Moving to Atlanta – A Complete Relocation Guide

You know you’re from Atlanta when you don’t have to worry about snow, but you can’t escape the traffic!

If you are reading this, it means you're thinking about moving to Atlanta. Well, buckle up because you’re at the right place!

Atlanta isn’t just a place on the map—it's a city where the old meets the new, and Southern charm blends perfectly with a growing economy.

Did you know that Atlanta’s population has been growing at a rate of 1.5% annually? With more than 498,000 people already calling it home, it’s no wonder this place is on the rise.

It’s a melting pot of culture, innovation, and good old-fashioned Southern hospitality.

Plus, the cost of living is a lot more affordable than you’d think.

In fact, the average rent in Atlanta is around $1,710 for a one-bedroom apartment, which is about 4-5% lower than the national average for a major city.

So, if you’re coming from high-rent cities like New York, San Francisco or Los Angeles, get ready to stretch those dollars further!

But before you start packing your bags, there’s a lot to know about living in Atlanta.

So, let's

discuss everything related to relocating to Atlanta, and trust us, you'll want to read every word.

Pros and Cons of Moving to Atlanta, Georgia

We start things off by talking about the pros of moving to Atlanta and also its drawbacks.

Pros:

Affordable Cost of Living: As we've mentioned earlier, Atlanta is much more affordable than cities like New York, San Francisco, or Chicago. The cost of housing—whether renting or buying is reasonable.

Strong Job Market: Atlanta is a hub for several major industries, including film production, tech, finance, and logistics. There are opportunities for both entry-level and experienced professionals.

Rich Cultural Scene: From world-class museums and historic sites to live music and theater, Atlanta is a cultural melting pot. You’ll never run out of things to do!

Southern Hospitality: If you're moving from a more fast-paced city, the friendly and welcoming nature of people in Atlanta will be a refreshing change.

Great Weather: If you like mild winters and hot, sunny summers, then Atlanta’s weather is right up your alley.

Fantastic Food Scene: Atlanta is known for its diverse food culture, which includes everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine.

Cons:

Traffic and Commuting: One of the biggest drawbacks of living in Atlanta is the traffic. The city’s highways can get clogged, especially during rush hours.

Public Transportation: While MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) serves the city, it doesn’t cover all neighborhoods, and it’s not as extensive as public transit systems in cities like New York or Chicago.

Heat and Humidity: The summers in Atlanta can be brutal. The high humidity and temperatures that regularly exceed 90°F (32°C) can be overwhelming.

High Property Taxes: While the cost of housing is affordable, property taxes in Atlanta are relatively high.

Crime in Certain Areas: Like many large cities, certain parts of Atlanta can experience higher crime rates, particularly in urban areas.

Need Help Moving to Atlanta? Get a FREE moving quote today and let movers do the heavy lifting while you enjoy the Southern vibes.

Atlanta’s Flourishing Job Market

Now, we talk about the economic landscape of Atlanta. The city’s economy has been prospering for a while, and it's only getting stronger.

Atlanta is the headquarters for several Fortune 500 companies. As of 2025, the city continues to attract new industries and startups, especially in tech, logistics, and finance.

If you’re in the tech industry, you’ll notice Atlanta’s Silicon Peach nickname popping up more and more. Companies like Microsoft, Google, and Wells Fargo have expanded to Atlanta.

On the other hand, Atlanta is one of the largest filming hubs in the world. If you’re into the entertainment industry, this is the place to be. It’s home to shows like The Walking Dead and Stranger Things, so if you’re a production professional, there’s a ton of work here.

Georgia is one of the top states for business, and companies are moving to Atlanta for its business-friendly environment and lower costs compared to other tech centers.

Find the Right Spot to Live in Atlanta

Let’s move on to finding a place to live. Atlanta is known for its variety of neighborhoods, so there’s something here for everyone.

Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods and suburbs in Atlanta:

• Midtown: If you love the hustle and bustle of city life, Midtown is the place to be. It’s the heart of the city, filled with restaurants, art galleries, and plenty of things to do. Plus, it’s close to Georgia Tech, so it’s a great spot for students and young professionals.
• Buckhead: It is known as the "Beverly Hills of Atlanta." It's where you'll find high-end apartments, mansions, and some of the city's best restaurants.
• Grant Park: This historic neighborhood is perfect for those who want a mix of the old and new. It’s got tree-lined streets, gorgeous old homes, and a large park that’s great for families.
• Decatur: If you're looking for a small-town feel with easy access to the city, Decatur is a great option. It has a charming downtown, great schools, and a real community vibe.
• Alpharetta & Roswell: If you're looking for suburban life with easy access to Atlanta, these areas are perfect. Both have excellent schools, ample parks, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Best Suburbs to Live in Atlanta

If you're not into city living, there are several of the best suburbs to live in Atlanta.

Here are a few that consistently make the top of the list:

•  Sandy Springs: A great place for families, Sandy Springs is a suburb just north of the city with highly-rated schools, great parks, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
•  Johns Creek: Known for its best public schools, Johns Creek is perfect for families who want to live in a safe, quiet area with a small-town feel but still have quick access to Atlanta.
•  Marietta: A historic town with great schools, parks, and a vibrant community, Marietta is just a short drive from downtown Atlanta.

Don’t leave anything behind! Learn how to pack like a pro with our expert tips and tricks for a seamless move. 

Cost of Living in Atlanta – What to Expect

Atlanta is relatively affordable compared to major cities like New York, San Francisco, or Chicago.

But let’s not sugarcoat it—living in Atlanta isn’t exactly "free" either.

There’s a balance of affordable housing, decent utilities, and a fair bit of spending on entertainment, groceries, and transportation.

So, here’s a breakdown of the major expenses that you’ll encounter while relocating to Atlanta.

Housing Costs in Atlanta – Rent vs. Buy

Let's start with the big one: housing. This is the main chunk of your living expenses.

The good news is that Atlanta's housing market is relatively affordable, especially compared to places like California or New York.

Renting: If you’re planning to rent, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $1,710 per month.

If you’re willing to move out to the suburbs or farther from the city center, you’ll be paying closer to $1,400 or even lower. 

Buying a Home: If you’re thinking of buying a home, the median home price in Atlanta is $415,000. This is a good price considering how much you'd pay in other cities.

Utilities and Other Monthly Expenses

Okay, so you’ve got your place to live, but now you’ve got to keep the lights on, the fridge cold, and the AC running. So, what are utility costs like in Atlanta?

Well, on average, you’ll spend around $170-$200 per month on utilities if you’re living in a one-bedroom apartment.

Here’s a quick look at the breakdown:

Groceries – Is Your Wallet Ready?

Let’s talk about food. Fortunately, grocery costs in Atlanta are about 10% lower than the national average, which is awesome.

If you're buying groceries for one person, you can expect to pay around $300-$400 per month.

If you’re feeding a family of four, your monthly grocery costs could range from $700 to $1,000.

For comparison, here’s a rough idea of how much you’ll pay for the basics:

Transportation Costs – Get Ready for Some Traffic

Now, the real cost of living in Atlanta that might just drive you insane is traffic.

Yeah, it’s bad.

But don’t worry, you can handle it like a pro.

MARTA: The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) is the city’s public transportation system. It’s not as extensive as places like NYC or Chicago, but it’ll get you to key spots. A one-way fare costs $2.50, and a monthly pass costs about $95.

Driving: If you’re driving your own car, make sure to budget for gas, insurance, and parking. Gas prices can fluctuate, but on average, expect to pay around $3.20 - $3.50 per gallon (as of 2025).

Note:While driving, you’ll need to get used to the I-285 beltway and I-75/85 corridors, which are notorious for traffic jams.

Entertainment and Dining Out

We've covered the essentials, but let's not forget that Atlanta has some serious fun to offer.

Your entertainment budget will be something to think about.

Dining Out: Eating out is super affordable if you stick to casual spots. Expect to pay around $12 - $20 per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.

Entertainment: Movie tickets usually cost between $12 and $15, and a concert or sporting event might cost between $30 and $100.

Healthcare – Quality Care in Atlanta

Healthcare is something you’ll definitely want to know about when moving. Lucky for you, Atlanta has some top hospitals and medical centers.

Emory Healthcare, Grady Memorial, and Piedmont Healthcare are just a few of the renowned facilities here.

Whether you’re looking for a routine check-up or specialized treatment, Atlanta has the resources you need.

Staying healthy in Atlanta is easy with the right coverage Learn how to get health insurance after moving and make sure you're all set for your new adventure!

Education – Schools and Universities in Atlanta

For families or students, Atlanta has a solid education system.

Atlanta Public Schools oversees the public schools, which serve over 50,000 students across the city. There are also plenty of private and charter schools for those seeking alternatives.

Plus, Atlanta has some major universities like Georgia State University, Georgia Tech, and Emory University. So, you’ll find plenty of options according to your educational needs.

How to Move to Atlanta, Georgia

Making the decision to relocate to Atlanta is exciting, but the logistics of moving can be overwhelming. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare:

Research Neighborhoods: Before you even pack a bag, you should spend some time researching Atlanta’s neighborhoods. Do you want to be in the middle of the city? Or would you prefer a quieter, suburban life?

Create a Moving Checklist: Moving can be stressful, so having a checklist is essential. From setting a moving date to canceling utilities in your old home and setting up services in your new one, make sure you’ve covered every step of the moving process.

Hire a Moving Company or Rent a Truck: Depending on your budget and how much stuff you have, decide whether to hire a moving company or rent a truck. Some reliable Atlanta moving companies offer both local and long-distance moving services.

Secure Housing: If you’re moving to Atlanta without already having a place lined up, consider temporary housing (like short-term rentals or Airbnb) while you search for a more permanent home. Make sure you have a good understanding of the Atlanta housing market, rental prices, and neighborhoods.

Set Up Utilities: Before you even get to Atlanta, start setting up utilities like electricity, gas, water, and internet. Most utility providers in Atlanta can be easily accessed online.

Change Your Address: Remember to change your address with the USPS and update it with your bank, credit card companies, insurance providers, and any subscriptions you have.

Prepare for the Heat: If you're moving in the summer, get ready for the heat. Make sure your new home has proper AC and take care of any moving-day logistics by scheduling your move for cooler times of the day if possible.

Familiarize Yourself with MARTA: If you plan to use MARTA, get a MARTA Breeze card and familiarize yourself with its routes.

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How Much Will It Cost to Move to Atlanta?

If you haven't moved to Atlanta yet and are preparing to move, this will be the big question on your mind: "What’s the total cost to move to Atlanta?"

And moving isn’t cheap.

Here’s a rundown of the key costs you’ll face when moving to Atlanta.

Hiring Professional Movers

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t want to spend your weekend lifting couches and breaking your back (or your friend's back, for that matter).

So, you’ll want to hire a professional moving company. But what’s that going to cost you?

Well, it depends on a few things: the size of your move, how far you're coming from, and whether you're moving during peak season or off-season.

DIY Move – Renting a Truck

If you’re on a budget or just love a good DIY challenge (or you’ve got friends who can help you), you might want to consider renting a truck and doing the heavy lifting yourself.

Now, here's where it gets a bit tricky: truck rental prices depend on size, distance, and duration.

Here’s a quick comparison of truck rental costs:

Curious about your moving expenses? Learn how to use a moving cost calculator to get accurate estimates and save money on your move to Atlanta!

Packing Supplies – Boxes, Tape, and Everything Else

Okay, now you’ve got the truck or the movers, but what about packing supplies?

To protect your precious items, you'll need boxes, tape bubble wrap, and a few other odds and ends.

Thankfully, you can usually find affordable options at local stores or online.

Here’s a basic breakdown for packing materials:

Do you need the right packing materials for a smooth move? Check out the list of essential moving supplies to ensure you're fully prepared for your Atlanta adventure!

What to Do After Moving to Atlanta

Okay, so you've successfully moved to Atlanta—now what?

Here are some key steps to take once you’ve settled in:

Register Your Vehicle: If you’ve moved from another state, you’ll need to register your car in Georgia within 30 days. You’ll also need to update your driver’s license at the Georgia Department of Driver Services.

Get to Know Your Neighborhood: Take a walk or a drive around your new neighborhood. Find local grocery stores, restaurants, and coffee shops.

Explore Atlanta’s Culture: Atlanta is a city rich in history and culture, so don’t waste any time diving into it. Check out the Atlanta History Center, visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, or stroll through Piedmont Park for a taste of the city’s cultural offerings.

Meet New People: Atlanta is full of opportunities to make connections. Attend local events, join clubs or meetups, and start building your social circle.

Explore the Food Scene: Atlanta is a foodie paradise. After you’ve settled in, get out and explore some of the best restaurants in the city. Try the famous Atlanta BBQ or grab a drink at one of the city’s many craft breweries.

Take Advantage of Outdoor Activities: Atlanta is full of parks, trails, and outdoor events. Hike in Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park or enjoy a picnic in Piedmont Park; you'll have plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. 

Now that you’ve moved, it’s time to unpack and get settled! Check out our unpacking tips to make your transition to Atlanta even smoother.

Recommended Resources

• How to Get Health Insurance After Moving

• How to Find Affordable Movers

• A Checklist for Moving to a New State

• New Home Essentials Checklist