19 Cities Near Atlanta, GA

Beyond Atlanta’s vibrant downtown area, there are several charming Southern cities nearby that you might choose to call home if finding apartments in the city is proving a bit too expensive or overwhelming for you. Of course, with so many beautiful spots to choose from, you might not know where to start.

Whether it’s lakefront living or stylish shops and restaurants you’re looking for, come with us as we explore 19 cities near Atlanta, Georgia.

Note: The data provided below comes from our rent estimates. These numbers expand beyond those listed on our platform. For further information, learn about our methodology.

1. Stone Mountain

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 14.7 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 24 minutes via Memorial Drive
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: 1 hour and 7 minutes via bus No. 221 and MARTA Blue Line
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 1 hour and 41 minutes via Stone Mountain Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,700
• Population: 6,627
• Median household income: $44,716
• Walk score: 69
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 58

Stone Mountain is the name of the city and its namesake mountain, which is home to the world's largest exposed mass of granite. It’s one of the few cities east of Atlanta on this list and is home to a growing number of young adults, millennials, and families looking to escape the high prices of Atlanta.

Stone Mountain Park also hosts attractions, including Snow Mountain, historical museums, and a train that takes visitors around the mountain. You'll find apartment complexes scattered throughout the city center, including a number of updated and modern options.

2. Decatur

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 6.3 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 15 minutes via Memorial Drive and I-20 W.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: 18 minutes via MARTA Blue Line
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 46 minutes via W. Howard Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,860
• Population: 24,338
• Median household income: $123,617
• Walk score: 60
• Transit score: 45
• Bike score: 69

Decatur was once a trading center for small farmers and a stone quarry. By the mid-1800s, nearby Atlanta established a reputation as the regional transportation center, and expansion soon sparked, leading to growth in nearby towns like Decatur.

The city of Decatur and "unincorporated Decatur" are two different areas. You'll find more space and a lower cost of living in the unincorporated area. Decatur is walkable, bikeable, and filled with coffee shops, trendy pubs, boutiques, and a train station for public transportation.

You won't find toppling high-rises in this city close to Atlanta, but plenty of mid-rise, modern, and luxury apartments are available. Live right off the main square to have pubs and restaurants at your doorstep.

3. Alpharetta

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 26.3 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 31 minutes via US-19 S. and GA-400 S.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: 1 hour and 13 minutes via bus No. 143 and MARTA Red Line
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 3 hours and 29 minutes via Lower Roswell Road
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,920
• Population: 67,267
• Median household income: $133,920
• Walk score: 22
• Transit score: 15
• Bike score: 24

Alpharetta is a dynamic suburban hub and one of the best cities outside of Atlanta in which to start a career and raise a family. Its history dates back to the 1830s when settlers were looking for land to farm, though today, the city is known for its well-regarded schools and reputation as the Tech City of the South.

Alpharetta is an excellent destination, offering galleries, fine dining, pubs, attractions, and specialty spots like pottery studios. You can also see a show at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre or head to one of their breweries for nightlife options without having to head into Atlanta.

4. Marietta

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 20.3 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 27 minutes via I-75 S.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: 39 minutes via bus No. 101
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 1 hour and 56 minutes via Atlanta Road
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,597
• Population: 62,602
• Median household income: $62,585
• Walk score: 36
• Transit score: 21
• Bike score: 27

Marietta is one of the largest suburban towns near Atlanta, Georgia. It was settled in early 1802 and is now one of Atlanta's largest suburbs. Today, Marietta has its own downtown and main square with dining and shopping opportunities.

Marietta attracts newcomers looking for proximity to Atlanta without having to sacrifice urban amenities. Most apartments and townhouses in Marietta are along I-75, offering convenience to the rest of the metro area. Live near the square to take advantage of the city’s lively atmosphere, galleries, and events.

5. Duluth

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 29.4 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 34 minutes via I-85 S.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 3 hours via Stone Mountain Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,130
• Population: 32,034
• Median household income: $77,516
• Walk score: 31
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 21

Once part of Cherokee territory, Duluth was originally forested land inhabited by Native Americans. Eventually, deposits of copper, iron, ore, and lumber popularized the area. After a cotton merchant connected his cotton gin at the Chattahoochee River and Old Peachtree Road, trade opened up.

Today, living in Duluth opens up opportunities for year-round events and concerts. You can hit the historic downtown for shopping. As a result, the city combines a small-town feel with desirable urban amenities.

However, one of the biggest attractions in the city is the Gas South Arena, which boasts 13,000 seats and hosts a plethora of concerts and sporting events throughout the year. It’s truly one of the most exciting cities around Atlanta.

6. Johns Creek

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 27.3 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 36 minutes via I-85 S.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 2 hours and 53 minutes via New Peachtree Road
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,144
• Population: 82,453
• Median household income: $133,948
• Walk score: 18
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 21

One of the largest cities in Georgia by population, Johns Creek was once a series of trading posts along the Chattahoochee River in Cherokee territory before it saw waves of commercial development and became incorporated in 2006.

The city prides itself on its rich cultural diversity, a trait that shines through a myriad of festivals, such as the Johns Creek Arts Festival and the Founders Day Parade. However, what truly sets life here apart is the impressively low 5% poverty rate, making it an inviting place to find work.

Top it off with over 50 parks, golf courses, and nature trails, and it’s clear why Johns Creek is one of the best cities surrounding Atlanta.

Cities Near Atlanta with Higher Commute Times

Atlanta’s traffic is notoriously congested, but the ability to work remotely makes suburbs with longer commute times to Atlanta more desirable options. Let’s look at a few options that are a bit farther outside of the city.

1. Milton

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 29.4 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 35 minutes via US-19 S.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: 3 hours and 8 minutes via bus No. 143 and MARTA Red Line
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 3 hours and 17 minutes via Crabapple Road
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,890
• Population: 41,836
• Median household income: $136,020
• Walk score: 12
• Transit score: 10
• Bike score: 20

Although it's just 30 miles from Downtown Atlanta, Milton wasn’t incorporated until 2006. It’s known for its strong country roots and horse farms.

The median age in Milton is 40.5 years old, making it an ideal spot for millennials and growing families. With reasonable rents and a high quality of life, anyone who wants a more rural setting (with ample opportunity to horseback ride!) can make themselves at home in Milton.

If an inviting, leisure-focused lifestyle coupled with abundant outdoor opportunities is what you’re looking for, then Milton is one of the best cities north of Atlanta for you.

2. Peachtree City

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 31.3 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 37 minutes via GA-74 N. and I-85 N.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 3 hours and 8 minutes via GA-74 N.
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,950
• Population: 39,562
• Median household income: $103,374
• Walk score: 19
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 23

Peachtree City is one of the best towns near Atlanta, Georgia, for getting around, thanks to its outstanding network of over 100 miles of paved multi-use paths for golf carts and bikes.

Among its many great offerings, Peachtree City has exceptional schools, a thriving business landscape, and numerous parks. Thanks to its commendably low crime rate, it has also secured its place as one of Georgia's safest cities.

Note that though the city's vibrant downtown has plenty of unique local shopping and dining opportunities, you might have to venture into Atlanta for those big nights out.

3. Suwanee

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 33.3 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 34 minutes via I-85 S.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 3 hours and 42 minutes via Stone Mountain Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,950
• Population: 22,477
• Median household income: $99,022
• Walk score: 44
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 33

Suwanee is known for its green space, year-round events, and mixed-use developments.

The city offers plenty of amenities, including the Suwanee Town Center, Sims Lake Park, and Everett's Music Barn. In addition, the community embraces public arts and frequently ranks among the best places to live in the country by publications like Money magazine.

Top that off with an array of housing options and Georgia's largest public school system, and it’s one of the best cities near Atlanta, Georgia, for families.

4. Buford

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 38.4 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 41 minutes via I-85 S.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 4 hours and 12 minutes via Peachtree Industrial Boulevard
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,290
• Population: 18,130
• Median household income: $54,321
• Walk score: 52
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 30

Buford is home to the largest mall in Georgia, the Mall of Georgia, and the Lake Lanier Islands, which feature campgrounds and a water park.

The city’s median age is 36.3, welcoming millennials, families, and anyone looking for a doable commute to Atlanta by car. However, you won't find public transportation or solid biking or walking infrastructure around Buford.

The city offers plenty of upscale and new apartment complexes scattered throughout the city. For convenience to the rest of the metro area, look for options near I-85 and I-985.

5. Sugar Hill

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 38.3 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 39 minutes via I-85 S.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 4 hours and 6 minutes via Peachtree Industrial Boulevard
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,290
• Population: 25,407
• Median household income: $89,583
• Walk score: 8
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 11

While you won't find much nightlife and fine dining in Sugar Hill, there's plenty to do outdoors. Locals head to Lake Sidney Lanier for shoreline fun, boating, and swimming. Other outdoor stops within driving distance include Sawnee Mountain Park and Settles Bridge Park.

You'll find the majority of apartment complexes and units located in the center of town. Or look near the northern side of the city around Lake Lanier for waterfront views along the Chattahoochee River.

6. Senoia

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 36.6 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 44 minutes via GA-74 N.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 3 hours and 40 minutes via Georgia State Bicycle Route 45
• Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,144
• Population: 5,663
• Median household income: $99,120
• Walk score: 60
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 60

Senoia is filled with architecture dating back to the 1800s, and though it was once a sleepy, rural town, it's experienced rapid growth and development over the last decade.

Despite its small size, Senoia is home to a film studio and locations you'll see in just about every Southern film. It's also where “The Walking Dead” filmed much of its series.

Duplexes and homes for rent are scattered throughout Senoia. You'll also find some small apartment complexes on the edges of town. Senoia's main street features residential lofts and apartments before many of its shops for modern options.

7. Cartersville

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 43 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 43 minutes via I-75 S.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 4 hours and 6 minutes via Old Highway Northwest
• Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,770
• Population: 23,904
• Median household income: $62,510
• Walk score: 25
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 29

Cartersville is a nature lover’s dream strategically located near Lake Allatoona and Red Top Mountain State Park for endless camping, hiking, swimming, and kayaking opportunities. You never have to venture too far from your doorstep to enjoy the outdoors.

Despite its reputation as a small city, Cartersville is home to several attractions, including the Booth Western Art Museum, Old Car City, the Grand Theatre, and nearby wineries and tasting rooms. In addition, the Tellus Science Museum attracts visitors from across the state to its 125,00 square feet of galleries devoted to minerals, fossils, and technology.

The median age in Cartersville is nearly 36, and the city welcomes renters with its mix of suburban amenities and small-town charm.

8. Carrollton

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 49.5 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 53 minutes via I-20 E
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 4 hours and 22 minutes via GA-166 E.
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,320
• Population: 27,262
• Median household income: $44,049
• Walk score: 24
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 32

As one of the best cities in West Georgia, Carrollton hosts an extensive network of bike trails and a local amphitheater. It’s also the “Guinness Book world record-holder for the world’s largest zip line canopy tour and adventure destination,” perfect for those seeking a dash of adrenaline.

Although the median age in Carrollton is 26.2, it welcomes college students living on and off campus. You’ll find plenty of apartment complexes and mid-rises scattered throughout the city.

The town is home to the University of West Georgia and West Georgia Technical College. Carrollton is up to the challenge of feeding the young crowd, so there’s always a new bar, pub, or restaurant to try.

9. Snellville

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 32.5 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 34 minutes via US-78 W. and I-20 W.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: 1 hour and 6 minutes via bus No. 419
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 3 hours and 28 minutes via Glenwood Road
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,080
• Population: 22,024
• Median household income: $83,691
• Walk score: 17
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 24

Snellville lies between Atlanta and Athens and is well known for its close community ambiance and small-town feel. Even so, you’ll find a myriad of offerings, including shops, restaurants, festivals, and farmers markets.

Just 10 miles from Stone Mountain Park, Snellville living means you can enjoy everything from warm-weather hikes in the summer to snow tubing in the winter. The city extends its outdoor appeal through a range of parks, such as Briscoe Park and Lenora Park.

Beyond its diversity, Snellville is somewhat of a magnet for professionals specializing in computers and mathematics, and those coming here looking for work have a better chance of finding it.

10. McDonough

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 29.9 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 32 minutes via I-75 N.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: 41 minutes via bus No. 430
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 3 hours and 13 minutes via GA-54 N./Jonesboro Road
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,970
• Population: 30,340
• Median household income: $73,215
• Walk score: 21
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 27

Just under a half-hour from the renowned Atlanta Motor Speedway, one of the most acclaimed NASCAR racetracks, McDonough is an ideal place for those who want a dose of exhilarating car races.

Beyond its high-speed spectacles, the historic McDonough Square takes center stage as a perpetual hub of activity, festivals, and live entertainment, and it hosts an array of charming shops and eateries.

The town truly caters to all seasons, filling its calendar with a diverse range of events and activities throughout the year. It’s one of the friendliest cities close to Atlanta.

11. Cumming

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 55.1 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 52 minutes via US-19 S. and I-285 E.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 5 hours and 13 minutes via Big Creek Greenway
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,000
• Population: 7,672
• Median household income: $63,438
• Walk score: 60
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 52

If you’re someone with a penchant for the active, nature-centric lifestyle, Cumming is one of the cheapest towns near Atlanta to call home. You’ll find over 960 acres of outdoor adventure at the Sawnee Mountain Preserve, with opportunities for climbing, hiking, and more.

Lake Lanier offers equal excitement, perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. Amid the dynamic landscape, local fairgrounds and historic covered bridges adorn the city.

As an ever-evolving city, Cumming is in the process of building a new city center near the downtown area, which is poised to become a hub of entertainment. Even with so much development, the locals make sure to retain that warm Southern charm.

12. Roswell

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 22.2 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 28 minutes via GA-400 S. and I-85 S.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: 1 hour and 32 minutes via bus No. 85 and MARTA Red and Blue lines
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 2 hours and 46 minutes via Lower Roswell Road
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,960
• Population: 92,950
• Median household income: $111,214
• Walk score: 22
• Transit score: 14
• Bike score: 22

Travel north on GA-400, and you’ll reach Roswell, a city brimming with Southern charm. Rich in historical heritage that traces back to the Civil War era, Roswell manages to preserve its distinctive character while seamlessly integrating contemporary elements.

This Atlanta suburb is a shining example of a well-rounded lifestyle, offering everything from a bustling downtown with craft breweries and local eateries to an exceptional historic district on Canton Street with an array of shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

You’ll even find over 900 square miles of parks and seven miles of pathways along the banks of the Chattahoochee River — perfect for anyone who wants to explore the outdoors.

13. Newnan

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: 38.6 miles
• Commute time to Atlanta via car: 38 minutes via I-85 N.
• Commute time to Atlanta via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Atlanta via bike: 4 hours and 18 minutes via Oakley Industrial Boulevard
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,780
• Population: 44,485
• Median household income: $71,630
• Walk score: 22
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 25

Within the city limits of Newnan, you’ll find six distinct historic districts, which collectively showcase over 40 revered historic structures, from residences to functional commercial buildings.

Even as a growing city, the essence of history and culture pervades every corner of NewnanApartment List quiz, and much of the charm here is largely attributed to its Victorian and Antebellum-era architectural gems. Head to Ashley Park in the heart of the downtown area, for example, and you’ll be able to enjoy the town’s outdoor mall, where you can find a diverse array of antiques and treasures.

Beyond the local architectural marvels, you can venture into the great outdoors at the newly established Chattahoochee Bend State Park, which offers 12 miles of serene wooded trails.

Make Your Move: Start Apartment Hunting with Apartment List

With such a uniquely diverse set of cities outside of Atlanta, Georgia, there’s a wealth of experiences waiting to be explored. From the historic charm of Roswell to the adventurous outdoor spirit of Cumming, these 19 cities offer an array of options, no matter what kind of lifestyle you prefer.

Ready to take the leap and make your move to a city near Atlanta? Check out our personalized quiz to learn more. With us, you’ll spend 5 minutes and save 50 hours searching.