What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta, GA for Families?

Raising a family in Atlanta means having access to top-ranked schools, spacious parks, and neighborhoods that actually feel like communities. But with so many zip codes to choose from, narrowing down where to settle can be overwhelming, especially if you’re balancing school districts, commute times, and home prices.

That’s why we’ve rounded up the best neighborhoods in Atlanta for families, from quiet suburban pockets to city-adjacent spots with plenty of room to grow. Whether you're planning your first move or just need more space, this guide has something for every stage of family life.

Key Insights

• Best Overall: Alpharetta – A-rated schools and family-friendly amenities make this suburb a top choice.
• Best for Schools: Johns Creek – Consistently high-performing public schools and safe, quiet neighborhoods.
• Most Affordable: Roswell – Lower rents and a walkable historic district make it ideal for young families.
• Best for Outdoor Activities: Peachtree City – 100+ miles of golf cart paths, lakes, and parks.
• Quietest: Garden Hills – Tree-lined streets, low noise, and a strong residential feel.

Which Atlanta Neighborhoods Are the Best for Families?

1. Alpharetta

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,639
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,922
• Walk score: 22
• Transit score: 15
• Bike score: 24
• Crime Rate: C
• Map of Alpharetta

Alpharetta is Atlanta’s top family neighborhood, with top-rated public school, and a median two-bedroom rent of $1,922. It offers a safe, suburban feel packed with family perks, like Wills Park, where kids can swim, ride horses, or play sports.

Parents love the concerts at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, while Avalon serves up shopping, dining, and kid-friendly splash pads. Alpharetta balances space, schools, and things to do, making it a go-to choice for families.

Explore our listings in Alpharetta.

2. Johns Creek

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,788
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,881
• Walk score: 18
• Transit score: 1
• Bike score: 21
• Crime Rate: D
• Map of Johns Creek

Johns Creek consistently tops the list for public schools and safety. Even with its D crime rating, schools regularly rank among Georgia’s best. Families here enjoy weekends at Newtown Park or the Chattahoochee River, with plenty of youth sports and cultural events to fill the calendar. The median rent for a two-bedroom is $1,881, making it a solid investment in your child’s future.

Explore our listings in Johns Creek.

3. Roswell

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,380
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,647
• Walk score: 22
• Transit score: 14
• Bike score: 22
• Crime Rate: C
• Map of Roswell

Roswell is one of the most affordable Atlanta suburbs for families, with a median two-bedroom rent of just $1,647. It combines small-town charm with walkable restaurants, a historic downtown, and easy access to quality schools.

Families love Roswell Area Park for its year-round programming and amenities. While the crime rating is a C, many pockets remain quiet and family-friendly. It’s easygoing, but never boring, a sweet spot for parents and kids alike. And with its relatively inexpensive rent, it’s one of the best Atlanta suburbs for young families.

Explore our listings in Roswell.

4. Decatur

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,656
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,825
• Walk score: 60
• Transit score: 45
• Bike score: 69
• Crime Rate: D
• Map of Decatur

Decatur is the most walkable family-friendly suburb in Atlanta, with a walk score of 60 and access to top-rated public schools. The City Schools of Decatur system consistently scores above state averages, and families love the vibrant downtown full of bookstores, restaurants, and weekend festivals. Glenlake Park and Decatur Toy Park are family favorites, and with MARTA access, commuting into Atlanta is easy.

Explore our listings in Decatur

5. Peachtree City

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,926
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,181
• Walk score: 19
• Transit score: -
• Bike score: 23
• Crime Rate: B+
• Map of Peachtree City

Peachtree City is the best suburb near Atlanta for families who love the outdoors, with over 100 miles of golf cart paths and access to Lake Peachtree. Median rent for a two-bedroom sits at $2,181, and families enjoy Fayette County’s strong public schools. Whether it’s paddling on the lake or concerts at the local Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater, it’s a planned community that truly works for families.

Explore our listings in Peachtree City.

6. Garden Hills

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,691
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,609
• Walk score: 68
• Transit score: 45
• Bike score: 37
• Crime Rate: D
• Map of Garden Hills

Garden Hills offers a quiet, family-friendly experience with access to top-rated schools like Garden Hills Elementary. Tree-lined streets, historic homes, and neighborhood staples like Garden Hills Pool and Frankie Allen Park make it perfect for weekend family time. With walkability to schools and shops, it’s a low-key option in the heart of Buckhead.

Explore our listings in Garden Hills.

7. Chastain Park

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: -
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: -
• Walk score: 14
• Transit score: 6
• Bike score: 19
• Crime Rate: C-
• Map of Chastain Park

Chastain Park is the top Atlanta neighborhood for families who want space to roam, centered around a massive 268-acre park. The park includes playgrounds, sports fields, a golf course, and an equestrian center. Local schools like Warren T. Jackson Elementary perform well, and private options are nearby too. The area is peaceful but not far from city perks like concerts at Synovus Bank Ampitheater and nearby dining.

Explore our listings in Chastain Park.

8. Lake Claire

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: -
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: -
• Walk score: 57
• Transit score: 44
• Bike score: 61
• Crime Rate: C
• Map of Lake Claire

Lake Claire is one of the best family neighborhoods in Atlanta, especially for those who want quiet, access to top schools like Mary Lin Elementary, and close proximity to both parks, like Decatur and Candler Park. It has an A crime rating and easy MARTA access. Kids enjoy Lake Claire Park, while parents love the walkability and community feel.

Explore our listings in Lake Claire.

9. Candler Park

• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,670
• Walk score: 76
• Transit score: 54
• Bike score: 71
• Crime Rate: C
• Map of Candler Park

When people ask us, “Is Atlanta a good place to raise a family?” we like to point to Candler Park.

Candler Park is one of Atlanta’s best neighborhoods for raising a family, thanks to top schools like Mary Lin Elementary and a strong mix of green space and city perks. With an above-average C crime rating and median two-bedroom rent of $1,670, it offers value and livability. Local favorites include Flying Biscuit Café and the large neighborhood park with sports courts, a pool, and community events.

Explore our listings in Candler Park.

10. Cascade Heights

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,500
• Walk score: 83
• Transit score: 53
• Bike score: 79
• Crime Rate: D+
• Map of Cascade Heights

Cascade Heights is the most walkable family-friendly neighborhood in West Atlanta, with a high walk score of 83. Despite the lower crime grade, families love its large lots, mature trees, and proximity to parks like Cascade Springs Nature Preserve. The area also offers access to charter and magnet schools and is just a short drive from downtown.

Explore our listings in Cascade Heights

Make Your Move to Atlanta

Looking to find your next home in the best neighborhoods in Atlanta for families?

Whether you’re drawn to top-rated schools, park access, or a quick commute, there’s a spot that fits your family’s needs. Explore more tips on making a smart move to Atlanta. When you’re ready to find your match, take Apartment List’s personalized quiz and see apartments that fit!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best neighborhoods in Atlanta for families?

Top family-friendly neighborhoods in Atlanta include Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Decatur, and Peachtree City. These areas are known for high-rated schools, low crime rates, and easy access to parks and community amenities.

What’s the Best Atlanta Suburb for Families?

Alpharetta consistently ranks as the best suburb for families near Atlanta. It has top-rated public schools and a median two-bedroom rent of $1,922. It also offers access to family-friendly amenities like Wills Park and Avalon, making it ideal for safety, education, and recreation.

Where is the safest place to raise a family in Atlanta?

Alpharetta and Peachtree are among the safest neighborhoods for families in Atlanta, both earning an above average crime rating. They also feature strong school zones and plenty of family-friendly green space.

What suburbs of Atlanta have the best schools?

Johns Creek and Decatur offer some of the highest-rated public schools near Atlanta. Both areas consistently perform above state averages and have strong parent engagement.

Which Atlanta suburb has the most outdoor activities?

Peachtree City is one of the best Atlanta suburbs for outdoor family fun, thanks to 100+ miles of golf cart paths, lakes, and park access. It’s ideal for active families who enjoy biking, boating, and nature trails.

What’s the Most Affordable Family-Friendly Suburb Near Atlanta?

Roswell is one of the most affordable suburbs for families, with a median two-bedroom rent of $1,647. It combines solid schools, family-focused parks like Roswell Area Park, and a walkable historic downtown, making it a great choice for budget-conscious parents.

What’s the Most Walkable Atlanta Suburb?

Decatur stands out for its walkability, with a Walk Score of 60, a Transit Score of 45, and a Bike Score of 69. Families can stroll to shops, restaurants, parks, and top-ranked schools like those in the City Schools of Decatur district.

What’s the Quietest Atlanta Neighborhood?

Garden Hills is one of the quietest family-friendly areas in Atlanta. Here, you’ll find tree-lined streets, historic homes, and peaceful parks like Frankie Allen Park and Garden Hills Pool.

What Atlanta Neighborhood Has the Most Outdoor Space for Families?

Chastain Park offers the most green space in Atlanta, anchored by the 268-acre park of the same name. The neighborhood includes sports fields, playgrounds, a golf course, and even an equestrian park, giving families room to roam without leaving the city.