Marietta, GA vs. Kennesaw, GA: Which Suburb is Right for You?
Thinking about moving to Marietta, GA or relocating to Kennesaw, GA? You're not alone. These two vibrant northwest Atlanta suburbs are among the most popular choices for homebuyers looking for more space, better schools, and a balance between city access and suburban charm.
Whether you're living in Marietta, GA or considering moving to Kennesaw, GA, this comparison will help you understand which community fits your lifestyle better. We'll break down each city across eight key categories—Population Density, Downtowns, Location, Home Prices, Healthcare, Schools, Safety, and Things to Do—to help you make a more informed decision.
1. Population Density
Marietta has a larger population—around 62,000 in the city proper and nearly 300,000 when you include the surrounding unincorporated areas. In contrast, Kennesaw’s core population is about 34,000, expanding to around 90,000 including surrounding neighborhoods.
But beyond numbers, it's about the feel. Living in Marietta, GA comes with a busier, more developed vibe, filled with shopping centers, neighborhoods, and activity. Kennesaw, GA, on the other hand, feels more residential, quieter, and spacious, while still offering easy access to Marietta amenities.
🏆 Winner: Kennesaw
2. Downtown Atmosphere
Kennesaw’s downtown has charm, with a small Main Street, local restaurants, and a new event space—but it's still developing. Living in Kennesaw, GA means you’ll see the area growing, but it's not quite there yet.
Marietta Square is the centerpiece of living in Marietta, GA—a historic yet modern town center filled with restaurants like The Marietta Local, Two Birds Taphouse, and an awesome food hall. It’s active year-round with community events, art festivals, and live music.
🏆 Winner: Marietta
3. Location and Commute
Both cities are located along I-75, but Marietta sits closer to I-285 and Atlanta’s core. This means shorter commutes, faster access to employers, and proximity to Truist Park and The Battery.
Kennesaw is farther north, which adds 10–15 minutes (or more) to your commute during peak traffic. But some people appreciate that extra buffer from the city.
🏆 Winner: Marietta
4. Home Prices
If you're moving to Kennesaw, GA, you’re likely to get more bang for your buck. Median home prices in Kennesaw are around $418,000 vs. Marietta’s $450,000. Kennesaw also has a higher average days on market, giving buyers more time to make decisions, and a lower price per square foot ($192 vs. $211).
Inventory is lower in Kennesaw, but that’s mainly due to its smaller size.
🏆 Winner: Kennesaw
5. Healthcare Access
Kennesaw has several clinics and outpatient services but no major hospital in the city.
Relocating to Marietta, GA gives you direct access to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, one of the best hospitals in Georgia. It’s a full-service facility with top-tier care in cardiology, oncology, emergency services, and more. When my dad went through cancer treatment, this is where he was cared for—and they were fantastic.
🏆 Winner: Marietta
6. Schools
Both cities are in the highly-rated Cobb County School District. However, Marietta also includes Marietta City Schools, which operate independently.
We reviewed rankings from Niche.com, GreatSchools.org, and U.S. News. Marietta schools like Walton, Lassiter, and Pope ranked at the very top, while schools in Kennesaw (Harrison, Kennesaw Mountain, North Cobb) held solid but middle-tier positions.
🏆 Winner: Marietta
7. Safety
According to NeighborhoodScout and SafeWise:
Marietta’s crime rate is higher than average compared to similar-sized communities.
Kennesaw has a lower crime rate, and it made SafeWise’s list of the top 20 safest cities in Georgia.
While crime can vary block to block, living in Kennesaw, GA statistically gives you better odds for safety, especially in residential neighborhoods.
🏆 Winner: Kennesaw
8. Things to Do
Living in Marietta, GA means constant access to local events at Marietta Square, concerts, festivals like Chalktoberfest, and attractions like Truist Park and Six Flags White Water.
Kennesaw, GA offers plenty too—especially around Barrett Parkway. You'll find big-box shopping, Adventure Air Sports, Mountasia, a movie theater, and Swift Cantrell Park with trails, dog parks, and a skate park. But it's more spread out and not as culturally dense.
🏆 Winner: Marietta
🥇 Final Score:
Marietta – 5 | Kennesaw – 3
While both cities are excellent choices, Marietta, GA edges out Kennesaw in more categories, making it a better option for those seeking urban amenities, top schools, and easier access to Atlanta. That said, moving to Kennesaw, GA could be ideal if you’re looking for affordability, safety, and a quieter suburban life.
Still unsure? Everyone weighs these factors differently. I’m happy to help you figure out what works best for your lifestyle. Just reach out and let’s talk about what you’re looking for in your next home.