Welcome to Marietta, GA
Marietta, Georgia seamlessly blends Southern charm with modern suburban convenience, making it an increasingly popular destination for families and professionals relocating to the Atlanta metro area. This historic city offers tree-lined neighborhoods, a vibrant downtown square, and excellent schools, all while maintaining a distinct identity separate from its larger neighbor to the south.
📍 Marietta, GA at a Glance
- Population: 61,048
- Location: 20 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta in Cobb County
- Incorporated: 1834
- Known For: Historic Marietta Square, antebellum homes, and thriving aerospace industry
🔗 Dive Deeper into Marietta
💸 Cost & Budget
🏘️ Housing & Lifestyle
🚍 Utilities & Transportation
🏙️ City Comparisons
🔍 In-Depth Relocation Overview
🗳️ Politics & Civic Life
Marietta maintains a balanced political landscape within traditionally conservative Cobb County, though recent years have shown a shift toward purple. The city council operates on a non-partisan basis, focusing on local issues like infrastructure and community development. Civic engagement is strong, with active neighborhood associations and regular town halls at the Marietta City Hall.
🚓 Crime & Safety
Marietta Police Department maintains a visible presence throughout the city, with crime rates generally lower than the national average for similarly sized cities. The downtown square area and established neighborhoods like East Cobb are particularly safe. Property crime rates have decreased by 15% over the past five years, though residents should exercise normal urban precautions.
🍽️ Dining & Entertainment
The Marietta Square anchors the dining scene with favorites like Taqueria Tsunami, The Butcher The Baker, and Australian Bakery Cafe. Entertainment options include the historic Strand Theatre, which hosts concerts and performances year-round. Cool Beans Coffee Roasters and Two Birds Taphouse provide popular gathering spots for locals, while the Square hosts farmers markets and festivals throughout the year.
🏛️ Local Government
Marietta operates under a council-manager form of government with a mayor and seven council members representing individual wards. City services are well-regarded, particularly the Marietta Power and Water utility, which often provides lower rates than surrounding areas. The city maintains its own police and fire departments, separate from Cobb County services.
🚍 Transportation
While primarily car-dependent, Marietta offers better transit options than many Atlanta suburbs. CobbLinc buses connect to MARTA stations, providing access to downtown Atlanta. Interstate 75 runs through the city, though rush hour traffic can be challenging. The city has invested in pedestrian improvements around the Square and is developing more bike-friendly infrastructure.
🏘️ Housing & Real Estate
Housing options range from historic homes near the Square to modern subdivisions in East Marietta. The median home price hovers around $425,000, with rental properties averaging $1,800 per month for a two-bedroom unit. Popular neighborhoods include Indian Hills, Whitlock Heights, and the sought-after East Cobb area. The market remains competitive due to excellent schools and proximity to major employers.
🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park provides 2,965 acres of hiking trails and Civil War history just minutes from downtown. The city maintains 13 parks including Laurel Park and Wildwood Park, offering playgrounds, sports facilities, and walking trails. The nearby Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area provides additional outdoor recreation opportunities.
💼 Job Market
Marietta’s economy benefits from major employers including Lockheed Martin (aerospace), WellStar Kennestone Hospital, and Dobbins Air Reserve Base. The median household income stands at $57,452. The city’s proximity to Atlanta expands employment opportunities significantly, with many residents commuting to Midtown or Buckhead. The local job market shows strength in healthcare, aerospace, and professional services.
🧑🏫 Education
Marietta City Schools operates independently from Cobb County, serving approximately 9,000 students with a reputation for excellence. Marietta High School consistently ranks among Georgia’s top public schools. Private options include Walker School and Mount Paran Christian School. Higher education is represented by Life University’s main campus and satellite campuses of Kennesaw State University and Chattahoochee Technical College.
🌞 Climate & Weather
Marietta enjoys a humid subtropical climate with hot summers (averaging 88°F in July) and mild winters (averaging 43°F in January). The city receives about 52 inches of rain annually, with occasional winter ice storms but rare snow accumulation. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather, with comfortable temperatures perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals and activities.
💬 Community Sentiment
Residents praise Marietta’s small-town feel despite its proximity to Atlanta, with the historic Square serving as a genuine community gathering place. Families particularly appreciate the excellent schools and safe neighborhoods. Common concerns include increasing traffic and rising housing costs, though most agree the quality of life justifies the expense. The city’s diversity has grown significantly, creating a more inclusive community atmosphere.
✨ Why People Are Moving to Marietta
Marietta attracts newcomers seeking the perfect balance of suburban comfort and urban accessibility. With top-rated schools, a thriving historic downtown, and significantly more affordable housing than Atlanta proper, it’s no wonder young families and professionals are choosing to call Marietta home. The city’s commitment to preserving its historic character while embracing smart growth ensures that new residents can enjoy both tradition and progress in this quintessential Southern city.