Marietta, Georgia: Pros and Cons of Living Here

Feb 27

Marietta has a lot to offer—if you know where to look. Top-tier schools, charming neighborhoods, and easy access to the rest of Metro Atlanta make it a highly desirable suburb. But it’s not all sunshine and sidewalks. In this video, we’re breaking down the real pros and cons of living in Marietta, Georgia—what people love, what drives them crazy, and what you need to know before making the move.

Hey, my name’s Joel, I’m a local realtor here in Metro Atlanta. Every day, I help people just like you make the move in Georgia. Let’s jump in.

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Pros

1. Marietta Square

The crown jewel of Marietta is Marietta Square. It’s one of the best downtowns in the metro, blending historic charm with modern energy. Cobblestone streets, historic buildings, a central green space—it’s picture-perfect. During the holidays, it looks like a Hallmark movie.

Food options? Plenty. Try The Marietta Local for fried chicken, Thaicoon for sushi, or Two Birds Taphouse for craft cocktails. There’s even a Marietta Food Hall for when everyone in the family wants something different.

Shopping is walkable and fun—antiques, vinyl records, quirky gifts. Plus, the Square hosts year-round events: Chalktoberfest, the Farmers Market, Taste of Marietta, holiday festivals, and the Glover Park concert series.

2. Location and Access

Marietta sits just 20–30 minutes northwest of downtown Atlanta. Close enough for big-city access, far enough to avoid the chaos. I-75 runs straight through the city, making commuting straightforward.

You’re also minutes from Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta—packed with shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment. Even if you’re not a Braves fan, it’s a fun destination.

Nearby suburbs like Kennesaw, Smyrna, and Roswell expand your options for work, schools, and lifestyle amenities.

3. Job Market

Marietta offers access to jobs without living downtown. I-75 makes commuting easy to major employers like Coca-Cola, Delta Airlines, UPS, and Home Depot.

Locally, WellStar Health System is headquartered in Marietta, with WellStar Kennestone providing tons of healthcare jobs. Lockheed Martin also has a large aerospace manufacturing facility, offering opportunities in engineering, defense, and project management—all without leaving Georgia.

4. Great Schools

If schools matter, Marietta should be on your radar, especially East Cobb.

Lassiter High – A+ (Niche), 10/10 (GreatSchools)
Walton High – A+ (Niche), 10/10 (GreatSchools)
Pope High – A (Niche), 10/10 (GreatSchools)
Wheeler High – A+ (Niche), 8/10 (GreatSchools), notable STEM magnet program

Other strong schools: Sprayberry, Hillgrove, Harrison, Kell.

East Cobb’s popularity has led to growth, density, and competitive housing. But it also means families are locking into excellent school zones, making this a major draw for buyers.

5. Larger Lots

Older Marietta neighborhoods offer generous lot sizes, unlike many newer developments in North Georgia. Half an acre or more is common, giving you room for kids, pets, hobbies, or outdoor activities.

Homes are often 3,000–5,000 sq ft with 4–5 bedrooms—great for families who want space without paying a “brand-new construction premium.”

6. Senior Tax Exemption

If you’re near retirement or planning for your parents, Marietta offers a generous senior tax exemption. Once you hit 62, you’re eligible for a significant school tax reduction—saving thousands per year. On a $500K home, property taxes could drop from around $5,500 to roughly $1,500. This is a major financial advantage for seniors staying in their homes.

Cons

1. Higher Density

East Cobb’s popularity comes with trade-offs: density. Neighborhoods, shopping centers, and traffic are close together. Mature lots are bigger, but the sheer number of homes creates a suburban “full capacity” feel. If you’re dreaming of wide-open space or rural peace, Marietta might feel tight.

2. Older Homes

Many homes in Marietta were built in the 1970s–1990s. They have character and solid construction but require careful inspections: roofs, HVAC, plumbing, and water lines may need updates. Watch out for materials like LP siding or polybutylene plumbing, which were common in older builds and may require costly repairs.

3. Limited New Construction

Brand-new homes are scarce, especially in East Cobb or near the Square. New builds usually come at premium prices, often in infill developments. Builders may offer incentives—up to $50,000—but options are limited, especially for buyers chasing top school zones.

If you’re considering a move to Marietta—or anywhere in Metro Atlanta—there are a few ways to take the next step. You can contact me directly, fill out our connect form for a callback, or grab our free relocation guide to learn at your own pace.