10 Reasons to Move to Marietta, GA

Written By Joel Boss

If you're considering moving to Marietta, GA, you're not alone. This charming suburb, located just 30 minutes northwest of Atlanta, offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience. Known for its vibrant downtown, top-rated schools, and easy access to major attractions, Marietta is one of the most desirable places to live in Metro Atlanta. In this guide, we’ll dive into 10 compelling reasons why relocating to Marietta, GA might just be the best move you’ll ever make.

1. The Iconic Marietta Square

At the heart of Marietta is its historic downtown square, a lively hub with quaint shops, local restaurants, and year-round events. Marietta Square has been a focal point of the city since the 1800s, and today, it’s a hotspot for both locals and visitors.

Stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit antique shops, or grab a coffee at Cool Beans Coffee Roasters. The square’s Glover Park is perfect for a family picnic or catching live music during the summer Concert Series. You’ll also find the Earl Smith Strand Theatre, a beautifully restored 1930s venue hosting musicals and rooftop cocktail nights with stunning views of the square.

For foodies, the square is a culinary playground. Grab a fried chicken sandwich at The Marietta Local, enjoy craft cocktails at Two Birds Taphouse, or sample a variety of cuisines at the Marietta Food Hall. If you love local events, don't miss Chalktoberfest or the Taste of Marietta, which bring the community together with art, food, and entertainment.

2. Convenient Access to Atlanta

Living in Marietta, GA offers the best of both worlds: suburban tranquility with big-city convenience. With direct access to I-75, you’re only 25-30 minutes from downtown Atlanta—traffic permitting, of course. Whether you're commuting for work or heading into the city for entertainment, you'll appreciate the easy drive.

If you're a sports fan, you’ll love being just 15 minutes from Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves, and The Battery Atlanta, a bustling complex of restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Plus, you’re only a short drive from Mercedes-Benz Stadium for Falcons games or major concerts, and State Farm Arena for Hawks games and other events.

When it’s time for a getaway, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport—the busiest airport in the world—is only 30-45 minutes away, offering direct flights to hundreds of domestic and international destinations.

3. Affordable Cost of Living with Great Value

Relocating to Marietta, GA means you’ll get more bang for your buck. While the median home price in Marietta sits around $410,000—right on par with the national average—you'll enjoy more space, better amenities, and a higher quality of life than in many other metro areas.

For retirees, Marietta offers a fantastic senior homestead exemption. If you’re 62 or older, you’re exempt from all school taxes, which make up the majority of property taxes. For a $500,000 home, this could mean savings of around $3,500 per year—a huge financial perk for older homeowners.

4. A Thriving Job Market

Marietta is a major suburban job hub, with opportunities in aerospace, healthcare, tech, and finance. The city is home to Lockheed Martin, which employs over 6,000 people, making it a key player in the region’s economy. WellStar Kennestone Hospital, one of Georgia's largest healthcare providers, also offers thousands of jobs, from nursing to medical research.

With Cobb County's unemployment rate at just 3.1%—well below the national average—there are ample opportunities for career growth. Plus, Marietta's proximity to Atlanta means you’ll have access to even more major employers, including Coca-Cola, Delta Airlines, and The Home Depot.

5. Top-Rated Schools

If you’re moving to Marietta, GA with kids, you’ll be happy to know the area boasts some of Georgia’s best schools. According to niche.com, Cobb County School District ranks among the top 10 in the state. Popular schools in Marietta include:

  • Walton High School – Ranked #4 in Georgia

  • Lassiter High School – Ranked #13

  • Pope High School – Ranked #25

Marietta High School, operated by the City of Marietta outside the county school district, is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, making it a fantastic option for families seeking an advanced academic curriculum.

For higher education, Kennesaw State University (KSU) is just minutes away. As one of Georgia’s largest universities, KSU offers a wide range of degree programs and has gained recognition for its expanding campus and growing BCS-level football program.

6. Delicious Dining Options

Living in Marietta, GA means you'll have access to some of the best restaurants in Metro Atlanta. From casual eats to fine dining, there’s something for everyone:

  • Marietta Diner – A local icon featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, serving 24/7 comfort food.

  • Stockyard Burgers & Bones – Known for creative burgers like tuna, lamb, and salmon burgers.

  • Mac's Chophouse – A high-end steakhouse located right on the square, offering premium cuts of meat.

  • Crooked Tree Café – Famous for its homemade ketchup and outstanding breakfast.

Whether you're craving Southern comfort food, gourmet cuisine, or international flavors, Marietta’s food scene won’t disappoint.

7. Outdoor Recreation and Nature

For outdoor enthusiasts, Marietta offers plenty of recreational opportunities. You’ll find:

  • Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park – Over 20 miles of hiking trails with panoramic views and Civil War history.

  • Silver Comet Trail – A 61.5-mile paved biking path that stretches from Smyrna to the Alabama state line.

  • Six Flags White Water – A popular water park with over 15 water slides, wave pools, and splash pads, perfect for beating the summer heat.

  • Lake Allatoona – Just north of Marietta, this lake is ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming.

8. A Central Location with Easy Access to Neighboring Cities

Marietta’s central location makes it easy to explore nearby communities. Within a 30-minute drive, you can visit:

  • Woodstock – Known for its charming downtown and outdoor trails.

  • Roswell – Famous for its historic district and scenic walking trails along the Chattahoochee River.

  • Kennesaw – Home to Kennesaw Mountain and a quaint downtown area.

  • Smyrna – Featuring Market Village, with trendy restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

9. Excellent Healthcare at WellStar Kennestone Hospital

If access to quality healthcare is a priority, you’re in good hands with WellStar Kennestone Hospital, one of Georgia's top-rated medical centers. Known for its cutting-edge technology and outstanding patient care, Kennestone offers a full range of services, from emergency care to specialized treatments.

10. A Safe and Family-Friendly Community

Marietta offers a safe, family-friendly environment, especially in its residential neighborhoods. While downtown Marietta has a slightly higher crime rate, the surrounding suburbs are exceptionally safe. Neighboring areas like Kennesaw and Woodstock frequently rank among Georgia’s safest cities.

Is Moving to Marietta, GA Right for You?

From its historic charm and vibrant dining scene to its top-rated schools, affordable cost of living, and outdoor recreation, Marietta, GA offers a little bit of everything. Whether you're relocating for work, moving with your family, or retiring, Marietta is a fantastic place to call home.

👉 Thinking about relocating to Marietta, GA? Reach out to me today! Whether you have questions or are ready to start your home search, I’d love to help you navigate the process and find your perfect home in this thriving metro Atlanta suburb.

Joel Boss
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A Guide to Living in Marietta, GA