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2019 Best Suburbs to Live in the Atlanta AreaAbout this List

Explore the best suburbs to live in the U.S. based on crime, public schools, cost of living, job opportunities, and local amenities. Ranking based on data from the U.S. Census, FBI, BLS, CDC, and other sources. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 121
Best Places to Live
121 results

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  1. Decatur

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 137 reviews
    #1 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: I go to Agnes Scott College, and I love walking downtown on the weekends to study at a coffee shop, try new food, or shop for Christmas/birthday gifts. There are lots of unique shops and restaurants. Choose your coffee shop carefully, though; Starbucks is always packed!
    Read 137 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 22,022 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  2. Johns Creek

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 256 reviews
    #2 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: What I love about Johns Creek, GA are the people and the safe environment we all live in. People are connected through social media and apps such as Next Door, creating a sense of a close-knit community. We have a Founder's Day Parade every year which also brings excitement and unity. Annually, there is also a Johns Creek Arts Festival that is held to encourage young children to join the arts and to celebrate people of the arts. Another reason why I love Johns Creek is that all of the schools are not only academically excellent. The amount of service clubs, fine arts clubs, sports clubs, and fun-orientated clubs (like Gaming Club, for example) are high in demand as many, many students join in each school! So many children with ambitious drives join that there is high competition between the different schools in this area! I would definitely recommend Johns Creek as a place to settle down!
    Read 256 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 83,397 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  3. Alpharetta

    • Town in Georgia
    • 275 reviews
    #3 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: I would not change growing up and living in Alpharetta for anything! Alpharetta is constantly developing and improving. They have added a very trendy downtown area which offers something for everyone: breweries, restaurants, shopping, and childrens' areas. Its a perfect place for a nice afternoon with the family or a date night with your significant other.
    The schools in the area are some of the best in the state. I say this based on my own education k-12 in the local schools: Crabapple Crossing, Northwestern, and Milton.
    Unfortunately, Alpharetta is not very diverse. I would like to see it improve its affordability and access to public transportation to make it available for all classes of people. I would say this is the one downside.
    With a little bit more social progression, Alpharetta really can be a place for everyone!
    Read 275 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 63,929 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  4. Berkeley Lake

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 8 reviews
    #4 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Former Resident: I lived in Berkeley Lake for thirty years it is absolutely one of the finest communities in America.
    Berkeley Lake has a city charter with a Mayor and city council so the city is able to better control it’s destiny.
    The Homeowners Association is very involved in keeping the lake itself in wonderful condition for wildlife and the homeowners.
    Fabulous Memories of the people and the beauty of the Lake.
    Read 8 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 2,005 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  5. North Decatur

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 18 reviews
    #5 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: I’ve lived here most of my life. I consider this to be a safe neighborhood with diverse culture and insight. Affordability unfortunately has become an issue.
    Read 18 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B-
      Public Schools
    • 16,944 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  6. Vinings

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 17 reviews
    #6 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: I've been living and raising my family here since 2011. Its condos, independent homes and town homes are classy yet affordable. This area is just minutes away from I-75, and stunningly close to both Buckhead and Downtown.

    Vinings can be as laid back or thrilling as you would like to make it for yourself. Every amenity, restaurant and shopping opportunity is easily accessible. Sun Trust Park and the Battery are the cherry on top!

    This County (Cobb) has excellent elementary, middle and high schools. But if you want to go private, more than one of those are located right here too. My children have all graduated from the Cobb County system and are now studying in Ivy League Universities!

    It's a safe neighborhood which you will be happy to live in for years to come. No matter where you go, you will always cherish your experiences from living in Vinings and speak of them with pride and fondness.
    Read 17 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Public Schools
    • 12,635 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  9. Peachtree Corners

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 59 reviews
    #7 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: Love the area. Friendly people, great neighborhood communities and a wonderful place to raise kids. We moved into our neighborhood a year ago and immediately found a group of young families new to the area to link up with. Being close to so much is a major plus also!
    Read 59 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 41,907 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  10. Milton

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 118 reviews
    #8 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: Milton is a very safe and diverse area with great schools, great for families! I have lived here for 5 years and have only good things to say. Milton has a small town feel with large city resources. The job market is booming and opportunities are endless. It is driving distance, about 30 minutes, to the major city of Atlanta.
    Read 118 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 37,556 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  11. Suwanee

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 142 reviews
    #9 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: I love everything about Suwanee! It's a wonderful town; I definitely recommend it for families. Suwanee Town Center is a great park with weekly family events. Suwanee contains unique restaurants and it's not too far from Atlanta. Night life could be better because it's a family town. It's extremely safe and affordable. I go to a public high school in Suwanee: Peachtree Ridge. It's a fantastic school.
    Read 142 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 18,655 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  12. Druid Hills

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 5 reviews
    #10 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: Quiet neighborhood, streets are lined with trees and giant houses. It's close to Emory University and Virginia Highland/Little 5 Point nightlife. It's an amazing spot to be in.
    Read 5 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B-
      Public Schools
    • 13,895 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  13. Roswell

    • Town in Georgia
    • 233 reviews
    #11 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: It's where I grew up! It's a suburb outside of Atlanta and is a safe area. The public schools are really good academically and there's a lot of parks and recreation centers. You can also go to downtown Roswell where there's a lot of trendy restaurants. A lot of people go there for a night out on the town. They also have an "Alive in Roswell" event which is the third Thursday of every month. This is when they close off part of the road so you can walk around and play games, eat at food trucks, and see live bands! The people you will find living here would be families and people who want to live an average, laid back life. Overall, Roswell is a great place for families to live or for people to visit.
    Read 233 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 94,239 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  14. Smyrna

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 149 reviews
    #12 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: What I enjoy about living in Smyrna is the diversity and openness of the city. Whenever you have a request, question or concern, someone is always willing to learn and solve the problem. In all honestly, I would say that it would not be an issue of timeliness because the situations at hand maybe not be handled quickly. They may take some time. However, the situation won't be left hanging in the dust, it will get solved. Smyrna, GA is a suburb in the surrounding Metropolitan area of Atlanta, GA. Very diverse, very optimistic, very compassionate, resourceful and SAFE!
    Read 149 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B+
      Public Schools
    • 55,467 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  15. Duluth

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 144 reviews
    #13 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: Just moved to Duluth from the North a year ago. We wanted to settle down somewhere in the suburbs of Atlanta and didn’t have any idea where. We chose Duluth to start which wasn’t a permanent dececision but with its booming development, impressive downtown organizations and events, feeling of safety, and overall ammenities for our money we just don’t want to move anywhere else. I see home prices rising and affordability might not last for that long because it continues to get nicer and nicer. We love it hear! Duluth continues to impress me and the mayor really seems to have her eye on the prize and it makes us excited about all we can enjoy here.
    Read 144 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 28,988 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  16. Tyrone

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 38 reviews
    #14 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: I've lived in Tyrone for over 12 years now, and it's the most peaceful town you'll ever visit! It is safe to say that not much happens, but that doesn't take away from all fun attractions you can enjoy with friends and family like the Tyrone park or visiting its neighboring city, Peachtree city. This city is truly one of its kind and is a great place to get away from the stress of a fast paced life.
    Read 38 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 7,199 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  17. Mountain Park

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 20 reviews
    #15 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: A wonderful family friendly family neighborhood. Close enough to walk to nearby park and/or high school.
    Read 20 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 13,830 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  18. North Druid Hills

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 22 reviews
    #16 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: North Druid Hills is the perfect to place to live if you want to be connected to all of Atlanta. We're a few minutes away from Decatur, Midtown, Buckhead, Little 5 Points, and much much more! In 2 minutes you can get on 400, 85, 285, 75 and go wherever your heart desires. The area is safe. I walk or bike to all the different shops around my area and have never felt in danger. Diversity is huge around here. There are many different restaurants available to you such as ethiopian, thai, vietnamese, mexican, latin american, italian, greek, etc. If you love to eat out, this is a perfect place for you. Many choices with affordable prices!
    Read 22 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B-
      Public Schools
    • 18,288 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  19. Peachtree City

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 137 reviews
    #17 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: The city is great for young families and older families. They have lots of exciting events and good dining however, for younger people with no families this isn't the most ideal town. Still, lots of friendly people who love to connect which is lovely!
    Read 137 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 34,988 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  22. Dunwoody

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 144 reviews
    #18 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: Dunwoody has a small town feel with all of the amenities of a big city. It's the best of both worlds! People are very friendly. There are many wonderful parks, woods, and walking trails. There are countless outdoor concerts, festivals, and family-friendly activities. Dunwoody even hosts the largest 4th of July parade in Georgia. The neighborhoods are very safe and the public schools are some of the best in the state. Yet Dunwoody is centrally located to all of metro Atlanta's major job centers so commute times average just 15-25 minutes. (It only takes 5 minutes to get to 285, 85, and 400- Atlanta's three main highways.) Dunwoody has a great selection of restaurants and shops. It has one of the largest shopping malls in the Southeast- Perimeter Mall. Dunwoody is a wonderful place to raise a family where you won't have to compromise anything- commute, schools, safety, shopping, or amenities. Dunwoody has it all and we feel so blessed to live here!
    Read 144 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B-
      Public Schools
    • 48,857 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  23. Sugar Hill

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 62 reviews
    #19 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: Sugar Hill is a quickly-growing and spread out area that has the potential to be so great. Although there isn't too much to do at the moment, neighboring cities, such as Suwanee or Buford, are close and allow Sugar Hill to be a safe family-friendly area. The Sugar Hill Bowl, that is currently being built, will provide great nightlife and a way to bring the community together. This small town provides multiple parks and a great education system, making it great for children and a good place to raise a family.
    Read 62 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 21,644 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  24. Kennesaw

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 246 reviews
    #20 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: As a student that attends Kennesaw State University, I can say that the area of Kennesaw is a perfect fit for just about anybody. The community has a substantial amount of trees and nature on every turn, making the air itself feel ever so refreshing. There is a variety of historical parks and hiking grounds fit for family activities. If you're more of in indoors person there is an amazing mall, a fun arcade, and even an indoor trampoline house where you can get some exercise going! The citizens in the area are very friendly, so there will always be one more person you can consider family. If you'd like to see a melting pot of diversity in the Kennesaw community, I definitely recommend visiting the Kennesaw State campus. There is a large variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds at KSU, the school has even been nationally recognized for such.
    Read 246 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 33,433 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  25. Avondale Estates

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 6 reviews
    #21 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: This is a unique neighborhood with a beautiful community lake, park, playground, and swim/tennis facility that dates back to the 1940s and is still loved today. It is inside the perimeter and close to Decatur, another great neighborhood. The architecture is extremely varied - there is a house here for any taste. Neighbors are friendly and helpful and everyone is out walking and enjoying the area and the frequent social events like fireworks, pig roasts, and festivals. House prices are reasonable and there are a variety of quality school options including The Museum School, Waldorf, Montessori, and The Friends School. It is a safe, small town within a large Metro Area. Awesome!
    Read 6 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C+
      Public Schools
    • 3,117 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  26. Sandy Springs

    • City in Georgia
    • 174 reviews
    #22 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: I've been living in Sandy Springs for ten years now and I absolutely love it! Everywhere I need to go is highly accessible and not far away at all. I go walking to the Riverside Park all the time and having the Sandy Springs library near is so convenient. You will never get bored here, as there is always something fun to do around the corner. If you've never visited this city, I highly recommend you do, and bring your family while you're at it!
    Read 174 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B+
      Public Schools
    • 103,703 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  27. Brookhaven

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 49 reviews
    #23 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: Brookhaven is great! It is very up and coming so a lot of recent college grads and young families live in the area. It is cheaper than living in Buckhead, yet it is only 5-10 minutes from Buckhead. There are so many new restaurants, grocery stores, gyms, coffee shops, nail salons, hair salons, etc. that are all within a 5-10 minute drive or even a short walk from the Brookhaven neighborhoods. There are things to do for all ages whether it be dog parks, kid parks, bars, restaurants, or spas. It is not too loud but it is close enough to the heart of Atlanta to where it is not boring.
    Read 49 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C+
      Public Schools
    • 52,382 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  28. Fayetteville

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 88 reviews
    #24 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: Fayetteville is a great city if your into a calm vibe kind of town. Fayetteville has no nightlife but it does have many good events for the community to participate in. The houses here are gorgeous and very beautiful and intricate. I could stare all day at the houses and how well they were made. I love it here! I would recommend this city fore newly weds and first born children. I think the schools are okay but still very nice. I think the best school would have to be River Edge Elementary. It is such a lovely school. Great city!
    Read 88 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 17,069 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  29. Buford

    • Suburb of Atlanta, GA
    • 127 reviews
    #25 Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta Area

    Current Resident: I love Buford. Everything you need is right in this little city. The choice of restaurants is insane. You can find anything you want in this city. I love that this is the most diverse county in Georgia. That's not hyperbole, that's actually a fact. Of course if you're into malls, the biggest mall in Georgia is right here in Buford. You have access to all the interstates right from Buford. The people are nice. I moved here 6 years ago. I've lived many places, including overseas, due to being in the military. Buford is where I retired to. I'm so happy I chose this place. My daughter graduated from a great high school in the area & is currently going to college for free, due to the HOPE scholarship for GA graduates. Don't miss out on Buford! Excellent place to buy a home!
    Read 127 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 14,662 Population
    View Nearby Homes
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