Thinking about moving to Marietta, GA? Whether you're relocating for work, schools, or simply seeking a vibrant suburban lifestyle, Marietta offers a perfect blend of convenience, charm, and amenities. From top-rated schools to outdoor activities and a thriving downtown scene, this guide covers everything you need to know about living in Marietta, GA.

Where Is Marietta, GA?

Marietta is a thriving suburb located about 30 minutes northwest of Atlanta, just off I-75. You’ll find multiple access points along exits 261, 263, 265, and 267, making commuting to and from the city a breeze. Though Marietta appears small on the map, its influence stretches across much of northeast Cobb County, making it larger and more dynamic than it may seem at first glance.

One of the best parts of living in Marietta, GA is its prime location. It offers easy access to downtown Atlanta for work or entertainment while maintaining a peaceful, suburban feel. Plus, with neighboring communities like Woodstock, Roswell, Smyrna, and Kennesaw just a short drive away, you’ll have plenty of nearby destinations to explore.

Why Are So Many People Moving to Marietta, GA?

There are plenty of reasons why Marietta is such a desirable place to live. One of the biggest draws is its highly-rated school system. The North Cobb County schools are among the best in the state, according to Niche.com and GreatSchools.org, making it a top choice for families.

Marietta’s weather is another major perk. Summers are hot but manageable, and the winters are mild. With beautiful spring and fall seasons, you’ll enjoy plenty of time outdoors.

Another highlight of relocating to Marietta, GA is its well-established communities. Unlike newer suburbs that are still building out their infrastructure, Marietta already offers a full suite of amenities. You’ll find parks, shops, restaurants, and entertainment right at your doorstep. However, because it’s a more mature area, homes tend to be a bit older—mostly built in the late ’80s and ’90s. But if you value location and convenience over new construction, Marietta is an excellent fit.

Things to Do When Living in Marietta, GA

Marietta offers plenty of entertainment, outdoor activities, and local attractions. Here are some of the highlights:

Truist Park & The Battery: If you’re a baseball fan, you’ll love living just 15-20 minutes from Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves. The surrounding Battery Atlanta district is packed with restaurants, bars, and entertainment options.
Outdoor Recreation: For nature lovers, Marietta offers easy access to hiking and biking trails. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is just to the west, providing scenic hiking trails and a dose of Civil War history. If you want to venture a bit farther, you can head north toward the Blue Ridge Mountains for even more outdoor adventures.
Retail Therapy: Marietta is packed with retail destinations, including The Avenues East and West Cobb—two popular shopping centers filled with boutiques, restaurants, and big-name retailers.
Historic Marietta Square: The heart of the city is Marietta Square, a charming downtown district featuring local restaurants, boutiques, and the Marietta Market Food Hall. This trendy food hall offers over 20 different restaurant options, serving everything from tacos to gourmet desserts.
Festivals and Events: Marietta hosts plenty of fun events throughout the year, including the popular Chalktoberfest, where artists create stunning chalk murals on the streets. You’ll also find farmers markets, art festivals, and live music events on a regular basis.

Marietta’s Real Estate Market

When relocating to Marietta, GA, you’ll find a wide range of housing options. The average home in Marietta was built in the early ’90s, offering four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and around 2,500 square feet of living space. The median home price hovers around $500,000, though you’ll find both more affordable and high-end properties throughout the area.

Family-Friendly Neighborhoods: If you’re looking for larger homes with more land, check out neighborhoods like Highland Point or Jefferson Township.
Luxury Living: For those seeking luxury, Atlanta Country Club offers elegant estates near the Chattahoochee River, bordering Roswell.
New Construction: Although Marietta is mostly developed, you’ll still find some new construction in areas like Ellis near Kennesaw or historic Marietta, where modern homes blend with classic Southern charm.

No HOA? No Problem

About half the homes in Marietta don’t have a homeowners association (HOA). Many older neighborhoods never established one, while others have voluntary HOAs or expired covenants. This offers more flexibility for homeowners who prefer fewer restrictions.

Active Adult Communities

If you’re 55+ and considering relocating to Marietta, GA, you’ll find a few active adult communities in the area. However, they are relatively limited. For more options, you may want to explore the outskirts of metro Atlanta, where larger, newer, and more affordable active adult neighborhoods are more common.

Is There Acreage in Marietta?

While Marietta offers some homes with larger lots, most properties sit on quarter-acre or smaller plots. Only about 10% of homes have at least one acre of land, and only around 25% have at least half an acre. If you’re seeking larger properties, be prepared to pay a premium.

Marietta, GA Schools: Top-Rated Education

Families moving to Marietta, GA are often drawn by its exceptional schools. The Cobb County School District is highly ranked, and Marietta is home to some of the state’s top public schools, including:

Walton High School – Ranked #4 in Georgia
Lassiter High School – Ranked #13
Pope High School – Ranked #25
Wheeler, Sprayberry, Kell, and Osborne High Schools – Also serve the area and are well-rated.
Marietta High School, which is operated by the city rather than the county, offers a unique public school option with a range of academic programs.

Final Thoughts on Relocating to Marietta, GA

Whether you’re seeking top-rated schools, a family-friendly environment, or easy access to Atlanta, Marietta offers the perfect balance of suburban charm and urban convenience. With great amenities, excellent schools, and a vibrant downtown, it’s no surprise that so many people are moving to Marietta, GA.

If you’re considering relocating to Marietta or anywhere in metro Atlanta, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to help you find the perfect home in this incredible community.

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A Guide to Living in Marietta, GA