Highlands at Vinings Luxury design with rooftop terraces Townhomes From $840,000 888-686-5542
SMYRNA, GA
Rowan Walk Master-planned community Townhomes & single-family homes
From the high $600,000s 888-686-5542
MARIETTA, GA
Toll Brothers at East Cobb Walk Luxury townhomes Exceptional Amenities
From the high $500,000s
INTOWN FEATURED COMMUNITIES
DECATUR, GA
New Talley Station Master-planned community Townhomes & condos
From the mid-$400,000s 888-686-5542
ATLANTA, GA
Beckham Place at Morningside Unique home designs with rooftop terraces
Luxury townhomes with skyline views
From the high $600,000s 888-686-5542
EXPERIENCE THE LIFESTYLE YOU DESERVE AT GREAT SKY NEW HOMES FROM THE LOW $400’S.
EXPERIENCE THE LIFESTYLE YOU DESERVE AT GREAT SKY NEW HOMES FROM THE LOW $400’S.
Experience life at Great Sky in Canton, Georgia, where the beauty of nature meets exceptional modern living. Nestled in rolling hills and surrounded by picturesque scenery, Great Sky offers a serene escape with all the conveniences you desire.
Experience life at Great Sky in Canton, Georgia, where the beauty of nature meets exceptional modern living. Nestled in rolling hills and surrounded by picturesque scenery, Great Sky offers a serene escape with all the conveniences you desire.
In addition to thoughtfully designed homes crafted by premier builders—David Weekley Homes, Toll Brothers, and Venture Communities—you’ll enjoy resort-style amenities, including three pools, sport courts, and miles of scenic trails through the community’s natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious 55+ retreat, timeless elegance, or innovative home designs, Great Sky is the perfect place to call home.
In addition to thoughtfully designed homes crafted by premier builders—David Weekley Homes, Toll Brothers, and Venture Communities—you’ll enjoy resort-style amenities, including three pools, sport courts, and miles of scenic trails through the community’s natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious 55+ retreat, timeless elegance, or innovative home designs, Great Sky is the perfect place to call home.
Discover your natural bliss today. Visit GreatSkyGA.com to learn more.
Discover your natural bliss today. Visit GreatSkyGA.com to learn more.
FROM THE EDITOR
A Game Changer
I married into a football family. My husband’s brother played collegiate football at the University of Georgia (Go Dawgs!), and he went on to enjoy a successful career as an offensive lineman in the NFL. When I met my husband, I had no clue about football or how engrossing the sport could be. Sitting in the stands of a huge stadium, surrounded by enthusiastic fans all cheering for their favorite team, is an exhilarating experience. It’s one I grew to love and continue to enjoy, even though our time as an official football family has ended. And as we began to plan this issue of KNOWAtlanta Magazine, which focuses on our fair city as a thriving sports mecca, I couldn’t help but reflect on how sports in general can bring an entire community together. From youth sports to professional sports to everything in between, it’s something we see throughout the year right here in the ATL. And we can prove it.
On page 10, check out our feature about Atlanta’s booming sports economy, which includes the presence of a host of professional sports teams across the metro area, as well as an ongoing bevy of incoming sporting events that continue to place the city in a global spotlight. Of course, we’re not just talking big league sports here; on page 34, we explore the evolving sports programs in several of our local private schools and the updates that are helping student-athletes step up to the plate like never before. Following that, we look at the sports-based education programs at higher education institutes like Life University and Chattahoochee Technical College; you can find that article on page 42.
Of course, spring in Atlanta is a great time to get outside for more than just sports. On page 18, you can find out about 12 entertaining ways to get outdoors this season in Atlanta. And, as always, you’ll find so much more, from profiles about the area’s best builders and can’t-miss communities to everything you need to know about the counties that comprise the metro area. So keep your eye on the ball and get to reading. If you’re ready to make a move to Atlanta, we have a feeling this issue will be a real game changer for you.
Amy Meadows, Editor
If you would like additional information from our relocation service providers, visit us online at knowatlanta.com.
Publisher SHERRY GASAWAY sherry@knowatlanta.com
Managing Director ROBYN SOBELSON rsobelson@nspmag.com
With affordable housing and a low cost of living, Atlantans get more while spending less. To understand why more than five million people call metro Atlanta home, see below how it surpasses other major cities in almost every way that counts.
The Atlanta Advantage: Metro Atlanta
Metro Atlanta includes more than 50 cities. Compare some of these communities by median home prices, median household income, population and growth with the data below.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Woodstock
Alpharetta
Lawrenceville
Cumming
Sandy Springs
Gainesville
Douglasville
Decatur
Dunwoody
Peachtree
Marietta
Suwanee
Gwinnett
GET TO KNOW ATLANTA Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
One of metro Atlanta’s greatest assets is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Serving more than 100 million passengers each year, the airport boasts nonstop flights to over 150 domestic destinations and 70 international destinations in more than 50 countries. In 2020, the airport was recognized as the busiest airport in the world for the 22nd consecutive year. Of course, it makes sense that Atlanta, the leading city in the Southeast, offers such an incredible facility. Just as the city itself is a diverse locale with millions of residents who hail from all over the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a welcoming sight for passengers from all walks of life. Take a look at everything this outstanding airport has to offer.
Five runways YOUR GATEWAY TO THE WORLD
AT A GLANCE
70+ international destinations in 43+ countries with nonstop service 80 percent of the U.S. population within a twohour flight
724,145 Annual flights
1,984 average daily flights 94+ million passengers annually
275,000 daily passengers
107 million passengers annually
688,614 cargo metric tons
Seven concourses
156 domestic gates
41 international gates
Two terminals
MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a bona fide destination thanks to ATL Skypointe, a brand representing the world’s greatest shopping and dining experiences. Throughout the facility and across its seven concourses, there are more than 300 restaurants, shops and services. Some of the well-known offerings include:
RESTAURANTS:
• BeerCode
• Savi Provisions
• Cat Cora’s Kitchen
• Grindhouse Killer Burgers
• Longhorn Steakhouse
• Ecco
SHOPS:
• Duty Free Americas
• Brighton Collectibles
• The Goods @ ATL
• MAC
• Brooks Brothers
• Tumi
SERVICES:
• The Chiroport
• FedEx
• The Club ATL
• XpresSpa
• Be Relax
AIRPORT ACCOLADES
• #1 Busiest Airport
• #1 World’s Most Efficient Airport
• Home to the tallest air traffic control tower in North America and the fourth tallest in the world
AIRPORT CODE: ATL
METRO ATLANTA’S ECONOMIC ENGINE
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is an economic juggernaut. It is the largest employer in Georgia and is one of the world’s most well-known global transport centers. And the economic impact can be felt throughout metro Atlanta.
• The airport boasts more than 63,000 onsite jobs.
• More than 18,000 South Fulton County residents work onsite at the airport, accounting for 28.8 percent of the county’s workforce.
• The average income for an airport-based job is $71,500.
PASSENGER AIRLINES
In addition to being the home of Delta Air Lines’ corporate headquarters, ATL welcomes flights from an array of domestic and international airlines:
DOMESTIC:
• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Frontier Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Southern Airways Express
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines
INTERNATIONAL:
• Air Canada
• Air France
• British Airways
• Copa Airlines
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
• Korean Air
• Lufthansa German Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• Turkish Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic
• WestJet
• The facility provides a $51.5 billion economic boost for metro Atlanta.
• Overall, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport generates over $82 billion in annual economic impact for the entire Piedmont Atlantic Megaregion (PAM).
• More than 103,600 jobs support the airport’s cargo activity.
• The airport supports more than 448,000 jobs across the Southeast, accounting for 20 percent of the jobs in the region.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Economic Impact Study, released in 2020
GET TO KNOW BUSINESS
Slam Dunk
A LOOK AT THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF THE METRO AREA’S BOOMING SPORTS SCENE
By Amy Meadows
When Juan Antonio Samaranch, president of the International Olympic Committee, stepped up to the microphone on September 18, 1990, in Tokyo, Japan, to announce the host city of the 1996 Spring Olympic Games, no one anticipated what he would say.
“The International Olympic Committee has awarded the 1996 Olympic Games to the city of Atlanta,” he said to thunderous applause. Back home in the ATL, cameras captured scenes of a wild and rapturous celebration at Underground Atlanta, as local residents cheered and celebrated the thrilling news while fireworks shot into the sky on that beautiful fall morning. That unbridled excitement came from the knowledge that capturing the historic Centennial Olympiad would shine a global spotlight on Atlanta as a viable sports powerhouse and produce an economic impact never seen before in the city. In fact, the Olympics brought an unprecedented fiscal boom to Atlanta, infusing more than $5 billion into the local economy, according to the Metro Atlanta Chamber. And today, Atlanta is hotter than ever when it comes to attracting the most coveted national and global sporting events, with 2025 promising to be one of the best sports event-based years on record. And the reason is simple.
“With more than 13,000 hotel rooms, in downtown Atlanta, our walkable campus surrounded by state-ofthe-art facilities and our unmatched hospitality, we have the infrastructure and people in place to host world-class events,” explains Erin Hendrickson, director of business development for the Atlanta Sports Council (ASC). “In addition, Atlanta’s airport connects the world globally to our city, making it easy for fans, players and event operators to visit our region. Atlanta offers a ‘ready to host’ city and region that is already organized across all of our stakeholders. And 2025 is a big year from a major event standpoint with all of our region’s marquee venues being used.”
So what’s in store for Atlanta? Let’s check it out.
Metro Atlanta’s Top 5 Sports Venues
Metro Atlanta boasts a number of top-tier sports venues that not only host a wide variety of professional sports events, but also drive tourism, create jobs and generate revenue by attracting thousands of residents and visitors alike to cheer on their favorite teams throughout the year. Here are some of the most notable spots to check out in the ATL:
Mercedes-Benz Stadium: Opened in 2017, this state-of-theart venue serves as the home of both the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC. The stadium features a retractable roof and a 360-degree halo video board, making it one of the most advanced facilities in the country. mercedesbenzstadium.com
3
State Farm Arena: Basketball fans know this downtown spot as the home of the Atlanta Hawks, as well as the go-to locale for ice hockey games and WWE matches. Renovated in recent years, State Farm Arena is known for its comfortable seating, impressive acoustics and top-tier facilities. statefarmarena.com
4 5 1
2
Truist Park: Home to the Atlanta Braves, Truist Park, located in Cobb County, opened in 2017. The stadium offers a modern fan experience with a variety of entertainment options, including the Battery Atlanta, a mixed-use development with shops, restaurants and bars that surrounds the ballpark. mlb.com/braves/ballpark
Gas South Arena: Located in Duluth, the arena offers fans the chance to catch minor league ice hockey games featuring the Atlanta Gladiators, as well as matches by professional lacrosse team the Georgia Swarm and professional volleyball team the Atlanta Vibe.
gassouthdistrict.com/ venues/detail/arena
Atlanta Motor Speedway: A 40-minute drive south of Atlanta is Hampton, where the Atlanta Motor Speedway has hosted NASCAR and IndyCar events since 1960. The high-speed 1.54-mile quad-oval intermediate track allows for thrilling races, thanks in part to the 28 degrees of banking in the turns and five degrees of banking in the straightaways. atlantamotorspeedway.com
2025 College Football Playoff National Championship Game
Atlanta kicked off the year in the limelight with the College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship Game played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Monday, January 20. The bowl game pit the Ohio State Buckeyes against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and allowed Atlanta to showcase everything it has to offer college football fans from around the country. Yet, what really stood out was the fact that the 2025 game put the city in a category all its own as the only city to host the CFP twice—the first time being in 2018 when the Alabama Crimson Tide beat the “hometown” University of Georgia Bulldogs. And just as it did back in 2018, the CFP championship game made a huge economic impact on Atlanta this year; Lt. Governor Burt Jones noted
that the event brought in $75 million for local restaurants, hotels, vendors and other businesses across the city. As the Metro Atlanta Chamber notes, it also drew 78,000 attendees—the second largest crowd for a CFP championship game.
March Madness is always one of the hottest tickets in town, and Atlanta’s State Farm Arena will welcome thousands of fans for several Sweet 16 and Elite Eight games this year. Three games between March 28 and 30 will be played at the downtown venue, with the first two being part of the Sweet 16 and the final game featuring two teams from the Elite Eight. The stakes are high for all of the games, as the winner of the Elite Eight matchup will move on to the Final Four game.
Newer Kids on the Block: Atlanta’s Newest Sports Teams
Every sports fan knows the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, the MLB’s Atlanta Braves and the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks. But in recent years, additional sports teams have been added to that impressive title-clinching collection of squads. Get your tickets now to be dazzled by these stellar teams.
1
The Georgia Swarm: Lacrosse is making its mark these days on the sports world, so it’s no surprise that Atlanta became home to a professional lacrosse team in 2016: the Georgia Swarm. Competing in the National Lacrosse League (NLL), the Swarm originally was the Montreal Express; after it moved to Atlanta, the team won the NLL championship title in 2017. georgiaswarm.com
Atlanta United FC: Officially founded in 2014, Atlanta United FC, the city’s professional soccer team, began playing in the ATL in 2017. The team, which has garnered a passionate and dedicated fan base, plays at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and took home the Major League Soccer (MLS) championship cup in 2018. atlutd.com
2 3
The Atlanta Vibe: Atlanta’s first professional women’s volleyball team burst onto the scene in August of 2023, playing in the Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF). The team, which officially launched during the 2024 season, plays at Gas South Arena in Gwinnett County and has built an impressive roster of exceptional players over the last two years. provolleyball.com/teams/ atlanta-vibe
FIFA World Cup 2025
There is an incredible amount of excitement about Atlanta being one of the 16 cities to host the FIFA World Cup 2026, but it’s important to remember that local fans will get a taste of that event this year, as the city will also host six matches for the 2025 FIFA World Cup. Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host the six Round of 16 matches, being played between June 29 and July 1. The event will be an excellent precursor to the FIFA World Cup 2026, for which Atlanta will play a significant role as a host city.
2025 MLB All-Star Game
At the height of the summer season, Major League Baseball will bring its MLB All-Star Game to Atlanta’s Truist Park. The Midsummer Classic will be hosted by the Atlanta Braves and played on July 15 as part of a multi-day celebration that
includes a host of All-Star week events. It will be the first time the game has been played at Truist Park, as the last All-Star game in Atlanta took place in 2000 at Turner Field. The game was moved from Atlanta in 2021; the return could boost the state economy by upwards of $100 million thanks to the tourism associated with the event.
FIFA World Cup 2026
While the FIFA World Cup will be part of Atlanta’s bustling sports event schedule in 2025, next year promises to be even more exciting when it comes to the world of soccer. According to Hendrickson, “The FIFA World Cup 2026 will begin on Thursday, June 11, 2026, and the final match will be held Sunday, July 19, 2026. Atlanta will be hosting eight matches, including a semifinal. Exactly 30 years after the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games, Atlanta will again be hosting a
global audience and the world’s greatest athletes for the FIFA World Cup 2026.” The effort came to fruition thanks to the work of the Atlanta Sports Council, the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, Atlanta United FC, the City of Atlanta, the Georgia World Congress Center Authority, Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the State of Georgia. The event is expected to draw more than 500,000 attendees, and Boston Consulting Group’s 17/18 Economic Impact Analysis revealed that the Georgia should see a $503 million economic impact thanks to its hosting duties. According to the report, “Additional labor income due to the influx of spectators is estimated at $171.6 million….FIFA World Cup 26 will be unlike any event Atlanta has hosted since the 1996 Olympic Games.”
More to Come
As Hendrickson notes, “The economic impact from hosting major sporting events helps drive our region’s hospitality and tourism community. As an organization, the Atlanta Sports Council’s focus is centered around continuing to bring major global sporting events that will cement the city’s legacy as a world-class host.” With the 2025 schedule already jam-packed and the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, the ASC has also helped the city secure Superbowl LXII in 2028 and the NCAA Men’s Final Four in 2031. And there’s much more to come. n
“Atlanta offers a ‘ready to host’ city and region that is already organized across all of our stakeholders.”
Erin Hendrickson, director of business development, Atlanta Sports Council
Goal!
Fayetteville is the future home of the U.S. Soccer National Training Center
In April of 2025, U.S. Soccer broke ground on the Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center in Fayetteville. Located only 35 minutes south of Atlanta, Fayetteville provided the perfect location for the facility, which will serve as the new headquarters and first-of-itskind national training center for the organization. The campus will serve all 27 of U.S. Soccer’s Men’s, Women’s, Youth and Extended National teams, as well as help to develop youth players, offer coaching and referee training and support the growth of soccer’s popularity across the country.
According to Lori Funderwhite, director of economic development for Fayetteville, “Our motto in Fayetteville is that there are ‘no limits on imagination.’ It’s important to be a part of a community and local government that is open to growth and opportunity. The City of
Fayetteville prides itself on strategic growth, ensuring that what comes into the city will be a catalyst for continued revitalization and smart growth. With Fayetteville being home to Trilith Film Studios, as well as a new seven million-square-foot QTS data center under construction, and a new major 38-acre mixed-used downtown development underway, U.S. Soccer will become part of Fayetteville’s growing hub for sports, arts and entertainment.”
The facility is well under construction and slated to open in the spring of 2026 in advance of the 2026 FIFA World Cup games in Atlanta. Funderwhite notes that the facility, and U.S. Soccer, will bring significant economic impact to the city, with the creation of 400 jobs and an influx of more than 200,000 annual visitors. What’s more, she says, “In addition to this being a game-changing project for Fayetteville, we are excited about the prospect of world-renowned athletes coming into our community who are visible to our youth. We have very active youth soccer leagues in Fayetteville, and this project will bring world-class athletes and tournaments to our front door. We are proud U.S. Soccer chose Fayetteville for their new home and flagship facility. We truly feel there are no limits on what our partnership can be here and look forward to our continued collaboration with U.S. Soccer.”
Learn more at ussoccer.com/ ntchq or fayetteville-ga.gov.
ARTHUR M. BLANK U.S. SOCCER NATIONAL TRAINING CENTER
On the Move
COMPANIES
OF ALL SIZES CHOOSE METRO
ATLANTA AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS
It’s no secret that Georgia is recognized for its exceptional business-friendly environment. In fact, Site Selection has named it the number one state for doing business for nearly a decade consecutively. That kind of reputation undoubtedly attracts companies of all sizes to settle in the area every year, establishing headquarters, distribution centers, customer service operations and more, while other companies look to expand in the area. Here are some of the most recent big business moves to our fair city and its surrounding areas.
NEMA
Logistics and supply chain company NEMA has doubled its facility space with a recent expansion, creating 20 new jobs in Gwinnett County. The company’s proximity to Hartfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and the ports of Charleston and Savannah justifies the expansion to 152,000 square feet and spurs a $6 million capital investment. The company has a 3PL Foreign Trade Zone certification, which allows it to move goods in and out of the United States to be stored, processed or assembled without immediate customs, duties or certain taxes. Founded in the 1980s, NEMA has expanded its services over the years to include foreign trade zone warehousing and international shipping, giving it the
ability to orchestrate shipments to and from numerous countries from its Gwinnett County hub.
AIG
American International Group (AIG), a global insurance company, will create a new innovation hub in DeKalb County, tripling its current office space to accommodate 1,000 employees. The company plans to add 600 new jobs over the next five years. Set to open in 2026, the hub’s collaborative workspace will gather teams representing all facets of AIG’s business to test new processes and develop digital capabilities to build value for clients. The company, which is ranked as a Fortune 100 company, is expected to hire for various positions in underwriting, claims, operations, data engineering and AI. The hub will be located in Brookhaven’s Perimeter Summit.
Cargill
Cargill has opened a facility in Midtown Atlanta’s Tech Square. Located on Spring Street, the space is expected to house 400 employees of the agricultural and food giant who will serve in roles focusing on supply chain reliability and sustainability. Cargill’s digital technology and data organization will initially occupy the Atlanta hub, and the company is expected to hire professionals in data engineering, generative artificial intelligence and systems, applications and products (SAP), among other fields, over the next several years. Cargill provides food, ingredients, agricultural solutions and industrial products while partnering with farmers and customers to source, make and deliver products.
Southern Steer Butcher
Florida-based neighborhood butcher shop Southern Steer Butcher has opened its first Georgia location in Alpharetta. Located on Kimball Bridge Road, the shop offers homemade sausages, gourmet burgers, chicken, marinated steak tips and more. The burgeoning franchise also features an array of side dishes and appetizers, including white cheddar mac and cheese, homemade meatballs and bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers. The store’s website lists daily and seasonal specials, combos and meal programs for added convenience. Southern Steer Butcher operates five locations in Florida and one in Texas.
maierAMERICA
A subsidiary of Christian Maier GmbH & Co.KG, maierAMERICA recently opened a 20,500-square-foot facility in Gwinnett County, nearly tripling the size of its previous location. maierAMERICA is part of the maierGROUP and specializes in manufacturing rotary joints, also known as “unions,” that connect rotating and stationary units for piping media. The group employs more than 200 associates and serves over 500 fields of application for its products; maierAMERICA develops products for the renewable energy, engineering, paper textile, plastics, machine tool, food and pharmaceutical industries and will celebrate 25 years of expansion in the United States in September of 2025. n
Atlanta: The Tech Hotspot of the Southeast
Over the last several years, Atlanta has garnered a reputation as one of the country’s fastest growing and most prolific technology hubs. Forbes Magazine named the metro area as one of the world’s elite tech towns, placing it in the number three spot of cities poised to become tech meccas in the near future. Cushman & Wakefield included Atlanta on its list of America’s 25 leading high-tech metro areas. The city has even been called the “Silicon Valley of the South.” And that’s just the beginning of Atlanta’s story as it continues its rise to becoming one of the nation’s top tech destinations.
Atlanta’s Tech Hot Spots
The Rankings
Atlanta is racking up an impressive list of accolades and acknowledgements in the tech arena. Here are just a few:
#2 FASTEST GROWING TECH HUB FOR IT TALENT (CIO, 2022)
#1 BEST CITY FOR TECHIES (Livability, 2023)
#9 BEST TECH CITY IN THE U.S. (PropStream, 2023)
While the entire metro Atlanta area has the distinction of being integral to the growth of the local tech industry, there are a few locales that truly stand out.
Midtown Atlanta: Home to Technology Square, Midtown has become one of the key districts of the local technology community. The area boasts 15 corporate innovation centers, several tech incubators and accelerators and more than 150 startups.
Buckhead: Anchored by Atlanta Tech Village, a renowned technology incubator complex that is recognized as the fourth largest tech space in the nation, Buckhead is a major driver of Atlanta’s success in the tech arena.
Alpharetta: Located 30 miles north of Atlanta, Alpharetta has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the tech space. The metro city is home to 700 technology companies and has been called “The Technology City of the South.”
Peachtree Corners: One of the first suburban areas to be recognized for its technology opportunities, Gwinnett County’s Peachtree Corners is home to such innovative spots as Atlanta Tech Park, which features space for more than 100 companies.
#4 BEST PLACE FOR TECH JOBS (CompTIA, 2023)
#11 STARTUP ECOSYSTEM IN THE U.S. (StartupBlink, 2023)
Atlanta also has the 4th largest tech space in the United States with the Atlanta Tech Village.
Metro Atlanta Incubators
Finding success in Atlanta’s tech sectors begins with finding the best place to plant roots. The metro area is home to an array of incubators that are fostering the development of the city’s standout startups. Check out these innovative spaces:
Atlanta Tech Village
Located in Buckhead atlantatechvillage.com
Atlanta Technology Development Center (ATDC)
Located at Georgia Tech in Midtown Atlanta atdc.org
The Farm
Located at The Battery Atlanta thefarmatl.com
The Circuit
Located in Woodstock circuitwoodstock.com
Information Technology Programs
In recent years, students have flocked to metro Atlanta to study a wide array of subjects under the technology umbrella. Here’s where they go to access some of the best information technology and computer science programs in the country:
Georgia Institute of Technology: gatech.edu
Morehouse College: morehouse.edu
Emory University: emory.edu
Georgia State University: robinson.gsu.edu
Kennesaw State University: ksu.edu
University of Georgia: uga.edu
Gwinnett Technical College: gwinnetttech.edu n
Big Business in Atlanta
THE METRO AREA’S FORTUNE 500 COMPANIES AND TOP 20 EMPLOYERS
Atlanta, which has a reputation for being one of the most business-friendly cities in the nation, is proud to be a popular destination for many renowned companies that appear on the annual Fortune 500 list. In 2023, metro Atlanta boasted 19 Fortune 500 companies and 16 Fortune 1000 businesses. The attraction to the city and its surrounding areas makes sense, as Atlanta offers access to a booming economy, a low corporate tax structure, a highly educated and skilled workforce, one of the world’s largest travel hubs, a right-to-work status, a growing innovation ecosystem and much more. And every day, numerous companies are either launching in or relocating to the metro area.
The metro area also continues to draw many other top businesses in the nation, including State Farm, IHG, Porsche Cars North America and Mercedes-Benz, all of which have established headquarters here and often appear on the list of metro Atlanta’s top employers. Their dedication to being a part of the metro area’s business community, as well as ensuring solid job opportunities for the local workforce, is a testament to the city and its ongoing efforts to create a welcoming and robust economic climate.
Atlanta Fortune 500 Companies
Atlanta’s Top 20 Employers
Source: Metro Atlanta Chamber, August 2023
GET TO KNOW HOMES & LIFESTYLES
Take It Outside
12 GREAT WAYS TO GET OUTDOORS IN THE ATL THIS SPRING
By Joyce Simmons
Winter 2025 tested Atlanta’s Southern sensibilities with arctic chills and icy roads that left the city snow-dusted and schools closed. But spring is finally here, and Atlanta is ready to bloom. There’s no better time to rediscover the vibrant parks, trails, festivals and sports opportunities that make the city a playground for all ages. From celebrating local culture to embracing outdoor adventures, here are 12 of the best ways to enjoy metro Atlanta’s great outdoors this spring.
Park It
There’s nothing like spending time at one of the metro area’s beautiful parks or outdoor venues. Don’t miss the following options:
Piedmont Park piedmontpark.org
Atlanta’s beloved Piedmont Park, located one mile northeast of the downtown area, is the perfect place to shake off winter and embrace the season. With lush open spaces, scenic paths and skyline views, it’s a hub of outdoor activity. Stroll along Lake Clara Meer, explore the Green Market on Saturdays or simply bask in the beauty of blooming dogwoods and azaleas. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic, throwing a frisbee or watching the city skyline light up at dusk, Piedmont Park is where Atlanta comes to unwind and connect with nature.
Atlanta Botanical Garden atlantabg.org
Spring at the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a feast for the senses. The gardens come alive with vivid tulips, orchids and native wildflowers, while exhibits like the Canopy Walk and outdoor sculptures make every visit unique. This season, explore the Japanese Garden for a moment of Zen, or head to the Edible
Garden, where fresh herbs and vegetables inspire culinary creativity. With specialty events like Atlanta Blooms!, featuring thousands of spring flowers in full bloom, there’s no better time to visit.
The Roof at Ponce City Market poncecityroof.com
For a hipster’s perspective on the city, visit The Roof at Ponce City Market. This rooftop destination in Midtown combines fun and relaxation with stunning skyline views. Play mini-golf at Skyline Park, challenge friends to carnival-style games and indulge in delicious bites from 9 Mile Station, the elevated beer garden. Spring evenings are especially magical here, where a cool breeze and an unbeatable view make every sunset feel like a celebration.
Blaze a Trail
Getting out there this season is as easy as finding the trailhead closest to you. These open-air trails, paths and greenspaces are just waiting for you:
Atlanta BeltLine beltline.org
The Atlanta BeltLine is a vibrant pathway connecting neighborhoods and greenspaces, making it one of the city’s most exciting urban revitalization projects. With public art installations,
bustling markets and scenic views, the BeltLine offers endless opportunities for adventure. The Eastside Trail, in particular, is perfect for biking, jogging or grabbing a bite at a BeltLine-adjacent eatery. Whether you’re looking for street art, pop-up events or outdoor fitness classes, the BeltLine is where Atlanta’s creative and active communities thrive.
Silver
Comet Trail silvercometga.com
Escape the city and find tranquility on the Silver Comet Trail, a more than 60-mile path stretching from Smyrna to the Alabama border. This wellmaintained paved trail winds through forests, over bridges and past scenic creeks, making it ideal for long-distance cycling, jogging or a leisurely walk. As the weather warms up, the trail becomes a peaceful retreat for those looking to explore Georgia’s natural beauty away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Path 400
path400greenway.org
Path 400 is more than just a scenic trail—it’s a vital link in metro Atlanta’s growing network of urban and suburban greenspaces. Beginning in Buckhead and stretching up through Sandy Springs along Georgia 400, this multi-use trail connects neighborhoods, businesses
Atlanta Botanical Garden
and parks, making it a convenient and beautiful route for walkers, runners and cyclists. With plans to expand, Path 400 will eventually integrate with the Atlanta BeltLine to the south, providing even greater connectivity. Along the way, visitors can enjoy public art installations, lush landscaping, shaded paths and more.
Get Festive
Spring is festival season all across the ATL, and you are certain to find the perfect option on any given weekend in 2025. Consider the following for some family fun:
Atlanta Dogwood Festival dogwood.org
From April 11 through 13, Piedmont Park will transform into a celebration of art, music and culture during the 89th annual Atlanta Dogwood Festival. The nationally renowned juried Fine
Artist Market features works in every medium imaginable, from paintings and sculptures to pottery and jewelry. The Main Stage will showcase live performances from solo artists and groups across genres, while the International Stage celebrates Atlanta’s global communities with stunning cultural displays.
Georgia Renaissance Festival garenfest.com
Immerse yourself in a world of knights, castles and medieval wonder at the Georgia Renaissance Festival, taking place in Fairburn from April 12 to June 1. This family-friendly event features costumed performers, jousting tournaments, artisan marketplaces, games, carnival rides and more. Try your hand at medieval weaving on a loom, learn to craft potpourri and historical perfumes or hone your skills
at an archery station. Indulge in hearty medieval-inspired foods like giant turkey legs and meat pies, and don’t forget to dress the part—cosplay is encouraged!
Atlanta Caribbean Carnival atlantacarnival.org
Taking place on May 2, the Atlanta Caribbean Carnival is a vibrant explosion of color, music and energy. This annual event celebrates Caribbean culture with a parade featuring elaborate feathered costumes and infectious soca, reggae and calypso beats. The festival village offers authentic Caribbean cuisine, craft vendors and live performances by top Caribbean artists. Whether you’re new to the city or a longtime resident, this festival is an unforgettable outdoor experience that brings the spirit of the islands to Atlanta.
Explore Fayetteville
GEORGIA
Play Ball!
Whether you want to get out there and play or watch the pros do what they do best, Atlanta’s spring sports offerings always hit it out of the park. Check out these options:
The Atlanta Braves at Truist Park mlb.com/braves/ballpark
Baseball is back, and Truist Park is the place to be. Cheer on the Atlanta Braves, winners of the World Series title in 2021, as they return to the diamond this spring with a jam-packed schedule of day and night games at the spectacular Cobb County-based stadium. Beyond the game itself, enjoy the lively atmosphere of The Battery Atlanta, where dining, shopping and live entertainment surrounding the ballpark create a festive game-day experience.
Atlanta United FC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium atlutd.com
Soccer fans, rejoice! Mercedes-Benz Stadium is home to Atlanta United FC, where the electric atmosphere and state-of-the-art stadium make every match unforgettable. The retractable roof (which brings the outdoors in), massive 360-degree halo board, and world-class amenities enhance the experience. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a first-time attendee, an Atlanta United match is a must-experience sporting event in the city.
Atlanta Sport and Social Club jamsports.com/discover/atlanta
The Atlanta Sport and Social Club, in partnership with JAM Sports, offers one of the best ways to stay active, meet new people and enjoy Atlanta’s beautiful spring weather. Designed for adults of
all skill levels, the club provides a wide range of recreational sports leagues, including basketball, soccer, flag football, beach and indoor volleyball, kickball, pickleball, softball and Ultimate frisbee. Whether you’re looking for friendly competition or a casual way to socialize, there’s a league for you. Many games take place at parks and greenspaces across the city, followed by post-game meetups at local bars.
Atlanta United FC
Spring to Mind
Don’t miss these outdoor opportunities across metro Atlanta’s welcoming cities.
Fayetteville
fayetteville-ga.gov
The newly developed City Center Park is the heartbeat of Fayetteville, located just 40 minutes south of Atlanta. The park features a splash pad full of kids playing all day long in the spring and summertime, right next to the new Line Creek Brewing and an array of restaurants with outdoor seating overlooking the park. The Main Street Fayetteville program hosts events throughout spring and summer, including the Ville Summer Concert Series, 3rd Saturday Soiree markets on the historic Courthouse Square and dinner and movie nights planned throughout the season. With City Center Park, Fayetteville has created a major downtown attraction and gathering area for everyone to enjoy the outdoors, which soon will include a new downtown arts district, public art installations and a new outdoor plaza. And in addition to downtown Fayetteville and Main Street, Fayetteville’s Trilith neighborhood has beautiful outdoor restaurants and greenspaces with outdoor movie nights and events for the community.
The many cities and towns that comprise the entirety of metro Atlanta each feature their own outdoor venues and events that are perfect for a spring outing. Gather your family and friends and get ready to enjoy some beautiful seasonal weather and entertainment across these urban and suburban locales.
Peachtree Corners
peachtreecornersga.gov
Nothing brings a community together like a beloved annual event, and Peachtree Corners makes sure that spring (and summer) is chock full of options for residents and visitors alike. Start with Bark in the Park on March 15; this “tail-wagging extravaganza” features carnival-style games; a mini agility course for pups; vendors showcasing the latest treats, toys and accessories for furry friends and much more on the Town Green. Then, throughout the season, the Peachtree Corners Concert Series allows everyone to enjoy toe-tapping tunes under the stars, with tribute bands, cover bands and local acts filling the air with magnificent music during a host of highly anticipated free events.
Smyrna
smyrnaga.gov
Few cities in metro Atlanta are home to so many remarkable parks—but Smyrna is. In fact, nearly two dozen parks can be found across the Jonquil City, which is known for the thousands of jonquils that bloom in gardens and along the streets of Smyrna each spring. You can enjoy the views of the delightful flowers as you travel from park to park,
from the aptly named Jonquil Park to GB Williams Park, Highland Park, Burger Park, North Cooper Lake Park and Rose Garden Park, among many others. Each venue boasts its own amenities, including gazebos, pavilions, playgrounds, walking trails, tennis courts, basketball courts, greenspace and more. You’re certain to find the perfect spring spot for you and your family.
Suwanee suwanee.com
One of the newest additions to the metro area is Suwanee’s spectacular Town Center on Main & DeLay Nature Park. Town Center on Main is a 13-acre urban park that expands upon the popular Town Center Park, providing even more opportunities for residents to enjoy outdoor activities and connect with nature. The development was designed to offer a mix of recreation, relaxation and entertainment options. Meeting up with Town Center on Main is DeLay Nature Park, 15 acres of wooded nature along Brushy Creek that features the half-mile Brushy Creek Greenway. Together, these venues have been planned since 2002 and are coming to fruition in spring of 2025 for residents and visitors.
Peachtree Corners Flicks on the Green
Fayetteville
Metro Atlanta Guide to Utilities
Before you put the key in the lock of your new home, you have to prepare the property for your arrival. This means getting your utilities up and running soon after your home closing. Here in metro Atlanta, there are a number of services you’ll need to set up. Be sure to put these on your list as you begin the process.
Natural Gas
While metro Atlanta has a temperate climate, you’ll want to warm your home during the winter. Also, natural gas is used for water heating, cooking, clothes drying and more. You’ll need to select a natural gas provider, and there are several that serve metro Atlanta. You typically can research rates, customer service offerings and discounts and sign up online, making the process quick and convenient.
Did You Know? Georgia deregulated its natural gas market in 1998. Atlanta Gas Light owns and controls the natural gas pipelines, and natural gas marketers work with it to access them. Companies like SCANA Energy offer both fixed rate and variable rate plans depending on your needs.
Electricity
Accounting for 48 percent of household energy use in Georgia, electricity should be at the top of your utility service list. Depending on where your home is located, you have options. You can select a company like Georgia Power, which is the largest subsidiary of the Southern Company, or one of the Electric Membership Cooperatives (EMCs) that provide electricity to the area; these non-profit utilities serve more
than four million customers as part of the Georgia Electric Membership Corporation.
Water
With metro Atlanta being comprised of so many cities and towns, it’s no surprise that there are various water and sewer service providers. Typically, your home will be serviced by either the county water authority or the city government. If you are moving into a previously
owned home, the former owners can provide you with information. For new homes, the builder can point you in the right direction.
Phone, Cable and Internet
These days, phone, cable and Internet service is just as important as every other utility. In metro Atlanta, major service providers like Xfinity and AT&T are going to be the most common options, as they cover the entire area. Some counties do offer alternatives, allowing you to personalize your service. As with all other utilities, a bit of online research can make the process fast and seamless.
2025 EVENT CALENDAR
APRIL
19: Recycling Event at City Hall 9 AM - 12 PM
27: Criterium Bike Race at City Hall 8 AM - 8 PM
MAY
10: Concert - Dancing Dream (ABBA Tribute) and Big Bam Boom (Hall & Oates Tribute)
26: Memorial Day Challenge and Service 8 AM - 12 PM
31: Concert - Guardians of the Jukebox (80’s Cover)
16: Concert - Passing the Torch (Whitney Houston Tribute)
30: Concert - Queen Nation (Queen Tribute)
MARCH
15: Bark at the Park 2-5 PM
29: PTC Arbor Day with Plant Sale and Swap 12-5 PM
JUNE
7: Flicks on the Green - The Lion King
14: Concert - Mustache the Band (Country Hits)
28: Concert - G Clef and the Playlist (Various Cover)
SEPTEMBER
6: Flicks on the GreenEncanto
13: Concert - Troubadour Project (70’s Rock Cover)
27: Concert - Animals (Maroon 5 Tribute)
NOVEMBER
11: Veterans Day Service 11 AM - 12 PM
15: Game Day and Market 12-4 PM
DECEMBER
4: Holiday Glow 5:30-8 PM
Yoga on the Green: Tuesdays 8 AM (June-September)
ATL Bocce League: Wednesdays 6 PM (June-October)
CrossFit: Thursdays 8 AM (March-November)
Moving to Atlanta Timeline
There’s a lot of work that goes into coordinating an organized move, and it’s smart to get a head start on planning before the moving truck arrives at your door. Here’s a handy guide to help you streamline some of the most important activities associated with your move to Atlanta.
TWO MONTHS BEFORE
n Research your options for moving or truck rental companies. Get onsite, written estimates and references from multiple companies — for moving and storage, if necessary.
n Take inventory of everything in your home, room by room. Decide what you’d like to get rid of and determine what’s worth keeping, and make a list of all of the items you plan to take with you.
n Start a binder of all paperwork, estimates and receipts related to your move. These costs can later be taken as tax credits and deductions.
n Collect necessary records from your child’s school and your pet’s veterinarian, as well as family medical, dental and legal documents and keep them organized together.
SIX WEEKS BEFORE
n Schedule a moving date or reserve a truck if you’re moving yourself.
n Complete a change of address with your local post office, or do it online at usps.gov.
n Start packing seasonal clothing and any other items not in immediate use.
n Use up or give away food and supplies that can’t be moved, like frozen or perishable foods and cleaning supplies.
n Host a garage or moving sale for the items you decide not to keep, and give away leftovers to charitable organizations.
FOUR WEEKS BEFORE
n Send your new address to friends and family members.
n Notify important parties of your move and provide your new address, including your bank, your employer’s HR department, magazines and subscription services, credit card, insurance and utility companies.
n Schedule disconnection of services at your current home and reconnection at your new house, including phone, cable and internet.
n Contact insurance companies to obtain moving coverage and to transfer policies to your new home.
n Research new medical professionals for you and your family, including family doctors, dentists and veterinarians.
2-3 WEEKS BEFORE
n Don’t leave it in the landfill. Research how you can recycle old electronics, plastics, metals and anything else you won’t be bringing with you that won’t naturally decompose.
n Transfer your automobile registration and driver’s license if you’re moving out of state.
n Create a folder of important information about your house for the next homeowner. Be sure to include your new address so that future residents can forward any mail.
ONE WEEK BEFORE
n Confirm dates and time of packing and moving if you’re using a mover. If you’re moving yourself, confirm moving truck arrangements.
n Confirm travel arrangements and pack a travel kit for you and your family members with whatever you need, including cash, credit cards, travel documents, medications, etc. Don’t forget activities and toys for the kids!
ONE DAY BEFORE
n Finalize all packing. Double-check that all closets, garage, attic and basement are cleared.
n Complete a house check. Defrost the freezer, drain the water hose, disconnect and prepare any major appliances you’re planning to move.
n Pack a “First Open/Load Last” box. Include items you’ll need on the first day in your new home.
n Confirm hotel or temporary accommodations, if needed.
n Arrange for childcare and pet services.
MOVING DAY
n Verify the moving truck that shows up is the one you hired. The USDOT number on the side of the truck should match the number on the estimate/ confirmation paperwork. Scams can happen!
n Sign the bill of lading/ inventory list before the movers leave, making sure to check boxes and note any missing items or damage. Keep a copy in a safe place.
n Be on hand for movers to answer questions and show where furniture and boxes should go.
n Be prepared to pay the mover and have cash on hand to tip workers.
Atlanta’s Best Builders and New Home Communities
According to Realtor.com, homebuilders across the nation are expected to construct more than 1.1 million new homes in 2025. That’s a 14 percent increase from 2024, as home buyers clamor for the opportunity not only to live in a brand new residence, but also to have the chance to personalize the forever home of their dreams and make it completely their own. And for those who want that
new home to be in Atlanta, there’s good news: the metro area is replete with outstanding homebuilders that are crafting exceptional communities in an array of highly sought-after locations. Here, KNOWAtlanta Magazine highlights just a few of the standout builders and can’t-miss communities that you have to put on your list as you navigate metro Atlanta’s spectacular new home market.
ATLANTA’S BEST BUILDERS
Toll Brothers
What makes Toll Brothers the leading luxury builder in Metro Atlanta?
Toll Brothers, the nation’s leading luxury home builder founded in 1967, has a strong presence in metro Atlanta, offering upscale communities in prime locations. Known for highquality craftsmanship and innovative home designs, we provide a range of single-family homes, townhomes and condominiums in communities that feature resort-style amenities, top-rated schools and convenient access to shopping, dining and major highways, making them a preferred choice for luxury living. Toll Brothers has been recognized on Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies list for more than 10 years in a row.
Where does Toll Brothers build in Atlanta?
Toll Brothers currently builds in 28 communities in the greater Atlanta area in sought-after locations like Alpharetta, Milton and Cumming. These luxury communities offer residents the Toll Brothers Advantage, with exceptional architecture and a range of home designs, prime locations, unrivaled choice and an extraordinary customer experience. Homes are priced from the mid-$400s to $1.2 million.
What sets Toll Brothers homes apart from other Atlanta builders?
Toll Brothers offers expansive, flexible floor plans with the features that home buyers desire as they personalize their homes to reflect their lifestyles. Quick move-in homes with designerappointed features are available in many communities across metro Atlanta. For build-to-order homes, buyers experience one-stop shopping at the Toll Brothers Design Studio. The state-of-the-art design studio allows home buyers to choose from a wide array of selections to personalize their dream home with the assistance of Toll Brothers’ professional design consultants.
ATLANTA’S BEST NEW HOME COMMUNITIES
Lake Arrowhead
How do you describe Lake Arrowhead?
Lake Arrowhead is where the metro Atlanta area meets the coveted Blue Ridge Mountains. Our residents enjoy a rewarding, dazzling lifestyle in a serene mountain setting with a 540-acre lake and one of the best golf courses in Georgia. No matter the season, you’ll find a welcoming, neighborly atmosphere within our secure, gated, one-of-a-kind community.
What sets Lake Arrowhead apart as a community?
Over 20 miles of magnificent shoreline along Lake Arrowhead’s crystal clear waters with depths of over 80 feet is ideal for boating, fishing, swimming and picnicking. Adventure is right outside your front door with over 18 miles of hiking trails, numerous pools and parks and sport courts of all kinds. Onsite dining at our clubhouse, numerous social clubs and year-round scheduled activities grant residents an enhanced quality of life.
What sets your homes apart in the Atlanta market?
Lake Arrowhead features four veteran homebuilders: JW Collection, Majestic Lifestyle Builders, Rezide Properties and TIH Homes. Our diverse home selection includes ranch style homes on private wooded home sites, luxury lakeside villas, townhomes with water and mountain views and cottages within walking distance of Red Cloud Park. New for 2025 will be the unveiling of new model homes, new floor plans and design-inspired interior and exterior features.
ATLANTA’S BEST BUILDERS
Traton Homes
How did Traton Homes get its start in metro Atlanta?
For more than 50 years, Traton Homes has been a trusted name in homebuilding, focusing on quality and excellence in the metro Atlanta area and beyond. Founded in 1971 and based in Marietta, Traton is a familyowned builder with deep roots in the community. Over the decades, Traton has built a reputation for delivering “altogether more”—more quality, more value and more thoughtfully designed homes in prime locations. Expanding beyond metro Atlanta, Traton also builds along the Florida panhandle, including in Panama City Beach, Freeport and more locations coming soon.
What sets Traton Homes apart in the Atlanta market?
For more than five decades, Traton Homes has proven that longevity in the homebuilding industry is earned through sound business principles and a commitment to excellence. Traton has earned widespread recognition, including being named Cobb County’s Best Homebuilder for the past five consecutive years and receiving the prestigious Guildmaster Award for excellence in customer service a total of nine times. These accolades reflect the company’s unwavering commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.
What makes your homes special?
Traton is dedicated to offering homes that meet the needs of every lifestyle, from spacious single-family detached homes and stylish townhomes to beautiful active adult ranch homes. Each home is crafted with an eye for detail, blending architecturally distinctive exteriors with stylish and functional interiors. People often say, “There’s just something about a Traton home.” This sentiment speaks to the warmth and quality that is uniquely Traton. Beyond the homes themselves, Traton is known for building communities of enduring value that enhance the lives of residents. With desirable amenities and prime locations, Traton creates communities where people can thrive.
ATLANTA’S BEST NEW HOME COMMUNITIES
Great Sky
How do you describe Great Sky?
Great Sky is a master-planned community designed to embrace the beauty of nature while providing modern conveniences and exceptional amenities. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Canton, our community offers breathtaking mountain and water views, miles of nature trails and a welcoming atmosphere for residents of all ages. With a focus on fostering an active and engaged lifestyle, Great Sky features a lifestyle director who organizes events and activities that bring neighbors together. Whether it’s enjoying a tennis match, playing pickleball or walking along scenic trails, life at Great Sky is about connection—both to nature and to community.
What are the homes like in the community?
Great Sky offers a variety of home styles and price points, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Our current builders—Venture Communities, Toll Brothers, Eastwood Homes and Encore by David Weekley (55+ section)—each bring distinct architectural styles and craftsmanship to the community. Homes range from charming, paired units to luxury single-family homes, with pricing starting in the low $400s and extending into the high $500s. Whether buyers are seeking a first home, a move-up property or an active adult lifestyle, Great Sky delivers thoughtfully designed homes with modern high-quality finishes.
What sets Great Sky apart in the Atlanta market?
Great Sky stands out for its unparalleled natural beauty, resortstyle amenities and strong sense of community. Unlike many suburban developments, we offer stunning mountain and serene water views that make every day feel like a retreat. Our amenities include three resortstyle pools with a thrilling water slide, tennis and pickleball courts, a half basketball court and scenic walking trails. Combined with our curated lifestyle programming and a variety of home options, Great Sky creates an environment where residents can truly live, play, and thrive. It’s more than just a neighborhood—it’s a destination designed for a fulfilling and connected way of life.
KNOWATLANTA GUIDE TO NEW HOMES BUILDER AND DEVELOPER
1. Great Sky 2. Lake Arrowhead
Pointe
Evergreen Farms
Candleberry Place 6. Twelve Parks 7. The Park at Ansleigh Farms
Townes of South Main
GET TO KNOW EDUCATION
METRO ATLANTA PRIVATE SCHOOLS GO THE DISTANCE WITH EXCITING SPORTS PROGRAM UPDATES Well Played
By Amy Meadows
According to website Private School Review, the average private school in the State of Georgia offers eight sports, with private high schools across the state averaging 10 sports—rates that sit above the national average. And in metro Atlanta specifically, many private schools offer even more than that, with some boasting upwards of an astounding 20 sports options. That’s an important distinction, as many families consider sports as a key factor when it comes to choosing the private school that is best for them. They consider which sports their students will have access to, the resources that are
part of those programs and how a school works to stay up to date with everything student-athletes need to succeed both athletically and academically. Fortunately, the metro area is home to an array of private and independent schools that feature outstanding athletic programs that not only let students of all ages to explore multiple sports throughout each school year, but also are constantly evolving to meet the needs of their young athletes. Here, we look at recent changes and updates that have allowed several local private schools to take their sports programs to the next level.
The More the Merrier: New Sports Options
For many years, sports like football and baseball were the main options for student-athletes at the middle and high school levels. In recent years, however, independent schools across the country—and throughout metro Atlanta—have expanded their sports offerings with an array of new options for both boys and girls. From tennis and swimming to lacrosse and esports, new sports teams are being added to school rosters near and far. And there have been some exciting developments recently at local schools.
“We are always open to evolving our athletic offerings to better meet the needs of our students,” says Noah Schroyer, sports information graduate assistant at The Lovett School in Atlanta. “We [regularly] plan to introduce additional sports and activities, ensuring that our community continues to grow and that every student has a space where they can feel purpose and a sense of belonging.”
With that in mind, the school recently introduced both flag football and esports at the varsity level, while also working to expand offerings for middle school students. The students themselves played a key role in having flag football and esports added to the school’s offerings, requesting the changes and encouraging the administration to make the additions for the 2024-2025 school year. Schroyer adds, “These additions are part of our commitment to enhancing the studentathlete experience. Our aim is to offer a broader range of sports and activities to support the development of all students, fostering a well-rounded athletic environment. We focus on developing both athletic skills and character while also fostering a strong sense of community and purpose within our teams.”
A similar sentiment can be found at North Cobb Christian School, located in Kennesaw. According to Jimmy Keane, middle school athletic director, “At North Cobb Christian School, we continue
to add teams and upgrade facilities to give our students a broad scope of opportunities to play a variety of sports while also ensuring they can develop in their skills and technique through cutting-edge spaces to train and play.” In terms of NCCS’s sports options, much emphasis has been placed on lacrosse in recent years. As Todd Clingman, head of school, notes, “Lacrosse has expanded exponentially at NCCS. We launched junior varsity boys lacrosse in 2018, upgraded that program to varsity in 2021, added middle school boys lacrosse in 2022, launched varsity girls lacrosse in 2024 and added middle school girls lacrosse this year in 2025. Our teams have grown in scope and skill, resulting in an increasingly competitive lacrosse program at NCCS.” Beyond that, the school also added bass fishing as a sport in 2023, bringing the school’s total to 56 teams across 16 sports.
In the last several years, lacrosse and fishing have been added to other schools’ repertoires as well, including to that of Mount Paran Christian School in Kennesaw. While varsity lacrosse began as a sport for boys at the school nearly a decade ago, with varsity girls lacrosse
The students themselves played a key role in having flag football and esports added to the school’s offerings, requesting the changes and encouraging the administration to make the additions for the 2024-2025 school year.
The Lovett School
being added seven years ago, Mount Paran has more recently been able to add partial junior varsity schedules for students in middle school, according to Caroline Bradford, assistant director of athletics and head coach for varsity girls tennis. “As someone who graduated from high school in Cobb County 22 years ago, I can say that lacrosse was almost unheard of,” she says. “So now, to see the impact that the sport has had in this region, it’s pretty exciting.” Equally exciting is the school’s newest addition to its sports programming: a dance team. Currently in its second year at Mount Paran, the dance team grew out of the on-campus Murray Arts Academy and caters to 9th through 12th grade students who want to work beyond the dance classes offered in the academy. The team currently performs at all home basketball games; while not a competitive team yet, they are exploring what it takes to move
into the dance competition arena. As Bradford observes, “We have 450 high school students, and we have a lot of teams. That’s because we have students who are willing to get after it and work hard. They’re willing to do something
different and try new sports. That’s a big piece of who we are as a school and as an athletic department.”
Room to Grow: New Facilities
Of course, with so many sports options,
Mount Paran Christian School
schools also must have first-rate facilities available to their student-athletes so they can perform to the best of their abilities while continually working to improve their skills. Across the metro area, private schools have made an array of capital improvements to their sports facilities, ensuring that everyone has what they need to succeed from season to season.
For instance, at Wesleyan School in Peachtree Corners, a significant renovation in the fall of 2023 upgraded the weight room on campus to a new state-of-the-art standard. “We did a major renovation of our weight room to provide the best training equipment for our student-athletes,” reveals Lacy Gilbert, director of athletics. “We wanted to add more functional space to accommodate more athletes, as well as provide a space for speed and agility work.” The space now includes a 15-yard turf area for athletes to work on speed, eight racks with brand new weight equipment, a LEVER Movement system that attaches to a treadmill to aid in low-
impact athlete recovery and Normatec and Game Ready recovery systems to provide further recovery assistance, among other features. The facility can
be accessed by students in 7th through 12th grades, with some PE classes using the weight room at least once per week. Gilbert adds, “The student-athletes love the weight room renovation, the new equipment and the ability to perform more exercises. And our addition of multiple recovery management systems have been appreciated by our students, as it allows them to rehab injuries while on campus. Our goal is to provide the best equipment for our student-athletes to directly benefit their training and show our commitment to athletic excellence in all areas of our sports programs.”
Atlanta International School, which has a main campus in Buckhead, recently underwent a transformation as well with the opening of a new 25-acre campus in Sandy Springs that includes state-of-theart sporting and recreational facilities. Jaclissa Haislip, director of athletics, notes that a new sports field, tennis courts and other sporting facilities were an integral part of the renovation of the campus, which is situated along the banks of the Chattahoochee River. She says, “As we
Wesleyan School
Atlanta International School
expand on the Sandy Springs campus, we may have the chance to establish an intramural program that allows students to engage in a wide range of sports. This development also provides additional facilities to support our expanding programs across both campuses.”
One element of those expanding programs is AIS’s collaboration with Patrick Mouratoglou, the legendary tennis coach of Serena Williams, to launch the Mouratoglou Academy Atlanta, which is designed to offer students an exceptional experience both in the classroom and on the tennis court, with elite tennis experiences including camps and a tennis-and-school program based on the Mouratoglou methodology. The academy complements the school’s AISx program, which offers in-person, virtual and asynchronous classes that are tailor-made for elite athletes who need a flexible academic schedule. Haislip continues, “What truly distinguishes us is our commitment to providing athletic opportunities for the entire community. From our youngest Eagles in 3K to our upper school students, everyone has the
chance to engage in a variety of Eagles athletics, including soccer, basketball,
when it upgraded its own facilities with a renovated weight room, an additional training field and the recent opening of a $3.2 million baseball and softball complex, Walker Phillips Field. The latter is the result of two years’ worth of effort and construction to build a complex that not only provides student-athletes with an outstanding facility, but also honors a beloved fourth grade student who tragically passed in 2022. According to Jimmy Keane, the Walker Phillips complex is a fully lighted multi-purpose turfed field that includes a hitting facility, locker room and concession area. Todd Clingman says, “Walker Phillips’ two siblings, Aiden (Class of 2025) and Cannon (Class of 2028) are still students at NCCS, and having a permanent place on campus to honor their younger
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North Cobb Christian School
embodies the love athletics, teamwork and sportsmanship that Walker displayed.” Keane adds, “With this cutting-edge facility to support training and games, we look forward to seeing our softball program take a stride forward from varsity to middle school. This investment shows a tremendous amount of support for girls sports—an investment that will have a ripple effect throughout the athletic program.” That includes future expansion projects, including an expanded training facility for studentathletes and the construction of a new football stadium with a regulation track.
Leader of the Pack: New Coaches
The relationship between a coach and his or her players is a key ingredient for a successful sports team. As Jimmy Keane of North Cobb Christian School states, “Our coaches coach players, not games.” And in private schools across metro Atlanta, selecting the right coaches for their ever-evolving sports programs is crucial. The process is often an ongoing proposition, as programs change, coaches leave for other opportunities, new sports are added and studentathletes require fresh leadership. For example, Wesleyan added an assistant strength and conditioning coach to its burgeoning athletic department staff in 2023. Additionally, Mount Paran Christian School is currently in the midst
of a search for a new varsity football head coach to lead its highly competitive football team.
In the last couple of years, Woodward Academy, located in College Park, experienced a turnover of coaches. While a challenge, the athletic department also looked at the changes as an opportunity to bring in a slate of new coaches who could infuse their sports teams with a renewed sense of enthusiasm and purpose. According to Dr. Jose Fernandez, director of athletics, the school was able to bring in Kaitlin Cochran as the new head girls lacrosse coach and Jonathan Vance as the head boys lacrosse coach—both of whom have collegiate coaching experience. Tucker Griffin came on board as the head varsity girls tennis coach after serving as the assistant coach for several years.
Lucy Seidel also joined Woodward as the head varsity diving coach, while Thomas Quizau came on board as the head swim coach. Fernandez notes, “We have fantastic coaches, and they put in a lot of time, energy and effort into what they do. We have conversations with our coaches about the fact that while we compete to win championships, not everyone’s going to win a championship. So one of the things we try to instill without coaches is the understanding that the relationships they create with their student-athletes is the most important things that’s going
to lead us to be successful. We strive to create lasting relationships as we also instill sportsmanship.”
Local private schools across the board adhere to this principle, and it helps them stand out to families looking for the right educational home for their children. As Noah Schroyer concludes, “Athletics is about more than just skill development and competition—it’s about creating an environment where every student feels a sense of belonging and connection. Our dedicated, experienced coaches work to ensure that every athlete is supported, valued and encouraged to reach their full potential, both in sports and as part of our inclusive school community. We believe that through athletics, we can cultivate a compassionate, resilient student body.”
For more information, visit:
Atlanta International School aischool.org
The Lovett School lovett.org
Mount Paran Christian School mtparanschool.com
North Cobb Chrisitan School ncchristian.org
Wesleyan School wesleyanschool.org
Woodward Academy woodward.edu
Woodward Academy
KNOWATLANTA GUIDE TO METRO ATLANTA PRIVATE SCHOOLS
A Good Sport
LIFE UNIVERSITY PREPARES PROFESSIONALS
FOR FUTURES IN SPORT HEALTH SCIENCE
By Ken Abramczyk
When it comes to sports, today’s colleges do not just offer exhilarating spectator experiences for students and visitors alike. Many institutes of higher education have crafted programs that are designed to help students forge career paths in everything from sports performance and sports injury
Mastering Sport Health Science
According to Dr. Keith Rau, associate professor of Sport Health Science at Life University, the division has evolved over the years from its origins in the 1990s, when athletic training alone was emphasized. Today, the 52-credit hour master’s program has expanded to offer tracks in the professional fields of clinical exercise
rehabilitation to chiropractic and nutrition. One such school is Life University, which offers several options for students, including a graduate program in Sport Health Science and undergraduate studies in exercise science, health coaching and nutrition, all available on institute’s Marietta campus.
physiology, sports chiropractic and rehab, nutrition and sport science and sport performance. Overall, the program is geared towards those who want to learn about the science behind human performance, with each focusing on a different aspect of sports medicine.
For instance, Rau, who holds a doctorate in chiropractic, instructs
sports chiropractic and rehab, which integrates the discipline of sport science and chiropractic. Students learn about arthrokinematics, or how joint surfaces move, and proprioception, which is how people perceive locations and movements of body parts. He explains, “We focus on how the body works and moves and then apply chiropractic principles and
techniques to help athletes or just active people.” Students apply these principles during internships and practicums that help pave the way for them to build careers in the space.
Clinical exercise physiology instructs students on applications used in an exercise physiology lab or a cardiac rehab facility and prepares students for careers as cardiac rehab professionals, clinical exercise physiologists and strength and conditioning coaches, as well as in the areas of health club management, preventive medicine, corporate fitness or further study in doctoral programs. What’s more, nutrition and sport science integrates nutrition and sport science disciplines for research and careers in both of those fields, while sport performance helps prepare the sport injury provider, such as a chiropractor, for sport injury management at a high school or college level. All together, these areas of study provide a comprehensive foundation for employment opportunities across the sports medicine arena.
The Living Lab at Life University
Students in the master’s program benefit from hands-on lab work at Life University’s Sport Science Institute (LUSSI) and Center for Health and Optimum Performance (C-HOP), which together help students hone the skills they will need to work in the exercise physiology world. Through these facilities, which include a living laboratory, students are able to work directly with athletes under the direction of the school’s faculty. The lab offers access to such tools as an array of Biodex equipment (which screens for concussions, helps with balance assessment and more) and the Bod Pod, which measures body composition, body fat, lean tissue and bone mineral density. As Rau states, “We have a lot of great equipment to look at everything an exercise physiologist would examine
in human performance or in a clinical exercise physiology setting working at a cardiac rehab facility, testing someone to see how their heart is functioning.”
To secure their master’s degree in the program, students complete a practicum in athletic care, assisting the director under his supervision. For example, students work with athletic trainers and strength and conditioning coaches, developing programming for student athletes with weightlifting and exercises. According to Rau, this focus on sports performance, which is geared toward coaches, gives students comprehensive knowledge of exercise physiology, kinesiology, nutrition and a vast array of topics involved with coaching and a foundation for successful careers upon graduation. Additionally, students are able to obtain real-world experience outside of the campus itself. One such opportunity is with Rau, who has served as the team chiropractor at Kennesaw State University for more than 20 years and regularly brings Life University students to KSU to assist him. “One of the coolest things we offer to students is the opportunity to work with athletes at the NAIA and NCAA levels,” Rau says. That experience bolsters students’ resumes and helps land them jobs where that experience is needed. He continues, “We’ve had great success where our students immediately start working with high-level athletes because they had that on their resume.”
Starting at the Beginning
For those students just beginning their journeys into the sports medicine—and general health—
arena, Life University offers several undergraduate study programs that act as building blocks for their future careers.
Exercise Science
This program studies the disciplines of anatomy, biology, biochemistry, physiology and kinesiology. Students learn skills to work in cardiac and pulmonary rehab, corporate fitness programs and community-based programs. These students often pursue careers later as fitness center managers, corporate fitness officers, strength and conditioning specialists and sports trainers.
Health Coaching
Graduates of this program serve as liaisons between patients and clinical specialists, identify providers with appropriate expertise, communicate with clinics and advocate on patients’ behalf. Health coaching students pursue careers at holistic health centers, health education facilities, community health centers, corporate health and wellness centers and fitness training centers.
Nutrition
Nutrition students prepare for careers in the food industry, performing duties such as designing meal plans, counseling clients and writing recipes. Students
learn about the interconnection between food and health and work in six teaching kitchens that allow them to prepare for careers at holistic health centers, community centers and nonprofit organizations.
Crafting the Future of Sport Health Science
Many students studying exercise science or health coaching are athletes who are interested in those topics, Rau says, noting that “many master’s students are co-enrolled in our chiropractic program. Many athletes stay and get a master’s, but they are not going to go into the chiropractic program; they just want to know more.” He adds that some students in particular want to enter a physical therapy program, noting, “It’s very difficult to get into a PT school, so they’ll get a master’s degree which facilitates them getting into PT school.”
Rau enjoys seeing the interactions among the students, athletes, coaches, trainers and strength and conditioning coaches, calling them great learning opportunities. He concludes, “It’s a blast working with healthy, motivated young people who want to perform at their best. That’s always a fun group to work with. The older I get, I think I enjoy it a lot more. It’s hard not to be energized when you are around motivated young people.”
For more information, visit life.edu.
Chattahoochee Technical College: Getting an Assist
Physical therapist assistants (PTA) play a vital role, working directly with physical therapists to impact patients’ lives by helping them reduce or manage pain, restore function, prevent disability and achieve movement and recovery from injuries or surgeries.
Serving Our Community for Over 60 Years
Students who want to receive an associate of applied science degree as a physical therapist assistant can apply at Chattahoochee Technical College. Offered at the North Campus in Acworth, the program teach students how to work with a licensed physical therapist and assist with hands-on treatment utilizing therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, pain relieving modalities and other activities.
Those interested in the competitive PTA program must complete pre-admission courses, which are available through the college’s healthcare science certificate program or the interdisciplinary studies health track. The competitive admission process requires that all students must have a minimum grade point average of 2.0 to be considered for program admission.
Occupational courses are completed in four semesters. Students are required to complete three clinical rotations, which includes being assigned to work with a licensed therapist. In the end, program graduates are eligible to sit for a state-administered national licensure exam for PTAs.
For more information, visit chattahoocheetech.edu/physical-therapist-assistant
GET TO KNOW METRO ATLANTA’S COUNTIES
The Counties of Metro Atlanta
According to the Atlanta Regional Commission, the 20-county Atlanta region will be home to more than eight million people by the year 2040. The counties that comprise the area are as distinctive as the people who live within them, as each one has its own personality, features and resources. In the pages that follow, KNOWAtlanta will introduce you to more than
a dozen of the most sought-after counties in metro Atlanta. You’ll learn about each county’s proximity to the city of Atlanta, basic facts, the major cities and neighborhoods, school information and more. Consider it your primer for getting to know Atlanta and its beautiful communities. When you relocate, all of the information you need is right here at your fingertips.
Lumpkin
METRO ATLANTA HIGHWAYS
Interstate 75
I-75 runs northwest to southeast straight through the City of Atlanta.
Interstate 85
I-85 runs northeast to southwest and converges with I-75 to form the Downtown Connector.
Interstate 20
I-20 is a major artery running east to west through the City of Atlanta.
Interstate 285
Known as “The Perimeter,” this interstate loop encircles Atlanta and connects I-75, I-85 and I-20 to the city.
Georgia State Route 400
GA 400 runs north to south through the north-central suburbs of Atlanta and is concurrent with U.S. Route 19.
Interstate 675
This auxiliary highway runs through the southeast part of metro Atlanta connecting Stockbridge to I-285.
Interstate 575
I-575 is a 30-mile spur route that branches off of I-75 and traverses the northwestern suburbs.
Bartow County
Bartow
Atlanta
CITIES OF BARTOW:
Distance from Cartersville to Downtown Atlanta 43 Miles
Distance from Cartersville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 53 Miles
POPULATION 115,041
MEDIAN HOME PRICE $328,310
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE bartowga.org
Bartow County features the best parts of big city life and small-town living with Civil War and Native American sites, excellent dining experiences, a business-friendly economy, unmatched arts, shopping and excellent educational opportunities.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Shaw Industries, Inc.
• Toyo Tire North America
• Piedmont Cartersville Medical Center
• Volstalpine Automotive Components
• Anheuser-Busch
ATTRACTIONS:
• Red Top Mountain State Park
• Tellus Science Museum
• Booth Western Art Museum
• LakePoint Sports Complex
• Barnsley Resort
Euharlee
Taylorsville
Cartersville
Adairsville adairsvillega.net
Brimming with Normal Rockwell-esque charm, Adairsville is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is home to the famed Barnsley Resort.
Cartersville cityofcartersville.org
As a gateway to the Atlanta metro area and the pristine beauty of the North Georgia mountains, Cartersville is perfectly poised for outdoor lovers and cultural enthusiasts with three Smithsonian Affiliate museums.
Emerson cityofemerson.org
LakePoint Sports Complex, spanning 1,300 acres, is an ongoing favorite and top destination for more than 20 sports, as is Terminus Wake Park, an all-ages watersports park.
Euharlee euharlee.com
Euharlee is a small town located just west of Cartersville and home to the Euharlee Covered Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Georgia.
Kingston cityofkingstonga.org
Kingston is a city steeped in history with a variety of artifacts, scrapbooks and photographs. A monument to Melvinia Shields, an ancestor to former First Lady Michelle Obama, marks Shields’ grave at the Queens Chapel Methodist Church.
Taylorsville
Taylorsville is just minutes away from Euharlee where history buffs can explore the oldest covered bridge in Georgia.
White cityofwhitega.com
A bedroom community of neighboring Cartersville, White covers one square mile of land, referred to as “The Friendliest Mile in Georgia,” and celebrated with a festival in April.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Bartow County Schools bartow.k12.ga.us
Cartersville City Schools cartersvilleschools.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Cartersville Electric System cityofcartersville.org
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
Greystone Power Corporation greystonepower.com
WATER
City of Cartersville cityofcartersville.org
Bartow County bartowga.org
H Select provider
Booth Western Art Museum
Red Top Mountain State Park Downtown Cartersville
Cherokee County
CITIES OF CHEROKEE :
Distance from Canton to Downtown Atlanta 40 Miles
Distance from Canton to Hartsfield-Jackson
Atlanta Int’l Airport 50 Miles
POPULATION: 286,602
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $527,270
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE cherokeega.com
Dubbed the place “Where Metro Meets the Mountains,” Cherokee County benefits from its status as a region that’s business savvy, environmentally alluring and undergoing tremendous growth.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Northside Hospital Cherokee
• Inalfa Roof Systems
• Pilgrim’s Pride
• Chart Industries, Inc.
• Piolax Corporation
ATTRACTIONS:
• Lake Allatoona
• Dixie Speedway
• Gibbs Gardens
• The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta
• Cherokee Arts Center
• Chukkar Farm Polo Club
Ball Ground cityofballground.com
Ball Ground is a beautiful city in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains that’s home to quaint shops, eateries, historic homes and a mix of residential options.
Canton cantonga.gov
The county seat of Cherokee, Canton offers the perfect blend of historic charm, diverse attractions and activities, with a revitalized downtown that features a museum, murals and arts, parks and theater. Holly Springs hollyspringsga.us
Ranked as the safest city in Georgia by SafeWise in 2023 and 2024, Holly Springs residents can watch the evolution of a new town center with food truck alley nights, a new parking deck in anticipation of new walkable shops and new city hall and amphitheater.
Nelson nelsongeorgia.com
Located in both Cherokee and Pickens counties, Nelson is the “First Georgia Marble City.” Stone from the Georgia Marble Company account for many of the headstones at Arlington National Cemetery.
Waleska cityofwaleska.com
Home to Reinhardt University, Waleska also features a certified National Park Service Trail of Tears Interpretive Site on Reinhardt’s campus at the Funk Heritage Center.
Woodstock woodstockga.gov
Woodstock has transformed into a bustling and diverse community with a revitalized downtown and world-class trail system. It was named one of 21 finalists for the 2024 Intelligent Community of the Year.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Cherokee County Schools cherokee.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
Lyndon Academy lyndonacademy.org
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Reinhardt University reinhardt.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Windstream windstream.com
ETC Communications etcnow.com
Nelson-Ball Ground Telephone (770) 735-2000
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Amicalola EMC amicalolaemc.com
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
WATER
Cherokee County Water Authority ccwsa.com
City of Ball Ground Cityofballground.com
City of Canton canton-georgia.com
City of Holly Springs hollyspringsga.us
City of Waleska cityofwaleska.com
City of Woodstock woodstockga.gov
H Select provider
Canton
Ball Ground
Holly Springs
Woodstock
Waleska
Gibbs Gardens Canton
Woodstock
Clayton County
CITIES OF CLAYTON:
Distance from Jonesboro to Downtown Atlanta 18 Miles
Distance from Jonesboro to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 15 Miles
POPULATION: 298,300
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $254,880
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8.75%
ONLINE claytoncountyga.gov
Located 30 minutes south of Atlanta, Clayton County offers easy access to Interstates 75, 85, 285 and 675, along with rail service from Norfolk Southern and CSX and HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport. It is the only county in the Atlanta area to be classified as a Foreign Trade Zone.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Clayton Co. Public Schools
• Clayton Co. Board of Commissioners
• Southern Regional Medical Center
• Chime Solutions
• Fresh Express
ATTRACTIONS:
• Porsche Cars North American Experience Center
• Road to Tara Museum
• Clayton County Performing Arts Center
• The Beach at Clayton County International Park
• Atlanta State Farmers Market
• Georgia Archives
Forest Park forestparkga.gov
Forest Park is home to more than 19,000 people and the Atlanta State Farmers Market, with 150 acres of produce, plants, meats and cheeses with an on-site eatery.
Jonesboro jonesboroga.com
The county seat of Clayton, Jonesboro is known as the official “home” of Margaret Mitchell’s Gone With the Wind and maintains its historic atmosphere with stately homes and beautiful landscapes.
Lake City lakecityga.net
Two of Lake City’s sources of pride are the Lake City Community Center, a nearly 5,000-square foot multi-use facility designed for weddings, birthday parties, reunions and city meetings, and the adjacent Oswalt Nature Preserve.
Lovejoy cityoflovejoy.com
Lovejoy, known as “The City of Peace,” strives to maintain the small-town community atmosphere, natural settings and old town historical values that continues to attract residents and businesses.
Morrow morrowga.gov
Morrow is home to Clayton State University, the Southeast Region Branch of the U.S. Archives, the Georgia Archives, the 165-acre Reynolds Nature Preserve and Spivey Hall, a stunning performance center.
Riverdale riverdalega.gov
Riverdale is located five miles south of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The Clayton County International Park, home to 17 tennis courts, was used in the 1996 Olympic competition.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Clayton County Schools clayton.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Clayton State University clayton.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
Central GA EMC cgemc.com
WATER
Clayton County Water Authority ccwa.us H Select provider
Forest Park
Jonesboro
Lovejoy
Morrow Riverdale
Lake City
Lake City
Porshe Experience Center
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport
Cobb County
ATTRACTIONS:
• Truist Park/The Battery Atlanta
• Six Flags Over Georgia/White Water
• Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
• Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History
• Silver Comet Trail
• Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
CITIES OF COBB:
Distance from Marietta to Downtown Atlanta 20 Miles
Distance from Marietta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 30 Miles
POPULATION 776,743
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $503,580
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7%
ONLINE cobbcounty.org
Long regarded as one of the best places to live in metro Atlanta, Cobb County captures the best of all worlds with growing businesses, neighborhoods and more just beyond the I-285 Perimeter. It provides easy access to recreation and entertainment opportunities, as well as a thriving commercial center.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Amazon.com Services, Inc.
• The Home Depot
• Lockheed Martin Corp.
• Kennesaw State University
• Fed Ex Ground Package System
• Publix Supermarkets
• Walmart
• Wellstar Health System
• Piedmont Healthcare
Acworth acworth-ga.gov
Known as “The Lake City,” Acworth makes good use of its prime location on the banks of Lake Acworth with a full calendar of events centered around the water and abundant recreational activities.
Austell austellga.gov
Although Austell is located just 18 miles from downtown Atlanta, It’s revitalized downtown gives it a small-town feel. The town is known for railfanning and the colorful train engines of the Atlanta rail lines.
Kennesaw kennesaw-ga.gov
Kennesaw is a bustling business center in Cobb County known as a great place to raise a family, while also being home to first-rate parks, the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History and Kennesaw State University.
Mableton mableton.gov
Incorporated in 2022 and becoming Cobb County’s largest city with more than 78,000 residents, Mableton is home to Six Flags, the Historic Mable House and Mable House Amphitheater and access to the Silver Comet Trail.
Marietta mariettaga.gov
Historic Marietta Square serves as the city center for this vibrant and ever-growing community, boasting quaint shops, renowned restaurants, numerous museums, celebrated theatres and great hiking at Kennesaw Mountain.
Powder Springs cityofpowdersprings.org
Once a gold mining town, the city boasts a historic downtown, Thurman Springs Park, the Cobb County BMX Park and integrated bike and pedestrian trails.
Smyrna smyrnaga.gov
Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Atlanta and winner of the Urban Land Institute’s Award of Excellence, the “Jonquil City” is home to a wealth of family-friendly, diverse neighborhoods, upscale dining establishments, pristine public parks and a vibrant Village Green.
NEIGHBORHOODS OF COBB:
Cumberland
Situated 10 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta, this unincorporated community serves as the region’s fifth largest business district and is home to the Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park.
Vinings
Unincorporated Vinings has become a go-to spot for a city-meets-the-suburbs experience, with upscale boutiques, exceptional restaurants and the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Cobb County Schools cobb.k12.org
Marietta City Schools marietta-city.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
GRACEPOINT School gracepointschool.org
Mount Paran Christian School mtparanschool.org
North Cobb Christian School ncchrisitan.org
The Walker School thewalkerschool.org
Whitefield Academy whitefieldacademy.com
The Wood Acres School woodacresschool.org
Acworth
Austell Kennesaw
Marietta
Power Springs Smyrna
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Truist Park- Home of the Atlanta Braves
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Chattahoochee Technical College chattahoocheetech.edu
Kennesaw State University kennesaw.edu
Life University life.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Acworth Power acworth.org
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com
Marietta Power mariettaga.gov
WATER
Cobb County Water System cobbcounty.org
Marietta Water marietta.gov H Select provider
Marietta
Vinings
DeKalb County
ATTRACTIONS:
• Stone Mountain Park
• Fernbank Museum
• DeKalb Farmers Market
• Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
• Eddie’s Attic
• Arabi Mountain
CITIES OF DEKALB:
Distance from Decatur to Downtown Atlanta 7 Miles
Distance from Decatur to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 17 Miles
POPULATION: 762,992
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $438,540
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8.9%
ONLINE dekalbcountyga.gov
Access to suburban settings, a fast-paced city lifestyle, hip locales and one of the region’s most diverse populations makes DeKalb County a popular option for young professionals, students and established business executives. More than half of the Fortune 500 companies with a presence in Atlanta also have operations in DeKalb.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
• Emory Healthcare, Inc.
• United Parcel Service
• State Farm
• Georgia Perimeter College
Avondale Estates avondaleestates.org
Named as a Tree City USA for 40 consecutive years by the Arbor Day Foundation, Avondale Estates is known for its beautiful setting and diverse architectural styles. It is named on the National Register of Historic Places.
Brookhaven brookhavenga.gov
Brookhaven’s community-focused vibe and urban amenities attract visitors and locals to its Saturday strolls at the farmers market or its multicultural dining corridor. The community’s tagline is “Belong Here.”
Chamblee chambleega.com
Chamblee is a vibrant city with a diverse community and plenty of international flair, with Antique Row, the Buford Highway Corridor, Chinatown Mall and the Chamblee Motor Mile.
Clarkston clarkstonga.gov
Clarkston, known as a welcoming walking and biking community, is noted for its diversity, with half of the residents foreign born and hailing from more than 50 countries.
Decatur decaturga.com
Decatur Square is bustling with boutiques and galleries and a thriving art and festival scene, as well as historical residential districts, trendy restaurants and pubs that attract foodies for some of the best culinary experiences in metro Atlanta.
Doraville doravillega.us
With one of the largest concentrations of midcentury modern homes in metro Atlanta, the city of Doraville is convenient for Atlanta commuters and home to the Buford Highway Farmers Market.
Dunwoody dunwoodyga.gov
Dunwoody is a shopping, dining and cultural hotspot in metro Atlanta in the heart of the Perimeter, making it a popular travel destination for both business and leisure.
Lithonia lithoniacity.org
Lithonia is a pedestrian-friendly city featuring interesting architecture and various businesses, as well as an amphitheater.
Doraville Chamblee
Decatur
Clarkston
Avondale Estates
Fernbank Museum
Decatur
DeKalb County
Pine Lake pinelakega.net
Pine Lake, the smallest city in DeKalb, is a community close to nature, where residents treasure and work diligently to protect the environment through programs like Stewards for Environmental Education and Design.
Stonecrest stonecrestga.gov
Stonecrest is the first majority-black city to form from the cityhood movement in DeKalb County, achieving its official status in 2017 with an area that includes the Mall at Stonecrest, the Flat Rock Archives and the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area.
Stone Mountain stonemountaincity.org
Nestled on the west side of Stone Mountain Park, the City of Stone Mountain is known as a family-friendly place to visit and live. The park features outdoor recreational activities and seasonal family-friendly attractions.
Tucker tuckerga.gov
One of the largest and oldest unincorporated communities in Georgia, Tucker welcomes visitors year-round to its revitalized Main Street for outdoor events, activities and more.
NEIGHBORHOODS OF DEKALB:
Candler Park candlerpark.org
Candler Park is an area that hosts fancifully painted houses with yards, quirky shops and restaurants.
Druid Hills druidhills.org
Druid Hills is a beautiful urban neighborhood that is often referred to as Atlanta’s “second suburb” and boasts four National Register of Historic Places districts.
East Atlanta
The charm of East Atlanta is its ability to be eclectic and edgy, while also comfortably suburban.
Edgewood edgewoodatl.org
Edgewood’s unique housing, booming retail and entertainment sectors and diverse residents contribute to its vibrancy.
Kirkwood historickirkwood.org
Kirkwood is home to an array of quirky, locally owned shops, galleries, unique restaurants and more, as well as the Kirkwood Historic District.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
DeKalb County Schools dekalbschoolsga.org
City Schools of Decatur csdecatur.net
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
Annunciation Day School annunciationdayschool.org
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Agnes Scott College agnesscott.edu
DeVry University devry.edu
Emory University emory.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com
Walton EMC waltonemc.com
WATER
DeKalb County Water System dekalbcountyga.gov
H Select provider
Stone Mountain Park
Emory University
Concourse at Landmark Center, Dunwoody
Douglas County
ATTRACTIONS:
• Sweetwater Creek State Park
• Clinton Nature Preserve
• Boundary Waters Recreational Complex
• O’Neal Plaza
• Ben’s Antique Mall
• L&R Alpaca Haven Farm
CITIES OF DOUGLAS:
Distance from Douglasville to Downtown Atlanta 27 Miles
Distance from Douglasville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 23 Miles
POPULATION: 149,160
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $357,450
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7%
ONLINE celebrateddouglascounty.com
With the lowest property taxes in the metro area and an energetic business environment to boot, Douglas County is an ideal place to work and live, and it’s located just 20 minutes from Downtown Atlanta.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Amazon Services, Inc.
• Walmart
• Diverse Staffing Georgia, Inc.
• Gordon Food Service, Inc.
• Stitch Fix, Inc.
Douglasville douglasvillega.gov
Downtown Douglasville is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its rich Victorian, Romanesque and Queen Anne-style buildings and has become a destination for specialty shops and restaurants.
Lithia Springs
The crown jewel of this charming unincorporated community is Sweetwater Creek State Park, which is home to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill that was burned during the Civil War.
Villa Rica villarica.org
Villa Rica is home an historic downtown that has maintained its authentic architecture, including Wick’s Tavern, the oldest commercial structure in West Georgia.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Douglas County Schools dcssga.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com
WATER
Douglasville-Douglas County Water & Sewer Authority ddcwsa.com
H Select provider
Douglasville
Lithia Springs Villa Rica
Sweetwater Creek State Park
Foxhall Resort
Fayette County
• Line Creek Nature Area
• The City Gardens of Southern Oaks
• Georgia Renaissance Festival
• Serenbe Farms
CITIES OF FAYETTE:
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Fayette County Schools fcboe.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
Landmark Christian School landmarkchristianschool.org
Distance from Fayetteville to Downtown Atlanta 25 Miles
Distance from Fayetteville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 15 Miles
POPULATION: 123,351
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $533,460
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8%
ONLINE fayettecountyga.gov
Fayette County combines rural beauty and urban convenience with a rich history and offers residents a variety of amenities and recreational activities, as well as the highest net worth index in the State of Georgia.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Rinnai America Corp.
• Matsushita Electric Corp of America
• Hoshizaki America, Inc.
• Osmose Utilities Services, Inc.
• Trulite Glass & Aluminum Solutions
ATTRACTIONS:
• Atlanta Regional Airport
• Old Fayette County Courthouse
• Holliday-Dorsey-Fife Museum
Brooks brooksga.com
Brooks is well-known for its friendly people, active churches, wholesome and casual outdoor lifestyle with a rural feel.
Fayetteville fayetteville-ga.gov
Fayetteville’s Main Street is undergoing a revitalization, drawing new businesses to the community while maintaining the city’s historical streetscape.
Peachtree City peachtree-city.org
Georgia’s oldest and largest master-planned community, Peachtree City features a sprawling network of golf cart paths connecting residents to shopping, dining and golf.
Tyrone tyronega.gov
This town offers an active parks and recreation department with classes, camps and sporting leagues. Businesses range from locally owned coffee shops to nationally recognized performing arts venues.
Woolsey woolseyga.com
The smallest town in Fayette County, Woolsey is primarily a residential community that offers a pastoral setting with quaint shops and small businesses.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
Coweta-Fayette EMC utility.org
WATER
Fayette County Water fayettecountyga.gov/water
H Select provider
Tyrone
Fayettville
Peachtree City
Woolsey
Brooks
Trilith
Peachtree City
Trilith Studios
Forsyth County
ATTRACTIONS:
• Sawnee Mountain Preserve
• Big Creek Greenway
• Cumming Fairgrounds
• Kinsey Family Farm
• Cumming Aquatic Center and Water Park
• Buford Dam
CITIES OF FORSYTH:
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
Georgia Natural Gas gng.com
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
WATER
Distance from Cumming to Downtown Atlanta
38 Miles
Distance from Cumming to Hartsfield-Jackson
Atlanta Int’l Airport 49 Miles
POPULATION: 272,887
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $653,390
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE forsythco.com
Forsyth County has been recognized as the 13th wealthiest county in the nation, as well as the seventh-fastest growing county nationwide by Forbes magazine, largely due to the 8,000-plus businesses in the community.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Northside Hospital-Forsyth
• Healthport Technologies, Inc.
• Koch Foods
• Tyson Poultry, Inc.
• Lazer Sport, Inc.
• Administaff Companies LLC
• Century Li Staffing
• Walmart
Cumming cityofcumming.net
Cumming, the county seat of Forsyth, became one of metro Atlanta’s most popular commuter towns upon the completion of Georgia State Route 400. Cumming offers an aquatic center, recreation center, a seasonal park on the shores of Lake Lanier and the recently opened Cumming City Center.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Forsyth County Schools forsyth.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
City of Cumming Water Department cummingutilities.com
Forsyth County Water forsythco.com
H Select provider
Cumming
Big Creek Greenway
HALCYON
Cumming Fairgrounds
Fulton County
CITIES OF FULTON:
Chattahoochee Hills chatthillsga.us
Chattahoochee Hills is home to Serenbe, an agrarian community. The city is committed to sustainable development and environmental conservation with thousands of acres of rural forest and farmlands.
College Park collegeparkga.com
Distance from Atlanta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 10 Miles
POPULATION: 1,079,105
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $571,420
COMBINES SALES TAX RATE 8.9%
ONLINE fultoncountyga.gov
Stretching across the heart of metro Atlanta, Fulton County is broken up into several main areas and offers an array of options for its more than one million residents. The county is home to an ever-growing economy, thriving industries, renowned universities, significant cultural opportunities and much more.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Northside Hospital
• Piedmont Healthcare
• Marriott International
• Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
• Cox Enterprises
ATTRACTIONS:
• Mercedes-Benz Stadium
• The Georgia Aquarium
• Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Zoo Atlanta
• Piedmont Park
• High Museum of Art
• The Fox Theatre
• Ponce City Market
Atlanta atlantaga.gov
Home to the regional, national and global headquarters for many Fortune 500 and 1000 corporations, Atlanta also boasts scores of historical sites (Martin Luther King Jr. Center, the Carter Presidential Library and Museum), High Museum of Art, professional sports venues, Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta Botanical Garden and much more.
Alpharetta alpharetta.ga.us
Named one of the South’s Best Cities on the Rise 2024 by Southern Living magazine, Alpharetta offers a full spectrum of attractions, excellent schools, sensible housing costs and growing industries.
Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov
Nestled along the banks of the Chattahoochee River, Johns Creek’s beautiful landscape complements its recreational opportunities, cultural diversity and consistent rankings among Georgia’s safest cities.
Milton miltonga.gov
A highly affluent city, Milton is known for its wide open, beautiful natural spaces and small-town feel. The community’s emphasis on rural heritage and culture enhances its stellar reputation as one of metro Atlanta’s most sought-after locales.
Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com
Mountain Park is an officially designated wildlife refuge that protects all wildlife, including birds, animals and reptiles — some rare.
Roswell roswellgov.com
With 13 parks, 900 acres of green space, many well-preserved historical sites and a ranking as SafeWise’s 19th safest city in Georgia in 2020, Roswell is a family-oriented community. Many residents can be found hiking, biking or kayaking along the Chattahoochee River.
Sandy Springs andyspringsga.gov
Located just outside of the 285 perimeter, Sandy Springs is the second largest city in the metro Atlanta area and offers varied real estate options, competitive schools, outstanding outdoor recreation and a booming business community.
South Fulton cityofsouthfultonga.gov
South Fulton ranks eighth out of Georgia’s incorporated cities and towns with a population of 108,575. The city hosts a city academy, South Fulton U, to educate residents about city operations and engage them to improve these processes.
Located near Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Interstates I-85 and I-285, College Park is the home of the Georgia International Convention Center, the second largest exhibit and meeting space in the state.
East Point eastpointcity.org
In recent years, East Point has flourished due to its proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, restaurants, hotels and shopping and appealing historic character and walkability.
Fairburn fairburn.com
As a part of the award-winning revitalization plan, Fairburn’s two train depots have been transformed into restaurants. Fairburn draws thousands of visitors each year to the Georgia Renaissance Festival.
Hapeville hapeville.org
Hapeville is a founding member of Aerotropolis Atlanta, designed to attract international corporations, logistics companies and others to the busiest airport in the world, HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport.
Palmetto citypalmetto.com
Palmetto is located 25 miles south of Atlanta t on the former Atlanta and West Point Railroad. It is home to the SOOFA Ranch, a nonprofit equine assisted therapy center.
Union City unioncityga.org
Union City features parks and trails, and a music and arts festival in October. Some of Union City’s leading national firms include Newell Rubbermaid, General Electric, Costco, Caterpillar, Dendreon and Kraft Foods.
INTOWN NEIGHBORHOODS:
Ansley Park ansleypark.org
An affluent residential neighborhood, Ansley Park sits astride Peachtree Street and is adjacent to the famous Piedmont Park. Atlantic Station atlanticstation.com
With countless choices for apartments, condos, homes and Class A office space, as well as entertainment opportunities, Atlantic Station is one of the area’s most popular live-work-play developments.
Buckhead buckhead.com
Buckhead is rich with elegant high-rise hotels and complexes, beautiful homes and mansions and is one of the city’s most attractive areas for business.
Cabbagetown cabbagetown.com
Many murals and street art pieces, maintained by the Living Walls Street Art Association, keep Cabbagetown’s love of the arts alive.
Castleberry Hill castleberryhill.org
Known as Atlanta’s historic creative district, Castleberry Hill is made up of early 20th century warehouse buildings that have been converted into lofts.
Downtown atlantadowntown.com
Downtown Atlanta is home to many corporate and regional headquarters, government facilities, sporting venues and Georgia State University.
South Fulton
Midtown
Grant Park grantpark.org
Grant Park’s Victorian neighborhood is home to Zoo Atlanta, which welcomes almost one million visitors each year.
Inman Park inmanpark.org
Known for its shops, public parks and dedicated Tree Watch, Inman Park comes alive with festivals, parades and a focus on all things local.
Little Five Points littlefivepoints.net
Little Five Points (L5P) is known at Atlanta’s hippest neighborhood and a popular alternative shopping and dining destination with consignment and costume shops, a local co-op and a diverse range of eateries.
Midtown midtownatl.com
Home to more than 200 acres of parks and gardens, as well as restaurants and shops, Midtown Atlanta is considered the city’s center for the arts.
Old Fourth Ward
Known as one of Atlanta’s most historic neighborhoods and the home and resting place of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Old Fourth Ward has become a bustling and diverse district since the opening of Ponce City Market.
Poncey-Highland ponceyhighland.org
Poncey-Highland is rich with urban living, quality restaurants, shops and galleries, great schools and a variety of housing options.
Virginia-Highland virginiahighlanddistrict.com
This vibrant neighborhood is a popular spot for Atlanta’s young professionals and families thanks to its seven distinct commercial villages full of upscale shops, restaurants and pubs, nightlife and local entertainment.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Fulton County Schools fultonschools.org
Atlanta Public Schools atlantapublicschools.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy davisacademy.org
Atlanta Academy atlantaacademy.com
Atlanta International School aisschool.org
Atlanta Speech School atlantaspeechschool.org
The Cottage School cottageschool.org
The Galloway School gallowayschool.org
High Meadows School highmeadows.org
The Howard School howardschool.org
King’s Ridge Christian School kingsridgecs.org
The Lovett School lovett.org
Mill Springs Academy millsprings.org
Mount Pisgah Christian School mountpisgahschool.org
The Mount Vernon School mountvernonschool.org
Pace Academy paceacademy.org
Saint Francis Schools saintfrancisschools.com
Springmont springmont.com
Trinity School trinityatl.org
Wesleyan School wesleyanschool.org
Westminster Westminster.net
Woodward Academy woodward.edu
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Clark Atlanta University cau.edu
Emory University emory.edu
Georgia Institute of Technology gatech.edu
Georgia State University gsu.edu
Morehouse College morehouse.edu
Spelman College spelman.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
City of College Park collegeparkga.com
City of Fairburn fairburn.com
City of Palmetto citypalmetto.com
WATER
Fulton County Water fultoncountyga.gov
City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management atlantawatershed.org
Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com
Roswell Water Department roswellgov.com
H Select provider
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC
Ponce City Market
Gwinnett County
ATTRACTIONS:
• Coolray Field
• Infinite Energy Center
• Lake Lanier
• Southeastern Railway Museum
• Freeman’s Mill Park
• Château Élan Winery & Resort
CITIES OF GWINNETT:
Distance from Lawrenceville to Downtown Atlanta 31 Miles
Distance from Lawrenceville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 42 Miles
POPULATION: 983,526
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $451,930
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8%
ONLINE gwinnettcounty.com
Continually listed as one of Atlanta’s fastest-growing counties, Gwinnett County is prized for its access to bustling city life, booming communities, a nationally recognized school system and gorgeously maintained natural spaces. Only 30 minutes away from Downtown Atlanta, Gwinnett’s economic opportunities span far and wide for area workers.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Gwinnett County Schools
• Northside Hospital
• Publix
• Gwinnett Co. Government
• Walmart
Berkeley Lake berkeleylake.com
Named for its beautiful 88-acre lake, Berkeley Lake was recognized in 2019 as one of the Best Suburbs to Live in Georgia by USA Today and was designated an Urban Wildlife Sanctuary. Braselton braselton.net
Home to Château Élan Winery & Resort, Braselton rests in four counties: Gwinnett, Hall, Jackson and Barrow. It is also home to sportscar racing at the Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. Buford cityofbuford.com
A city where recreation and art abound, the streets of downtown Buford are filled with art shops that show off local talents in every medium. The Mall of Georgia has shopping and entertainment under one roof, more than two million square feet.
Dacula daculaga.gov
Dacula is at the center of Georgia’s Innovation Crescent, a geographic area of 15 counties. It is known for its small town charm and sense of community.
Duluth duluthga.net
Duluth is home to retail and cultural centers, terrific live music and art scene, top-notch healthcare facilities and a high quality of life. Grayson cityofgrayson.org
Grayson is evolving from a small town into a sophisticated, popular city for families, with excellent schools, quality housing, parks, restaurants and shopping.
Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org
Gwinnett’s oldest city, Lawrenceville mixes newer buildings with Antebellum homes, the town’s original square and the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse.
Lilburn cityoflilburn.com
Home to the Southeast’s largest Hindu temple, Lilburn seamlessly meshes its global culture with small town neighborly charm.
Loganville loganville-ga.gov
The unique blend of hometown feel combined with modern conveniences draws companies and organizations to Loganville. The city is located only minutes from universities and technical colleges.
Norcross norcrossga.net
Norcross has restored many of the town’s historic sites and is home to several museums, art galleries, public art and gallery receptions, and a flourishing health and wellness scene downtown.
Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersga.gov
Known for its picturesque parks, lush green spaces and plenty of outdoor activity, Peachtree Corners offers residents plenty of outdoor activity and events at the Town Green at the Town Center.
Snellville snellville.org
Snellville is a hub for arts and recreation and hosts an annual fall festival. Residents have access to T.W. Briscoe Park with a seven-acre lake and a variety of adult and youth programs.
Sugar Hill cityofsugarhill.com
Sugar Hill is mere minutes away from Lake Sidney Lanier and the North Georgia Mountains.
Suwanee suwanee.com
Known for its high-quality mixed-use developments, a variety of housing options and the largest public school system in Georgia, Suwanee was named one of the Best Places to Live for Families in 2024 by Fortune Magazine.
Atlanta Gwinnett
Suwanee
Château Élan Winery & Resort
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Gwinnett County Schools gwinnett.k12.ga.us
Buford City Schools bufordcityschools.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Georgia Gwinnett College ggc.edu
Gwinnett Technical College gwinnetttech.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Jackson EMC jacksonemc.com
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
Walton EMC waltonemc.com
City of Buford cityofbuford.com
City of Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org
City of Norcross norcrossga.net
WATER
Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources gwinnettcounty.com
City of Buford Water Department Cityofbuford.sophcity.com
City of Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org
City of Norcross norcrossga.net
City of Loganville Loganville-ga.gov
H Select provider
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Mall of Georgia
Chattahoochee River
Georgia Gwinnett College
Hall County
CITIES OF HALL:
Distance from Gainesville to Downtown Atlanta 54 Miles
Distance from Gainesville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 64 Miles
POPULATION: 217,267
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $425,390
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8%
ONLINE hallcounty.org
Bordered by the beautiful Lake Sidney Lanier and the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hall County is a vibrant, growing and diverse community that offers an unparalleled quality of life and a sound economic base for business and industry.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Cottrell, Inc.
• Gold Creek Foods
• Northeast Georgia Medical Center
• Kubota Manufacturing of America
• Fieldale Farms Corp.
ATTRACTIONS:
• Château Élan Winery & Resort
• Road Atlanta
• Lake Lanier Islands and Golf Resort
• Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville
• Buford Corn Maze
• Northeast Georgia History Center
Braselton braselton.net
Home to Château Élan Winery & Resort, Braselton rests in four counties: Gwinnett, Hall, Jackson and Barrow. It is also home to sportscar racing at the Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.
Buford cityofbuford.com
A city where recreation and art abound, the streets of downtown Buford are filled with art shops that show off local talents in every medium. The Mall of Georgia has shopping and entertainment under one roof, more than two million square feet.
Clermont clermontga.com
The rural farming community of Clermont comprises a total area of three-square miles and is known for its annual Clermont Days Festival.
Flowery Branch flowerybranchga.org
Flowery Branch is home to the Atlanta Falcons Training Complex and a revitalized historic downtown area known as Old Town with quaint buildings dating back to the 1800s.
Gainesville gainesville.org
As the county seat, Gainesville serves as the business, government and cultural center of the region.
Gillsville townofgillsville.com
Gillsville is known for its iconic Hewell’s Pottery shop that began operating in 1850 as a family venture and is celebrated during an annual festival.
Lula cityoflula.com
Lula spans two counties, Hall and Banks, and once was a railroad hub; it is known today for its annual Railroad Days Festival.
Oakwood cityofoakwood.net
Oakwood city leaders are planning for growth with a vision for the future known as Oakwood 2030, part of Hall County’s Vision 2030, with wellness-oriented living through greenspace, attractive streetscapes, walking trails and bike paths.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Hall County Schools hallco.org
Gainesville City Schools gcssk12.net
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
Lakeview Academy lakeviewacademy.com
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Brenau University breneau.edu
Lanier Technical College laniertech.edu
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
Jackson EMC jacksonemc.com
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
WATER
Gainesville Water Dept. gainesville.org
Flowery Branch City Hall flowerybranchga.org
H Select provider
Lake Lanier
Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville Atlanta Falcons Training Facility
Henry County
• Army Aviation Heritage Foundation & Flying Museum
• Southern Belle Farm
CITIES OF HENRY:
Distance from McDonough to Downtown Atlanta 30 Miles
Distance from McDonough to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles
POPULATION: 254,613
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $367,750
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8% ONLINE co.henry.ga.us
With Southern neighborhoods, a solid education system and plenty of recreational and economic opportunities, Henry offers something for everyone and is recognized as one of the fastest-growing counties in Georgia.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Exel Logistics
• Georgia Power Company
• Progressive Casualty Insurance Co.
• Employbridge Southeast
• Henry Medical Center, Inc.
ATTRACTIONS:
• Atlanta Motor Speedway
• Panola Mountain State Park
• Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary
• Cubihatcha Outdoor Center
Hampton hamptonga.gov
Best known as home to the Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton has more visitors than any other city in the county.
Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov
Located within 35 miles of downtown Atlanta, Locust Grove offers dining and lodging options and shopping at retail businesses, including the Tanger Outlets.
McDonough mcdonoughga.org
Attractions include the Southern Belle Farm, a 200-acre working farm with seasonal family activities like a corn maze, pumpkin patch and strawberry picking, and the historic town square with boutiques and galleries.
Stockbridge stockbridgega.org
Known as the “Gateway to Henry County,” Stockbridge hosts popular musical acts at its amphitheater and supports economic development and small-town hospitality.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Henry County Schools henry.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com
Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com
Central Georgia EMC cgemc.com
WATER
Henry County Water Authority Hcwa.com
City of Hampton hamptonga.gov
City of Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov
City of McDonough mcdonoughga.org
City of Stockbridge cityofstockbridge.com
H Select provider
Stockbridge
McDonough
Hampton
Locust Grove
Atlanta Motor Speedway
Eagles Landing Country Club
Panola State Park
Paulding County
• The Dallas Theater
• High Shoals Falls
• Moonlight Stables Equestrian Center
CITIES OF PAULDING:
UTILITIES:
NATURAL GAS
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Atlanta Paulding
Distance from Dallas to Downtown Atlanta 33 Miles
Distance from Dallas to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 37 Miles
POPULATION: 183,164
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $381,590
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7%
ONLINE paulding.gov
Once devoted to agriculture, including livestock, corn, oats, pecans and poultry, Paulding County has diversified and taken an industrial path in recent years, leading to substantial growth in the county.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Chick-fil-a
• Wellstar Paulding Hospital
• Georgia Doctors of Optometry, LLC.
• Kroger
• Walmart
ATTRACTIONS:
• Paulding Northwest Atlanta Airport
• Silver Comet Trail
• Pickett’s Mill Battlefield State Historic Site
Braswell braswellga.org
With city limits in both Polk and Paulding counties, Braswell is a rural community of less than 500 residents that welcomes bicyclists, joggers and walkers along the Silver Comet Trail.
Dallas dallasga.gov
As Paulding’s county seat, Dallas is known for its quaint and friendly historic downtown community, where visitors can enjoy shopping and entertainment at the renovated Dallas Theater.
Hiram cityofhiramga.gov
Hiram has progressed into a commercial corridor for Paulding County with a downtown business district that offers casual and relaxing dining, shopping and entertainment.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Paulding County Schools paulding.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
ELECTRICITY
Georgia Power Company Georgiapower.com
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com
Oglethorpe Power Corp. opc.com
WATER
Paulding County Water Department paulding.gov
City of Dallas Water Department dallasga.gov/utilities
H Select provider
Dallas
Hiram
Braswell
Silver Comet Trail
Hiram
WellStar Paulding Hospital
Rockdale County
ATTRACTIONS:
• Panola Mountain State Park
• Monastery of the Holy Spirit
• Georgia International Horse Park
• Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area
• Lewis Vaughn Botanical Garden
• The Dinky
Distance from Conyers to Downtown Atlanta 25 Miles
Distance from Conyers to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles
POPULATION: 95,987
MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $339,200
COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8%
ONLINE rockdalecountyga.gov
Despite being Georgia’s second smallest county, Rockdale County has experienced substantial growth in recent years. Twenty-five miles away from Downtown Atlanta, Rockdale offers commercial diversity for business and a variety of opportunities for families.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS:
• Golden State Foods
• Hill Phoenix, Inc.
• Pratt Industries
• DiversiTech Corp.
• Piedmont Rockdale Hospital
CITIES OF ROCKDALE: Conyers
Conyers conyersga.com
Conyers is a combination of small town and big city, with rural scenes and urban shopping, featuring the Georgia International Horse Park, the Big Haynes Creek Nature Center and a bustling downtown.
EDUCATION:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Rockdale County Schools rockdaleschools.org
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Turn to page 41 for the private schools listing and a map.
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
