A Guide to Living in Johns Creek, GA
If you’re considering moving to Johns Creek, GA, you’re not alone. Recently ranked as the #1 suburb in America by Travel + Leisure, this thriving Atlanta-area community boasts low crime rates, top-rated schools, and access to beautiful outdoor spaces. But is it the right place for you? In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about relocating to Johns Creek, GA, from lifestyle and housing to schools and entertainment.
Where is Johns Creek?
Located about 40 minutes northeast of Atlanta, Johns Creek sits between Highway 400 and I-85. While it was originally considered an extension of Alpharetta, the area has grown into a city of its own. Officially incorporated in 2006, Johns Creek is now home to high-profile residents, including Usher and Jeff Foxworthy, as well as athletes from the Atlanta Braves, Hawks, and Falcons.
Things to Do in Johns Creek
Johns Creek is known for its peaceful suburban atmosphere, but it’s not a hotspot for nightlife or entertainment. Many residents head to nearby Alpharetta (Avalon, Halcyon) or Duluth for dining and events. However, the city is working to change that with the development of the Johns Creek Town Center, a massive 192-acre project that will bring new restaurants, retail, green spaces, and a community gathering area called Creekside Park.
Outdoor Activities & Parks
If you love the outdoors, you’ll love living in Johns Creek, GA. The city is bordered by the Chattahoochee River, offering multiple access points for kayaking and fishing. Popular parks include:
Newtown Park – Features playgrounds, sports fields, walking paths, and a nationally ranked dog park.
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve – A 146-acre preserve with hiking trails and historic sites that showcase farm life from the 1800s.
Fun Fact: The Monkey Massacre
Legend has it that in the early 1900s, a circus train crashed in Johns Creek, releasing monkeys into the woods. Local farmers, unfamiliar with these creatures, reportedly shot them all. Today, you can find stone monkey sculptures at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve as a tribute to this bizarre piece of history.
Why is Johns Creek Special?
Johns Creek consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in Georgia. Niche.com has named it the #1 best place to live in Georgia, best place to raise a family, and best suburb overall. With a median household income of $130,000, the city attracts professionals in tech, healthcare, and remote work.
Real Estate in Johns Creek
Housing in Johns Creek is in high demand, leading to higher home prices. The median home price is $812,000, compared to $714,000 in Alpharetta. Limited inventory contributes to this, with only 78 homes for sale compared to Alpharetta’s 440. The southern side of the city features luxury golf-course communities, while the northern side offers townhomes, condos, and new construction options.
Schools in Johns Creek
Johns Creek is known for its exceptional schools, making it a top choice for families. Here’s how its high schools rank:
Johns Creek High School – A+ rating, #12 in Georgia (Niche.com), 9/10 on GreatSchools.org
Chattahoochee High School – A+ rating, #8 in Georgia, 9/10 on GreatSchools.org
Northview High School – A+ rating, #5 in Georgia, 10/10 on GreatSchools.org
Safety in Johns Creek
Johns Creek is one of the safest cities in the U.S.. According to NeighborhoodScout, the city has an extremely low crime rate compared to other cities of similar size.
Diversity in Johns Creek
Johns Creek is one of the most diverse small cities in the U.S., with 31.8% of residents born outside the country. The largest ethnic groups include White and Asian populations, with many residents speaking Chinese and Indian languages in addition to English.
Challenges of Living in Johns Creek
While Johns Creek is a fantastic place to live, it’s not perfect. Here are some drawbacks:
Traffic congestion – With no major highways running through the city, residents must navigate local roads to reach I-85 or GA-400.
Limited walkability – Until the Town Center is completed, Johns Creek lacks a centralized downtown area.
High cost of living – As one of the most desirable suburbs in America, relocating to Johns Creek, GA, comes with a premium price tag.
Is Johns Creek Right for You?
If you’re looking for a safe, family-friendly suburb with top schools, high-income job opportunities, and beautiful outdoor spaces, Johns Creek may be the perfect fit. However, if you crave nightlife, urban living, or affordable housing, you might want to explore other Atlanta suburbs.
Thinking about moving to Johns Creek, GA? If you need help navigating the housing market, I’d love to assist you. Call, text, or email me anytime—I’m here to help you find your next home!