Locals Reveal 11 Insider Ideas for Transferring to Atlanta, GA

Welcome to the colourful metropolis of Atlanta, Georgia – a spot the place historical past meets modernity, and Southern hospitality intertwines with city vitality. Whether or not you’re contemplating a transfer to Atlanta or have lately turn out to be a resident, you’ll shortly discover there’s a lot extra to this metropolis than the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola. Town is filled with vibrant tradition, worldwide flavors, and historic neighborhoods to discover.

Nonetheless, making the transition to a brand new metropolis may be each exhilarating and difficult. For those who’re trying to purchase a home in Atlanta or hire an residence within the metropolis, you’re most probably thinking about listening to what Atlanta residents should say in regards to the metropolis.  On this Redfin article, we’ll present ideas and recommendation backed by ATL locals to make sure a easy transition so you possibly can dwell your finest life in Atlanta, GA.

1. Stay close to the MARTA

MARTA, brief for Metropolitan Atlanta Fast Transit Authority, is town’s main public transportation system. It encompasses buses and a speedy transit community, together with heavy and light-weight rail providers. MARTA affords handy connectivity all through Atlanta, decreasing site visitors congestion and offering an eco-friendly transport possibility for residents and guests.

“For those who’re an avid traveler or should be on the airport so much for work, you’ll positively wish to dwell close to MARTA,” suggests Jessica Camerata, Proprietor of An Indigo Day, an Atlanta-based life-style weblog. “Whereas Atlanta sadly lacks an awesome public transportation system, attending to and from the airport is a breeze when you’re close to a Marta cease. It’s among the best methods to keep away from our notorious rush hour site visitors when that you must jet off.”

2. Neighboring cities are well worth the day journey

The Duluth neighborhood is exceptionally various with actions, occasions, and companies that meet all ranges of curiosity. Town has some distinctive thrifting experiences comparable to Wellspring Living Treasures, an upscale resale retailer with high-end clothes, high quality furnishings, and items. It’s additionally a hub for communities to interact with their work and be part of the answer to assist restore lives of survivors of exploitation and coercion.

Different close by cities value exploring embody Decatur, Sandy Springs, Marietta, Alpharetta, and Roswell.

3. Perceive the price of residing

“Whereas town offers a variety of housing choices catering to various budgets, the value of residing in Atlanta can differ considerably from one space to a different,” explains digital content material creator, Arkeedah McCormick. “Analysis turns into an important instrument in navigating this spectrum. By understanding neighborhood-specific prices and facilities, you possibly can higher tailor your funds, making knowledgeable selections that align along with your monetary targets. Whether or not you’re drawn to the center of town’s pulse or looking for a quieter suburban haven, a well-researched funds ensures you possibly can absolutely get pleasure from all that Atlanta has to supply with out sacrificing your monetary consolation.”

Whereas the median sale value for houses in Atlanta reached $439,650 in June 2023, nearly 3.5% greater than the nationwide median sale value, Atlanta residence costs are nonetheless a lot decrease than different main cities. For instance, Seattle and Boston each have a median sale value over $800,000. Or, there are many inexpensive suburbs in Atlanta when you’d reasonably dwell on the outskirts of town.

4. Discover Atlanta’s neighborhoods

“Atlanta’s tapestry is woven with a wealthy range of neighborhoods, every boasting its personal distinct character,” explains digital content material creator, Arkeedah McCormick. “From the historic allure of Inman Park to the inventive attract of Little 5 Factors, town caters to an array of life. It’s a canvas the place fashionable high-rises stand alongside quaint bungalows, and bustling business districts coexist with serene residential pockets. Researching the totally different neighborhoods turns into pivotal in discovering your supreme match. Whether or not you search a vibrant city scene, a family-friendly setting, or a tranquil retreat, diving into the character, facilities, and native sights of every neighborhood can information you towards a spot that resonates along with your preferences and life-style. Every nook of Atlanta is a world of its personal, ready to welcome you into its distinctive embrace.”

5. Atlanta loves native

“Atlanta has an extremely wealthy neighborhood round good, clear, and honest meals,” shares Lisa Nguyen, Communications Co-Chair for Gradual Meals Atlanta, a nonprofit group that promotes native meals and conventional cooking. “There are such a lot of methods to faucet into native agriculture and assist the area’s farmers and producers. Replenish on native produce at one of many many neighborhood farmers markets in Atlanta’s circuit, or comply with the path of snail-approved meals and beverage companies.”

6. Be ready for the site visitors and the subtropical local weather

“Put together to embrace Atlanta’s scorching summers, as town’s local weather infuses its vibrant character into day by day life,” states Armanko Photography Studio, specializing in enterprise branding. “The extreme heat turns into greater than climate; it’s the backdrop to outside festivals, picnics, and al fresco eating. Whereas exploring Atlanta’s neighborhoods and sights, brace for infrequent site visitors congestion. As a bustling city middle, town experiences notably excessive site visitors ranges throughout rush hours and occasions. Adapt by planning routes, utilizing public transport, or exploring on foot.”

7. Familiarize your self with the Beltline

“For those who haven’t but determined the place in Atlanta you wish to put down roots, I’d suggest someplace close to the Atlanta Beltline,” says Malika Bowling, blogger at Atlanta Restaurant Blog. “It’s tremendous distinctive to Atlanta. It’s a 33-mile paved path of strolling and bike paths that connects on the town neighborhoods in a loop across the metropolis with parks, road artwork, meals halls and neighborhood structure to glimpse alongside the best way. I like to park and stroll to my favourite brunch spot after which stroll off brunch afterwards.”

8. Discover Georgia’s meals scene

Exploring the meals scene is a can’t-miss Atlanta bucket record merchandise for brand spanking new residents. “Georgia’s attract owes a lot to its wealthy and various culinary panorama,” says Danny Kim, Proprietor of Local Expedition Wood Fired Grill. “It rivals any massive metropolis, providing an array of ethnic cuisines. The times of being restricted to hen wings and visits to the long-lasting Waffle House are lengthy gone. As an alternative, newcomers will discover themselves moving into Michelin-starred eating institutions that seamlessly coexist with hidden gems tucked away in unassuming corners. From upscale venues to the standard but mouthwatering delights served at native “gap within the wall” institutions, Georgia’s meals scene guarantees a journey that caters to each palate and sense of culinary exploration.”

“One of many issues I like most about being right here is the meals,” explains Cristy Lenz, proprietor of Food Tours Atlanta. “I at all times say yow will discover good meals at any value level within the metropolis and burbs. From tacos and pho, to Korean BBQ and Persian, Atlanta has all of it. What’s more durable to seek out is conventional southern meals like fried hen and mac n cheese. For that that you must go to The Colonnade, South City Kitchen, Busy Bee Cafe,or Matthews Cafeteria. A few of my favourite locations to eat within the metropolis are close to my very own neighborhood. I head to Krog Street Market for Little Tart, Jai Ho, and Ticonderoga Club. Ponce City Market is residence to El Superpan, H&F Burger, Atrium, and Bottiwalla. Lyla Lia is my go-to for the brief rib ravioli, Kimball House for the oysters, and Resort Clermont for Tiny Lou’s and the spectacular rooftop views.”

“After transferring to an Atlanta suburb 15 years in the past from the Northeast, we shortly turned infatuated with Southern delicacies,” says Adam, founding father of Ramble Atlanta, a useful resource for all issues Atlanta. “A lot of our favourite eating places are situated in historic buildings, nestled within the many walkable metropolis facilities scattered across the suburbs of Atlanta. To call a couple of, Milton’s Cuisine and Cocktails in Milton, Table and Main in Roswell, South Main Kitchen in Alpharetta, and Century House in Woodstock. These eating places mix historic allure and easy, but scrumptious flavors that hold us coming again again and again. After all, the fried hen too.”

9. Town caters to automobile fanatics

“For automobile fanatics, Atlanta ranks as one of many best in America,” states Rod Worley, writer and editor at Vettes of Atlanta Journal. “The colourful automobile neighborhood showcases the complete vary from purists to customized designers, racers to informal meetups. From the SAVOY automobile museum, Road Atlanta, NASCAR’s Atlanta Motor Speedway, and Atlanta Motorsports Park, there’s something right here for everybody. Additionally, for many who get pleasure from spirited driving, the world-famous “Tail of the Dragon” mountain move and the breathtaking North Georgia mountains are to not be missed.”

10. Don’t miss Amalfi Cucina & Mercato

Amalfi Cucina & Mercato is a conventional Italian restaurant with areas in Downtown Atlanta ‍and Buckhead. House owners Stephen de Haan and Greg Grant skilled with Italian Pizzaiolo Maestros in Naples and studied within the Associazione Verace Pizza Napolentana. They launched refined Italian road meals to Atlanta via Amalfi Cucina & Mercato, providing basic Italian dishes like Rooster Parmigiano and conventional pastas, alongside shareable appetizers, salads, and unique desserts. Their restaurant features a full bar, craft cocktails, and wines chosen by a sommelier. 

Recognized for Neapolitan-style pizzas, their signature, Pizza Amalfi, is a standout. These pizzas start with dough produced from D.O.P. components and are cooked in wood-burning brick ovens imported from Italy. Amalfi Cucina & Mercato’s pizzas earned recognition from the Meals Community and a spot in Affiliation Vera Pizza Napoletana. The Italian menu was reimagined by Government Chef Santiago Echavarria, a 25-year veteran.

11. Be prepared for the unbelievable arts and music scene

“For those who’re considering a transfer to Atlanta, you’re in for a dynamic city expertise with a wealthy cultural scene and various communities,” shares Grant Eshback, founding father of Open Home Mortgage, Inc. “Atlanta’s arts and music scene vibrantly thrives with various galleries, theaters, and venues. From the High Museum of Art to iconic phases just like the Fox Theatre, town affords a wealthy tapestry of cultural experiences. The music scene, spanning genres from hip-hop to classical, finds its residence in venues just like the Tabernacle and Selection Playhouse. Atlanta’s inventive pulse ensures each artwork fanatics and music aficionados can immerse themselves in an inspiring journey.”

Transferring to Atlanta: closing ideas

“This metropolis is a melting pot the place totally different cultures intersect, making a wealthy tapestry of traditions, languages, and views that make Atlanta a superb place to dwell. Its cultural scene pulsates with vitality, inviting residents and newcomers alike to immerse themselves in a world of prospects,” shares Arkeedah McCormick. “From the soulful rhythms of its music to the charming strokes of its artwork, Atlanta’s inventive expressions replicate its cosmopolitan essence. Culinary fanatics can savor international flavors in each nook, as town’s various neighborhoods supply a pleasant array of worldwide cuisines. Embrace this melting pot of cultures, and permit your self to discover the rhythm of life in Atlanta via its thriving music venues, charming galleries, and a culinary scene that celebrates the world’s palate.”