Alpharetta vs. Johns Creek
If you're considering living in Alpharetta, GA, or living in Johns Creek, GA, you're not alone. These two northern Atlanta suburbs are among the most sought-after communities for families, professionals, and anyone relocating to the area. Whether you're moving to Alpharetta, GA, or relocating to Johns Creek, GA, both cities offer unique advantages.
As a local Atlanta realtor, I'm here to provide a side-by-side comparison across eight key categories: Population Density, Downtowns, Location, Home Prices, Healthcare, Schools, Safety, and Things to Do. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of which suburb aligns best with your lifestyle.
1. Population Density
Johns Creek: Offers a more spacious, residential feel with larger lot sizes and abundant green spaces. It's ideal for those seeking privacy and a quieter neighborhood.
Alpharetta: Has experienced significant growth, leading to a denser population and more urban development. If you prefer a bustling environment with close proximity to amenities, Alpharetta fits the bill.
Winner: Johns Creek
2. Downtowns
Alpharetta: Boasts a vibrant downtown area with trendy restaurants, boutique shops, and year-round events. The Avalon and Downtown Alpharetta are major attractions.
Johns Creek: Currently lacks a centralized downtown but has plans for a 192-acre Town Center development, including the Medley Project and Creekside Park.
Winner: Alpharetta
3. Location
Alpharetta: Located about 25 miles north of downtown Atlanta, offering easier access to major highways and a central position among northern suburbs.
Johns Creek: Situated between Highway 400 and I-85, making commutes slightly more challenging due to limited direct highway access.
Winner: Alpharetta
4. Home Prices
Alpharetta: Offers a broader mix of housing types and price points, including more townhomes and redevelopment areas.
Johns Creek: Tends to have higher home prices due to restrictive zoning, newer housing stock, and a perception of exclusivity.
Winner: Alpharetta
5. Healthcare
Johns Creek: Home to Emory Johns Creek Hospital, a state-of-the-art facility offering a wide range of specialties.
Alpharetta: Features medical campuses providing outpatient services, with inpatient care available in nearby hospitals like WellStar North Fulton Hospital.
Winner: Johns Creek
6. Schools
Both cities are served by the Fulton County Schools System, known for high-quality education.
Top High Schools:
Alpharetta High: A+ on Niche.com, 8/10 on GreatSchools.org, 96 on US News.
Chattahoochee High: A+ on Niche.com, 9/10 on GreatSchools.org, 98 on US News.
Cambridge High: A+ on Niche.com, 9/10 on GreatSchools.org, 96 on US News.
Johns Creek High: A+ on Niche.com, 9/10 on GreatSchools.org, 96 on US News.
Northview High: A+ on Niche.com, 10/10 on GreatSchools.org, 98 on US News.
Winner: Johns Creek (with Northview High leading)
7. Safety
Alpharetta: Has a crime rate higher than 64% of Georgia's cities but is safer than most comparably sized cities nationwide.
Johns Creek: Ranked as one of the top 100 safest cities in the U.S., with a crime rate lower than 65% of Georgia communities.
Winner: Johns Creek
8. Things to Do
Alpharetta: Offers a plethora of amenities, including the Avalon, Downtown Alpharetta, and the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre. It's a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Johns Creek: More limited in entertainment and nightlife options, but plans for the new Town Center aim to change that.
Winner: Alpharetta
Final Verdict
Both Alpharetta and Johns Creek are exceptional places to live, each with its unique strengths. If you prioritize vibrant city life, walkable downtowns, and a plethora of activities, Alpharetta is your go-to. If you value spacious living, top-tier schools, and a quieter environment, Johns Creek is the ideal choice.
Need more personalized advice? Feel free to reach out, and let's find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.