Best Neighborhoods in Georgia According to One of the Best Mortgage Companies in Georgia

By Alvaro Moreira
6 min read

Best Neighborhoods in Georgia According to One of the Best Mortgage Companies in Georgia

If you’re relocating to Georgia or simply looking for a new local neighborhood, there are plenty of unique communities to choose from that best fit your lifestyle. But what factors should you take into consideration? From cost of living and commute to pace and property size, we’ll help you start your search, research neighborhoods, and find mortgage rates in Georgia as you navigate this next chapter. 

How to Start Your Search for a Georgia Neighborhood

First, select a city. This will likely be driven by your job, though many businesses these days offer hybrid or remote work. If you’re fortunate enough to enjoy that freedom, let personal preference be your guide. Either way, take a look at the top five, most-populated cities in Georgia: Atlanta, Columbus, Augusta, Savannah, and Athens. What kind of environment are you looking for? 

If you prefer the hustle and bustle of a big city, Atlanta delivers. Columbus offers a mix of southern charm and military influence, due to nearby Fort Moore. Augusta is an educational and medical hub but is best known as the host city for the Masters Tournament. If you want a city that oozes history and hospitality, opt for the coastal vibes of Savannah or enjoy a small-town feel on a big-time college campus in Athens, home of the University of Georgia. Think about the quality and pace of life you’d like to create. Or if cost of living is your leading factor, use a mortgage calculator and research mortgage rates in Georgia to see what your monthly payment might be. 

Understanding Inside the Perimeter and Outside the Perimeter of Atlanta

Because Atlanta is the number-one city in Georgia, we’ll dig deepest into “the city too busy to hate,” starting with an interstate. Yes, you heard that right! Interstate 285 forms a perimeter around Atlanta, and locals know the biggest geographical distinction for where you live is either inside the perimeter (ITP) or outside the perimeter (OTP). 

ITP homes are closer to the heart of the city, which means easier access to cultural events, restaurants, nightlife, and other urban amenities. The neighborhoods are incredibly diverse, with each offering its unique vibe and often a greater degree of walkability. The demand for housing can increase the cost of living, but find the best mortgage companies in Georgia to see what your monthly payment might be. Living ITP can also result in shorter commutes to work, as you are more centrally located—but you may have to battle with heavier traffic on city surface streets.

OTP describes suburban and exurban areas that are farther away from the urban core of Atlanta. Homes within these neighborhoods often have larger lots, quieter streets, and a slower pace of life. Housing prices, property taxes, and other living expenses may be more affordable. A quick check on mortgage rates in Georgia will give you a clearer picture. Many OTP areas are known for their family-friendly communities, with good schools, parks, and recreational facilities. Neighborhoods are still diverse, but in different ways, with some being new developments, and others having a more historic or rural feel.

Whether you choose to live inside or outside the perimeter of Atlanta depends greatly on individual preferences, lifestyle, and priorities. Some people prefer the vibrancy and convenience of urban living, while others value the space and tranquility of suburban or rural areas.

Best Neighborhoods Inside the Perimeter of Atlanta

There are hundreds of in-town neighborhoods, so it’d be impossible to profile them all. But since the creation of the Atlanta Beltline, a 22-mile multi-use trail and transit loop, nearby neighborhoods, parks, and business districts have flourished. Here are several communities that have risen to the top in terms of popularity. Luckily the list of best mortgage companies is much shorter—and we can help with that too!

Inman Park

Established in the late 19th century, Inman Park is known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, and a mix of residential and commercial spaces. Beltline-adjacent, the neighborhood is the 6th most walkable in Atlanta. It’s also designated as a historic district and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Reynoldstown

Located right off the Beltline, residents have easy access to walking, jogging, and biking, as well as nearby parks, attractions, restaurants, and shopping. The neighborhood is also close to Cabbagetown and the famous graffiti-covered Krog Street Tunnel, which can be spotted in numerous movies, television shows, and music videos. 

Summerhill

This secret spot has been a recent focus of revitalization and redevelopment efforts, with new construction sitting alongside more historic homes. The neighborhood attracts a mix of residents, including young professionals, students, and families. Its proximity to Georgia State University also ups its dynamic and youthful atmosphere.

Westside or West Midtown

With an industrial aesthetic, this eclectic neighborhood features a diverse dining scene with some of the city’s top restaurants located here. The streets are peppered with design studios, art galleries, and boutique shops, contributing to a vibrant culture and arts scene. West Midtown has become a tech and innovation hub as well, attracting a demographic of young professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs.

Decatur

While not necessarily close to the Beltline, this in-town neighborhood is an incredibly popular option for families due to its excellent schools and numerous parks. The downtown square offers dining and shopping, and nearby Stone Mountain offers residents a quick escape into the outdoors. The city also has a reputation for embracing diversity and fostering a welcoming environment for residents of all backgrounds.

Best Neighborhoods Outside the Perimeter in Atlanta

Even more varied because of its larger footprint, neighborhoods outside the perimeter are plentiful. Here are some options to consider as you begin your research. Start with the best neighborhoods, then move on to the best mortgage companies.

Marietta

You can find a desirable home here no matter what stage of life you’re in. From retirees to young families with kids, Marietta offers country club and gated communities, large, 2-story homes, sprawling lawns, and spacious lots. Though it’s comprised of some of the most affluent homes in Georgia, homes range from simple starter homes to stunning luxury mansions.

Dunwoody

The city features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes, and is home to excellent schools, both public and private, contributing to its appeal for families. Its proximity to the highway system makes it easy for commuters, as well as those who prefer to take public transit—the local MARTA train station provides connectivity to other parts of Metro Atlanta.

Woodstock

While the majority of the community is car-dependent, the vibrant downtown offers a bit of walkability and features locally-owned shops and restaurants. Community events provide residents with an opportunity to socialize at festivals, parades, farmers’ markets, and live music performances. And with numerous parks and green spaces, including access to The Greenprints Project, a connected trail system, residents enjoy outdoor recreation, picnics, and family activities. 

Peachtree Corners

With tremendous growth in business and employment opportunities, particularly in the technology and innovation sectors, this community was recently voted as one of the 50 Best Places to Live by Forbes magazine. Considering walkability, affordability, diversity, number of hospitals, graduation rates, and more, Peachtree Corners’ combination of family-friendliness, innovation, and smart-city initiatives made it a desirable option for people raising children.

Cumming

Home to Lake Lanier, this vibrant community lets you experience small-town life with big-city energy. Antique Car Shows, Food Truck events, Rodeos, The Cumming County Fair and Festival, Fridays at the Fairgrounds, and the Aquatic Center and Waterpark are just a few of the activities available to residents throughout the year. It’s a well-kept secret, but won’t stay that way for long!

Meet Moreira—One of the Best Mortgage Companies in Georgia

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate vet, our Georgia-based team of experts can help you navigate the nuances of all these neighborhoods, as well as help you secure the best mortgage rates in Georgia. Use our mortgage calculator to play with various home prices as you discover which communities best fit your lifestyle.