It’s understandable why so many people move to and leave the Peach State, whether it’s due to its rich history, mouthwatering culinary scene, or reduced cost of living. most popular cities in georgia has a lot to offer individuals looking for a tranquil life, including various historic little towns with charming downtown areas and convenient outdoor access.
Families and young professionals will have a wide range of options, though, as Georgia boasts big cities home to Fortune 500 corporations and lively college towns, whether in Atlanta’s downtown or one of the numerous nearby suburbs that provide a vibrant local economy and a wealth of attractions.
best cities in georgia
1. Alpharetta
Downtown Alpharetta has undergone a renovation effort, which has made it a center for great food, recreation, and culture. Alpharetta, an Atlanta suburb, has a distinct character. The approximately 60,000 residents of the area can take advantage of several neighboring attractions, such as the Avalon, a large community center.
You can shop, practice yoga on the outside lawn in the morning, or catch a blockbuster movie at the theater at the center. However, Alpharetta boasts a charming downtown with a great mix of live music, art galleries, and plenty of dining options, similar to many other North Atlanta neighborhoods.
Residents and guests can enjoy the town’s large farmers market, art festivals, and community events all year.
2. Roswell
Roswell is a city that offers a lot of things. It has a stunning historic downtown and eighteen verdant urban parks. Roswell, in Fulton County, is home to slightly under 100,000 people. Despite its size, the city has a strong sense of community and a more rural atmosphere.
Roswell, which is about 40 minutes north of Atlanta, has a higher-than-average employment rate and a cheaper cost of living than much of the metro area.
Renowned around the country, the historic downtown district entices long-term inhabitants to take another walking tour. From April to October, every third Thursday, this portion of town comes alive with activity.
Additionally, the community comes together for delicious cuisine, live music, and a wide selection of merchants during the Alive in Roswell celebration.
3. Marietta
Marietta’s proximity to Atlanta’s center is one of many things that draw visitors to the city. The 60,000 residents can also use the many cultural attractions, such as museums and historic theaters, that are only a short stroll away. They are both enhanced by a variety of public parks and gardens.
With nearly 20 miles of hiking trails, the neighboring Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is great for fresh air.
Excellent public education is available in Marietta, including at one of the top institutions in the state. Marietta’s appeal to families and young professionals is understandable, considering it has a less expensive housing market than central Atlanta.
4. Columbus
Columbus, sometimes referred to as Fountain City, is the location of numerous water features added in the early 1900s. However, Columbus has a lot more intriguing things to offer. The town that popularized Coca-Cola boasts a bustling downtown surrounded by gorgeous Antebellum mansions daily and an excellent array of local events and nightlife by night.
Speaking of events, there are always excellent farmers markets, music festivals, and culinary events every week. Both locals and tourists adore the RiverWalk, highlighting the city’s history. Columbus is also near Fort Benning, a significant Army installation housing over 120,000 military personnel and their families.
5. Gainesville
An hour’s drive north of Atlanta, Gainesville is an outdoor enthusiast’s heaven. Not only does the town have the gorgeous Lake Lanier, but it also hosted rowing competitions during the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
Situated 35 minutes south of the Georgia Mountains and 45 minutes from downtown Atlanta, Gainesville offers abundant outdoor activities on the river and nearby mountains. Having the best of both worlds is the motto of this place.
Gainesville, a significant hub for northeast Georgia, has excellent economic prospects, a reasonable cost of living, and a median home price. As a result, locals may savor life’s comforts amidst breathtaking scenery. Families and couples who wish to live in the country but still be connected to the city will find the general work/life balance appealing.
6. Augusta
Augusta strikes a mix between access to the environment and big-city facilities, being part of the southern metropolis and the country town. The cost of living at the home of the Masters is 10% less than the national average, which makes it a pleasant change from Atlanta, the other major metropolis in the state. Augusta is an excellent place for families to travel because parks and outdoor activities are nearby.
Augusta, located along the Savannah River, is the oldest city in Georgia. This fact is readily apparent due to the stunning buildings along 8th and Broad Street. The unique boutiques of Broad Street are spread out across its spaciousness, while the Augusta Market, located on 8th Street, showcases local artists and delicious food.
7. Atlanta
Atlanta, the state’s capital, is home to a thriving indie music scene and a significant hub for industry. Both locals and tourists will find it easy to access the wide range of tourist sites, including the Coca-Cola Museum and the Georgia Aquarium. Aside from the NHL, the best tourist attractions atlanta city is represented in all major sports.
With so many free activities available, including strolling along the Beltline Trail and Piedmont Park, Atlanta never has a dull moment. It’s easy to see how your schedule will fill up rapidly.
The city’s growth is accompanied by the emergence of hip pubs and restaurants and the development of nearby suburbs like Buckhead. In addition, the city is home to 18 Fortune 500 businesses and serves as a Delta Airlines hub. It is now straightforward to fly domestically from Atlanta.
8. Macon
Macon, located in central Georgia, offers a charming lifestyle that complements its convenient location. Like Athens below, Macon is a college town that offers its citizens a bustling downtown offering a large selection of eating options and exciting nightlife.
Macon is more than just a social town; it is the location of numerous important museums, including the largest museum in the US, the Tubman Museum. Strong ties to Southern rock and soul music have also led to the construction of the Allman Brothers Band Museum and several music festivals in the city.
The only spiral mound in North America may be seen at the historic Ocmulgee National Monument, which is also accessible to visitors in Macon.
9. Athens
History lovers and fans of historic buildings will adore Athens because it is the beginning of Georgia’s Antebellum Trail. However, the University of Georgia is arguably the main factor that makes Athens a great destination to live and visit today. It is the nation’s first public university and houses The Museum of Art and the Georgia Museum of Natural History.
In addition to the vibrant academic community that enhances Athens’ history and culture, inhabitants enjoy a vibrant dining and nightlife scene that hosts events virtually every weekend. Being only an hour from Atlanta and having everything within walking distance, the low median housing price is the icing on the cake.
10. Canton
One of the towns in Georgia that is expanding the fastest is Canton, tucked away in the lovely Blue Ridge Mountain foothills. Many outdoor activities, as well as cultural and social attractions, have contributed to Canton’s rapid expansion.
Canton isn’t overwhelmed by the new developments; he still feels like Canton. This results from the city’s ties to the Cherokee Nation and several historic structures, including the century-old Canton Theater.
Along with the Etowah River, Canton’s natural surroundings continue to provide its citizens with a wealth of healthful, enjoyable activities. The school system in the area is excellent, and there are many kid-friendly activities in the community.
11. Savannah
There’s an indisputable appeal to the moss-lined streets that envelop the famous sites and historic buildings. Savannah, next to the same-named river, blends historic antebellum homes, Forsyth Park, and contemporary dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Visitors will rapidly get enamored with the area’s architecture, renowned museums, and eerily gorgeous cemeteries, which are only surpassed by those in New Orleans. The area is often called the “Hostess of the South.” Though it has southern roots, the cuisine scene in the area is surprisingly diversified.
There’s a party vibe on River Street at night, which is quite different from the most popular cities in georgia, peaceful cobblestone lanes around the corner. Savannah offers a little something for everyone, especially with Tybee Beach’s snow-white sands only a short drive away.
12. Decatur
You won’t be able to argue with the adage that “everything is greener in Decatur,” as this quaint community in DeKalb County will prove. The well-educated neighborhood is an excellent choice for young families since it offers many outdoor recreational opportunities, fine dining options, and exciting shopping.
With only 27,000 residents, the town is small enough for locals and tourists to enjoy it without the crowds. This is true even though Decatur is close to all the facilities and attractions in Atlanta’s downtown.
Decatur’s main thoroughfares are lined with quaint cafés, specialty stores, and pubs. Together, they help to lessen the shock of the rising median home prices.
