If you're considering moving to Roswell, GA or relocating to Sandy Springs, you’re probably wondering which of these two popular Atlanta suburbs is the better fit for your lifestyle. Both cities offer fantastic amenities, but they have distinct vibes, real estate markets, and pros and cons. Whether you’re looking for top-rated schools, a vibrant downtown, or easy access to Atlanta, this guide will help you decide.

Let’s take a deep dive into Sandy Springs vs. Roswell, comparing everything from location and safety to home prices, schools, and more.

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Location: Urban Convenience vs. Suburban Charm

When it comes to location, it’s all about how close you want to be to downtown Atlanta.

Sandy Springs sits just outside the I-285 perimeter, making it a true gateway suburb. This means you’ll be closer to Atlanta’s big-city attractions, including the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Georgia Aquarium, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and a host of top-tier restaurants and entertainment venues. Sandy Springs also has access to MARTA, Atlanta’s public transportation system, which makes commuting downtown much easier—something no other suburb offers.

In contrast, Roswell offers a slightly more removed, suburban feel. Located along Highway 400, it still provides convenient access to Atlanta, but without being right on the doorstep. If you enjoy occasional city outings but prefer to spend most of your time in a quieter, residential environment, living in Roswell, GA may be more your style. Plus, you’ll be closer to neighboring suburbs like Alpharetta, Johns Creek, and Woodstock, which offer their own dining, shopping, and recreation options.

✅ Winner: Sandy Springs (closer to Atlanta with public transit access)

Population Density & Vibe: Suburban vs. Urban Mix

Both cities have similar populations, with Roswell at around 90,000 residents and Sandy Springs at approximately 105,000. However, the vibe in each city is distinct.

Roswell offers a classic suburban experience, with larger lots, mature trees, and unique, non-cookie-cutter neighborhoods. You’ll find established communities with a charming, residential feel.

On the other hand, Sandy Springs offers a blend of urban and suburban living. Because it crosses the I-285 perimeter, you’ll experience a more city-like atmosphere, with a mix of single-family homes, condos, and townhouses, making it perfect for those who enjoy a livelier environment.

✅ Winner: Tie (suburban charm in Roswell, urban-suburban mix in Sandy Springs)

Schools: Roswell Takes the Lead

For families considering relocating to Roswell or Sandy Springs, schools are a major factor. Both cities are part of the Fulton County School District, but Roswell’s schools tend to rank higher overall.

Roswell High School: A-rated on Niche.com, 7/10 on GreatSchools, and 91/100 on U.S. News.
Centennial High School: A-rated on Niche.com, 7/10 on GreatSchools, and 87/100 on U.S. News.

In Sandy Springs:

North Springs High School: A- on Niche.com, 5/10 on GreatSchools, and 76/100 on U.S. News.
Riverwood International Charter: A-rated on Niche.com, 7/10 on GreatSchools, and 88/100 on U.S. News.

Both cities have solid school options, but Roswell edges out Sandy Springs with slightly better ratings.

✅ Winner: Roswell

Things to Do: Outdoor Adventures vs. City Entertainment

If you love the outdoors, Roswell offers a more nature-focused lifestyle. Old Mill Park and Vickery Creek Trail offer scenic hiking along historic mill ruins. The Chattahoochee Nature Center is another highlight, featuring wildlife encounters and nature trails.

Sandy Springs, however, offers a broader range of indoor and outdoor activities. You’ll find unique spots like Battle & Brew, a video game-themed bar and restaurant, and iFLY Indoor Skydiving for adrenaline junkies. The nearby Perimeter Mall offers excellent shopping, and the City Springs Performing Arts Center hosts plays, concerts, and comedy shows.

✅ Winner: Sandy Springs (more diverse entertainment options)

Downtown: Historic Charm vs. Modern Hub

Downtown Roswell is quaint, charming, and walkable, centered around Canton Street, which is packed with boutique shops, art galleries, and top-rated restaurants. The brick sidewalks and historic lantern posts give it a small-town feel, making it perfect for casual strolls or date nights.

Sandy Springs’ downtown, known as City Springs, offers a sleek, master-planned district with green spaces, retail, and dining, centered around the Performing Arts Center. It’s more focused on community events like outdoor movie nights, farmers markets, and local festivals, making it a family-friendly destination.

✅ Winner: Tie (historic charm in Roswell, modern events hub in Sandy Springs)

Safety: Slight Edge to Roswell

Both cities are relatively safe, but Roswell has a slightly lower crime rate.

Sandy Springs: 1 in 52 chance of being a victim of crime.
Roswell: 1 in 68 chance.

While neither city is among the safest in the country, Roswell’s crime rate is lower than Sandy Springs, making it the safer bet.

✅ Winner: Roswell

Home Prices & Real Estate: Roswell Offers Better Value

The housing markets in these two cities are quite different.

In Roswell, you’ll find larger lots and a higher percentage of detached homes. The median home price for detached homes is around $625,000, while attached homes (townhomes, condos) have a median price of $440,000.

In Sandy Springs, the real estate market is pricier and more diverse. The median price for detached homes is over $1 million, while attached homes average $231,000. However, Sandy Springs has far fewer detached homes available, with only 29 listed—most over $1 million.

✅ Winner: Roswell (more inventory and better value)

Healthcare: Sandy Springs is the Healthcare Hub

When it comes to healthcare, Sandy Springs is the clear winner. It’s home to “Pill Hill,” where you’ll find Northside Hospital Atlanta, Emory St. Joseph's, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – Scottish Rite. These are some of the top-rated hospitals in the Southeast, offering advanced care in maternity, pediatric, and specialized medicine.

Roswell has Wellstar North Fulton Hospital, a full-service hospital with a Level II Trauma Center, but it can’t compete with the medical powerhouse in Sandy Springs.

✅ Winner: Sandy Springs

The Verdict: Which City Should You Choose?

After comparing these two Atlanta suburbs, Sandy Springs comes out slightly ahead, offering:

Better entertainment and nightlife options
Closer proximity to Atlanta with public transit
Superior healthcare facilities

However, Roswell shines with:

Safer neighborhoods
Better school ratings
More affordable and spacious real estate

✔️ Choose Sandy Springs if you want a more urban vibe, easy access to Atlanta, and top-notch healthcare.
✔️ Choose Roswell if you prefer a quieter, family-friendly environment with better schools and more affordable housing.

No matter which city you choose, both offer fantastic Atlanta suburban living. If you’re thinking about moving to Roswell, GA or relocating to Sandy Springs, feel free to reach out with any questions. I’d love to help you find the perfect place to call home!