Atlanta is the sprawling capital and most populous metro of the southern state of Georgia and is a culturally, historically, and economically significant city in the US. It lies at the southern extremity of the famous Appalachian Mountains and, therefore, became an important gateway for overland traffic from the southern Atlantic Seaboard to the west. Today, it’s still a critical transport hub and is home to the busiest airport on Earth.

The city’s exciting commercial opportunities often attract those who are moving to Atlanta, and they often find themselves staying for the wonderful quality of life and welcoming Southern community.

Living in Atlanta as an expat

Atlanta’s economy comprises a diverse range of industries, including logistics, IT, and business services. Media is also an influential part of the city’s economy, as Atlanta is home to the headquarters of the CNN and TBS television networks. Those moving to Atlanta with expertise in any of these areas are sure to find plenty of commercial opportunities.

Downtown Atlanta is where most businesses and government organisations are based, and it is likely that new arrivals in the city will end up working in this area. Midtown Atlanta is a large business district where many law firms are based, and expats will also find many cultural attractions and universities there. Buckhead is Atlanta’s uptown area and a business hub, but it is surrounded by suburbs and the dense forests for which Atlanta is famous.

Working in Atlanta
Areas and Suburbs in Atlanta
Lifestyle in Atlanta

Cost of living in Atlanta

The cost of living in Atlanta is relatively low compared to other US cities. High-quality accommodation is available for a reasonable price, and living in the suburbs instead of in the city is a good way to make money go further. Another advantage of the suburbs is the space; many houses are large with a garden and a swimming pool.

There is, however, one disadvantage to living in the suburbs of Atlanta, and that is the commute into the city for work. It is a large, sprawling city notorious for high traffic congestion. You should consider living in an area where you have easy access to public transport.

The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) provides buses and trains. The railway connects all the main areas of Atlanta and can save commuters a lot of time and frustration. In some areas, there is a ‘park and ride’ system for those who do not live within walking distance of public transport.

Cost of Living in Atlanta 
Accommodation in Atlanta 
Getting Around in Atlanta

Families and children in Atlanta

Families moving to Atlanta with children can rest assured that the city is known for its high standard of education. The city is home to some of the best universities in the US, and there are also many excellent public and private schools in Atlanta. Although there are no schools offering foreign curricula in Atlanta, parents can find a few private schools offering the globally recognised International Baccalaureate curriculum.

Atlanta, home to the Centers for Disease Control, has exceptional healthcare standards but higher-than-average healthcare costs, so newcomers who are not yet covered are advised to get private health insurance.

Education and Schools in Atlanta 
International Schools in Atlanta 
Healthcare in Atlanta

Climate in Atlanta

Located south of the Appalachians, Atlanta’s climate is subtropical and humid. It has four distinct seasons, but is best known for its long, humid summers.

Atlanta continues to increase in popularity as a relocation destination, and those moving to the city can look forward to living in an exciting destination with a high quality of life.

Weather and Climate Chart for Atlanta

The weather in Atlanta is influenced by the city’s humid subtropical climate, which boasts four distinct seasons.

Summers are warm and long, with the average temperature in the warmest month of July sitting at around 81°F (27°C). Winters are cold and short, and snowfall is rare but possible. The coldest month is January, during which nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing.

Atlanta experiences various forms of precipitation all year round, ranging from rain to hail, sleet, and snow. Tornadoes can occur occasionally, and it’s important to heed any warnings issued by authorities.

Working in Atlanta presents residents with a wide range of opportunities, as the city has positioned itself as the commercial and development capital of the Southeast of the US.

The city is home to more than a dozen Fortune 500 companies, many of which provide attractive employment opportunities for suitably qualified jobseekers. That said, it is worth noting that the city’s workforce is well-educated and highly skilled, making competition for top jobs quite fierce.

Job market in Atlanta

Professional and business services are the largest contributors to Atlanta’s economy, while the leisure and hospitality sectors are also sources of significant employment in the city. Job opportunities are also growing in key areas such as healthcare, education, and retail.

Atlanta is home to the world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, making the city the centre of business and logistics in the southern US. Delta Air Lines is one of the biggest employers in Atlanta, while other notable local and international companies based here include Coca-Cola, Home Depot and the United Parcel Service (UPS). The city is also a media hub and is home to the global headquarters of CNN and TBS television networks.

Finding a job in Atlanta

Many newcomers to Atlanta arrive with a job offer in hand, but those who don’t will do well to start their search online. Most companies will list their job openings on their own website or on local job portals. Social networking sites such as LinkedIn are also extremely valuable resources.

Recruitment agents are also a good option. These professionals have unique insights into their specific industry and are positioned to link up qualified candidates with employers.

Of course, new arrivals should make use of personal connections as much as possible – networking is arguably the best way to make new business connections and to get some insider tips on local industries and the local job market. It’s also a great way for new arrivals to make friends and establish themselves in their new community.

Expats who want to work in Atlanta must obtain a work visa for the US. The process for obtaining a work visa can be challenging, depending on various factors, including the exact visa type, the applicant’s home country, and their background.

Work Permits for the USA

Useful links

• ChooseATL
• Atlanta Job Post
• LinkedIn

Work culture in Atlanta

Despite its small-town feel and laid-back lifestyle, Atlanta still has a strong corporate culture. The city is known for its southern hospitality, which extends into the business climate; good manners and a positive attitude go a long way. Those who go the extra mile to be personable and make a good impression are likelier to stand out from the crowd when job hunting.

Most companies in Atlanta prioritise work-life balance and offer flexible working schedules, especially in the tech industry. There is a strong emphasis on fostering collaboration, innovation, as well as a supportive atmosphere.

Business Culture in the USA

Accommodation in Atlanta is varied and offers plenty of options for new arrivals to the city. From urban living downtown to family living in the outer suburbs, there are ample options for suitable housing in Atlanta at reasonable prices.

Atlanta is a sprawling city, but it also has a limited public transport system, which often necessitates car ownership. The city is also notorious for traffic congestion, so it’s essential to consider the proximity of your home to your workplace and children’s schools.

Areas and suburbs in Atlanta

Atlanta is home to more than 240 neighbourhoods, each with unique charm and atmosphere. Whether you’re a family looking for access to good schools and green spaces or a young couple or professional seeking convenience, there’s something to suit everyone.

Inman Park boasts beautiful historic Victorian homes that are located on tree-lined streets, making it the perfect base for families moving to Atlanta. Accommodation here is mainly in the form of restored houses and modern condos, and residents living in the neighbourhood can access the Atlanta BeltLine. Grant Park, Virginia-Highland, and Buckhead are other family-friendly neighbourhoods in Atlanta.

Young professionals enjoy living in neighbourhoods like Midtown, Castleberry Hill, and Old Fourth Ward, where you can find thriving arts communities and an array of interesting accommodation types. Castleberry Hill is a revitalised industrial area that features loft apartments, art galleries, and exciting restaurants. The best part about living in these neighbourhoods is the proximity to downtown Atlanta.

Best (and Worst) Neighbourhoods in Atlanta

Types of accommodation in Atlanta

Atlanta offers a variety of housing types, depending on the area of the city. Areas near the city centre are generally more expensive than those outside the city limits, but the available amenities vary. Those living in town can access many entertainment options and restaurants with shorter commute times. In contrast, those living further away will have access to good schools and wide open spaces, but may have to endure a lengthy commute.

Apartments

These are popular with young professional Atlantans. Modern self-contained units within larger buildings and apartments can be found all over Atlanta. They tend to be one of the most affordable options and are a particularly popular choice within the downtown area, where space is limited.

Condos

Condos are a happy medium between houses and apartments. New arrivals will find that this option allows them to have a little extra space along with the benefits of communal living. Condos are self-contained units within a bigger complex where residents share a range of amenities, including communal swimming pools, gyms, gardens, and laundry facilities.

Houses

Newcomers looking for a bit more space will find a huge variety of houses, particularly towards the outskirts of town. From classic and colonial style mansions filled with character to minimalist modern designs, there is something to suit everyone’s tastes. Most of the newer housing will be found in outlying suburbs.

Finding accommodation in Atlanta

Expats moving to Atlanta need to decide on the type of accommodation they are interested in and which area they would like to live in before their search begins. Factors to consider include budget, lifestyle, and proximity to amenities. If looking to live in the city centre, new residents should always find out what parking is available in or near a residence, as parking can be limited in the city.

The easiest way to find property to rent or buy in Atlanta is online. Many online property portals list short- and long-term rentals, while individual housing estates and complexes also have websites where you can view floor plans, lists of rentals and purchasing options.

You can also work with a local real estate agent to assist in the house-hunting process; agents often negotiate on their clients’ behalf and arrange all the necessary paperwork.

Useful links

• Zillow
• Redfin
• Homes.com

Renting accommodation in Atlanta

There are many rental options in Atlanta, with both furnished and unfurnished accommodation being available in the city.

Making an application

Once you have found a property you like, you’ll need to express your interest either to the agent or the landlord directly. The first step to securing a rental property is usually to tender a lease application. Credit and background checks will also be done, and you may be asked to supply references from previous landlords.

Once these have been verified, the tenant and landlord can sign the lease. For those moving to Atlanta from outside the US, it’s best to try to open a US bank account and set up a social security number before applying for a rental property.

Leases

Rental contracts are typically valid for a year, but tenants have the option to renew at the end of the initial term. At the landlord’s discretion, it may be possible to request a shorter lease. Tenants who want to negotiate any aspect of their lease should do so outside the peak holiday season, when there isn’t as much demand for holiday rentals.

Deposits

Prospective tenants will be required to put down a security deposit to secure the lease on a property. These rental deposits are fully refundable once the lease terminates, provided that the property is left in an acceptable state. For this reason, it is important to carry out a detailed inventory at both the beginning and end of the rental term, as damages will be deducted from the deposit.

Terminating the lease

Most landlords will require at least 30 days’ notice before terminating a lease agreement in Atlanta. In specific cases, like if a property is uninhabitable, tenants may be able to break a lease agreement with no notice. Still, it’s essential to provide your landlord with a formal termination notice to avoid later disputes.

We recommend documenting the state of the property when you move in and taking a thorough inventory with the landlord or rental agent to ensure you are not unfairly charged for normal wear and tear.

Useful links

• Georgia Landlord Tenant Handbook

Utilities in Atlanta

Renters need to pore over the terms of their lease agreements to determine which utilities are included. The landlord usually covers standard utilities such as water and sewer costs. Optional extras such as internet, cable TV and landline telephone services are often for the tenant’s personal account.

Electricity

Georgia Power is the primary electricity supplier in Atlanta. To open an account, you can visit the company’s website to start a service. You’ll need to provide your new address, proof of identity (passport and possibly your immigration documents), your social security number, and a lease agreement as proof of residence.

If you lack a credit history or don’t have a social security number, you’ll likely be required to pay a security deposit before your account is activated. We recommend beginning the service at least two weeks before moving in to ensure you are connected on your move-in day.

Gas

The gas market in Atlanta is deregulated, meaning residents can choose their own gas provider. SCANA Energy, Georgia Natural Gas (GNG), and Gas South are some of the leading providers in the city; each offers flexible agreements and competitive rates. You can compare rates using the Gas Marketers Pricing Commission data to make the best choice for your needs.

You can easily contact your chosen provider online or by telephone to set up an account. Similarly to electricity, you must provide your address, lease agreement, social security number, and proof of identity. Expats may also need to pay a security deposit, which is usually refundable.

Water

The City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management is responsible for supplying water to locals in the city. Most landlords in Atlanta are typically responsible for water bills. If you have to take care of your own water bill, you can register an account with the Department of Watershed Management by completing a new service application, providing a current lease agreement, and your proof of identity.

You’ll also need to pay a security deposit and an account establishment fee. You can apply online, by fax or in person. Water bills are frequently paid monthly, and meters are also read on a 28- to 32-day cycle.

Bins and recycling

The City of Atlanta’s Department of Public Works oversees waste management in the city. The department collects household waste weekly using a kerbside collection system, while recyclables are collected biweekly. You can also arrange for bulk waste collection for large items like furniture for free for the first 12 pickups of the year.

Residents must ensure they place their rubbish bins and recycling carts on the kerbside by 4.30am on their designated collection day. You may occasionally be allowed up to three extra bags of rubbish, which can be placed next to your city-issued rubbish bin.

Useful links

• Georgia Power
• State of Georgia Public Service Commission – Gas Marketers Pricing Commission
• City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management
• City of Atlanta Department of Public Works

The best places to live in Atlanta

When deciding which area or suburb in Atlanta to choose, you will need to consider the proximity to your workplace, children’s schools and access to public transport. Atlanta is notorious for heavy traffic, so the commute time to work and other amenities is an important consideration.

The city’s layout can be confusing for new arrivals. Many neighbourhoods make up separate towns and cities that form part of the greater Atlanta Metropolitan area, and with dozens of roads named ‘Peachtree’, finding the right road in the right area can be frustrating.

Below is an overview of the most popular residential areas in Atlanta.

City living in Atlanta

Midtown

Midtown is often referred to as the heart of Atlanta’s art scene, and it offers residents a trendy city lifestyle with access to fine restaurants, shopping, nightlife and cultural activities. Midtown is also home to Piedmont Park, a large city park popular for sporting activities, festivals, arts, and entertainment.

Housing in Midtown is varied and includes freestanding houses, condos, and apartments. Its residents include an eclectic mix of young singles and professionals. Midtown is also home to several good schools and is popular with families.

Expats living in Midtown will find it easy to get around the area, as it is well serviced by MARTA public transport; it’s also one of the most walkable areas in Atlanta.

Downtown

Primarily a business district, Downtown Atlanta has many tourist and family-friendly attractions and is the city’s cultural centre. It is the largest of the three business districts in Atlanta and is home to notable corporations such as CNN. Downtown is also popular among students due to Georgia State University’s presence in the area.

Accommodation is largely in the form of condos and refurbished loft apartments. As Atlanta’s major transport hub, MARTA serves downtown well.

Buckhead

Home to the residence of Georgia’s governor, Buckhead is one of the most affluent neighbourhoods in Atlanta. As such, it has earned itself the nickname of ‘the Beverly Hills of the South’.

The area is a blend of business and pleasure. Home to many top companies, boutiques, and entertainment establishments, those living in Buckhead can access great restaurants and bars and enjoy a short commute to the area’s business districts for work.

Buckhead is popular with young professional singles living in condos and apartments and affluent families living in massive mansions straddling meandering, tree-lined streets. Despite being in the city, many of Buckhead’s neighbourhoods are actually surrounded by dense forest.

Suburban life in Atlanta

Grant Park

Grant Park is one of Atlanta’s oldest neighbourhoods and an important historical district, with architecture dating back to the 1800s. Housing in Grant Park can be found in the form of Victorian houses and cottages dating back to the early 20th century.

There are many places to enjoy the fresh air, most notably the city’s oldest city park, Grant Park, a 131-acre green space with a playground and walking trails. Zoo Atlanta is also located in Grant Park.

With plenty of family-friendly activities and good schools, Grant Park is popular among families. Grant Park is well served by both the MARTA bus and rail.

Virginia-Highland

Virginia-Highland, often known as VaHi, is located east of Piedmont Park. Housing in this area is generally in the form of historic houses and bungalows. It is a popular area for eating out and entertainment, and it hosts several large festivals throughout the year.

Virginia-Highland is especially popular with young professionals and students thanks to its affordable housing. It is known as a very walkable neighbourhood, but there are also stops for MARTA buses.

Inman Park

Inman Park is Atlanta’s first planned neighbourhood, boasting Victorian homes and access to good schools. The local community in Inman Park is also known for being friendly and welcoming. Inman Park is a walkable neighbourhood, but the area also has access to the BeltLine and exciting amenities like the Krog Street Market.

The healthcare in Atlanta is renowned for its high standards. Atlanta is home to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the city is served by a large network of hospitals, specialised centres, and clinics. Many of these providers offer virtual healthcare services, with online appointment scheduling and patient portals.

Some of Atlanta’s major healthcare providers include Emory Healthcare, Grady Health System, and Piedmont Healthcare. Pharmacies are also easily found in the city, and many are open 24/7.

The cost of healthcare in Atlanta is higher than the national average, so those moving to the city should ensure that a comprehensive private health insurance plan will cover them well. The cost of your health insurance plan will largely depend on your level of coverage, how many dependents are covered on the plan, and other factors such as your health status and lifestyle habits.

Understanding Health Insurance in the USA provides more information on the insurance system in the country.

Below is a list of recommended hospitals in Atlanta.

Hospitals in Atlanta

Arthur M. Blank Hospital – Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

Website: www.choa.org/arthur-m-blank-hospital
Address: 2220 North Druid Hills Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30329

Emory St Joseph’s Hospital

Website: www.emoryhealthcare.org
Address: 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30342

Emory University Hospital

Website: www.emoryhealthcare.org
Address: 1364 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322

Northside Hospital Atlanta

Website: www.northside.com/atlanta
Address: 1000 Johnson Ferry Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30342

Piedmont Atlanta Hospital

Website: www.piedmont.org
Address: 1968 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30309

The standard of education and schools in Atlanta largely varies depending on where in the city a school is located. Although the city boasts an over 80 percent high school graduation rate, some public schools in the city face challenges such as limited access to resources, leading to lower education standards.

The Atlanta public school system is managed by the Atlanta Board of Education. Schools in Atlanta consist of public, charter, private and international schools. As with the rest of the US, the Georgia schooling system is divided into three levels:

• Elementary school – Kindergarten to Grade 5
• Middle school – Grade 6 to Grade 8
• High school – Grade 9 to Grade 12

Education and Schools in the USA has more information on the national education system.

Public schools in Atlanta

The majority of children in Georgia State are enrolled in the public schooling system, and it is not uncommon for new arrivals to send their children to a local public school in Atlanta.

Placement at a public school is determined by where the family lives, so those with children will want to ensure that they move to a good school district. The Atlanta Public School District (APS) is the largest district in the City of Atlanta, serving more than 52,000 students.

Schools within the APS follow the Georgia Standards of Excellence (GSE) and provide a robust, practical, and experience-based curriculum that aligns with student needs through regular assessment.

Charter schools

Charter schools are a subset of public schools governed by a non-profit board operating on a performance-based contract with the government. Although charter schools are bound to the American curriculum, they have more flexibility than regular public schools and can determine their own policies and teaching style. These schools generally achieve good academic results.

Magnet schools

Like charter schools, magnet schools are funded by the state. That said, magnet schools are not bound by the US curriculum and are instead able to develop their own. Each magnet school typically focuses on a specialised subject area, such as science, the performing arts or languages.

Useful links

• Atlanta Public Schools District

Private and international schools in Atlanta

There are many good private schools in Atlanta, including single-sex schools and schools with a religious affiliation. There are also one or two international schools in Georgia that offer the International Baccalaureate curriculum, including the Atlanta International School, a private elementary, middle and high school.

Education at private and international schools comes at a high price, and each school has its own admission requirements, which may involve tests and personal interviews. Competition for a place at the best private and international schools can be fierce, so parents should apply well in advance, as places may be limited.

Best International Schools in Atlanta

Useful links

• Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools

Special educational needs in Atlanta

The US education system is generally well equipped to accommodate students with learning and developmental disabilities. Multiple federal and state laws ensure that children with disabilities have fair access to quality education at no cost.

Both public and private schools have special programmes to support students with learning difficulties. In cases where a person’s disability is too severe for them to benefit from mainstream education, several special education facilities can offer students with special needs a programme tailored to meet their specific requirements.

Useful links

• Atlanta Public Schools – Exceptional Education

Tutors in Atlanta

Whether a child has fallen behind in maths class or needs additional support to excel in the SATs, a tutor can be a valuable assistant.

Parents can start by asking the child’s school or other local parents for a recommendation. Alternatively, you could use the services of an established tutoring service. These companies, such as Dynamis Learning, offer various packages from subject-specific intensive programmes to one-to-one home tuition and small group sessions.

Enlisting the services of a private tutor is an excellent opportunity for students to address any gaps in their knowledge, excel at a certain subject, or simply build confidence in their own abilities.

Useful links

• Dynamis Learning
• Vision Tutoring Educational Foundation
• Ivy Tutors Network

Parents looking for private international schools in Atlanta have good, if limited, options. While there aren’t any schools offering the curriculum of a foreign country, several language-immersion schools offer options, including French, German, Mandarin, Japanese, and Spanish. The International Baccalaureate is also offered by numerous private and public schools. Language-immersion programmes are useful for families looking to maintain or develop their children’s proficiency in a language other than English.

When looking for international schools in Atlanta, it’s essential to consider the proximity of your home to your children’s schools and your workplace, as traffic in the city is notoriously congested. Public transport in the city is not as comprehensive as in other cities, so you may have to rely on a vehicle to get around.

Below is a list of reputable international schools in Atlanta.

International schools in Atlanta

Atlanta International School

Founded in 1984, Atlanta International School welcomes students of 90 different nationalities, making it a truly international school environment. The school is a non-profit that offers the full IB curriculum and dual language programmes. Atlanta International School is located on two beautiful campuses that house both day and boarding students.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (French, German, Mandarin and Spanish immersion) 
Ages: 3 to 18 
Website: www.aischool.org

Atlanta Montessori International School

With two campuses in Druid Hills and Cliff Valley, Atlanta Montessori International School offers low student-to-teacher ratios and highly qualified teachers. The school provides individualised Montessori lessons, with the aim of cultivating independence as well as a robust sense of community and global awareness in children.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: Montessori 
Ages: 8 weeks to 15 years 
Website: www.amischool.com

OMNI International School

OMNI International School provides a full immersion programme with Japanese or Chinese and English, with Spanish introduced as a third language in kindergarten. The school’s unique approach integrates true Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Agriculture, and Mathematics (STEAM) subjects.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: American (Japanese and Mandarin immersion) 
Ages: 2 to 11 
Website: www.omnischoolatl.com

Tabula Rasa – The Language Academy

Established in 2000, Tabula Rasa – The Language Academy provides a dual immersion language programme from infancy through to Pre-K. Over 10 nationalities are represented in the school’s student body, and the school emphasises language development, social sciences, music, maths, and art.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: American (French, Spanish and Albanian immersion) 
Ages: 2 months to 10 years 
Website: www.trlanguages.com

The lifestyle in Atlanta is vibrant and dynamic, perfectly combining modern amenities with southern hospitality. With a diverse population of local and foreign residents, the city tends to welcome newcomers warmly.

While it is a sprawling metropolis, Atlanta has many pockets of distinct close-knit communities and maintains somewhat of a small-town feel – it certainly operates at a slower pace than you might expect of a major commercial hub.

Atlanta is a vibrant and pleasant city that offers expats a good quality of life and a relatively low cost of living. From suburban family life in the outer suburbs to the city chic lifestyle of Midtown, each Atlanta neighbourhood has something unique to offer.

It is also one of the greenest cities in the US with lush parks and even forests, which, along with a moderate climate, allow residents to enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle. There are also abundant shopping and nightlife opportunities throughout Atlanta.

Shopping in Atlanta

From large shopping malls to trendy boutiques and outdoor markets, Atlanta has something to suit every shopper. Shopping in the upmarket Buckhead neighbourhood offers luxury boutiques, antique stores and high-end retailers lining the streets, while Phipps Plaza and Lenox Square, located just across from each other, house hundreds of mainstream shopping outlets.

You will also find plenty of independent shops and boutiques, especially in Virginia-Highland, Midtown, and Decatur. Those looking for something more offbeat can head to Little Five Points. Known as Atlanta’s Bohemian neighbourhood, this district offers an eclectic and laid-back shopping experience.

Entertainment and eating out in Atlanta

Atlantans love to eat out, so you can find dining options for every taste and budget. The city is home to a number of top restaurants, many of which are owned by international celebrities.

There are plenty of establishments serving local southern fare, while the city also boasts plenty of exotic flavours, including Korean, Vietnamese, Moroccan, Mexican and Indian eateries. Several popular annual festivals celebrating food and beverages also take place in Atlanta, such as Taste of Atlanta and the Atlanta Summer Beer Fest.

Atlanta is bustling with nightlife and entertainment options, and you are sure to find something to suit your particular lifestyle. Buckhead, Midtown, Downtown, and Little Five Points are popular areas for singles and young professionals, and they have a vibrant nightlife scene with scores of bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Sporting and outdoor activities in Atlanta

With the city’s many open spaces of forests and parks, walking and cycling are two popular activities in Atlanta. Active outdoorsy types can head to Piedmont Park, Chastain Park or the Centennial Olympic Park.

Just a short drive from Atlanta, you can find some great state parks, particularly in and around the Appalachian Mountains, that offer hiking trails, fishing and camping.

Home to a number of major league professional sporting teams, including the Atlanta Falcons (American football), Atlanta Hawks (basketball) and the Atlanta Braves (baseball), sports fans will be spoilt for choice when it comes to live action at one of the city’s impressive stadiums.

See and do in Atlanta

Atlanta is home to a wide range of attractions. Everyone from sports fans to culture enthusiasts and music lovers will be able to find an activity that suits their interests. Those moving here with children will be pleased to know that there are plenty of child-friendly activities within the city.

Here is a list of some of Atlanta’s most popular attractions.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

This is a secret world of serenity amid the city’s hustle and bustle. The Garden hosts an ever-changing schedule of fascinating exhibitions, exciting events, and interesting classes.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

This informative cultural attraction is located in Downtown Atlanta. Exhibits are informative and moving, depicting the American Civil Rights Movement as well as a range of other modern-day global human rights initiatives.

High Museum of Art

The High Museum boasts a collection of more than 15,000 works, including American, European, and African art, decorative pieces, and photography. It is a must-visit for art lovers.

Martin Luther King Jr National Historical Park

This historical park is home to Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthplace, the church where he preached, and the memorial site where he is buried. It’s an extremely popular attraction in Atlanta and draws close to 700,000 visitors annually.

Piedmont Park

This 189-acre park is always a hive of activity, with recent expansions to the park adding to its charm. Not only is it home to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, but in the summer, residents can enjoy music festivals and picnics in the park. Throughout the year, it is a popular place for joggers, cyclists and recreational walkers.

Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse

This is the home of the Atlanta Shakespeare Company, which regularly stages productions of Shakespearean classics. Visitors can enjoy British pub food and drinks in the recreated tavern setting while taking in a play.

Meeting people and making friends in Atlanta

Meeting people and making friends in Atlanta as an expat is generally considered easier than in many other US cities, thanks to the city’s Southern hospitality and diverse international community. Many expats find that locals are friendly and open to conversation, especially in social settings like local festivals, farmers’ markets, or community events.

Joining expat groups is a popular and effective way to connect with fellow internationals and locals alike. These groups regularly host social gatherings, cultural outings, and networking events that help newcomers build a support network.

Additionally, volunteering, joining a gym or coworking space, or taking part in language exchange programmes are great ways to meet people organically. While it may take a little initiative, most expats in Atlanta report a warm welcome and a smooth path to forming lasting friendships.

Useful links

• Meetup – Atlanta
• Hands On Atlanta
• YMCA of Metro Atlanta
• Atlanta Run Club

Getting around Atlanta isn’t difficult thanks to the city’s established public transport system, which includes buses, trains, and streetcars. That said, most residents still rely on their own vehicles. Although it’s possible to live in the city without a car, it’s not always convenient, so it’s well worth considering buying or renting a car in Atlanta.

Driving in Atlanta

The majority of Atlanta residents rely on cars to get around the city. This reliance on personal motor vehicles has contributed to heavy traffic congestion. In fact, Atlanta has consistently performed badly in traffic surveys, with the city having some of the worst traffic in the US.

Atlanta is a sprawling metropolis that isn’t always easy to navigate. The main thoroughfare, which runs through the city centre, is Peachtree Street, but more than 70 streets in Atlanta have the word ‘Peachtree’ in them, so finding the right one can be confusing.

New arrivals should note that Atlanta drivers are known for their speed and impatience, and driving in Atlanta can be scary. It’s therefore important to stay alert and plan routes carefully before setting out.

Newcomers from countries with reciprocal agreements with Georgia can drive legally in Atlanta with their driver’s licence from home, as long as it hasn’t expired. Those from countries without such an agreement must obtain a Georgia driver’s licence. This process involves passing written and practical driving tests, as well as a vision test.

Useful links

• Georgia Department of Driver Services

Public transport in Atlanta

The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) manages public transport in Atlanta, including bus, rail, and streetcar services that connect all parts of the city.

Tickets for MARTA trains, buses, or streetcars can be bought online, at the station, or via a smartcard known as the Breeze Card. Breeze cards can be purchased at Breeze vending machines at MARTA rail stations, at MARTA Ridestores, and online.

Buses

MARTA operates over 100 bus routes within the boundaries of Atlanta’s Fulton, Clayton and DeKalb counties. Buses operate from 5am to 1am weekdays and until 12.30am on weekends and holidays.

MARTA bus stations are linked to outlying areas in the wider Atlanta Metropolitan area via local bus services such as CobbLinc and Gwinnett County Transit.

Trains

Atlanta has a reliable rapid transit railway system. Although trains are a much faster way to get around Atlanta, rail routes are much more limited in comparison. Trains operate between 4.45am and 1am on weekdays and between 6am and 1am on weekends. Depending on the time of day, trains arrive every 10 to 20 minutes.

Train services operate along four lines: red, gold, blue, and green. The red and gold lines run between the north and south, while the blue and green lines run between the east and west of the city. These lines intersect at downtown Atlanta's main train station, Five Points Station.

Streetcars

Streetcars in Atlanta follow a circular route known as the ‘Downtown Loop’. With only 12 stops, it’s not a comprehensive service. Still, it’s useful for travelling between the major attractions in downtown Atlanta, such as the Centennial Olympic Park area and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site. Further expansion is planned for the future.

Useful links

• MARTA

Taxis in Atlanta

Although they are not as visible as in other larger US cities, taxis are available in Atlanta. It is usually possible to flag one down from the street, but it’s recommended to phone for a taxi ahead of time or to book online. Within certain districts, common routes are charged at a flat rate. Outside these areas, taxis use a meter.

An alternative to regular taxis is ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft, both of which can be accessed via their respective smartphone applications.

Useful links

• Atlanta Checker Cab
• Lyft
• Uber

Cycling in Atlanta

Although historically a car-centric city, Atlanta has made strides in increasing pedestrian and cycling access. It has converted 22 miles (35km) of railroad track into multi-use trails and a light rail transport system known as the Beltline. To date, the city has developed more than 120 miles (193km) of cycle-accessible paths, with more expansions currently in the works.

Useful links

• AtlantaBeltline

Walking in Atlanta

The city has also put a lot of effort into increasing pedestrian-friendly pavements, crossings and trails as part of their Vision Zero initiative, and the results are paying off. In 2023, the Foot Traffic Ahead study ranked Atlanta the eighth most walkable of the 30 largest US metros, similar in walkability to Seattle and Charlotte.