Atlanta is an exciting city, full of things to see and do. But if you’re planning a move to the capital of the peach state, there are some things you should know that will help make your transition to your new home go smoothly.

In this post, we’ll talk about the things that make Atlanta a fantastic place to work and play, as well as provide you with some information about what you should know before moving to Atlanta, GA.

Tips for Moving to Atlanta

• Live as close as possible to where you work (or vice versa).

You may have already heard about Atlanta’s heavy traffic. Rest assured, everything you’ve heard is probably true. Like many other large, mainly car-dependent cities, quality of life in Atlanta can easily revolve around how you strategically navigate the traffic.

There are some savvy ways to at least partially elude the traffic: get a GPS app that alerts you to traffic and instantly reroutes you around it, and try to time your schedule to avoid rush hour. Ideally, you should find an Atlanta apartment that is as close as possible to your place of work.

On a side note: parking is quite expensive in the city, and free parking is practically non-existent. Be prepared to pay, and if you don’t see a sign, look for an attendant.

• Do as much research as possible into rental/housing options.

This advice may seem a little obvious, but it’s particularly relevant for Atlanta because of the sheer size and diversity of the city’s neighborhoods. Metro Atlanta stretches for roughly 136 square miles and has 29 individually governed counties, so there really is someplace suitable for all kinds of lifestyles.

Some of the most popular urban neighborhoods in Atlanta include Midtown, Buckhead, Downtown, Old Fourth Ward, Virginia Highlands, and many more. A few slower, more suburban areas include Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, Kennesaw.

If possible, visit the city before moving and talk to as many locals as possible. Ask about real estate values and their experiences with housing in the city.

• The areas inside the perimeter (ITP) and outside the perimeter (OTP) have very different vibes.

Essentially, you can group Atlanta’s vast number of neighborhoods into two categories: those within the 285 beltway (the city’s main freeway which circles the city) and those outside the 285.

ITP, you’ll find a more urban vibe with plenty of walkable access to shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. You’ll also have easier access to the MARTA, Atlanta’s mass transit system.

The potential downsides to living ITP are the same issues you’ll find in most large urban areas: a higher cost of living, crowded spaces, etc.

OTP is considered the suburbs of the metro Atlanta area and features a lower cost of living. There are more green spaces and community events, it’s a great place to raise a family, and the public schools there have an excellent reputation.

If you live OTP, you will need a car, as the areas there aren’t particularly walkable. The commute can be pretty difficult if you work in the city, too.

• Stock up on summer clothes, and make sure your new place has air conditioning.

Atlanta is hot and exceedingly humid for much of the year, but especially so in the summer. Temperatures can climb well into the 90s in July, with an average rainfall of over 5″, for instance.

Keep a couple of hoodies around for winter, though, which are generally pretty mild. You can expect average temperatures around the mid-40s during the coldest months.

• It’s a great place to live for people who love nature and road trips!

Whether you’re a beach person or a mountain person, Atlanta has you covered.

Tybee Island lies a couple of hours southeast of Atlanta, proper, and is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back culture. The island is highly walkable and has excellent year-round fishing. Kayaking is a favorite pastime of the locals, too.

Tybee is also located about 15 miles from Savannah, GA. The fascinating city of Savannah is full of history, hip culture, fantastic restaurants, and gorgeous architecture.

Head north for about 90 miles, and you’ll find the scenic Chattahoochee natural forest, which offers 106,000 acres of secluded hiking, fishing, and camping.

• Bring your appetite!

Because of its robust culinary culture, Atlanta is a haven for foodies of all kinds.

Downtown’s the place for an outrageously good steak at AG Steakhouse in the Ritz-Carlton. Anis Cafe and Bistro in Buckhead serves up authentic dishes from Provence. TomTom is great for tapas in Virginia-Highland, and Buford Highway in north Atlanta has a dazzling variety of ethnic restaurants the critics rave about, from Taiwanese to Salvadorian.

Want to relax with a cocktail or two? With spots like Fox Trot Liquor Bar and Blake’s on the Park, Midtown is the place for you. These are just a very few examples of the outstanding food and drink experiences Atlanta has to offer, so come hungry!

Welcome to the ATL

Photo by LaTisha Guster

There are so many things to love about Atlanta, GA; it’s undoubtedly one of the most vibrant cities in the US.

But no matter how fast the city grows or how busy it becomes, the southern hospitality will always be there. The people are warm, welcoming, and they’ll make you feel right at home no matter where you decide to hang your hat.