Moving to Atlanta: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re planning on moving to Atlanta, there are a few things you should know before you make the move. Atlanta is a vibrant and diverse city with a lot to offer, from its thriving job market to its rich history and culture. But before you pack your bags and head to the city, it’s important to do your research and prepare yourself for what to expect. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make a smooth transition to your new home in Atlanta.

Atlanta’s Neighbourhoods

Atlanta is a large city with many different neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and culture. Some popular neighbourhoods for young professionals include Midtown, Buckhead, and Virginia Highlands, while families may prefer areas like Decatur, Dunwoody, or Sandy Springs. Make sure to do your research and find the neighbourhood that best fits your lifestyle and needs.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Atlanta is generally lower than in other major cities like New York City or Los Angeles. However, it’s important to consider the cost of housing, transportation, and other expenses before making the move. According to Numbeo, the average cost of living in Atlanta is about 10% lower than the national average.

Weather

Atlanta has a humid subtropical climate, which means hot summers and mild winters. Summers can be very humid and temperatures can reach up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while winters are mild with occasional snowfall. Be prepared for hot and humid weather during the summer months and invest in some lightweight clothing and sunscreen.

Transportation

Atlanta has a variety of transportation options, including a public transportation system called MARTA, as well as buses, trains, and ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft. However, if you plan on driving, be prepared for heavy traffic during rush hour and consider alternative transportation options.

Job Market

Atlanta has a thriving job market, with a variety of industries such as technology, finance, and media. Some of the top employers in the city include Coca-Cola, Delta Airlines, and Home Depot. Make sure to do your research and find job opportunities that fit your skills and experience.

Schools and Education

Atlanta is home to a variety of excellent public and private schools, as well as several top-ranked universities and colleges such as Georgia Tech, Emory University, and Morehouse College.

If you have children, make sure to research schools in the area and find one that fits your family’s needs.

Attractions and Entertainment

Atlanta has a variety of cultural attractions and entertainment options, from museums and theatres to parks and sports venues. Some popular attractions include the Georgia Aquarium, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, and the High Museum of Art. Make sure to explore the city and find activities and events that interest you.

Food and Dining

Atlanta is known for its Southern cuisine and food culture, with a variety of restaurants and cafes that offer classic dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and sweet tea.

The city also has a diverse international food scene, with options ranging from Vietnamese to Ethiopian cuisine.

Moving Companies

If you’re planning on moving to Atlanta, consider hiring a professional moving company to help you with the process. There are many moving companies in the area that offer a variety of services, including packing, transportation, and storage.

Getting Involved in the Community

One of the best ways to make the transition to Atlanta is to get involved in the local community. Attend local events, join clubs or organizations, or volunteer your time to get to know the city and meet new people.

In conclusion, moving to Atlanta can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it’s important to do your research and prepare yourself for what to expect before making the move. By considering factors such as the cost of living, transportation options, and job market, you can make an informed decision about whether Atlanta is the right city for you. Once you’ve made the move, make sure to explore the city and get involved in the local community to make the most of your new home.

Finding Your Perfect Neighborhood

Atlanta has a wide range of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and culture. Whether you’re looking for a hip and trendy area or a more family-friendly neighbourhood, there’s something for everyone in Atlanta. Here are some popular neighbourhoods to consider:

Midtown

Midtown is a popular neighbourhood for young professionals, with a vibrant arts and cultural scene. The neighbourhood is home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the High Museum of Art, and the historic Fox Theatre. There are also a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops in the area.

Buckhead

Buckhead is known for its luxury shopping and dining, with high-end boutiques and restaurants like the St. Regis Atlanta and the Buckhead Atlanta development. The neighbourhood also has a variety of green spaces and parks, including the Atlanta History Center and the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area.

Virginia Highlands

Virginia Highlands is a historic neighbourhood with a lively arts and culture scene. The neighbourhood is known for its bungalow-style homes and tree-lined streets, as well as its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and bars.

Decatur

Decatur is a family-friendly neighbourhood with a small-town feel. The area is home to a variety of parks and green spaces, as well as several top-ranked schools. The neighbourhood also has a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Dunwoody

Dunwoody is a suburban neighbourhood located just north of Atlanta. The area is known for its excellent schools and family-friendly environment, with a variety of parks, trails, and recreational facilities. The neighbourhood also has a variety of shopping and dining options.

Sandy Springs

Sandy Springs is another suburban neighbourhood located just north of Atlanta. The area is known for its excellent schools and upscale shopping and dining options, as well as its variety of parks and recreational facilities.

Finding the Right Schools 

If you have children, finding the right schools is an important factor to consider when moving to Atlanta. The city has a variety of excellent public and private schools, as well as several top-ranked universities and colleges. Here are some resources to help you find the right schools for your family:

GreatSchools.org

GreatSchools.org is a website that provides ratings and reviews of schools across the United States. The website offers a variety of resources for parents, including school profiles, test scores, and parent reviews.

Atlanta Public Schools

The Atlanta Public Schools system is the largest school district in Atlanta, with over 50,000 students enrolled in 87 schools. The district offers a variety of educational programs, including magnet schools, charter schools, and special education programs.

Private Schools

Atlanta is home to a variety of excellent private schools, including the Atlanta International School, the Westminster Schools, and the Lovett School. Private schools offer a variety of educational programs, as well as smaller class sizes and more individualized attention.

Universities and Colleges

Atlanta is also home to several top-ranked universities and colleges, including Georgia Tech, Emory University, and Morehouse College. These institutions offer a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as research opportunities and community outreach programs.

Navigating Atlanta’s Transportation Options

Atlanta has a variety of transportation options, including a public transportation system called MARTA, as well as buses, trains, and ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft. However, if you plan on driving, be prepared for heavy traffic during rush hour and consider alternative transportation options. Here are some tips for navigating Atlanta’s transportation system:

MARTA

MARTA is Atlanta’s public transportation system, which includes both buses and trains. The system operates throughout the city and surrounding areas, with over 48 miles of rail and 91 bus routes. You can purchase a Breeze Card to pay for your fare, which can be reloaded online or at MARTA stations.

Buses

In addition to MARTA, there are several bus services that operate throughout Atlanta, including the Atlanta Streetcar, which operates in downtown Atlanta, and the Megabus, which offers long-distance travel to cities across the United States.

Trains

MARTA operates both heavy rail and light rail trains throughout the city. The heavy rail trains operate on four lines, while the light rail trains operate on one line. You can purchase a single ride or a day pass for MARTA trains.

Ridesharing Services

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Atlanta, and can be a convenient option for getting around the city. Just be aware that prices can be higher during peak hours or when there is high demand.

Driving

If you plan on driving in Atlanta, be prepared for heavy traffic during rush hour and consider alternative transportation options. Atlanta has several major highways that run through the city, including I-75, I-85, and I-20. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the city’s traffic patterns and use a navigation app to help you navigate the city’s streets.

Exploring Atlanta’s Cultural Attractions

Atlanta has a variety of cultural attractions and entertainment options to explore, from museums and theatres to parks and sports venues. Here are some popular attractions to check out:

Georgia Aquarium 

The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, with over 10 million gallons of water and thousands of animals from around the world. The aquarium is home to whale sharks, beluga whales, and sea otters, among other creatures.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site is a tribute to the life and legacy of the civil rights leader. The site includes King’s birth home, the Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the King Center, which houses a museum and library.

High Museum of Art

The High Museum of Art is one of the leading art museums in the Southeast, with a collection of over 17,000 works of art. The museum features a variety of exhibitions, including works by American and European artists, as well as contemporary art.

Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park is a 185-acre park located in the heart of Atlanta, and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and events. The park features walking and biking trails, sports fields, a lake, and a playground, among other amenities.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

The Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment venue located in downtown Atlanta. The stadium is home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, as well as a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.

Finding the Best Food in Atlanta 

Atlanta is known for its Southern cuisine and food culture, with a variety of restaurants and cafes that offer classic dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and sweet tea. The city also has a diverse international food scene, with options ranging from Vietnamese to Ethiopian cuisine. Here are some popular restaurants to check out:

Busy Bee Cafe

The Busy Bee Cafe is a classic soul food restaurant that has been serving up Southern comfort food since 1947. The restaurant is known for its fried chicken, collard greens, and sweet potato pie.

Antico Pizza Napoletana

Antico Pizza Napoletana is a popular pizza spot located in the Midtown neighbourhood. The restaurant offers traditional Neapolitan-style pizza, made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven.

Krog Street Market

Krog Street Market is a food hall located in the Inman Park neighbourhood, and features a variety of restaurants and shops. Some popular options include Superica, a Tex-Mex restaurant, and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, which offers a variety of unique ice cream flavours.

Mary Mac’s Tea Room

Mary Mac’s Tea Room is a classic Southern restaurant that has been in business since 1945. The restaurant is known for its fried chicken, mac and cheese, and peach cobbler.

Buford Highway

Buford Highway is a stretch of road in Atlanta that is home to a variety of international restaurants and markets, including Vietnamese, Korean, and Mexican cuisine. Some popular spots include El Rey Del Taco, a Mexican taqueria, and Nam Phuong, a Vietnamese restaurant.

Hiring a Moving Company

If you’re planning on moving to Atlanta, consider hiring a professional moving company to help you with the process. Moving can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but with the help of a moving company, it can be a lot easier. Here are some tips for hiring a moving company:

Do Your Research

Before hiring a moving company, make sure to do your research and compare prices and services. Look for companies with good reviews and ratings, and check their licensing and insurance status.

Get an Estimate

Most moving companies offer free estimates, so make sure to get a quote before hiring a company. Be sure to ask about any additional fees or charges that may apply.

Check for Hidden Fees

Make sure to ask about any hidden fees or charges that may apply, such as fuel charges or packing materials. A reputable moving company will be transparent about their pricing and fees.

Consider Additional Services

Some moving companies offer additional services, such as packing and unpacking, transportation, and storage. Consider which services you may need and find a company that offers them.

Ask for References

Ask the moving company for references from past clients, and check their online reviews and ratings. A good moving company will be happy to provide references and should have a track record of satisfied customers.

Conclusion

Moving to Atlanta can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to do your research and prepare yourself for what to expect. Consider factors like the cost of living, transportation options, and job market before making the move, and find the neighbourhood that best fits your lifestyle and needs. Once you’ve made the move, make sure to explore the city and get involved in the local community to make the most of your new home.