Marietta

Living in Marietta, Georgia: Complete Moving & Real Estate Guide

Thinking about moving to Marietta, Georgia?

Located northwest of Atlanta in Cobb County, Marietta combines something homebuyers don't find in every Atlanta suburb: a genuine historic downtown, established residential neighborhoods, restaurants and entertainment, extensive shopping, parks and trails, and convenient access to many of metro Atlanta's major employment centers.

At the heart of the city is Marietta Square, a walkable downtown district centered around Glover Park and surrounded by restaurants, shops, museums, theaters and community events.

But Marietta is much larger and more diverse than the Square.

Depending on where you look, you can find historic homes, traditional subdivisions, swim-and-tennis communities, townhomes, luxury properties, newer construction and homes on larger wooded lots.

We're Jeff and Danielle Leshin with Leshin Realty Group at REAL BROKER, LLC, helping buyers and sellers throughout Marietta and the North Atlanta area.

If you're considering moving to Marietta, GA, here's what you should know.

Where Is Marietta, Georgia?

Marietta is located in Cobb County northwest of Atlanta.

The city is conveniently located near Interstate 75, providing access south toward Atlanta and north toward Kennesaw, Acworth and Northwest Georgia.

Nearby communities include Kennesaw, Acworth, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Smyrna, Woodstock and Powder Springs.

One important thing for homebuyers to understand is that the Marietta mailing area extends well beyond the actual City of Marietta.

A property with a Marietta address might be close to Historic Marietta Square, near Kennesaw Mountain, in East Cobb toward Roswell, or in another part of unincorporated Cobb County.

That means two homes listed as “Marietta, GA” can offer very different lifestyles.

What Is It Like Living in Marietta, GA?

Marietta combines the conveniences of a major Atlanta suburb with a strong sense of local identity.

Historic Marietta gives the city a recognizable center.

You can have dinner around the Square, attend a concert in Glover Park, browse a farmers market, see a show, visit a museum or simply walk around downtown.

Travel away from the Square and the environment changes.

You'll find mature suburban neighborhoods, larger properties, busy commercial corridors, parks, schools and communities with convenient access to Atlanta.

That's why understanding which part of Marietta fits your lifestyle is so important when buying a home here.

Historic Marietta Square

If there's one place that defines Marietta, it's Marietta Square.

The Square is centered around Glover Park and surrounded by restaurants, boutiques, museums, theaters, businesses and historic buildings.

The park itself includes a gazebo, fountain and gathering areas and hosts concerts and community events throughout the year.

Unlike a shopping center designed to imitate a downtown, Marietta Square is the historic center of the city.

That history and character are part of what makes the area distinctive.

Restaurants in Marietta, Georgia

Marietta Square has developed into one of the area's major dining destinations.

The downtown district offers everything from casual restaurants and international cuisine to steaks, cocktails, burgers and upscale dining.

Popular options around the Square include Mac's Chophouse, Taqueria Tsunami, Stockyard Burgers and Bones, Two Birds Taphouse and numerous other local restaurants.

Another popular destination is Marietta Square Market, a food-hall-style gathering place near the Square offering multiple dining choices under one roof.

The surrounding Marietta area provides an even larger collection of local restaurants and familiar national options.

For people who enjoy being able to combine dinner with an evening out, Marietta Square is one of the city's strongest lifestyle features.

Marietta Square Market

Marietta Square Market provides another dining experience near downtown.

The food hall is located beside the railroad tracks within walking distance of Marietta Square and brings numerous food concepts together in one location.

It's especially convenient when a group can't agree on what everyone wants to eat.

You can have dinner at the Market and then walk over to the Square for entertainment, shopping or an event.

Things to Do in Marietta, GA

Marietta offers a surprising amount to do.

Popular activities include:

• Exploring Historic Marietta Square
• Dining at restaurants around the Square
• Visiting the Marietta Square Farmers Market
• Seeing a performance at The Strand Theatre
• Visiting the Marietta History Center
• Exploring the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art
• Walking or biking the Mountain to River Trail
• Hiking at nearby Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
• Visiting Laurel Park
• Attending Taste of Marietta
• Enjoying the Glover Park Concert Series
• Shopping at local boutiques and antique stores
• Attending seasonal festivals and community events

The combination of history, restaurants, arts and outdoor recreation gives residents plenty to do without always traveling into Atlanta.

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

One of Marietta's biggest outdoor advantages is its proximity to Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

The park encompasses nearly 3,000 acres and preserves an important Civil War battlefield associated with the Atlanta Campaign.

Today, it's also one of the area's most popular destinations for hiking, walking, running, history and scenic views.

For outdoor enthusiasts, having such a substantial protected recreational area nearby is a significant advantage of living in Marietta.

Mountain to River Trail

The Mountain to River Trail provides another recreational connection through Marietta.

The trail helps connect the Kennesaw Mountain area with Downtown Marietta and continues toward the southern part of the city.

For walkers, runners and cyclists, the trail adds another way to experience Marietta outside of a car.

Parks & Recreation

Marietta maintains numerous parks and recreational facilities throughout the city.

Laurel Park is one of the best-known, offering extensive recreational opportunities close to downtown.

Additional parks provide playgrounds, athletic facilities, walking areas and community spaces.

Marietta's location also gives residents convenient access to the much larger Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

Arts, Theater & Museums

Marietta has a stronger arts and cultural scene than many people expect from a suburban community.

The Strand Theatre, located directly on Marietta Square, is a restored historic theater hosting films, concerts, performances and special events.

The Marietta Cobb Museum of Art provides rotating art exhibitions and cultural programming.

The Marietta History Center explores the history of Marietta and Cobb County from its location near the Square.

There are also additional galleries, performance venues and arts organizations throughout downtown.

For people who enjoy live performances, history and art, this gives Marietta another lifestyle advantage beyond restaurants and shopping.

Events in Marietta

Community events are a major part of the Marietta Square experience.

Popular annual and recurring events include the Glover Park Concert Series, Taste of Marietta, farmers markets, art events and seasonal festivals.

Taste of Marietta, for example, brings restaurants, live music and community activities throughout the downtown district.

Events can make the Square very active on weekends and evenings, which is part of the appeal for residents who enjoy having entertainment close to home.

Shopping in Marietta

Marietta offers everything from locally owned boutiques to major shopping centers.

Around Marietta Square, you'll find specialty stores, antique shops, galleries and locally owned businesses.

The Saturday Marietta Square Farmers Market provides another local shopping experience.

Outside downtown, major commercial corridors provide grocery stores, home-improvement retailers, restaurants and everyday services.

Marietta residents are also convenient to shopping destinations throughout Cobb County, including areas around Town Center and East Cobb.

East Cobb

If you're researching homes for sale in Marietta, GA, you'll probably encounter the term East Cobb.

It's important to understand that East Cobb is not a separate incorporated city.

It's a large, generally recognized area of eastern Cobb County, much of which uses Marietta mailing addresses.

East Cobb stretches toward Roswell and the Chattahoochee River area and contains numerous established residential communities, shopping areas, parks and schools.

For homebuyers, a home described as “East Cobb” can provide a very different experience from a home near Downtown Marietta—even though both may have Marietta addresses.

Schools in Marietta, GA

School assignments in Marietta require a little more explanation than in some communities.

The City of Marietta operates Marietta City Schools, an independent school district serving properties within its attendance area.

Other properties with Marietta mailing addresses are served by the Cobb County School District.

This distinction is extremely important for homebuyers.

A Marietta mailing address alone does not determine which school district serves the property.

Depending on location, students may attend Marietta City Schools or one of numerous Cobb County schools serving areas such as East Cobb and other portions of the Marietta mailing area.

Before purchasing a home, buyers should verify both the school district and the current attendance zone for the specific property address directly with the appropriate school system.

Homes for Sale in Marietta, GA

One of the strengths of Marietta real estate is the variety.

Historic Homes

Areas around Historic Marietta contain older homes with architectural character and convenient access to the Square.

Established Neighborhoods

Marietta contains numerous mature neighborhoods with established landscaping and larger trees.

Swim & Tennis Communities

Traditional swim-and-tennis subdivisions are common throughout Cobb County and provide neighborhood amenities and social opportunities.

East Cobb Homes

East Cobb offers a large selection of established subdivisions, luxury properties and residential communities.

Townhomes

Townhome communities can be found near downtown and throughout the broader Marietta area.

Luxury Homes

Luxury real estate includes custom homes, upscale subdivisions, larger properties and homes in highly amenitized communities.

Larger-Lot Properties

Certain areas still offer larger wooded lots and additional privacy despite Marietta's proximity to Atlanta.

New Construction

Newer construction and redevelopment opportunities can also be found throughout portions of the Marietta area.

Popular Areas of Marietta

When someone tells us they want to live in Marietta, one of the first things we want to understand is what kind of Marietta lifestyle they're looking for.

Historic Marietta / Marietta Square

Ideal for buyers interested in restaurants, events, history and proximity to downtown.

Kennesaw Mountain Area

Popular with buyers who value outdoor recreation, trails and convenient access toward Kennesaw and I-75.

East Cobb

A large residential area toward Roswell with established neighborhoods, shopping and parks.

West Marietta

Areas west of downtown offer additional established neighborhoods and convenient connections toward Powder Springs and West Cobb.

North Marietta

Areas toward Kennesaw provide convenient access to I-75, Town Center-area shopping and Kennesaw State University.

Because Marietta covers such a large area, visiting these different sections can be extremely helpful before narrowing your home search.

Marietta vs. Roswell

Buyers looking around North Atlanta sometimes compare Marietta and Roswell.

Both have historic downtown areas, established neighborhoods, restaurants, parks and access to major employment centers.

Roswell is strongly associated with Canton Street and the Chattahoochee River.

Marietta is centered around Marietta Square and provides especially convenient access to I-75, Kennesaw Mountain and central Cobb County.

Exploring both communities can help buyers determine which location and lifestyle fits them better.

Marietta vs. Kennesaw

Marietta and Kennesaw are neighboring Cobb County communities.

Marietta has a larger historic downtown environment centered around Marietta Square.

Kennesaw is home to Kennesaw State University and provides convenient access to Town Center-area shopping and amenities.

Both offer established neighborhoods and convenient I-75 access.

Marietta vs. Acworth

Acworth sits farther north along the I-75 corridor.

Acworth stands out for Lake Acworth and access to Lake Allatoona, while Marietta provides closer proximity to Atlanta, Marietta Square and Kennesaw Mountain.

Buyers interested in Cobb County often explore homes in all three communities—Marietta, Kennesaw and Acworth—before deciding.

Commuting From Marietta to Atlanta

Marietta's location is one of its major advantages.

Interstate 75 provides direct access toward Atlanta, Cumberland and other major employment areas.

Depending on the property, residents may also use Cobb Parkway, Highway 120, Roswell Road and other major routes.

Commute time varies significantly based on traffic, time of day, your neighborhood and destination.

If commuting is an important factor in your home search, drive the route from neighborhoods you're considering during the hours you'll actually be traveling.

Healthcare & Everyday Conveniences

Marietta and the surrounding Cobb County area provide extensive healthcare, shopping and professional services.

Residents have access to major hospitals and medical networks throughout Cobb County, along with physicians, specialists, urgent care facilities and medical offices.

The same is true for shopping and everyday necessities.

Living in Marietta generally means you're not far from grocery stores, restaurants, retail centers, fitness facilities and other services.

10 Things to Know Before Moving to Marietta, Georgia

1. Marietta is much bigger than Marietta Square.
The broader Marietta mailing area covers a substantial portion of Cobb County.

2. Marietta Square is a major lifestyle amenity.
Restaurants, festivals, concerts, museums and shops make downtown an active gathering place.

3. A Marietta address doesn't necessarily mean you're inside the City of Marietta.
Always verify the property's jurisdiction.

4. School districts can differ.
Some properties are served by Marietta City Schools while others are served by Cobb County School District.

5. East Cobb and Downtown Marietta offer very different lifestyles.
Don't assume all Marietta neighborhoods feel the same.

6. Kennesaw Mountain is a major outdoor asset.
Hiking, history and outdoor recreation are close to many Marietta neighborhoods.

7. I-75 access can be important.
If you commute, consider how quickly you can reach your preferred route.

8. Marietta has an established housing stock.
You'll find homes representing many decades and architectural styles.

9. Community events are a major part of downtown life.
The Square stays active throughout much of the year.

10. Location within Marietta matters tremendously.
Schools, commute, taxes, amenities and lifestyle can change depending on the property's exact location.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Marietta, Georgia

Where is Marietta, GA?

Marietta is located in Cobb County northwest of Atlanta. It is near I-75 and neighboring communities including Kennesaw, Acworth, Roswell and Smyrna.

What is Marietta, Georgia known for?

Marietta is especially known for Historic Marietta Square, Glover Park, its restaurants and community events, Kennesaw Mountain, historic sites and established residential neighborhoods.

Does Marietta have a downtown?

Yes. Historic Marietta Square serves as the city's downtown and is surrounded by restaurants, shops, museums, theaters and local businesses.

Is Marietta Square walkable?

Yes. Restaurants, shops, Glover Park, museums and entertainment venues are concentrated within a relatively compact downtown area, making the Square one of Marietta's most walkable destinations.

What is there to do in Marietta, GA?

Popular activities include exploring Marietta Square, dining downtown, attending concerts and festivals, visiting museums, shopping at the farmers market, hiking at Kennesaw Mountain and using local parks and trails.

What is East Cobb?

East Cobb is an unincorporated area of eastern Cobb County rather than a separate city. Many East Cobb homes use Marietta mailing addresses.

It contains numerous established neighborhoods, shopping areas, parks and schools.

Is Marietta close to Atlanta?

Yes. Marietta is northwest of Atlanta and connected to the metro area primarily through I-75 and other major roads.

Actual travel time varies significantly with traffic and destination.

What schools serve Marietta, GA?

Properties within Marietta may be served by either Marietta City Schools or Cobb County School District depending on the property's location.

Buyers should verify the school district and individual school assignments for any property they're considering.

Are there historic homes in Marietta?

Yes. Marietta has historic homes and neighborhoods, particularly around the historic downtown area, along with homes built during many different periods of the city's growth.

Are there luxury homes in Marietta?

Yes. Luxury properties can be found throughout the Marietta area, including custom homes, upscale subdivisions, East Cobb properties and homes on larger lots.

Are there new construction homes in Marietta?

Yes. Although Marietta is an established community, newer construction and redevelopment opportunities continue to appear in different parts of the area.

Is Marietta close to Kennesaw Mountain?

Yes. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is immediately northwest of central Marietta and is one of the area's most significant outdoor recreational and historic destinations.

What types of homes are available in Marietta?

Marietta real estate includes historic homes, traditional subdivisions, swim-and-tennis neighborhoods, townhomes, luxury properties, larger-lot homes and newer construction.

What should I know before buying a home in Marietta?

One of the most important things to determine is exactly where the property is located within the greater Marietta area.

Verify the jurisdiction, school district, school attendance zone, property taxes, HOA requirements, commute and proximity to the amenities that matter most to you.

Where can I find homes for sale in Marietta, GA?

Homes for sale can be found near Historic Marietta Square, Kennesaw Mountain, East Cobb and numerous established neighborhoods throughout the greater Marietta area.

Rather than searching every Marietta listing at once, it can be helpful to first determine your preferred location, commute, home style, price range and lifestyle.

Moving to Marietta, Georgia?

We're Jeff and Danielle Leshin with Leshin Realty Group at REAL BROKER, LLC, a husband-and-wife real estate team helping buyers and sellers throughout Marietta, Cobb County and the North Atlanta area.

If you're considering moving to Marietta, Georgia, we'd be happy to help you understand the differences between Downtown Marietta, East Cobb, the Kennesaw Mountain area and the many other neighborhoods throughout the community.

And if you already own a home in Marietta and are considering selling, we can help you understand your home's current value, competition and positioning in today's Marietta real estate market.

Jeff & Danielle Leshin
Leshin Realty Group | REAL BROKER, LLC
North Atlanta Realtors

Call or Text: 678-488-0043

Our family helping your family.