Highlands at Vinings Luxury Design with Rooftop Terraces Townhomes
From $925,000 888-686-5542
SMYRNA, GA
Rowan Walk Master-planned Community Townhomes & single-family homes From the high $500,000s 888-686-5542
ALPHARETTA, GA
Toll Brothers at Lakeview Luxury Community Townhomes with elevators and rooftop terraces From the $900,000s 888-686-5542
INTOWN FEATURED COMMUNITIES
DECATUR, GA
New Talley Station Master-planned Community Townhomes & condos From the mid $400,000s 888-686-5542
ATLANTA, GA
Beckham Place at Morningside Unique Home Designs with Rooftop Terraces
Luxury townhomes with skyline views From the mid $600,000s 888-686-5542
Jackson County
Gwinnett County
Cobb County
Paulding County
Atlanta
Dallas Powder Springs
Loganville
Jefferson
Pointe North
Creekwood
Traditions of Braselton Master Planned Community
High Shoals
FROM THE EDITOR
The Center of It All
Living in Atlanta often feels like living in the center of it all. Geographically, we have access to every kind of environment you could want: the bustling city, sprawling meadows, fabulous farmland, majestic mountains and more (including an easy drive to the beaches of South Georgia). Atlanta also is home to a thriving business community, with companies large and small regularly moving to and expanding within the area. There’s also everything you need when it comes to education, from outstanding public and private schools to a wide array of institutes of higher education. There’s also no better place for premier healthcare. And, of course, Atlanta is a hub for history and culture, as well as a quality of life that is second to none.
In recent years the smaller towns and cities that surround Atlanta have taken their cue from the vibrant metropolis, creating their own city centers that offer something for everyone; in our feature on page 12, we look at the growing trend of developing lively downtown locales across the metro area that blend small town charm with big city amenities and the lifestyle they provide to new and longtime residents. We shift gears on page 30 to check out what local private schools offer during their shadow day experiences, when prospective students can find out what it’s like to spend a day in the center of a new student community. And on page 41, we see how local colleges and universities are placing veterans at the center of their efforts with an array of specialized programs and resources designed to help those students successfully transition from the military into civilian academic life. As always, there’s also so much more in the pages that follow.
As the New Year begins, why not put yourself in the center of it all? Metro Atlanta is waiting, and we’re excited to welcome you home.
Amy Meadows, Editor
If you would like additional information from our relocation service providers, visit us online at knowatlanta.com.
Publisher SHERRY GASAWAY sherry@knowatlanta.com
President LARRY LEBOVITZ lebovitz@knowatlanta.com
Vice President JOHN HANNA hanna@knowatlanta.com
Managing Director ROBYN SOBELSON PH.D. rsobelson@nspmag.com
Warm up to your dream home this winter! Start fresh with new homes designed for every lifestyle in vibrant and thriving Atlanta Whether you ’ re dreaming of a modern townhome, a traditional single-family home, or the cozy comfort of our ranch-style designs, we have the perfect match for you Our communities offer modern amenities and cater to every lifestyle, from urban to semi-rural, all nestled in picturesque neighborhoods
But that’s not all. Our signature Everything’s Included® homes come with thousands of dollars in upgrades, including contemporary designs, high-end finishes, and energy-efficient features at no extra cost to you As the season sparkles and the new year approaches, your dream home awaits With move-in ready options available, finding the perfect home has never been easier Visit a community or contact us today to schedule a tour!
Acworth | Adairsville | Bethlehem | Bonaire | Buford | Canton | Conyers | Doraville | Douglasville | Gainesville | Hampton | Jefferson Kathleen | Madison | McDonough | Milledgeville | Perry | Rossville | Sharpsburg | Snellville | Warner Robins | Watkinsville | Winder
SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES
TOWNHOMES RANCH-STYLE HOMES
The Atlanta Advantage: National
With affordable housing and a low cost of living, Atlantans get more while spending less. To understand why more than five million people call metro Atlanta home, see below how it surpasses other major cities in almost every way that counts.
The Atlanta Advantage: Metro Atlanta
Metro Atlanta includes more than 50 cities. Compare some of these communities by median home prices, median household income, population and growth with the data below.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Woodstock
Alpharetta
Lawrenceville
Cumming
Sandy Springs
Gainesville
Douglasville
Decatur
Dunwoody
Peachtree
Marietta
Suwanee
Gwinnett
GET TO KNOW ATLANTA Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
One of metro Atlanta’s greatest assets is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Serving more than 100 million passengers each year, the airport boasts nonstop flights to over 150 domestic destinations and 70 international destinations in more than 50 countries. In 2020, the airport was recognized as the busiest airport in the world for the 22nd consecutive year. Of course, it makes sense that Atlanta, the leading city in the Southeast, offers such an incredible facility. Just as the city itself is a diverse locale with millions of residents who hail from all over the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a welcoming sight for passengers from all walks of life. Take a look at everything this outstanding airport has to offer.
Five runways YOUR GATEWAY TO THE WORLD
AT A GLANCE
70+ international destinations in 43+ countries with nonstop service 80 percent of the U.S. population within a twohour flight
724,145 Annual flights
1,984 average daily flights 94+ million passengers annually
275,000 daily passengers
107 million passengers annually
688,614 cargo metric tons
Seven concourses
156 domestic gates
41 international gates
Two terminals
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:
• BeerCode
• Savi Provisions
• Cat Cora’s Kitchen
• Grindhouse Killer Burgers
• Longhorn Steakhouse
• Ecco
SHOPS:
• Duty Free Americas
• Brighton Collectibles
• The Goods @ ATL
• MAC
• Brooks Brothers
• Tumi
SERVICES:
• The Chiroport
• FedEx
• The Club ATL
• XpresSpa
• Be Relax
AIRPORT ACCOLADES
• #1 Busiest Airport
• #1 World’s Most Efficient Airport
• Home to the tallest air traffic control tower in North America and the fourth tallest in the world
AIRPORT CODE: ATL
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.
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
• Delta Air Lines
• Frontier Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Southern Airways Express
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines
INTERNATIONAL:
• Air Canada
• Air France
• British Airways
• Copa Airlines
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
• Korean Air
• Lufthansa German Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• Turkish Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic
• WestJet
• The 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.
• The airport supports more than 448,000 jobs across the Southeast, accounting for 20 percent of the jobs in the region.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Economic Impact Study, released in 2020
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.
GET TO KNOW BUSINESS
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 2024, the City of Atlanta boasted 18 Fortune 500 companies and 19 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
Top 20 Employers
Front and Center
A LOOK AT THE CITY CENTER TREND THAT HAS TAKEN LOCALES ACROSS METRO ATLANTA BY STORM
By Amy Meadows
Much has been said about the redevelopment of Atlanta in recent years. From the West End’s $450 million mixed-use redevelopment initiative to the repurposing of the Georgia-Pacific tower into a bustling residential property, among many other projects, the downtown area (as well as Midtown and Buckhead) has become a hot spot for renovation and refurbishment. The goal of this effort is to embrace the urban community concept, where everything you could need is only moments from your front door. Over time, that notion has extended far beyond Atlanta’s city limits, touching an array of the suburban cities and towns that comprise the extensive metro Atlanta region. In fact, cities across the metro area have worked tirelessly to develop their own city centers for the benefit of residents and visitors alike. And the results have allowed a host of downtown areas to transform themselves into the modern Main Streets that people of all ages want today.
“The trend of building city centers and redeveloping downtown areas across metro Atlanta has been driven by a desire to create vibrant, walkable communities that appeal to a wide range of buyers—from busy young professionals to empty nesters,” explains Kimberly Garwood, director of marketing for Traton Homes. “These developments offer not only convenience, but also a lifestyle focused on health and connection. With easy access to outdoor festivals, farmer’s markets, amphitheaters and amenities like walking trails and communal spaces, residents can enjoy the best of urban living without the hassle of constant driving. Having shops and restaurants nearby fosters a sense of community while encouraging a healthier, more active way of life.”
Some metro cities have been on the city center path for a number of years, making changes to their downtown areas, town greens and more, while others have more recently began implementing plans to reshape themselves and follow suit with their metro counterparts. Here, we look at various locales across the metro area to see what they have done to turn their downtowns into the heart of their communities.
Marietta Square
The Early Adopters
In 1997, Smyrna, located just 10 miles northwest of Atlanta and recognized as one of the top 50 places to live in the United States, instituted a downtown redevelopment plan that was designed to help combat what some saw as significant suburban sprawl throughout Cobb County. The plan ushered in a period of intense revitalization, which included the development of the beloved Village Green, where City Hall, the Community Center and the city’s beloved central fountain reside. That was followed
by the introduction of Market Village, a social center that has been the epicenter of downtown Smyrna since the early 2000s, with 40,000 square feet of retail space, 18,000 square feet of office space, restaurants, shops, townhomes, beautiful streetscapes and much more. Together, these spots have turned downtown Smyrna into a bustling city center, which welcomes nearly 250,000 visitors each year for a variety of experiences, including the highly anticipated Jonquil Festival and the always well-attended Summer Concert Series. And the city’s efforts will continue will into the future thanks in large part to the 2023 adoption of a 2040 Comprehensive Plan, which is a road map for city officials as they set priorities for the future.
In 2002, Woodstock launched its own redevelopment effort after receiving a Livable Centers Initiative planning grant from the Atlanta Regional Commission, which helps local communities develop plans to create welcoming areas with an emphasis on mixed-use spaces and pedestrian-friendly design. In 2015, the city selected Morris and Fellows to design and develop Woodstock’s new city center, which is now home to restaurants, retail spots, office space and more. According to Garwood, “Downtown Woodstock in particular has become a model for developers due to its remarkable growth and vibrant community offerings. The area offers a diverse array of shops, restaurants, breweries and year-round events and is also a designated social district where people can walk around with beverages purchased from local merchants. Woodstock’s amphitheater, which hosts a popular summer concert series that attracts thousands of visitors, further enhances the appeal of this thriving city center.”
Another early adopter of the city center concept is the Town of Braselton, a bustling Northeast Georgia locale that has seen its population triple over the last two decades. Many people have been drawn to the downtown redevelopment effort put forth by the town, which began with the 2021 renovation of the historic Braselton Bros. Department Store building—a landmark that served as a commercial crossroad for the local farming community in the 1900s; the modern-day renovation transformed the property to house restaurants, boutiques, a salon, the town Welcome Center and more. Subsequent development of the adjacent Town Green included an old cotton gin that was turned into a brewpub and the construction of a new civic center, among other projects. The new city center has allowed Braselton to define itself beyond its recognition as the home of both Château Élan Winery & Resort and Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, two of North
Smryna
Peachtree Corners
Georgia’s most prominent tourist attractions. In fact, the downtown area has become a draw in and of itself, giving the town a bona fide sense of community and an exciting glimpse of what the future holds for this treasured metro town.
According to Rachel Langelotti, City of Marietta Economic Development downtown project manager, Marietta is also one of the cities that has spent years focusing on the redevelopment and growth of its downtown area, which centers around the historic Marietta Square. She says, “Our downtown, known as the Marietta Square, is the heart of the city and an amenity that enriches the community, elevates our regional brand and serves as a premier destination for both residents and visitors. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of popularity in city centers, and Marietta’s downtown has long served as a welcoming hub for our community. Known for its diverse culture, historic charm and a thriving scene, it provides entertainment, leisure and connectivity for residents and visitors.”
This vision has been upheld and furthered by the city’s leadership team, which has invested in transformative projects such as the M2R Trail for public connectivity, beautification of key areas, infrastructure upgrades and the redevelopment of adjacent housing. Over the past nine years, annual capital projects have
systematically improved public spaces within the square, and resources have been dedicated to preserving and enhancing the downtown locale’s historic character while incorporating modern amenities. What’s more, the effort has attracted a diverse mix of business types, and Marietta Square is experiencing unprece-
Braselton Town Green
dented demand for space. The number of restaurants and cafes has grown from just a handful 20 years ago to over 40 today, and the recently opened Marietta Square Market Food Hall has added 18 dining offerings. Offices make up about 35 percent of downtown businesses, and both office and retail spaces maintain low vacancy rates.
Langelotti continues, “Through vision, leadership and collaboration, downtown Marietta has built upon its past into a highly desirable place to live, work and play. Ongoing projects, supported by the City of Marietta leadership and its partners, ensure the downtown area remains a thriving community for future generations. As the city looks ahead, continued initiatives will help build upon past efforts to sustain the economic health and vibrancy of our historic downtown.”
The Current Changemakers
Eric White, division president of Toll Brothers in Atlanta, notes that city centers have always been destinations. Yet, the trend has really taken the metro area by storm in the past several years for several reasons. He notes, “Walkability and the reconnection of people and public spaces has been a growing trend. The attraction of living near where you work and play has also grown exponentially over the last several years. The trend is even going beyond city centers. Many of today’s mixed-use developments are now located in popular suburban areas, offering residents the benefits of an urban lifestyle without some of the typical downsides such as traffic and parking.”
With this in mind, it’s no surprise that more suburban spots surrounding Atlanta have taken notice and jumped on board the city center trend. For instance, Kennesaw, located northwest of Atlanta, initiated a major revitalization effort just a few years ago. “Downtown Kennesaw’s brand and renewed identity launched in May 2022, introducing new branding elements, social media channels and a website that helped to solidify it as a distinct city center,” says Rebecca Graham, director of communication and engagement for the City of Kennesaw. “Downtown Kennesaw’s redevelopment was inspired by a desire to create a vibrant gathering place that celebrates our rich history, offers unique shopping and dining and fosters community. Recognizing its historic roots and community appeal, the city chose to invest in transforming Downtown into a modern hub that showcases our history and supports economic growth.”
In addition to featuring brick walkways and unique attractions like the Southern Museum (a Smithsonian affiliate), Kennesaw enhanced Depot Park, which has become a central gathering spot for concerts, festivals, farmer’s markets and more. The area, Graham adds, is also now zoned as an entertainment district,
by Kyle Hess
Kennesaw
Woodstock
Photo
allowing visitors to carry alcoholic beverages while exploring the city. And the Department of Economic Development continues to collaborate with developers to attract private investment that brings in new retail, dining and entertainments spaces to the downtown area. Graham says, “Our city center’s charm lies in its balance of historical character with modern appeal. It’s a true ‘hometown’ environment with distinctive touches like brick walkways, historic sites and a blend of local businesses. The community has embraced the downtown revitalization enthusiastically. Residents and visitors alike appreciate the variety of events and local businesses, and there is a growing sense of pride in having a unique, welcoming downtown space that reflects Kennesaw’s character and history.”
Up through the Georgia 400 Corridor, a number of cities have also embraced the city center concept. For instance, by 2018, Alpharetta’s City Center had become a can’t-miss spot in the
northern Fulton County city; the six-block, 26-acre revitalization project made space for 100,000 square feet of retail space, 36,000 square feet of office space and a mixed-use environment featuring an array of apartments and townhomes. Not far away in Roswell, a four-acre piece of downtown property recently was transformed into a spectacular mixed-use development called Southern Post, complete with 40,000 square feet of retail space, 90,000 square feet of Class-A office space, 128 luxury apart-
Southern Post Roswell
ments, nine townhomes, a sky lounge, plaza space, and more. Adjacent to Southern Post is the Chambray Hotel, 125-room boutique property from JdV by Hyatt, further cementing the area as a tourist attraction.
Of course, only 25 minutes away from spots like Alpharetta and Roswell is Peachtree Corners, which has been focusing on developing its own city center since the city incorporated in 2012. The effort kicked into high gear as the new Town Center opened in 2019. As Louis Svehla, director of communications for Peachtree Corners, says, “It was important for the City Council to create a place that could belong to the community, be inviting to all resi-
Living in a City Center
Having access to a city center is a wonderful opportunity, but living within or adjacent to it is an entirely different experience. Fortunately, there are a number of homebuilders in metro Atlanta that are focusing on developing an array of residential options for buyers who want to take advantage of the city center concept day in and day out. And they are bringing those options to locales across the metro area.
According to Toll Brothers’ Eric White, some of the most coveted locations today include Avalon, Cumming City Center, Halcyon, Downtown Woodstock, Marietta Square and Downtown Alpharetta. Traton Homes’ Kimberly Garwood adds Downtown Kennesaw to that list. And when it comes to the types of residential offerings home buyers can expect to find in these sought-after spots, she says, “City centers offer a diverse range of residential options, catering to various lifestyles and preferences. You’ll find everything from luxury apartments and townhomes to condos and even detached single-family homes. This variety allows residents to choose the living arrangement that best suits their needs while enjoying the convenience and vibrancy of city center living.”
White agrees, adding, “There is a
dents, be a gathering place and serve as a new downtown.”
In 2013, the city purchased a 21-acre tract of undeveloped land that had been slated for the construction of 267 garden apartments. However, city leaders preferred to turn that area into a mixed-used development that today features “over 15 restaurants, retail shops, office space and townhomes that overlook the two-plus acre Town Green. The park is a central gathering place for the community and hosts live outdoor concerts and seasonal events. The city’s landmark bridge located at the main entrance to the Town Center guides pedestrians over Peachtree Parkway and connects with the Corners Connector, the city’s pedestrian
blend of new home offerings available, including single-family homes (both cottage style or zero lot line), townhomes and sometimes luxury rentals. A variety of price points and product offerings encourage a wide variety of home buyers, from individuals and young couples to families and empty nesters.”
For those looking to move into a city center in metro Atlanta, here are a few options to consider:
TRATON HOMES tratonhomes.com
Townes at South Main Downtown Kennesaw
Stylish three-story luxury townhomes from the high $400s
TOLL BROTHERS tollbrothers.com
Toll Brothers at Lakeview
Near Avalon and Downtown Alpharetta Luxury townhomes from the high $900s
Vista Ridge by Toll Brothers
Near Downtown Woodstock
Single-family homes starting in the $570s
Freestone Station
Near Marietta Square
Single-family homes starting in the low $700s
Chimney Creek
Near Cumming City Center
Single-family homes starting in the low $700s
by Daniel Greene
Photo
and bicycle trail system. The Town Green includes an outdoor fitness park, open-air pavilion, café tables, fire pit, projection screen, open natural grass lawn, splash pad, 9,000 square-foot off-leash dog park, two playgrounds and a 2,500 square-foot veterans’ monument that features seven sculptures,” Svehla notes, adding that development continues even though the 21-acre plot of land is reaching capacity. He says, “We continue to work to find additional opportunities for expansion and growth. Additionally, we will continue to work to update what we currently offer in order to ensure that our residents and visitors will continue spending their time at the Town Center. The Town Center and Town Green have brought a true sense of community to the city. It has served as a place for our residents to come together and enjoy being together.”
For all city centers, that really is the key objective: bringing the community together. And Svehla’s thoughts about his own city really do apply to every revitalized downtown area throughout metro Atlanta. He concludes, “It was built for them. It was built for the community to give them a place to coalesce and enjoy each other. It has always been about variety and offering programs and activities that are engaging to all walks of life. It is a representation of what Peachtree Corners is all about—our people.” n
Made In
Braselton is a vibrant tapestry of creativity, where the spirit of craftsmanship weaves through every detail. Here, artisans reign supreme, their hands molding not just products, but experiences infused with passion and dedication.
Meet Braselton’s maker community EXPLOREBRASELTON.COM/ARTISANS
CHATEAU
Alpharetta
Atlanta: The Tech Hotspot 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.
Atlanta’s Tech Hot Spots
The Rankings
Atlanta is racking up an impressive list of accolades and acknowledgements in the tech arena. Here are just a few:
#2 FASTEST GROWING TECH HUB FOR IT TALENT (CIO, 2022)
#1 BEST CITY FOR TECHIES (Livability, 2023)
#9 BEST TECH CITY IN THE U.S. (PropStream, 2023)
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.
#4 BEST PLACE FOR TECH JOBS (CompTIA, 2023)
#11 STARTUP ECOSYSTEM IN THE U.S. (StartupBlink, 2023)
Atlanta also has the 4th largest tech space in the United States with the Atlanta Tech Village.
Metro Atlanta Incubators
Finding success in Atlanta’s tech sectors 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
On the Move
COMPANIES OF ALL SIZES CHOOSE METRO ATLANTA AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS
It’s no secret that Georgia is recognized for its exceptional business-friendly environment. In fact, Site Selection has named it the number one state for doing business for nearly a decade consecutively. 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.
Exotec
This global warehouse robotics provider will expand its North American headquarters with additional space in a new 37,000-square-foot facility on Peachtree Street in Atlanta. The company attributed its growth to the doubling of orders in the region in 2023, as many Fortune 500 companies wanted strategic projects completed. Expected to open the facility in 2025 with a building capacity of 250 employees, the company will be hiring hardware and software engineers. The new office, located in close proximity to Exotec’s current facility on Ottley Drive, will house a Skypod system showroom, an immersive space, a control center and a lecture hall-style training room. The company offers warehouse systems to improve operational efficiency and improve working conditions for warehouse operators.
HNTB
This Kansas City-based firm, known for designing transportation infrastructure, will be relocating from downtown Atlanta to the 14th + Spring office building in Midtown. The company will occupy the top three stories of the 12-story building. Over the years, the company has served as a consultant for MARTA, including the $2.7 billion More MARTA program. HNTB also serves as the program management consultant for GDOT’s Major Mobility Investment Program. It is expanding its current workforce with listed jobs for project managers, engineers and sales directors. The new location is expected to feature fitness centers, cafes and outdoor centers.
Potbelly
Potbelly Sandwich Works, a neighborhood sandwich shop, is expected to break into the Georgia market with plans to open franchise restaurants in metro Atlanta in 2026. After launching its Franchise Growth Acceleration Initiative, Potbelly is ready to expand with additional franchise opportunities and bring
more locations to customers throughout the city to add to its 430 locations nationwide. Partnering with Royal Restaurant Group, the company plans 15 new restaurants, including in locations like Alpharetta, Buckhead, Midtown, Roswell and Sandy Springs in Fulton County, as well as Brookhaven, Chamblee, Dunwoody and Perimeter. Besides sandwiches, the company’s menu features soups, salads, cookies and milkshakes.
SAF
This metals distributor, fabricator and finisher will be relocating its manufacturing and corporate operations to a new 120,000-square-foor facility in Lithia Springs. The new facility’s proximity to I-20 and the company’s Villa Rica facility allows for easy trucking and transportation. Eight outdoor loading docks will optimize logistics and distribution, and company officials say a 100-kilowatt solar farm is expected to help lower energy use. Ultraviolet lights, designed to sterilize contaminants and often used in healthcare settings, will minimize respiratory illnesses. The new location will bring employees under one roof, as the Villa Rica location consists of several buildings.
Biscuit Belly
This Kentucky-based brunch restaurant will expand into metro Atlanta with five locations, with two or three spots expected to open within the next two years. Founded by a husband-and-wife duo of pharmacists-turned-restaurateurs, the restaurant serves gourmet breakfast biscuit sandwiches and Southern-inspired food in an upbeat dining environment. With one location open in Acworth, the company is looking at locations in Alpharetta, Marietta and Woodstock, along with Brookhaven, Buford and Sandy Springs. The expansion was announced after the company entered a partnership with ATL Biscuits to expand across the Southeast. n
GET TO KNOW 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.
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.
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.
n Host a garage or moving sale for the items you decide not to keep, and give away leftovers to charitable organizations.
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 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.
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.
44TH ANNUAL OBIE AWARDS
What a phenomenal night at the Georgia Aquarium for the 44th annual OBIE Awards!
Congratulations to the winners and a big shoutout t o our OBIE sponsors! Thank you for helping us put o n one of the best OBIEs ever! It is an honor to celebrate th e achievements of our members alongside our GAHBA f amily.
Congratulations to our 2024 OBIE Community of the Year Winners!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful projects with us and congratulations on your wonderful accomplish ments!
NatureWalk at Seven Hills by Artisan Built Communities
The Providence Group for Atley
Century Communities for Graystone Village
The Retreat at Sterling on the Lake by David Weekley Homes
Encore by Ashton Woods
Pendergrast Farm by Healthy Homes of Georgia
Purchasing a New Home in the New Year
If you’re ready to begin the new year in a new home, then you are in luck, as metro Atlanta offers many new construction homes that are perfect for those seeking modern amenities and personalized living spaces.
Here, we look at a list of compelling reasons to consider purchasing new construction in the metro Atlanta area as 2025 gets underway.
Modern Amenities & Features
New homes often incorporate technological advancements, such as smart home features, energy-efficient appliances and advanced security systems. Moreover, builders frequently allow buyers to personalize their homes with various options for finishes, fixtures and floor plans, allowing you to create a home that truly reflects your style and needs.
Energy Efficiency
New construction homes are built to meet modern energy efficiency standards, lowering utility costs over time. Additionally, energy-efficient homes reduce their carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Warranty and Peace of Mind
Most new homes come with a builder’s warranty, typically covering defects or issues that may arise within the first few years of ownership. This can include structural issues, plumbing or electrical problems or appliance issues. New homes also typically require less maintenance and repairs than
older homes, offering peace of mind and saving you money in the long run.
Community & Lifestyle
Many new construction developments are strategically located within planned communities, offering amenities like swimming pools, parks and clubhouses. New homes are often built in sought-after neighborhoods with convenient access to schools,
shopping and transportation, ensuring that your lifestyle needs are met.
Appreciation Potential
In many cases, new construction homes have the potential to appreciate over time, especially in growing markets like metro Atlanta. This can be a significant factor in your decision making process, offering a promising return on your investment. n
Tips for Purchasing New Construction
When you decide to move forward with the purchase and building of a new home, keep these tips in mind from Lennar, one of metro Atlanta’s most prolific homebuilders.
1. Your first step should be to get pre-qualified for a home loan, which will allow you to work with a lender to figure out how much buying power you have as the process gets started.
2. When you find the home of your dreams, don’t wait. Prices keep going up; you can always refinance when the rates come down, but you cannot lower the price you officially paid for your home.
3. When the homebuilding process begins, be sure to attend all requested meetings with the construction manager. Also, ask your salesperson the best way to stay informed, whether that’s requesting updates weekly via email or having meetings at particular stages during construction.
For more information, visit lennar.com.
KNOWAtlanta’s Guide to New Homes
Traton Homes
From the $400s-$900s
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 for the past four years. 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
Toll Brothers
From the Mid-$200s-Mid-$700s+
Our Toll Brothers homes and communities are perfectly situated in some of the most desirable locations across the greater Atlanta area. Finding your new home is easier than you might think. Between low property taxes and below-average cost of living, home buyers have a wide variety of options that offer luxury and affordability. With our prestigious locations coupled with exceptional home designs, you are certain to find the perfect community that suits your lifestyle.
(888) 686-5542
tollbrothers.com/KNOWAtlanta
Lake Arrowhead
From the Mid-$300s-High $900s
Welcome to Lake Arrowhead, a gated mountain, lake and golf community near Canton. The private lake features 21 miles of shoreline, a marina, boat rental program, disc golf, 18 miles of hiking trails, pickleball, cornhole, a dog park and more. Longrange lake, golf and mountain views await you. Award-winning single-family ranch homes, lakeview townhomes and lake/golf villas offer something for everyone. See why Lake Arrowhead was voted the Best Place to Live in America.
(770) 720-2700
lakearrowheadga.com
Paran Homes
From the High $300s-$600s
Since 2010, Paran Homes has built homes of uncompromised quality in many of Atlanta’s most sought-after locations while delivering an exceptional home buying experience. From single-family homes to attached active adult villas, buyers can select from a wide range of move-in ready homes. Call today to schedule an appointment to tour one of our decorated model homes!
(770) 466-1996
paranhomes.com
KNOWATLANTA GUIDE TO NEW HOMES BUILDER AND DEVELOPER MAP
GET TO KNOW EDUCATION
Me and My Shadow
THE SHADOW DAY EXPERIENCE AT ATLANTA’S PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Landmark Christian School
The Galloway School Springmont School
By Joyce Simmons
Choosing the right school for a child is one of the most significant decisions a family can make. The right school offers more than just academics; it creates an environment where students grow socially, psychologically and emotionally. It’s a place where children learn to relate to others and develop their own perspectives on the world. However, while tours, brochures and online testimonials can provide valuable insight, they often don’t capture the true culture and energy of a school. That’s where “shadow days” come in—a practice embraced by private schools, allowing prospective students to step into the shoes of a current student for a day.
With a wealth of outstanding private schools in metro Atlanta, each distinguished by its unique strengths, philosophies, and prestigious accomplishments, it can be challenging to make a choice based on brochures alone. For instance, schools like Pace Academy in Atlanta, The Lovett School in Buckhead, and The Walker School in Marietta each hold reputations for academic rigor, supportive communities and nurturing environments. These institutions attract families from across the state who are seeking a holistic, inspiring educational experience for their children. Yet, on paper, the schools can look remarkably similar in terms of prestige and achievement, so
Atlanta International School
shadow days have become an essential step for families trying to understand the distinct “feel” of each institution.
What Is a Shadow Day?
Shadow days provide an immersive experience, giving prospective students a glimpse into the daily rhythms of school life. Unlike a typical tour, shadow days allow students to attend classes, interact with teachers and get a feel for the social and academic dynamics of the school. It’s about letting students and their families “try on” the school, helping them determine if it’s the right fit.
Ricky Emmons, admissions director at The Galloway School in Atlanta, explains, “A student’s shadow experience gives prospective students a chance to see what daily life at The Galloway School is really like. By spending the day with a current student, they can experience
the school’s culture, see how classes are taught and meet other students. This helps them decide if the learning environment and community are a good fit for them.”
At The Walker School in Marietta,
shadow days are intended to help prospective students feel part of the community by day’s end. “Overwhelmingly, students who shadow with us report having a very positive experience,” says Karen Park, director of communications.
Mount Paran Christian School
“Even students who arrive very nervous for their shadow day typically leave with a smile, excited to tell their parents about their experience.”
At Pace Academy in Atlanta, Mac McCallum, director of admissions and
financial aid, emphasizes the authenticity of shadow days, saying, “The beauty of a shadow day is that it’s just an average day. There’s nothing special about it, and that’s what it should be.” At Pace, the goal is to give prospective students a genuine sense
of daily life—no frills or embellishments, just the real experience.
Unique Approaches: How Different Schools Craft Their Shadow Day Experience
Every school shapes its shadow day program to reflect its unique values and approach. At Atlanta International School, located in Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, shadow days go beyond observation; from the moment prospective students step onto campus, they are welcomed as part of the community, highlighting the school’s emphasis on global citizenship and active learning.
Paideia School, located in historic Druid Hills, prefers the term “visiting day” over “shadowing” to reflect the individuality of each visitor’s experience. “We want prospective students to explore the school through their own lens,” shares Caroline Driebe,
Visit Landmark!
Schedule
Mount Vernon School
director of communications and marketing. Paideia pairs visiting students with “Pi Ambassadors,” current students selected for their warmth and dedication to helping newcomers feel welcome. These ambassadors serve as personal guides, introducing visitors to Paideia’s distinct learning environment.
Pace Academy has fine-tuned its shadow day experience to be as seamless as possible for busy families. “We know that families are often juggling multiple school visits,” explains McCallum. “So, we make it easy—our shadow days are
scheduled almost daily throughout the school year, allowing families to choose a day that works best for them.” Pace even considers the parent experience, allowing parents to go through the drop-off carpool process. “Parents also get a taste of what it’s like to be a Pace parent,” he says, describing the iconic Castle, where prospective students are greeted.
At The Walker School, shadow days allow prospective students to see current students “in action” as they engage in classes and activities. “The best way to
get to know The Walker School is to visit our campus and see us for yourself,” Park adds. “We love our school and are excited to share with prospective students what makes our school, students and community so exceptional.”
The Benefits of a Shadow Day: A Glimpse into the Heart of a School
For families, shadow days can offer clarity beyond any brochure or tour. These experiences give them a sense of the school’s warmth, curiosity and the relationships among students and teachers. At Mount Paran Christian School in Kennesaw, shadow days serve as both an introduction and an evaluation. “It’s a chance for us to further evaluate the prospective student in academic and social settings,” explains Tiffany Westbrook, admissions director. The day provides a window into the student’s abilities and comfort within a supportive Christian environment.
At The Galloway School and GRACEPOINT School, shadow days focus on observing how prospective students engage with typical classroom activities and navigate social spaces. For both schools, these observations are essential for families to assess whether the
Trinity School
North Cobb Christian School
Pace Academy
environment feels like a good match for their child. For example, GRACEPOINT offers shadow experiences for students with dyslexia, ensuring that each visitor gets a taste of the supportive learning
if a student is an appropriate fit for our remediation program and for them to feel more comfortable and excited to enter our environment as a student,” says the school’s admissions team.
students respond to an inquiry-based, interactive learning style helps families determine if the school’s approach aligns with their own values. By the end of a shadow day, students and families often
Paideia School
GRACEPOINT School
What Makes a Great Shadow Partner?
The success of a shadow day often rests on the shoulders of the current students who volunteer to be “shadow partners.” These ambassadors are carefully chosen to represent their school’s values, providing a welcoming, genuine experience. At Galloway, students are selected for their leadership and communication skills and are encouraged to be engaging and genuinely curious about their visitors.
Pace Academy takes this role seriously. “What’s distinctly different at Pace is the way the kids treat one another,” McCallum observes. “There’s no more powerful way to figure out whether a child is going to an environment that is going to bring out the best in them than to send your child into that environment
in Atlanta also carefully selects shadow partners by sharing information about visiting students with teachers, ensuring a smooth pairing based on compatibility. This way, students feel comfortable and included from the Spring, located in Sandy Springs, teachers match visitors with shadow partners based on common interests and personalities, ensuring that each prospective student makes the most of their time
North Cobb Christian School in Kennesaw, upper school students have access to very specific shadow partners: Eagle Ambassadors. According to Elizabeth Cossick, director of marketing and communications, Eagle Ambassadors are “students who sign up to specifically volunteer and help represent NCCS in alignment with our school’s Christian mission and vision.” The middle and lower school divisions turn to the admissions office to find the right shadow match, ensuring that those individuals who are brought together share similar interests
Preparing for a Shadow Day: Practical Tips for Students and Families
Making arrangements for a shadow day can be a fairly simple process, as at the Mount Vernon School, which
allows parents to schedule the experience through online application portal Ravenna once an application has been submitted. Once that process is complete, then it’s time to get ready for the day. And
although shadow days typically require no special preparation, schools offer helpful advice to make the day meaningful.
At The Galloway School, students are encouraged to arrive with an open mind and a willingness to engage. Comfortable attire and a good night’s sleep can help prospective students fully immerse themselves.
Paideia suggests that visitors come prepared with questions—whether about academics, extracurriculars or the school culture. This allows prospective students to better assess how the school aligns with their interests.
And at Pace Academy, McCallum underscores the importance of authenticity. He says, “By far, the most important thing that a student should tell themselves is to come here and be themselves. We don’t expect a student to be anything that they are or are not. We are interested
The Lovett School
in them bringing their whole selves to this campus.”
Why Families Should Consider a Shadow Day
The consensus among these metro Atlanta private schools is clear: shadow days offer an invaluable experience. More than just a tour or information session, they provide a candid glimpse of the school’s everyday life, allowing families to see the energy, interactions, and community spirit firsthand.
The Lovett School encourages families to see shadow days as a fundamental part of the decision-making process, helping them assess whether a school is the right fit. According to Kavita Athalye, marketing communications manager, “The student is the end-user! Our shadow experiences offer a first-hand glimpse into the life of a Lovett student. We want
students to leave the day intrigued, filled with wonder and hungry for more. Our goal is for them to feel connected to the community and to leave wanting to learn and explore more.”
Landmark Christian School in Fairburn echoes this, emphasizing that
shadow days help students visualize themselves within the community, picturing what it would be like to belong. “We hope that the prospective student can see themselves at Landmark and that they gain a deeper understanding of all that Landmark represents,” says Kirsten
The Walker School
Williams, director of admissions and enrollment. “The shadow experience is another step in ensuring that Landmark is the right fit.”
Shadow Days Are a Key Step in Finding the Right Fit
Navigating the admissions process can be overwhelming, but shadow days offer a uniquely personal and insightful experience. It’s about more than academics—it’s about feeling a sense of welcome, inspiration and excitement for what lies ahead. These experiences help students envision themselves thriving, connecting and growing within a community that reflects
For more information, visit:
• Atlanta International School, aischool.org
• The Galloway School, gallowayschool.org
• GRACEPOINT School, gracepointschool.org
• Landmark Christian School, landmarkchristianschool.org
• The Lovett School, lovett.org
• Mount Paran Christian School, mountparanschool.com
• Mount Vernon School, mountvernonschool.org
• North Cobb Christian School, ncchristian.org
• Pace Academy, paceacademy.org
• Paideia School, paideiaschool.org
• Springmont School, springmont.com
• Trinity School, trinityatl.org
• The Walker School, thewalkerschool.org
their values and aspirations.
From the traditional classrooms of Trinity School to the individualized visits at Paideia and the inclusive environments at GRACEPOINT and Galloway, each school’s shadow day reflects its mission. At Pace Academy, the focus remains on authenticity, on ensuring that prospective students feel welcomed by the community and can see themselves there. As McCallum says, “At the end of the day, it’s about how our children made them feel on their way out.”
For families exploring private education options, shadow days offer a meaningful, eye-opening experience—a day of discovery that can make all the difference in choosing the right school. As they say, seeing is believing, and when it comes to schools, sometimes you need to step into the shoes of a student to know if it’s the right fit.
paceacademy.org/admissions
KNOWATLANTA GUIDE TO METRO ATLANTA PRIVATE SCHOOLS
PAULDIN
Serving Those Who Served
METRO ATLANTA COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES ASSIST VETERANS WITH SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES
By Ken Abramczyk
Assisting veterans with programs designed to forge new paths in their careers and lives has become a key element for many colleges and universities across metro Atlanta. Two higher education institutions in particular—Life University and Chattahoochee Technical College—have worked diligently to expand and enhance their offerings to ensure that those who have served their country can make smooth and successful transitions into new career opportunities after their service ends. The schools aim to assist veterans by helping them assimilate into campus life and educate them about available resources and support as they examine the options that lie ahead.
Here, KNOWAtlanta Magazine looks at both schools and the unique ways they are placing veterans at the forefront of their programs.
Life University
Life University recently opened a new Center for Veterans Services and Engagement, which was designed to recognize the commitment that student veterans have provided selflessly to the university and the country. The center, which opened its doors after a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony in July of 2024, focuses on offering specialized services to assist veterans and military students in achieving their personal and professional goals,
connecting them with peers and networking events to build a sense of community and working with university departments to holistically support those veterans. Its objectives represent Life University’s dedication to supporting veterans and their unique needs.
“The creation of the Center for Veteran Services and Engagement reflects Life University’s deep respect and appreciation for the sacrifices and contributions of our military and veteran students,” says Dr. Rob Scott, president of Life University. “We are committed to fostering an inclusive and empowering environment where these students can achieve their full potential.”
Lawrenceville
Loganville
Dacula
Life University Center for Veterans Services and Engagement
In addition to targeted resources that include specialized programs and services tailored to assist military and veteran students in achieving their educational and career goals, as well as its effort to help military and veteran students build a support network that enhances their university experience, the center develops partnerships with university departments to ensure that military and veteran students receive comprehensive assistance across all aspects of their university life and strives to acknowledge veterans’ sacrifices and contributions to create an inclusive environment where all students can thrive.
Veterans can visit the Life University website for more information and learn about tuition assistance.
Chattahoochee Technical College
Chattahoochee Technical College is ranked in the Top 10 Military Friendly Schools for 2024-25, and it’s clear to see why. The resources available at the college vary, with everything from the Superior Plumbing Veterans Education Career Transition Resource Center (VECTR) on its Marietta campus to the Green Zone and a veterans mentorship program.
In April of 2022, Chattahoochee Tech opened the VECTR Center to support veteran students and their dependents
through their academic transition as they their translate military skills and experience into training programs for high-demand careers. The center assists many of the 455 veterans enrolled at Chattahoochee Tech. Some of the popular programs for veterans include healthcare sciences, cybersecurity and interdisciplinary studies. Currently more than 1,200 veterans have directly sought services at the facility (including walk-ins), while another 300 have emailed or called for assistance with education benefits and disability claims or to seek resources for housing and counseling. What’s more, the Office of Career Development and the Counseling Department are located
inside the center, giving veteran students easy access to additional key support.
The VECTR Center was established through a $500,000 donation to the Chattahoochee Tech Foundation by Jay Cunningham, president of Superior Plumbing, along with a $2.25 million appropriation from the Georgia General Assembly.
Georgia Power donated $50,000 in 2023 to support the center, which represents a successful partnership with state and local leaders that benefits veterans and the business community. Veterans are educated and trained for the workforce, while local industry gains highly skilled talent.
Several resident service providers offer assistance at the VECTR Center as well,
Life University Center for Veterans Services and Engagement
Chattahoochee Technical College VECTR
including Connecting Cobb Veterans, the Georgia Department of Veteran Services and the VA Marietta Vet Center, among others, which are there to assist with everything from emergency lodging and benefits assistance to mental health counseling for depression. Veteran group meetings and training also are provided at the center with a classroom, flex room, interview room and a huddle room.
The Green Zone, which is a program from the Technical College System of Georgia, creates awareness and education about military culture and helps service members trying to reacclimate to civilian and college life, according to Michael Payne, director of veteran services at Chattahoochee Tech, who was honored as Veteran Champion of the Year in Higher Education by the Military Friendly organization. He says, “The Green Zone helps faculty and staff provide supportive services necessary to ensure that veteran students or veteran family members are successful in their family pursuits, adjust to the campus environment and eventually transition to civilian employment.”
One of the key goals of the Green Zone is to create safe places for veterans, with faculty and staff across the campus being identified as participants who have knowledge about issues facing veterans and their family members with a Green Zone emblem placed outside their office doors. Additionally, veteran students can relax in the Jim Cunningham Veterans Lounge, as well as meet with Chattahoochee Tech’s VA certifying official whenever necessary.
Finally, the Veteran Mentorship Program creates peer support among veterans to help them in the classroom, as well as transition into the workplace. New veteran students are paired with long-standing veteran counterparts on campus, who are there to help guide the new students as they move into academic—and civilian—life. Through the program, partici-
pating veterans gain career development opportunities, have a chance to demonstrate strengths and explore potential and expand their career network by building camaraderie with a fellow veteran. It’s just one more way that Chattahoochee Tech strives to help those who have served reach their full potential.
Michael Payne (left), director of veteran services at Chattahoochee Tech
METRO ATLANTA’S COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
1. Agnes Scott College
2. Atlanta Technical College
3. Brenau University
4. Chattahoochee Technical College
5. Clark Atlanta University
6. Clayton State University
7. DeVry University
8. Emory University
9. Georgia Gwinnett College
10. Georgia Institute of Technology
11. Georgia Piedmont Technical College
12. Georgia State University
13. Gwinnett Technical College
14. Kennesaw State University
15. Life University
16. Mercer University
17. Morehouse College
18. Reinhardt University
19. Oglethorpe University
20. Savannah College of Art & Design
21. Spelman College
22. UGA Terry College of Business
23. University of North Georgia
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
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
Bartow
Atlanta
CITIES OF BARTOW:
Distance from Cartersville to Downtown Atlanta 43 Miles
Distance from Cartersville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 53 Miles
POPULATION 115,041
MEDIAN HOME PRICE $328,310
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
• Piedmont Cartersville Medical Center
• Volstalpine Automotive Components
• Anheuser-Busch
ATTRACTIONS:
• Red Top Mountain State Park
• Tellus Science Museum
• Booth Western Art Museum
• LakePoint Sports Complex
• Barnsley Resort
Euharlee
Taylorsville
Cartersville
Adairsville adairsvillega.net
Brimming with Normal Rockwell-esque charm, Adairsville is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is home to the famed Barnsley Resort.
Cartersville cityofcartersville.org
As a gateway to the Atlanta metro area and the pristine beauty of the North Georgia mountains, Cartersville is perfectly poised for outdoor lovers and cultural enthusiasts with three Smithsonian Affiliate museums.
Emerson cityofemerson.org
LakePoint Sports Complex, spanning 1,300 acres, is an ongoing favorite and top destination for more than 20 sports, as is Terminus Wake Park, an all-ages watersports park.
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 history with a variety of artifacts, scrapbooks and photographs. A monument to Melvinia Shields, an ancestor to former First Lady Michelle Obama, marks Shields’ grave at the Queens Chapel Methodist Church.
Taylorsville
Taylorsville is just minutes away from Euharlee where history buffs can explore the oldest covered bridge in Georgia.
White cityofwhitega.com
A bedroom community of neighboring Cartersville, White covers one square mile of land, referred to as “The Friendliest Mile in Georgia,” and celebrated with a festival in April.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Bartow County Schools bartow.k12.ga.us
Cartersville City Schools cartersvilleschools.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 40 for the private 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
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
Booth Western Art Museum
Red Top Mountain State Park Downtown Cartersville
Cherokee County
CITIES OF CHEROKEE :
Distance from Canton to Downtown Atlanta 40 Miles
Distance from Canton to Hartsfield-Jackson
Atlanta Int’l Airport 50 Miles
POPULATION: 286,602
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $527,270
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% 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, historic homes and a mix of residential options.
Canton cantonga.gov
The county seat of Cherokee, Canton offers the perfect blend of historic charm, diverse attractions and activities, with a revitalized downtown that features a museum, murals and arts, parks and theater. Holly Springs hollyspringsga.us
Ranked as the safest city in Georgia by SafeWise in 2023 and 2024, Holly Springs residents can watch the evolution of a new town center with food truck alley nights, a new parking deck in anticipation of new walkable shops and new city hall and amphitheater.
Nelson nelsongeorgia.com
Located in both Cherokee and Pickens counties, Nelson is the “First Georgia Marble City.” Stone from the Georgia Marble Company account for many of the headstones at Arlington National Cemetery.
Waleska cityofwaleska.com
Home to Reinhardt University, Waleska also features a certified National Park Service Trail of Tears Interpretive Site on Reinhardt’s campus at the Funk Heritage Center.
Woodstock woodstockga.gov
Woodstock has transformed into a bustling and diverse community with a revitalized downtown and world-class trail system. It was named one of 21 finalists for the 2024 Intelligent Community of the Year.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Cherokee County Schools cherokee.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 40 for the private 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
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
Canton
Ball Ground
Holly Springs
Woodstock
Waleska
Gibbs Gardens Canton
Woodstock
Clayton County
CITIES OF CLAYTON:
Distance from Jonesboro to Downtown Atlanta 18 Miles
Distance from Jonesboro to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 15 Miles
POPULATION: 298,300
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $254,880
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8.75%
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
Forest Park forestparkga.gov
Forest Park is home to more than 19,000 people and the Atlanta State Farmers Market, with 150 acres of produce, plants, meats and cheeses with an on-site eatery.
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
Two of Lake City’s sources of pride are the Lake City Community Center, a nearly 5,000-square foot multi-use facility designed for weddings, birthday parties, reunions and city meetings, and the adjacent Oswalt Nature Preserve.
Lovejoy cityoflovejoy.com
Lovejoy, known as “The City of Peace,” strives to maintain the small-town community atmosphere, natural settings and old town historical values that continues to attract residents and businesses.
Morrow morrowga.gov
Morrow is home to Clayton State University, the Southeast Region Branch of the U.S. Archives, the Georgia Archives, the 165-acre Reynolds Nature Preserve and Spivey Hall, a stunning performance center.
Riverdale riverdalega.gov
Riverdale is located five miles south of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The Clayton County International Park, home to 17 tennis courts, was used in the 1996 Olympic competition.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Clayton County Schools clayton.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 40 for the private 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
Forest Park
Jonesboro
Lovejoy
Morrow Riverdale
Lake City
Lake City
Porshe Experience Center
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport
Cobb County
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:
Distance from Marietta to Downtown Atlanta 20 Miles
Distance from Marietta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 30 Miles
POPULATION 776,743
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $503,580
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7%
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:
• Amazon.com Services, Inc.
• The Home Depot
• Lockheed Martin Corp.
• Kennesaw State University
• Fed Ex Ground Package System
• Publix Supermarkets
• Walmart
• Wellstar Health System
• Piedmont Healthcare
Acworth acworth-ga.gov
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 and abundant recreational activities.
Austell austellga.gov
Although Austell is located just 18 miles from downtown Atlanta, It’s revitalized downtown gives it a small-town feel. The town is known for railfanning and the colorful train engines of the Atlanta rail lines.
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 first-rate parks, the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History and Kennesaw State University.
Mableton mableton.gov
Incorporated in 2022 and becoming Cobb County’s largest city with more than 78,000 residents, Mableton is home to Six Flags, the Historic Mable House and Mable House Amphitheater and access to the Silver Comet Trail.
Marietta mariettaga.gov
Historic Marietta Square serves as the city center for this vibrant and ever-growing community, boasting quaint shops, renowned restaurants, numerous museums, celebrated theatres and great hiking at Kennesaw Mountain.
Powder Springs cityofpowdersprings.org
Once a gold mining town, the city boasts a historic downtown, Thurman Springs Park, the Cobb County BMX Park and integrated bike and pedestrian trails.
Smyrna smyrnaga.gov
Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Atlanta and winner of the Urban Land Institute’s Award of Excellence, the “Jonquil City” is home to a wealth of family-friendly, diverse 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.
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 40 for the private schools listing and a map.
GRACEPOINT School gracepointschool.org
Mount Paran Christian School mtparanschool.org
North Cobb Christian School ncchrisitan.org
The Walker School thewalkerschool.org
Whitefield Academy whitefieldacademy.com
The Wood Acres School woodacresschool.org
Acworth
Austell Kennesaw
Marietta
Power Springs Smyrna
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Truist Park- Home of the Atlanta Braves
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
Marietta
Vinings
DeKalb County
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: 762,992
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $438,540
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8.9%
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
• State Farm
• Georgia Perimeter College
Avondale Estates avondaleestates.org
Named as a Tree City USA for 40 consecutive years by the Arbor Day Foundation, Avondale Estates is known for its beautiful setting and diverse architectural styles. It is named on the National Register of Historic Places.
Brookhaven brookhavenga.gov
Brookhaven’s community-focused vibe and urban amenities attract visitors and locals to its Saturday strolls at the farmers market or its multicultural dining corridor. The community’s tagline is “Belong Here.”
Chamblee chambleega.com
Chamblee is a vibrant city with a diverse community and plenty of international flair, with Antique Row, the Buford Highway Corridor, Chinatown Mall and the Chamblee Motor Mile.
Clarkston clarkstonga.gov
Clarkston, known as a welcoming walking and biking community, is noted for its diversity, with half of the residents foreign born and hailing from more than 50 countries.
Decatur decaturga.com
Decatur Square is bustling with boutiques and galleries and a thriving art and festival scene, as well as historical residential districts, 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, the city of Doraville is convenient for Atlanta commuters and home to the Buford Highway Farmers Market.
Dunwoody dunwoodyga.gov
Dunwoody is a shopping, dining and cultural hotspot in metro Atlanta in the heart of the Perimeter, making it a popular travel destination for both business and leisure.
Lithonia lithoniacity.org
Lithonia is a pedestrian-friendly city featuring interesting architecture and various businesses, as well as an amphitheater.
Doraville Chamblee
Decatur Avondale
Clarkston
Avondale Estates
Fernbank Museum
Decatur
DeKalb County
Pine Lake pinelakega.net
Pine Lake, the smallest city in DeKalb, is a community close to nature, where residents treasure and work diligently to protect the environment through programs like Stewards for Environmental Education and Design.
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 with an area that includes the Mall at Stonecrest, the Flat Rock Archives and the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area.
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. The park features outdoor recreational activities and seasonal family-friendly attractions.
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 40 for the private 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
Stone Mountain Park
Emory University
Concourse at Landmark Center, Dunwoody
Douglas County
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:
Distance from Douglasville to Downtown Atlanta 27 Miles
Distance from Douglasville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 23 Miles
POPULATION: 149,160
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $357,450
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 Services, Inc.
• Walmart
• Diverse Staffing Georgia, Inc.
• Gordon Food Service, Inc.
• Stitch Fix, Inc.
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 an historic downtown that has maintained its 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 40 for the private 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
Douglasville
Lithia Springs Villa Rica
Sweetwater Creek State Park
Foxhall Resort
Fayette County
• Line Creek Nature Area
• The City Gardens of Southern Oaks
• Georgia Renaissance Festival
• Serenbe Farms
CITIES OF FAYETTE:
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Fayette County Schools fcboe.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 40 for the private schools listing and a map.
Landmark Christian School landmarkchristianschool.org
Distance from Fayetteville to Downtown Atlanta 25 Miles
Distance from Fayetteville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 15 Miles
POPULATION: 123,351
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $533,460
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8%
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:
• Rinnai America Corp.
• Matsushita Electric Corp of America
• Hoshizaki America, Inc.
• Osmose Utilities Services, Inc.
• Trulite Glass & Aluminum Solutions
ATTRACTIONS:
• Atlanta Regional Airport
• Old Fayette County Courthouse
• Holliday-Dorsey-Fife Museum
Brooks brooksga.com
Brooks is well-known for its friendly people, active churches, wholesome and casual outdoor lifestyle with a rural feel.
Fayetteville fayetteville-ga.gov
Fayetteville’s Main Street is undergoing a revitalization, drawing new businesses to the community while maintaining the city’s historical streetscape.
Peachtree City peachtree-city.org
Georgia’s oldest and largest master-planned community, Peachtree City features a sprawling network of golf cart paths connecting residents to shopping, dining and golf.
Tyrone tyronega.gov
This town offers an active parks and recreation department with classes, camps and sporting leagues. Businesses range from locally owned coffee shops to nationally recognized performing arts venues.
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.
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:
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
Distance from Cumming to Downtown Atlanta
38 Miles
Distance from Cumming to Hartsfield-Jackson
Atlanta Int’l Airport 49 Miles
POPULATION: 272,887
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $653,390
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
• Healthport Technologies, Inc.
• Koch Foods
• Tyson Poultry, Inc.
• Lazer Sport, Inc.
• Administaff Companies LLC
• Century Li Staffing
• Walmart
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. Cumming offers an aquatic center, recreation center, a seasonal park on the shores of Lake Lanier and the recently opened Cumming City Center.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Forsyth County Schools forsyth.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 40 for the private 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.
City of Cumming Water Department cummingutilities.com
Forsyth County Water forsythco.com
H Select provider
Cumming
Big Creek Greenway
HALCYON
Cumming Fairgrounds
Fulton County
CITIES OF FULTON:
Chattahoochee Hills chatthillsga.us
Chattahoochee Hills is home to Serenbe, an agrarian community. The city is committed to sustainable development and environmental conservation with thousands of acres of rural forest and farmlands.
College Park collegeparkga.com
Distance from Atlanta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 10 Miles
POPULATION: 1,079,105
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $571,420
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:
• Northside Hospital
• Piedmont Healthcare
• Marriott International
• Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
• Cox Enterprises
ATTRACTIONS:
• Mercedes-Benz Stadium
• The Georgia Aquarium
• Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Zoo Atlanta
• Piedmont Park
• High Museum of Art
• The Fox Theatre
• Ponce City Market
Atlanta atlantaga.gov
Home to the regional, national and global headquarters for many Fortune 500 and 1000 corporations, Atlanta also boasts scores of historical sites (Martin Luther King Jr. Center, the Carter Presidential Library and Museum), High Museum of Art, professional sports venues, Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta Botanical Garden and much more.
Alpharetta alpharetta.ga.us
Named one of the South’s Best Cities on the Rise 2024 by Southern Living magazine, 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 complements its recreational opportunities, cultural diversity and consistent rankings among Georgia’s safest cities.
Milton miltonga.gov
A highly affluent city, Milton is known for its wide open, beautiful natural spaces and small-town feel. The community’s emphasis on rural heritage and culture enhances its stellar reputation as one of metro Atlanta’s most sought-after locales.
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, 900 acres of green space, many well-preserved historical sites and a ranking as SafeWise’s 19th safest city in Georgia in 2020, Roswell is a family-oriented community. Many residents can be found hiking, biking or kayaking along the Chattahoochee River.
Sandy Springs andyspringsga.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 a booming business community.
South Fulton cityofsouthfultonga.gov
South Fulton ranks eighth out of Georgia’s incorporated cities and towns with a population of 108,575. The city hosts a city academy, South Fulton U, to educate residents about city operations and engage them to improve these processes.
Located near Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Interstates I-85 and I-285, College Park is the home of the Georgia International Convention Center, the second largest exhibit and meeting space in the state.
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 and appealing historic character and walkability.
Fairburn fairburn.com
As a part of the award-winning revitalization plan, Fairburn’s two train depots have been transformed into restaurants. Fairburn draws thousands of visitors each year to the Georgia Renaissance Festival.
Hapeville hapeville.org
Hapeville is a founding member of Aerotropolis Atlanta, designed to attract international corporations, logistics companies and others to the busiest airport in the world, HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport.
Palmetto citypalmetto.com
Palmetto is located 25 miles south of Atlanta t on the former Atlanta and West Point Railroad. It is home to the SOOFA Ranch, a nonprofit equine assisted therapy center.
Union City unioncityga.org
Union City features parks and trails, and a music and arts festival in October. 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.
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.
South Fulton
Midtown
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 40 for the private schools listing and a map.
The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy davisacademy.org
Atlanta Academy atlantaacademy.com
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
Mount Pisgah Christian School mountpisgahschool.org
The Mount Vernon School mountvernonschool.org
Pace Academy paceacademy.org
Saint Francis Schools saintfrancisschools.com
Springmont springmont.com
Trinity School trinityatl.org
Wesleyan School wesleyanschool.org
Westminster Westminster.net
Woodward Academy woodward.edu
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Clark Atlanta University cau.edu
Emory University emory.edu
Georgia Institute of Technology gatech.edu
Georgia State University gsu.edu
Morehouse College morehouse.edu
Spelman College spelman.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
City of College Park collegeparkga.com
City of Fairburn fairburn.com
City of Palmetto citypalmetto.com
WATER
Fulton County Water fultoncountyga.gov
City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management atlantawatershed.org
Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com
Roswell Water Department roswellgov.com
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Mercedes Benz Stadium, Home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United
Ponce City Market
Gwinnett County
ATTRACTIONS:
• Coolray Field
• Infinite Energy Center
• Lake Lanier
• Southeastern Railway Museum
• Freeman’s Mill Park
• Château Élan Winery & Resort
CITIES OF GWINNETT:
Distance from Lawrenceville to Downtown Atlanta 31 Miles
Distance from Lawrenceville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 42 Miles
POPULATION: 983,526
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $451,930
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8%
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 County Schools
• Northside Hospital
• Publix
• Gwinnett Co. Government
• Walmart
Berkeley Lake berkeleylake.com
Named for its beautiful 88-acre lake, Berkeley Lake was recognized in 2019 as one of the Best Suburbs to Live in Georgia by USA Today and was designated an Urban Wildlife Sanctuary. Braselton braselton.net
Home to Château Élan Winery & Resort, Braselton rests in four counties: Gwinnett, Hall, Jackson and Barrow. It is also home to sportscar racing at the Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. 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. The Mall of Georgia has shopping and entertainment under one roof, more than two million square feet.
Dacula daculaga.gov
Dacula is at the center of Georgia’s Innovation Crescent, a geographic area of 15 counties. It is known for its small town charm and sense of community.
Duluth duluthga.net
Duluth is home to retail and cultural centers, terrific live music and art scene, top-notch healthcare facilities and a high quality of life. Grayson cityofgrayson.org
Grayson is evolving from a small town into a sophisticated, popular city for families, with excellent schools, quality housing, parks, restaurants and shopping.
Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org
Gwinnett’s oldest city, Lawrenceville mixes newer buildings with Antebellum homes, the town’s original square and the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse.
Lilburn cityoflilburn.com
Home to the Southeast’s largest Hindu temple, Lilburn seamlessly meshes its global culture with small town neighborly charm.
Loganville loganville-ga.gov
The unique blend of hometown feel combined with modern conveniences draws companies and organizations to Loganville. The city is located only minutes from universities and technical colleges.
Norcross norcrossga.net
Norcross has restored many of the town’s historic sites and is home to several museums, art galleries, public art and gallery receptions, and a flourishing health and wellness scene downtown.
Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersga.gov
Known for its picturesque parks, lush green spaces and plenty of outdoor activity, Peachtree Corners offers residents plenty of outdoor activity and events at the Town Green at the Town Center.
Snellville snellville.org
Snellville is a hub for arts and recreation and hosts an annual fall festival. Residents have access to T.W. Briscoe Park with a seven-acre lake and a variety of adult and youth programs.
Sugar Hill cityofsugarhill.com
Sugar Hill is mere minutes away from Lake Sidney Lanier and the North Georgia Mountains.
Suwanee suwanee.com
Known for its high-quality mixed-use developments, a variety of housing options and the largest public school system in Georgia, Suwanee was named one of the Best Places to Live for Families in 2024 by Fortune Magazine.
Atlanta Gwinnett
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 40 for the private 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
CITIES OF HALL:
Distance from Gainesville to Downtown Atlanta 54 Miles
Distance from Gainesville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 64 Miles
POPULATION: 217,267
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $425,390
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8%
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:
• Cottrell, Inc.
• Gold Creek Foods
• Northeast Georgia Medical Center
• Kubota Manufacturing of America
• Fieldale Farms Corp.
ATTRACTIONS:
• Château Élan Winery & Resort
• Road Atlanta
• Lake Lanier Islands and Golf Resort
• Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville
• Buford Corn Maze
• Northeast Georgia History Center
Braselton braselton.net
Home to Château Élan Winery & Resort, Braselton rests in four counties: Gwinnett, Hall, Jackson and Barrow. It is also home to sportscar racing at the Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.
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. The Mall of Georgia has shopping and entertainment under one roof, more than two million square feet.
Clermont clermontga.com
The rural farming community of Clermont comprises a total area of three-square miles and is known for its annual Clermont Days Festival.
Flowery Branch flowerybranchga.org
Flowery Branch is home to the Atlanta Falcons Training Complex and a revitalized historic downtown area known as Old Town with quaint buildings dating back to the 1800s.
Gainesville gainesville.org
As the county seat, Gainesville serves as the business, government and cultural center of the region.
Gillsville townofgillsville.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 was a railroad hub; it is known today for its annual Railroad Days Festival.
Oakwood cityofoakwood.net
Oakwood city leaders are planning for growth with a vision for the future known as Oakwood 2030, part of Hall County’s Vision 2030, with wellness-oriented living through greenspace, attractive streetscapes, walking trails and bike paths.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Hall County Schools hallco.org
Gainesville City Schools gcssk12.net
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 40 for the private 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
Lake Lanier
Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville Atlanta Falcons Training Facility
Henry County
• Army Aviation Heritage Foundation & Flying Museum
• Southern Belle Farm
CITIES OF HENRY:
Distance from McDonough to Downtown Atlanta 30 Miles
Distance from McDonough to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles
POPULATION: 254,613
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $367,750
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8% 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:
• Exel Logistics
• Georgia Power Company
• Progressive Casualty Insurance Co.
• Employbridge Southeast
• Henry Medical Center, Inc.
ATTRACTIONS:
• Atlanta Motor Speedway
• Panola Mountain State Park
• Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary
• Cubihatcha Outdoor Center
Hampton hamptonga.gov
Best known as home to the Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton has more visitors than any other city in the county.
Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov
Located within 35 miles of downtown Atlanta, Locust Grove offers dining and lodging options and shopping at retail businesses, including the Tanger Outlets.
McDonough mcdonoughga.org
Attractions include the Southern Belle Farm, a 200-acre working farm with seasonal family activities like a corn maze, pumpkin patch and strawberry picking, and the historic town square with boutiques and galleries.
Stockbridge stockbridgega.org
Known as the “Gateway to Henry County,” Stockbridge hosts popular musical acts at its amphitheater and supports economic development and small-town hospitality.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Henry County Schools henry.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 40 for the private 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
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Stockbridge
McDonough
Hampton
Locust Grove
Atlanta Motor Speedway
Eagles Landing Country Club
Panola State Park
Paulding County
• The Dallas Theater
• High Shoals Falls
• Moonlight Stables Equestrian Center
CITIES OF PAULDING:
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Atlanta Paulding
Distance from Dallas to Downtown Atlanta 33 Miles
Distance from Dallas to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 37 Miles
POPULATION: 183,164
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $381,590
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7%
ONLINE paulding.gov
Once devoted to agriculture, including livestock, corn, oats, pecans and poultry, Paulding County has diversified and taken an industrial path in recent years, leading to substantial growth in the county.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Chick-fil-a
• Wellstar Paulding Hospital
• Georgia Doctors of Optometry, LLC.
• Kroger
• Walmart
ATTRACTIONS:
• Paulding Northwest Atlanta Airport
• Silver Comet Trail
• Pickett’s Mill Battlefield State Historic Site
Braswell braswellga.org
With city limits in both Polk and Paulding counties, Braswell is a rural community of less than 500 residents that welcomes bicyclists, joggers and walkers along the Silver Comet Trail.
Dallas dallasga.gov
As Paulding’s county seat, Dallas is known for its quaint and friendly historic downtown community, where visitors can enjoy shopping and entertainment at the renovated Dallas Theater.
Hiram cityofhiramga.gov
Hiram has progressed into a commercial corridor for Paulding County with a downtown business district that offers casual and relaxing dining, shopping and entertainment.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Paulding County Schools paulding.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 40 for the private 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.
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
Dallas
Hiram
Braswell
Silver Comet Trail
Hiram
WellStar Paulding Hospital
Rockdale County
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
Distance from Conyers to Downtown Atlanta 25 Miles
Distance from Conyers to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles
POPULATION: 95,987
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $339,200
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8%
ONLINE rockdalecountyga.gov
Despite being Georgia’s second smallest county, Rockdale County has experienced substantial growth in recent years. Twenty-five miles away from Downtown Atlanta, Rockdale offers commercial diversity for business and a variety of opportunities for families.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Golden State Foods
• Hill Phoenix, Inc.
• Pratt Industries
• DiversiTech Corp.
• Piedmont Rockdale Hospital
CITIES OF ROCKDALE: Conyers
Conyers conyersga.com
Conyers is a combination of small town and big city, with rural scenes and urban shopping, featuring the Georgia International Horse Park, the Big Haynes Creek Nature Center and a bustling downtown.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Rockdale County Schools rockdaleschools.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 40 for the private 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.
