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Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta For a Family

If it seems like just about everyone is heading to Atlanta these days, that’s because many are – in 2016, Metro Atlanta increased its population by nearly 91,000, gaining the fourth-most residents in the country for a total of 5.8 million. With its relatively low cost of living and an unemployment rate of just 4.3 percent, moving to this southern city is a no-brainer, but the more difficult part of that decision is deciding on the neighborhood in which to live.

Choosing the best neighborhood is one of the most important decisions you’ll face, especially if you’re moving with children. Just a few of the musts typically include a low-crime area with a friendly vibe, good schools, and a short commute to work.

When searching through houses in Atlanta, you may want to start with these neighborhoods that are considered some of the very best for families.

Avondale Estates

Often rated among the top neighborhoods in Atlanta in which to live, including AreaVibes.com which gave it one of the highest Livability scores in the state, Avondale Estates is a large neighborhood established nearly a century ago that enjoys a village-like feel. Located eight miles east of downtown Atlanta, it also boasts a crime rate that’s 89% lower than the national average. Many of the homes here were built in Tudor-Revival style. Popular with creative and intelligent residents that work at major local employers, homes here also tend to come with larger lots as compared to many other intown neighborhoods. With a MARTA train station here, it makes it easy to commute to work and get around the metro area.

Druid Hills

Druid Hills, designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, who also designed New York City’s Central Park, is often referred to as Atlanta’s “second suburb.” One of the most affluent areas of Atlanta, it’s located just five miles from downtown and is home to Emory Hospital, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and Emory University. The crime rate is 55% lower than the national average, and you’ll find lots of green spaces and quality schools as well as a wide range of shopping and dining experiences.

Chastain Park

Chastain Park is located just 5 minutes from the Buckhead business district and is centered around Atlanta’s biggest city park, which features a swimming pool, golf course, horse park, tennis courts and walking/jogging paths. The most affluent neighborhood in the city with average home prices around $1.3 million, it also hosts some of Georgia’s very best schools. Look forward to a variety of community events throughout the year as well, including a popular Fourth of July parade, live concerts and festivals.

Candler Park

Just a few miles east of downtown, Candler Park is ideal for those who plan to work in the city. It’s focused around Candler Park, which hosts sports fields, tennis courts, a swimming pool and playground, along with plenty of space for the kids to run around. It’s also big on family-friendly festivals like the Candler Park Music & Food Festival and Fall Fest.

Inman Park

This trendy neighborhood near downtown with has a lot of character with many Victorian-style homes that have been transformed into multi-family homes for more affordable housing. The streets are lined with fun local boutiques and other business, and it also hosts several family-friendly events, including the Inman Park Festival.