Exploring the Best Places to Live in Georgia

Woodstock, Georgia, may not be the site of the famous 1969 rock festival, but it's one of the best places to live in the state. The town boasts plenty of greenery, with about 20 different parks and fields for public use. Old Rope Mill Park features rustic walking trails with beautiful scenery. Allatoona Lake on the Etowah River offers stunning locations for camping, hunting, and boating.

Savannah is a charming coastal city known for its cobblestoned squares, horse-drawn carriages, and pre-Civil War architecture. It exudes Southern charm, evoking images of romance, history, and great food and shopping. Forsythe Park is one of the country's most enchanting outdoor green spaces. Winters are mild, and the downtown area is appealing.

Just 14 miles from downtown Atlanta, Sandy Springs is a thriving community. Residents can either drive into the larger city or take the MARTA transit system. The town hosts top-rated public and private schools, including the prestigious Brandon Hall. Major corporations like IBM, Cisco Systems, and United Parcel Service have headquarters in Sandy Springs. The town is close to the Chattahoochee River and other parks, offers weekend farmers' markets, and features many fine restaurants.

Decatur is a small, hip town with a historic feel. Just a short drive from downtown Atlanta, Decatur offers a unique mix of urban and suburban living. The town is known for its eclectic dining scene, art festivals, and community events. Decatur’s schools are top-rated, making it a great place for families. The town’s vibrant downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Alpharetta, located in Fulton County, is just 26 miles from downtown Atlanta. Being close to a big city while maintaining a suburban vibe is what draws many to Alpharetta. The McKesson Corporation, a major pharmaceutical company based locally, attracts those seeking healthcare-related work here. Alpharetta is also fantastic for raising a family, with annual festivals, the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre for big concerts, and the Big Creek Greenway for walkers and bikers. The city also boasts an excellent school system.

If you love history, nature, and living within a 30-minute drive of Atlanta, Roswell is a great choice. This suburban town has a rich history tied to cotton mills and Southern plantations. Residents enjoy Vickery Creek Falls, a man-made waterfall, the Roswell Mill, a quaint covered bridge, and walking trails. The town has many parks and a historic district filled with shops, art galleries, and restaurants. With live theatre and concert halls, Roswell offers a robust cultural scene. While Atlanta is close, you might find you don't need to leave town often.

Located about 85 miles south of Atlanta, Macon is a city filled with charm and history. It has more sites on the National Register of Historic Places than any other town in Georgia. History enthusiasts love visiting the Ocmulgee National Monument and the Hay House, known as an American castle. Macon's affordable cost of living and real estate prices are big draws. The city also has three hospitals providing excellent healthcare options.

Peachtree City, about 30 miles southwest of Atlanta, is a planned community known for its extensive network of golf cart paths, which residents use to travel around town. The city is designed with family living in mind, featuring excellent schools, beautiful parks, and recreational facilities. The town's shopping and dining options are plentiful, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it an attractive place to live. Peachtree City combines a sense of community with the convenience of suburban living.