If you’re considering moving to Cartersville, GA, you’re in for a treat. Nestled in the scenic foothills of North Georgia, this charming town offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences. Whether you’re relocating to Cartersville, GA, for work, affordability, or a change of pace, this guide will give you all the insights you need to make an informed decision.

Location & Accessibility

Cartersville is located about an hour’s drive northwest of Atlanta, making it a great option for those who want to escape the city’s hustle while still having easy access to its amenities. Situated along I-75, Cartersville is just past Marietta, Kennesaw, and Acworth. Though some may debate whether it’s officially part of Atlanta’s metro area, there’s no doubt that Cartersville is growing quickly.

With a population of approximately 24,000 within city limits (and more in the surrounding areas), Cartersville offers a tight-knit community feel without sacrificing convenience. It’s about 51 miles from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, roughly a 60-minute drive.

Why Live in Cartersville?

Living in Cartersville, GA, provides the perfect balance between nature and modern amenities. The town boasts stunning mountainous scenery while still offering all the essentials, including Target, Walmart, Kroger, Publix, a movie theater, Home Depot, Lowe’s, various restaurants, and excellent parks.

The Best Restaurants in Cartersville

Cartersville’s dining scene is better than you might expect for a small town, with several standout options. Most of the top-rated restaurants are located in the historic downtown district, offering a range of cuisines and atmospheres.

Table 20 – A great spot for a date night or upscale lunch.
Appalachian Grill – Serves classic mountain-town fare, including steaks, burgers, fish, chili, and baked potatoes.
Largos – An upscale dinner-only establishment.
Rooster Shack – A cozy spot serving delicious breakfast and lunch.
City Cellar – A great venue for events and gatherings.
Main Street Coastal Cuisine – Specializes in fresh seafood sourced from coastal regions.

Real Estate in Cartersville

If affordability is a key factor in your move, Cartersville is one of the most budget-friendly places to live near Atlanta. It was recently ranked as the most affordable suburb in the metro area. The median home price currently sits at around $335,000, with a typical 3-bed, 2-bath home priced at approximately $332,000.

With about 100 new listings hitting the market each month, homes in Cartersville tend to stay available longer than those in nearby cities, giving buyers more time to make informed decisions.

231 homes available
Median home price: $335,000
Price range: $140,000 – $1.7 million

Things to Do in Cartersville

Despite its small-town feel, Cartersville has plenty of attractions and activities to keep residents entertained:

Tellus Science Museum – A Smithsonian-affiliated natural history and science museum with a planetarium.
Booth Western Art Museum – The world’s largest collection of Western art.
Etowah Indian Mounds – One of the most well-preserved Native American sites in the Southeast.
Savoy Auto Museum – A must-visit for car enthusiasts.
Downtown Cartersville – A charming, underrated destination with unique shops and restaurants.
Terminus Wake Park – One of the country’s most popular cable wake parks.
Pine Mountain – A beautiful area for hiking and outdoor adventures.
Dellinger Park – One of the best parks in the metro area for sports and recreation.

Schools in Cartersville

Cartersville’s schools are rated as above average. The Bartow County School District earns a B+ rating on Niche.com. School zoning varies based on location:

Woodland High School (South Cartersville) – B on Niche, 7/10 on GreatSchools.
Cass High School (North Cartersville) – B on Niche, 6/10 on GreatSchools.
Adairsville High School (Northern tip of Cartersville) – B on Niche, 7/10 on GreatSchools.
Cartersville High School (Within city limits) – The top-rated school in the area with a B+ on Niche and 6/10 on GreatSchools.

Job Market & Economic Growth

Cartersville is on the verge of an economic boom, with several major employers and a massive new development on the way.

Toyo Tire Plant – A major employer, producing tires for various car models on a 150-acre site.
Piedmont Healthcare Center – A 120-bed hospital and one of the largest employers in the area, with over 800 employees and 350 physicians.
Hyundai’s New Battery Power Plant (Kingston, GA) – Set to open in 2025, this 3.3 million square-foot facility is expected to bring 3,500 new jobs, with potential for future expansion. This project represents one of the most significant economic investments in Georgia history.

Final Thoughts

If you’re thinking about relocating to Cartersville, GA, now is a great time. With its affordability, job opportunities, and small-town charm, Cartersville is becoming an increasingly desirable place to live. Whether you’re drawn to its scenic beauty, historic downtown, or growing economy, Cartersville offers a little something for everyone.

Are you ready to make Cartersville your new home? Explore the available listings and see why so many people are making the move to this thriving Georgia town.

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A Guide to Living in Cartersville, GA