Cartersville vs Acworth: Which Northwest Atlanta City Is Right for You?

Thinking about moving to Cartersville, GA or relocating to Acworth, GA? You’re not alone. These two northwest Atlanta cities sit along I-75 and attract buyers looking for affordability, space, and access to both metro Atlanta and outdoor recreation.

Whether you’re considering living in Cartersville, GA or living in Acworth, GA, this comparison will help you decide which city fits your lifestyle best. We’ll break things down across eight key categories—Population Density, Downtowns, Location, Home Prices, Healthcare, Schools, Safety, and Things to Do—so you can make a confident decision.

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1. Population Density

On paper, Cartersville and Acworth look very similar. Cartersville has a population of around 24,000, while Acworth sits just behind at about 23,000. But the way these cities feel is very different.

Cartersville covers more than 30 square miles, which means homes are more spread out. You’ll find older neighborhoods with larger lots, homes on acreage, and even pockets that feel semi-rural. Even near downtown, Cartersville rarely feels crowded.

Acworth is more compact. Much of its growth happened in the 1990s and 2000s, resulting in denser subdivisions with sidewalks, smaller lots, and a classic suburban feel. Neighborhoods like Brookstone and Bentwater feel active and connected, with kids biking and neighbors out walking.

Acworth strikes a nice balance between space and amenities.

🏆 Winner: Acworth

2. Downtown Atmosphere

Both cities have invested heavily in their downtowns, but they offer different vibes.

Downtown Acworth is compact, walkable, and polished. Restaurants like Henry’s Louisiana Grill and 1885 Grill anchor the area, and its proximity to Lake Acworth, Cauble Park, and Logan Farm Park makes it easy to grab dinner and enjoy the outdoors without getting back in the car. Festivals, concerts, and farmers markets keep the area lively year-round.

Downtown Cartersville is larger and built around a traditional courthouse square. It’s home to standout attractions like the Booth Western Art Museum, the Grand Theatre, and a strong local restaurant scene. Events like First Friday concerts, Bluegrass & BBQ Festival, and holiday parades give it a true historic Georgia town feel.

Cartersville’s downtown is one of the most underrated in Metro Atlanta.

🏆 Winner: Cartersville

3. Location and Commute

Acworth is about 35 minutes from downtown Atlanta in light traffic and sits close to Kennesaw, Marietta, and the Barrett Parkway corridor. This means easier access to shopping, jobs, dining, and entertainment. Airport access is also better, averaging around 45 minutes to Hartsfield-Jackson on a good day.

Cartersville is about 15–20 minutes further north, which can push commute times closer to an hour during peak traffic. That said, it’s more convenient for those working in Bartow County, Rome, or heading toward Chattanooga—and it’s closer to North Georgia mountain getaways.

For everyday convenience and metro access, Acworth has the edge.

🏆 Winner: Acworth

4. Home Prices

This is where the two cities really separate.

Acworth’s median home price sits around $415,000, with most homes located in established subdivisions built in the 1990s and 2000s. These neighborhoods often include swim and tennis amenities and HOA fees.

Cartersville’s median home price is significantly lower, around $320,000. Buyers can find older homes near downtown, newer construction farther out, and more opportunities for acreage—all at a lower price point. Bartow County property taxes also tend to be lower than Cobb County.

For affordability and housing variety, Cartersville stands out.

🏆 Winner: Cartersville

5. Healthcare Access

Acworth doesn’t have a hospital within city limits, but residents are about 20–25 minutes from Wellstar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta and about 30 minutes from Northside Cherokee Hospital in Canton. Routine care is easy to find with many urgent care and primary care offices nearby.

Cartersville is home to Cartersville Medical Center, a full-service hospital with a 24-hour ER, cardiac care, and a Level III trauma center. For many residents, having a hospital right in town is a major plus.

🏆 Winner: Cartersville

6. Schools

Acworth has access to multiple highly regarded school districts depending on zoning—Cobb County and Cherokee County schools in particular tend to score well. Schools like Allatoona High, Etowah High, and North Cobb High consistently rank higher overall.

Cartersville schools perform solidly, with Cartersville High operating independently from the county system, but overall ratings tend to fall slightly behind Acworth’s top options.

🏆 Winner: Acworth

7. Safety

According to NeighborhoodScout:

• Cartersville: Chance of crime is 1 in 41, higher than average for similar-sized cities

• Acworth: Chance of crime is 1 in 77, near the average for comparable communities

In both cities, most incidents are property-related and concentrated near commercial areas, but statistically Acworth offers lower overall crime risk.

🏆 Winner: Acworth

8. Things to Do

Cartersville shines with museums and outdoor recreation. The Booth Western Art Museum, Tellus Science Museum, Savoy Auto Museum, Red Top Mountain State Park, and Terminus Wake Park give it a unique mix of culture and adventure.

Acworth leans into lake life and community events. Lake Acworth, Lake Allatoona, Cauble Park’s beach area, a strong restaurant scene, summer concerts, and easy access to Kennesaw Mountain make it very appealing.

This one truly depends on lifestyle preferences.

🏆 Tie

🥇 Final Score

Acworth – 4.5 | Cartersville – 3.5

Acworth edges out Cartersville with better location convenience, school options, and safety. That said, Cartersville remains an excellent choice for buyers seeking affordability, space, a strong downtown, and in-town healthcare.

Still deciding? Everyone values these categories differently. If you’re thinking about moving anywhere in northwest Metro Atlanta, I’d be happy to help you figure out which city—and which neighborhood—fits your lifestyle best.

Just reach out and let’s talk through your options.

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