10 Best Places to Live in Georgia for Families
- Johns Creek
- Alpharetta
- Milton
- Suwanee
- Decatur
- Peachtree City
- Grayson
- Flowery Branch
- Newnan
- Smyrna
1. Johns Creek
The best place to live in Georgia for families is Johns Creek. Located about 30 miles from downtown Atlanta, this city is considered an Atlanta suburb and is situated along the Chattahoochee River. Incorporated in 2006, the city is still one of the newest places to live in Georgia. Even so, it is home to a bustling population of about 82,000 people, all of whom prefer the area for its exceptional public schools, numerous parks, and thriving local economy. Additionally, the overall crime rate in Johns Creek is nearly 82% below the Georgia average, and the city has often been ranked as one of the safest cities to raise children in the entire United States. With so much to offer, it’s no surprise that this city is the premier choice among Georgia families.
2. Alpharetta
Alpharetta is the second-best place to live for Georgia families. Situated about 10 miles northwest of Johns Creek, this city is known for its unique combination of upscale living and traditional southern charm. This area has a reputation for stunning architecture, booming business, top-tier dining, and fun local events – all of which attract a busy population of about 66,000 people. Alpharetta is also one of the safest cities in Georgia, making it a great place to raise kids.
Alpharetta also enjoys a prime location that gives residents easy access to Atlanta, making it an ideal spot for commuters. From live music to an enormous weekly farmer’s market, there is always something to do in this entertaining city, keeping it an essential part of Georgia’s best places to live. Even Money Magazine agrees, recently ranking Alpharetta as the 25th best place to live in the entire nation.
3. Milton
In addition to being one of Georgia’s best places to live, Milton is also one of the wealthiest cities in Georgia. This city is located about 30 miles from the heart of Atlanta and is home to a close-knit community of just over 41,000 people. Residents are drawn to Milton for its exceedingly high quality of life, which includes low crime rates, acclaimed school systems, and expansive estate homes. Additionally, those who call this city home will appreciate its commitment to preserving its natural beauty. This effort keeps local parks like the Big Creek Greenway well-maintained, providing residents with plenty of outdoor recreation. With a median home value of $795k, Milton remains one of the best places to live for those who prefer a more upscale lifestyle.
4. Suwanee
Situated about 32 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta is Suwanee, another one of Georgia’s best suburbs. With a total population of roughly 22,000 people, Suwanee is a modest community, making it ideal for those who prefer a close-knit community. Apart from its small-town atmosphere, the city also offers a variety of upscale amenities, such as exceptional school systems, local farmers markets, and fun community events, which include Suwanee Fest. When coupled with the area’s commitment to sustainability, abundance of local parks, and relatively low crime rates, it’s easy to see why Suwanee is universally considered one of Georgia’s best places to live.
5. Decatur
Decatur is the best place to live in Georgia for those who desire quick access to Atlanta. Located within six miles of downtown Atlanta, this area provides its nearly 25,000 residents with the most convenient commute of any area on this list. But, in addition to its ideal location, Decatur is also known for its diverse arts and cultural scene, entertaining nightlife, and welcoming atmosphere – all of which are additional draws for local families. The city is also committed to maintaining a standard of sustainability and green living, which is best experienced through the area’s numerous parks and nature reserves. With some of the best schools in the state, Decatur is one of the most well-rounded places to live in all of Georgia.
6. Peachtree City
A thriving, master-planned community located about 31 miles southwest of downtown Atlanta, Peachtree City is another one of the best places to live in Georgia. This area is home to about 39,000 people, all of whom prefer the area for its safe streets, walkability, and various urban amenities. But, what this city is best known for is its award-winning network of more than 100 miles of walkable paths, which have earned it the affectionate nickname of the “Golf Cart Capital.” These paths conveniently join together all of the local neighborhoods, shopping centers, business centers, schools, and more, keeping the community both safe and well-integrated. With a strong local economy, and an overall crime rate nearly half the state and national averages, Peachtree City is not to be overlooked when it comes to Georgia’s best places to live.
7. Grayson
Grayson is another one of the best places to live in Georgia for families. Situated about 37 miles from Atlanta’s city center, this area is best known for its rich history, friendly community, and vibrant arts and culture scene. Home to only 3,000 people, families typically come to Grayson to find a private living situation while still remaining convenient to urban amenities. Additionally, those who move to Grayson can take advantage of its various community organizations and events, which include the Grayson Farmers Market, the Grayson Blues & Brews Festival, and the Grayson Jazz & Arts Festival. Overall, Grayson is the perfect place in Georgia to find a blend of both small-town and urban living.
8. Flowery Branch
Flowery Branch is another great place for families to live in Georgia. Located just east of Lake Lanier, about 45 miles north of Atlanta, Flowery Branch is a small city that’s home to just under 10,000 residents. It’s a quiet, residential suburb that offers low crime, good schools, and access to outdoor recreation. The total crime rate is 47% lower than the national average, and violent crime is 75% lower. Flowery Branch High School ranks among the top 200 high schools in Georgia, and overall, Hall County Schools are well respected. Plus, the drive into Atlanta is under an hour, which is perfect for commuters wanting to raise a family.
9. Newnan
Newnan is another excellent place to raise a family in Georgia. Situated in Coweta County, about 40 miles southeast of Atlanta, Newnan is a peaceful city with a population of 42,549. It’s known for its small-town atmosphere, affordable homes, and southern hospitality. The cost of living in Newnan is about 5% lower than in Atlanta, and the average home price is $370,289. Coweta County public schools are very well regarded, and Newnan High School ranks 140th in the state of Georgia. It’s also a very suburban city with friendly neighbors and plenty of parks, making it a welcoming city to raise a family.
10. Smyrna
Smyrna is also a great place in Georgia to raise a family. The inner ring suburb of Atlanta is located about 18 miles northwest of downtown in Cobb County. Due to the high quality of life Smyrna offers, it’s one of the fastest-growing cities in the state, and the population grew by 30% between 2000 and 2020. It’s now home to about 55,000 residents. Smyrna is a great place to live for those who want affordable homes, low crime, and easy access to amenities. The crime rate in Smyrna is 13% lower than the rest of the country and 77% lower than the crime rate in Atlanta. Money Magazine also ranked Smyrna as one of the best places in the US for a combination of economic growth, affordability, and quality of life.