A Guide to Living in Roswell, GA

May 28

If you're considering moving to Roswell, GA, you're not alone. This charming Atlanta suburb offers a perfect blend of historic character, suburban comfort, and modern convenience, making it a highly desirable place to call home. With its top-rated schools, low crime rates, and abundant outdoor activities, Roswell attracts families, professionals, and retirees alike. Plus, its proximity to Atlanta means you can enjoy the perks of the big city while still living in a peaceful, scenic community.

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Where Is Roswell, GA?

Roswell is located just 30 minutes north of Atlanta, offering easy access to the city while maintaining its suburban charm. With a population of around 90,000 residents, it’s the ninth-largest city in Georgia. Despite its size, Roswell retains a close-knit community feel.

What makes Roswell especially appealing is its central location. You’re not only close to Atlanta but also surrounded by vibrant neighboring cities like Alpharetta, Woodstock, Milton, and Sandy Springs—all offering their own unique amenities. Plus, Roswell is a commuter’s dream, thanks to its access to major roads, including GA-400, Highway 92, and Highway 140. Whether you’re heading into the city, taking a day trip to the North Georgia mountains, or catching a flight from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport (about 45 minutes away), Roswell’s location makes it easy.

Roswell’s Rich History

Roswell’s history dates back to the early 1800s when the area was inhabited by the Cherokee people. However, everything changed with the Georgia Gold Rush in the 1820s and ’30s, which brought in settlers and entrepreneurs. One of them was Roswell King, who founded the city in 1839. He built a cotton mill along the Chattahoochee River, around which the town was developed.

During the Civil War, Roswell became a target for Union troops during General Sherman’s infamous March to the Sea. While much of the town survived, its cotton mill was destroyed. Fortunately, many of the historic homes and buildings from that era still stand today, giving Roswell its signature charm.

Barrington Hall: The former home of Roswell King’s son, offering a glimpse into life in the 1800s.
Bulloch Hall: The childhood home of Mittie Bulloch, mother of President Theodore Roosevelt, making it a must-visit for history buffs.

What Makes Roswell Special?

Roswell offers a unique mix of history, nature, and charm, setting it apart from other Atlanta suburbs.

✅ Nature & Outdoor Recreation:
The Chattahoochee River runs right through Roswell, offering residents direct access to kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The city is also home to several parks, including:

Chattahoochee Nature Center: A 127-acre reserve with hiking trails, wildlife exhibits, and educational programs.
Old Mill Park & Vickery Creek: Known for scenic trails, waterfalls, and the historic ruins of Roswell’s old mills.
Riverside Park: A family-friendly spot with playgrounds, picnic areas, and river access for kayaking and paddleboarding.

✅ Historic Charm with Modern Amenities:
Roswell’s tree-lined streets and historic homes give it a timeless, charming feel. Many of the homes, built in the 1970s and earlier, sit on larger lots with mature trees, creating a sense of privacy and character. Unlike many modern suburbs, Roswell has few cookie-cutter neighborhoods, giving each area its own unique appeal.

Things to Do in Roswell

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or shopaholic, Roswell has something for everyone.

🍴 Dining & Nightlife:
Canton Street in downtown Roswell is the hub for dining and entertainment. You’ll find everything from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, with frequent live music, street festivals, and farmers' markets. Popular spots include:

Table & Main – Southern-inspired cuisine with a cozy, farm-to-table vibe.
1920 Tavern – A speakeasy-style bar serving craft cocktails.
Rockin’ Taco – A lively taco spot with creative margaritas.

🛍️ Shopping & Events:
Roswell hosts several seasonal festivals and events, including the Roswell Arts Festival and Alive in Roswell, a monthly street party featuring live music, food trucks, and local vendors.

Schools in Roswell

If you’re moving to Roswell, GA with kids, you’ll be happy to know that the area offers excellent public schools. The city is part of Fulton County Schools, one of the top-rated districts in Georgia.

Roswell High School: Rated an A on Niche.com and 7/10 on GreatSchools.org. Known for its strong academics and sports programs.
Centennial High School: Also highly rated, with excellent academic programs and extracurriculars.
Nearby Options: Some Roswell residents may be zoned for schools in Alpharetta (Milton High) or Cobb County (Pope High), both of which have higher ratings and strong reputations.

Crime Rates in Roswell

Roswell is considered one of the safest cities in the Atlanta metro area. According to NeighborhoodScout, Roswell’s crime rate is noticeably lower than the national average for cities of similar size.

Violent Crime: 10.9 (compared to the national average of 22.7)
Property Crime: 28.9 (below the national average of 35.4)

While no area is entirely crime-free, living in Roswell, GA offers a strong sense of security and peace of mind.

Roswell Real Estate Market

The real estate market in Roswell offers a diverse range of properties, from historic homes to new builds. The median home price hovers around $620,000, which is higher than the Georgia state median but relatively moderate for the Atlanta metro area.

Key factors:

Larger lots & mature trees: Homes in Roswell often sit on spacious lots with plenty of greenery.
Property taxes: Roswell falls under Fulton County, with a property tax rate of approximately 1.15%.
No senior tax exemption: Unlike neighboring Cherokee and Forsyth counties, Fulton County doesn’t offer property tax exemptions for seniors—something to consider if you’re retiring in the area.

Is Moving to Roswell, GA Right for You?

Relocating to Roswell, GA offers the perfect balance of suburban living with urban convenience. With its rich history, outdoor amenities, and highly-rated schools, it’s an excellent choice for families and professionals alike.

Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm, the thriving local scene, or the easy access to Atlanta, Roswell has something to offer. If you’re considering buying or selling a home in Roswell, reach out to a local real estate expert to find the perfect fit for your needs.

👉 Thinking about moving to Roswell, GA? Let us know in the comments or reach out with any questions. We’d love to help you find your next home in this beautiful community!