The Top 10 Places to Raise a Family Across the State of Georgia

Some places are better than others when it comes to choosing where to raise a family. The state of Georgia contains many excellent options, encompassing a variety of cities and towns that cater to the needs of families in terms of affordability, safety, and family-friendly activities. According to the Macon Telegraph, in 2022 Georgia ranked as the tenth best state to live in for families. It was also the highest-ranked southern state on the list. Read on to learn why that might be the case, and which family-friendly areas are best to move to.

1. Alpharetta

Tucked in the northern suburbs of Atlanta, Alpharetta is a city with a population of about 65,000. It combines southern charm with modern offerings. In terms of affordability, Alpharetta boasts a strong economy and a low unemployment rate, making it an attractive option for families. The median household income ($133,920) is well above the national average ($70,784), offering financial stability to its residents.

Safety-wise, Alpharetta consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Georgia, a reassuring bit of info for families. It also offers a range of family-friendly activities, including the popular Big Creek Greenway for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. What’s more, the city also hosts various family events throughout the year. Think food festivals, art exhibitions, and music concerts.

Alpharetta is also known for its quality educational institutions. A few standouts include Alpharetta High School, DeVry University, and the Keller Graduate School of Management. It is served by highly-rated public schools, making it an excellent place for your children to receive an excellent education.

2. Johns Creek

Located northeast of Atlanta, Johns Creek is known for its upscale living and excellent options for leisure. When it comes to affordability, Johns Creek has a high median household income ($133,948) and an excellent public school system. Because of this, it is a popular choice for families seeking a prosperous and affordable lifestyle.

With more than 82,000 residents served by JCPD (Johns Creek Police Department), Johns Creek offers a secure environment for families. It currently ranks as one of the safest cities in the state. The city’s commitment to safety contributes to its desirability as a family-friendly community.

Lastly, families in Johns Creek can enjoy a wide range of activities. Parks, recreational areas, and community events are abundant. Among the favorites, locals single out Newtown Park and Ocee Park as popular spots for family outings.

3. Sandy Springs

As a bustling suburb of Atlanta, Sandy Springs combines urban convenience with a family-friendly atmosphere. In terms of affordability, the city offers various housing options for its 107,000+ residents, from apartments to spacious family homes. Sandy Springs is also known for its strong job market, providing opportunities for parents to build successful careers. More so, safety is also a top priority in Sandy Springs. The city maintains a low crime rate, enhancing the sense of security for residents. 

Sandy Springs boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with theaters, galleries, and museums for all ages. For the outdoor lovers, families can enjoy parks, recreational facilities, and a wide range of family events. Some salient options include the 22 miles of shoreline on the Chattahoochee River and the city’s many golf courses. This cultural and recreational diversity adds to the city’s appeal for families. In addition, Sandy Springs is also home to excellent public and private schools that received countless recognitions over the years, ensuring kids receive a quality education.

4. Roswell

Rich in history and natural beauty, Roswell is a charming city located north of Atlanta. With a population of just over 48,000, Roswell provides a good balance between affordability and quality of life. It offers residents diverse housing options and nationally recognized healthcare facilities, including WellStar North Fulton Hospital and Emory Clinic.

What’s more, families in Roswell can explore historic sites like Bulloch Hall and Barrington Hall, parks such as Roswell Area Park, and nature centers like the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Annual events like the Roswell Arts Festival add to the charm of this city, which offers a rich mix of educational and recreational opportunities for family outings. Roswell is also home to excellent public and private schools. The city’s public schools, in particular, average out to be in the top 10% of Georgia public schools.

5. Decatur

Located just east of Atlanta, Decatur is known for its vibrant community and family-friendly atmosphere. Decatur offers a diverse community and a thriving local economy, providing numerous job opportunities for parents. In addition, the city offers three affordable housing communities to serve families with low incomes.

Safety is a priority in Decatur. The city maintains a relatively low crime rate, contributing to an overall sense of security for residents. Decatur Square is the heart of the city and hosts numerous family-friendly events, including concerts, farmers’ markets, and festivals. Additionally, the city’s parks (some standouts are Adair Park and Glenn Creek Nature Preserve) and recreation programs (Decatur Recreation Center is a favorite) cater to families of all ages. Decatur is an excellent place for family bonding and community engagement. 

More so, when it comes to educational opportunities for kids, Decatur boasts excellent public schools and a strong commitment to education. It’s also home to Agnes Scott College, which was recently ranked as one of the top 50 national liberal arts colleges and the Southeast’s best women’s college.

6. Athens

Home to the University of Georgia, Athens offers a unique blend of academic and cultural opportunities. Known for its antebellum architecture and just 70 miles from Atlanta, Athens rests in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains. Conveniently, it offers both urban and more remote, rural options for family leisure. Favorite spots for families, locals, and tourists include the State Botanical Garden (with over 300 acres of gardens, nature trails, and natural exhibits), Sandy Creek Nature Center, as well as hiking trails and wildlife. These natural attractions offer great opportunities for children to learn about and connect with nature.

With a population of over 120,000 residents, Athens offers a rich arts and culture scene. It features annual events like AthFest Music & Arts Festival (kids friendly!) and the Wild Rumpus Parade and Spectacle, a unique and creative Halloween celebration. Among other perks, locals can enjoy the weekly Athens Farmers Market, as well as plenty of delicious farm-to-table restaurants that use locally sourced, fresh ingredients.

7. Suwanee

Located in Gwinnett County, Suwanee is known for its blend of old and new, picturesque parks and vibrant community. Recently ranked as the sixth-best U.S. suburb for city-like living, affordability is one of Suwanee’s strengths: its cost of living is below the U.S. average. In addition, the city offers plenty of great schooling options, with competitive public and private institutions.

On the activities front, Suwanee Town Center Park is the heart of the city and it hosts various family events and concerts throughout the year. What’s more, locals can also explore parks (Sims Lake Park is a gem!), playgrounds, and sports facilities, making it an excellent place for active families.

8. Peachtree City

Known for its golf cart-friendly streets and lush, green spaces, Peachtree City offers a unique family-oriented lifestyle. Families in Peachtree City can explore a network of golf cart paths connecting parks, lakes, and neighborhoods: these paths are not only convenient, but also promote a healthy and active lifestyle. A favorite with locals is the Flat Creek boardwalk, which is conveniently located in the middle of the 500-acre Flat Creek Nature Area. Visitors may catch a glimpse of beavers, herons, and other native wildlife. The city has plenty of beautiful, green neighborhood parks, including Picnic Park and Huddleston Pond Park. 

The city hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, offering opportunities for families to connect with their community. Among these are the biggest 4th of July celebration south of Atlanta, the annual Great Georgia Air Show, Shakerag Arts & Crafts Festival and the Spring Garden Show. What’s more, families don’t need to worry about kids getting a great education – Peachtree City offers excellent public schools under the Fayette County School System, which consistently ranks among the top in the State of Georgia. 

9. Milton

Nestled in Fulton County about 30 miles north of Atlanta, Milton combines upscale living with a sense of community and communion with nature. Affordability in Milton looks like a unique blend of upscale living with a reasonable cost of living, attracting families seeking a well-rounded lifestyle. Safety is a priority in Milton, as it maintains one of the lower crime rates in America among communities of all sizes (lower than 70% of America’s communities).

Families in Milton can enjoy various activities, including horseback riding, parks (some favorites are Bell Memorial Park and Birmingham Park), as well as cultural events. Milton is home to several equestrian facilities, such as the Windsor Stables, providing opportunities for children to connect with horses and nature. More so, the city is also served by highly-rated public schools, ensuring your children receive a quality education.

10. Savannah

Located on the coast of Georgia and separated by South Carolina only by the Savannah River, Savannah is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Savannah offers a diverse range of housing options, from historic homes in the downtown district to duplexes in modern suburbs like Hilton Head Island and Whitemarsh Island, accommodating families of all sizes and budgets. What’s more, The city also offers a variety of educational options, including public, private, and charter schools, ensuring that children of all ages have access to quality education.

Savannah’s family-friendly activities include strolls along the scenic, historic River Street, picnics or runs in Forsyth Park, and educational experiences at museums like the Savannah Children’s Museum and the Georgia State Railroad Museum. Bonus points to Savannah for having Tybee Island close by — situated just a short 20-minute drive from Savannah’s Historic District, Tybee Island boasts three miles of stunning shorelines, delectable locally-sourced seafood, and historical landmarks. 

A Last Word of Advice…

Georgia offers a wide array of fantastic places to raise a family, each with its unique charm and perks. When making your decision, consider factors such as affordability, safety, school quality, and family-friendly activities. Researching these cities thoroughly and visiting them to get a feel for the community can help you make the best choice for your family’s future. With every family’s needs being different, weighing these factors carefully to find the perfect fit for your family’s lifestyle is a must. By choosing one of the above top 10 places, you’ll be well on your way to providing your loved ones with a safe, enriching, and nature-filled existence.