerings expand, and while they continue to be offered after school, special activity periods are part of the rotating daily schedule in the upper school,” explains Trinity School

THE

12th grade,

WOODWARD WAY

Nigel A. Traylor, Ed.D., vice president for academic and student life.

Furthermore, if learners at the school’s College Park and Johns Creek campuses prefer to participate in an offering not currently available, they’re welcome to speak with staff at the student life office about bringing it to the school. Recently, water polo and equestrian programs were added thanks to student inquiries.

The school’s diploma distinction program is also a prime example of how Woodward

incorporates co-curriculars to amplify its mission. High school students can apply for the program before the end of 10th grade and choose between a Sustainability, Global Studies or Service Learning focus. In addition to taking specified courses, students participate in co-curriculars aligned for their track.

Be they part of students’ lives daily, weekly or annually, co-curriculars are seen by metro Atlanta private schools as a critical ingredient for molding successful, multifaceted young adults. n

creating opportunities for each child to thrive is

The Walker School

Woodward Academy

Show Me

By Ken Abramczyk

As young metro Atlanta residents pursue their dreams to land well-paying jobs, rewarding careers and worthwhile fulfillment as adults, many will pursue college degrees. And many will struggle with the age-old question of how to pay for their education. Fortunately

students have several options, namely scholarships, grants, loans and even work programs, and they have access to an array of help to navigate the myriad options.

For instance, colleges and universities house financial aid offices to assist stu-

dents to examine various options to address the challenges of financing tuition, room and board and more. Even before that, high school guidance counselors can direct students to resources, such as scholarships available from local civic organizations, workplaces and religious

organizations. Additionally, the Georgia Student Finance Commission, which is the State of Georgia’s higher education finance agency, administrates more than 20 state and lottery-funded scholarships and grants, along with service-cancelable loans, providing an array of financial aid information via its website.

Statewide Options

Thirty years ago, Gov. Zell Miller recognized that families needed assistance funding their children’s college education. The Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally (HOPE) scholarship program was launched in 1993 in Georgia under Miller’s supervision, funded through the Georgia Lottery for Education and directed toward high-achieving students. In his 1992 State of the State address prior to the program’s launch, Miller called the program “the single best way to help our middle-income families,” adding, “For them, it is a pocketbook issue of major proportions.” That holds true today, as thousands of students benefit from HOPE scholarships and Pell grants, the latter of which are awarded to undergraduate students who display exceptional financial need and have not earned a Bachelor’s degree.

Outside of those popular statewide opportunities, federal work-study programs provide part-time employment to undergraduates and graduate students who need financial help; the program encourages work related to the student’s field of study and community service.

The Power of Financial Aid

Financial aid is critical for students and may make a life-changing impact for them. “Financial aid is so important for our students because it aids in the affordability of their education,” says Jessica Magazu, director of financial aid at Life

University. “Through financial aid opportunities like community federal workstudy, students can contribute to their community and public sector services in a way that adds value and context to their education and their social impact. Education is the gateway to many skilled career paths that, without financial assistance, students wouldn’t be able to actualize.”

In fact, the experience of applying for financial aid itself can be a benefit to students of all ages, as education is the entry point to most career opportunities. According to Magazu, “Through the process of obtaining and maintaining financial aid, students learn the critical skills of interviewing, essay writing, meeting and maintaining eligibility criteria and managing their finances. These are all skills that easily transfer into real work practical application.”

Make a Plan

Peachtree College Planning, a full-service college planning firm, highlights strategies on how to finance higher education and provides resources for students and parents. The organization’s website encourages parents to help their students choose a college that is the right fit financially, academically, professionally and socially. It touts its ability to locate scholarships and applies strategies to maximize the rewards students can receive, as well as encourages parents to compute the four-year cost of a school before their student even applies.

Of course, the listed cost of college is only a “sticker price,” Peachtree College Planning notes on its website. “One of the most important facts is that the cost of college is dependent on your expected family contribution, not the listed price on a college’s website. Every family will pay something different depending on their financial situation. It is similar to

walking on an airplane. You know everyone has paid something different, and it was based on the situational variables at the time of their ticket buying decision.”

Metro Atlanta Options

With metro Atlanta being home to so many universities and colleges, there are plenty of options not only academically, but also when it comes to their financial options. Here is just a sample of the possibilities for students as they begin to consider higher education opportunities across the area.

Life University

At Life University, some coveted scholarships award students 50 to 100 percent of their tuition for four quarters of attendance. “Life University communicates early and often to perspective and continuing students, both on-campus and online, in all degree programs,” Magazu says. “We encourage students to research and apply for all types of financial assistance to help fund the cost of their education.” This includes the school’s robust institutional fund offering for academic and athletic scholars. She continues, “Through each step of the student’s journey, we provide education on responsible borrowing and opportunities for additional assistance if needed.”

Students can visit life.edu/financialaid and life.awardspring.com for information; they also can browse external scholarships that are provided by private donors, foundations, businesses and other sources outside of Life University at life.edu/financial-aid/external-scholarships. From there, Life University students can apply for student loans at studentaid.gov where they must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The application asks for demographic information and financial situ-

ations and circumstances. “The FAFSA will also walk you through which schools you would like this information to be sent to so those schools can review your eligibility for aid if you attend,” Magazu says. Additionally, tuition discounts are offered to international students, while married couples and family members who are enrolled concurrently at Life University may receive a tuition benefit of up to $14,000.

Students, including those still in high school, are encouraged to apply for scholarships between March 1 and May 1, with recipients of awards ranging from $500 to full tuition being selected in June. Students qualify based on degree program, financial situation, academic merit and extracurricular activities.

Georgia State University

Georgia State University (GSU) offers top academic scholarships for exceptional incoming first-year students through the Stamps and Presidential scholarships. Students also can search a database of scholarships available to GSU students and apply for merit scholarships. The school’s Student Financial Management Center also hosts FAFSA workshops and information sessions. Students can apply for a federal work study program that will provide them with jobs in community

service or their field of study if they exhibit financial need. Visit admissions.gsu. edu/tuition/financial-aid/#merit-scholarships for more information.

Georgia Institute of Technology

The Georgia Institute of Technology offers the Zell Miller and HOPE scholarships, along with 850 institutional-named scholarships. When students apply for scholarships, they will be considered for all of them. Criteria includes, but is not limited to, academic achievement, athletic ability, geographical location, departmental and community involvement, areas of study and/or financial need and other factors. Some examples are the Gold Scholars program, offered annually to the top two percent of first-year students, and the G. Wayne Clough Georgia Tech Promise program, which provides a debt-free degree for low-income Georgia families and covers a student’s full cost of attendance. Scholarship recipients often are required to maintain a 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need, and the award may depend on the field of study. Interested individuals can find more information at finaid.gatech.edu.

Kennesaw

State University

Kennesaw State University (KSU) offers similar grants and scholarships as other

institutions (including the Zell Miller and HOPE scholarships and Pell grants), along with those funded through local community groups, corporate donors and the university. Scholarship Universe allows students to search and apply for thousands of scholarships. This system matches students with their best scholarship opportunities and the best fit for them. Students are also alerted to new scholarship opportunities through the system. For further information, student applicants can visit financialaid.kennesaw.edu.

Morehouse College

At Morehouse College, many institutional scholarships require students to have a FAFSA completed. Students can review opportunities at the Morehouse Scholarship portal and apply. They can also look at external scholarships offered through the United Negro College Fund and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Current and admitted students with questions can attend a virtual financial aid session on Thursdays; they also can join others who are successfully financing their college educations through an understanding of financial assistance. More financial aid information is available through Morehouse College’s Office of Financial Aid at morehouse.edu/ financial-aid-and-scholarships.

“Through the process of obtaining and maintaining financial aid, students learn the critical skills of interviewing, essay writing, meeting and maintaining eligibility criteria and managing their finances. These are all skills that easily transfer into real work practical application.”

Jessica Magazu, Director of Financial Aid at Life University

GET TO KNOW METRO ATLANTA’S COUNTIES

The Counties of Metro Atlanta

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.

Lumpkin Dawson

METRO ATLANTA HIGHWAYS

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.

Bartow County

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.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS:

• Shaw Industries, Inc. • Toyo Tire North America • Cartersville Medical Center • Voestalpine Automotive Components • Anheuser-Busch

ATTRACTIONS:

• Red Top Mountain State Park • Tellus Science Museum • Booth Western Art Museum • LakePoint Sports Complex • Barnsley Resort

CITIES OF BARTOW:

EDUCATION:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Bartow County Schools bartow.k12.ga.us Cartersville City Schools cartersvilleschools.org

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Turn to page 63 for the independent schools listing and a map.

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

Atlanta

Bartow

Cartersville

Adairsville

Emerson

Euharlee

Kingston

White Taylorsville

Booth Western Art Museum

Red Top Mountain State Park

Downtown Cartersville

Cherokee County

CITIES OF CHEROKEE :

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Turn to page 63 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

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.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS:

• Northside Hospital Cherokee • Inalfa Roof Systems • Pilgrim’s Pride • Chart Industries, Inc. • Piolax Corporation

ATTRACTIONS:

• Lake Allatoona • Dixie Speedway • Gibbs Gardens • The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta • Cherokee Arts Center • Chukkar Farm Polo Club

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.

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

Cherokee

Canton

Ball Ground

Holly Springs Woodstock

Waleska

Gibbs Gardens

Canton

Woodstock

Clayton County

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.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS:

• Clayton Co. Public Schools

• Clayton Co. Board of Commissioners

• Southern Regional Medical Center

• Chime Solutions

• Fresh Express

ATTRACTIONS:

• Porsche Cars North American Experience Center

• Road to Tara Museum

• Clayton County Performing Arts Center

• The Beach at Clayton County International Park

• Atlanta State Farmers Market

• Georgia Archives

CITIES OF CLAYTON:

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.

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.

EDUCATION:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Clayton County Schools clayton.k12.ga.us

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Turn to page 63 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

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

Atlanta Clayton

Forest Park

Jonesboro

Lovejoy

Morrow Riverdale

Lake City

Lake City

Porshe Experience Center

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport

Cobb County

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.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS:

• Wellstar Health System

• The Home Depot

• Kennesaw State University

• Lockheed Martin Corp.

• Publix Super Markets

ATTRACTIONS:

• 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:

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.

NEIGHBORHOODS OF COBB:

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.

EDUCATION:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Cobb County Schools cobb.k12.org Marietta City Schools marietta-city.org

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Turn to page 63 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

Atlanta Cobb

Acworth

Austell

Kennesaw

Marietta

Power Springs Smyrna

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

Truist Park- Home of the Atlanta Braves

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

DeKalb County

• State Farm

• AT&T Services, Inc.

ATTRACTIONS:

• Stone Mountain Park

• Fernbank Museum

• DeKalb Farmers Market

• Callanwolde Fine Arts Center

• Eddie’s Attic

• Arabi Mountain

CITIES OF DEKALB:

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.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS:

• 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.

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

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

Atlanta DeKalb

Decatur

Avondale Estates

Fernbank Museum

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.

NEIGHBORHOODS OF DEKALB:

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.

EDUCATION:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

DeKalb County Schools dekalbschoolsga.org City Schools of Decatur csdecatur.net

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Turn to page 63 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

Concourse at Landmark Center , Dunwoody

Stone Mountain Park

Emory University

Douglas County

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.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS:

• Amazon.com Services, Inc.

• Walmart

• Silver Line Building Products, LLC

• Gordon Food Service, Inc.

• Kroger

ATTRACTIONS:

• 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:

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.

EDUCATION:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Douglas County Schools dcssga.org

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Turn to page 63 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

Atlanta Douglas

Douglasville

Lithia Springs Villa Rica

Sweetwater Creek State Park

Foxhall Resort

Fayette County

Atlanta Fayette

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)

• Line Creek Nature Area

• The City Gardens of Southern Oaks

• Georgia Renaissance Festival

• Serenbe Farms

CITIES OF FAYETTE:

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.

EDUCATION:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Fayette County Schools fcboe.org

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Turn to page 63 for the independent schools listing and a map.

Landmark Christian School 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

Tyrone

Fayettville Peachtree City Woolsey Brooks

Trilith

Peachtree City

Trilith Studios

Forsyth County

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.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS:

• 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 63 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

Big Creek Greenway

HALCYON

Cumming Fairgrounds

Fulton County

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.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS:

CITIES OF FULTON:

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.

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

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.

INTOWN NEIGHBORHOODS:

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.

Atlanta Fulton

South Fulton

Ponce City Market

Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame

Midtown

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.

EDUCATION:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Fulton County Schools fultonschools.org

Atlanta Public Schools atlantapublicschools.us

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Turn to page 63 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

H Select provider

Mercedes Benz Stadium- Home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United

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.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS:

• Gwinnett Co. Public Schools

• Northside Hospital

• Publix

• Gwinnett Co. Government

• Walmart

ATTRACTIONS:

• Coolray Field

• Infinite Energy Center

• Lake Lanier

• Southeastern Railway Museum

• Freeman’s Mill Park

• Château Élan Winery & Resort

CITIES OF GWINNETT:

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.

Atlanta Gwinnett

Suwanee

Buford Sugar Hill

Dacula

Braselton

Berkeley Lake Norcross Lawrenceville Lilburn Grayson

Snellville Loganville

Peachtree Corners

Duluth

Suwanee

Château Élan Winery & Resort

EDUCATION:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Gwinnett County Schools gwinnett.k12.ga.us Buford City Schools bufordcityschools.org

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Turn to page 63 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

H Select provider

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

Mall of Georgia

Chattahoochee River

Georgia Gwinnett College

Hall County

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

CITIES OF HALL:

Braselton braselton.net 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

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

Turn to page 63 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

H Select provider

Oakwood

Gainesville

Flowery Branch

Clermont

Lula Braselton

Lake Lanier

Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville Atlanta Falcons Training Facility

Henry County

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.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS:

• Henry Co. School System • Luxottica Retail Group • Piedmont Henry Hospital • Henry Co. Government • Federal Aviation Administration

ATTRACTIONS: • Atlanta Motor Speedway • Panola Mountain State Park • Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary • Cubihatcha Outdoor Center

• Army Aviation Heritage Foundation & Flying Museum

• Southern Belle Farm

CITIES OF HENRY:

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.

EDUCATION:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Henry County Schools henry.k12.ga.us

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Turn to page 63 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 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

H Select provider

Atlanta Henry

Stockbridge

McDonough

Hampton

Locust Grove

Atlanta Motor Speedway

Eagles Landing Country Club

Panola State Park

Paulding County

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:

• The Dallas Theater • High Shoals Falls • Moonlight Stables Equestrian Center

CITIES OF PAULDING:

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.

EDUCATION:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Paulding County Schools paulding.k12.ga.us

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Turn to page 63 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 Cobb EMC cobbemc.com

GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com Oglethorpe Power Corp.  opc.com

WATER

Paulding County Water Department paulding.gov

City of Dallas Water Department dallasga.gov/utilities

H Select provider

Atlanta Paulding

Silver Comet Trail

WellStar Paulding Hospital

Rockdale County

Atlanta

Rockdale

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

CITIES OF 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

Phoenix, Inc.

Industries

Corp.

Rockdale Hospital

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.

EDUCATION:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Rockdale County Schools rockdaleschools.org

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Turn to page 63 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.comH

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET

Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com

ELECTRICITY

Georgia Power georgiapower.com Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com

WATER

Rockdale Water Resources Rockdalecountyga.gov

Select provider

South Rockdale Community Park

NEW HOMES & CONDOS

Artisan Built Communities IFC

Berkshire Hathaway 32-34

Brock Built 49

Davidson Homes 1

David Weekley Homes 5

Lennar Atlanta 3

Paran Homes 27

Rocklyn Homes IBC

Traditions of Braselton 37

Traton Homes 36

INTERIM HOUSING

TP Corporate Lodging 20 55+ LIVING CHOICES

Lake Arrowhead 46

Soleil Belmont Park 45

Windsong Properties 47

REALTOR/MORTGAGE

Irene Hall- Keller Williams Atlanta North 42

Reid Clark- Silverton Mortgage 42

EDUCATION

Atlanta International School 57 Galloway School 56

High Meadows School 60

The Howard School 54

Lakeview Academy 58

Landmark Christian School 59

Life University 67

The Lovett School 55

Lyndon Academy 56

Mount Pisgah Christian School 53

The Mount Vernon School 60

Pace Academy 62

Saint Francis Schools 61 Whitefield Academy 58 Woodward Academy 62

UTILITIES

SCANA Energy 29, BC

AREA INFORMATION

Braselton Visitors Bureau 17 City of Decatur 15

City of Peachtree Corners 22 City of Smyrna 19 Peachtree City 21

MISCELLANEOUS

College Football Hall of Fame 11

For more than 30 years, KNOWAtlanta has been the premier source of information for those who are calling Atlanta home. With updated information on the cities and counties of the metro area and profiles on topics spanning education, health care, economics and housing, KNOWAtlanta’s point is clear: to keep you in the KNOW.