Welcome to Marietta, Georgia: The Ultimate Relocation Guide

Nestled just 20 miles northwest of Downtown Atlanta, Marietta combines historic Southern charm with modern suburban convenience. Consistently ranked as one of metro Atlanta’s most desirable places to live, it offers top-tier schools, a vibrant town square, scenic parks, and favorable property taxes.

1. Marietta at a Glance

• County: Cobb County

• Location: ~20 miles NW of Downtown Atlanta; ~25 miles to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

• Atmosphere: Historic, family-oriented, active outdoor culture, strong community events

• Key Landmarks: Historic Marietta Square, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

2. City of Marietta vs. "East Cobb" Marietta

One of the first things newcomers learn is that "Marietta" refers to two distinct areas:

City of Marietta (Incorporated)

• What it is: The actual municipal city, including Historic Marietta Square and immediate surrounding neighborhoods.

• School District: Marietta City Schools (MCS), an independent district featuring the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum from elementary through Marietta High School.

• Vibe: Historic homes, walkable avenues, revitalized mid-century neighborhoods, urban-suburban mix.

East Cobb / Unincorporated Marietta

• What it is: An unincorporated region of Cobb County that uses a Marietta mailing address.

• School District: Cobb County School District (CCSD).

• Vibe: Sprawling, master-planned swim/tennis subdivisions, upscale shopping districts (Avenues at East Cobb, Merchant's Walk), highly acclaimed public schools.

3. Notable Neighborhoods & Enclaves

Historic Marietta & Around The Square

• Best for: Walkability, historic character, and community festivals.

• Housing Style: Victorian, Craftsman bungalows, and modern luxury townhomes.

• Lifestyle: Steps from local coffee shops, fine dining, the Strand Theatre, and weekly farmers markets.

East Cobb Subdivisions

• Best for: Families seeking top school clusters and active swim/tennis club life.

• Popular Communities: Indian Hills (golf community), Atlanta Country Club, Somerset, Chimney Springs.

• Housing Style: Traditional brick two-stories, contemporary renovations, and custom estates.

West Cobb & Kennesaw Mountain Foothills

• Best for: Outdoor lovers wanting larger lots and proximity to hiking trails.

• Housing Style: Ranch-style homes, newer construction craftsman homes, and scenic multi-acre lots.

• Lifestyle: Quick access to Kennesaw Mountain trails, Burnt Hickory corridors, and quiet residential streets.

4. Schools and Education

Marietta is renowned statewide for public education options:

Cobb County Public Schools (East & West Cobb)

Consistently ranks among the top public districts in Georgia. Notable high schools serving Marietta addresses include:

• Walton High School: Top-ranked STEM program and academic powerhouse.

• Pope High School & Lassiter High School: Highly regarded academics, arts, and athletics.

• Wheeler High School: Renowned Magnet Center for Advanced Studies in Math, Science & Technology.

Marietta City Schools (MCS)

• An independent charter system offering an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School continuum across all grade levels.

• Marietta High School boasts extensive AP programs, career pathways, and state championship sports.

5. Cost of Living & Property Taxes

Real Estate

Marietta offers options across price ranges, from starter townhomes and mid-century ranches to multi-million-dollar golf course estates. East Cobb generally commands a premium due to high school district demand.

Cobb County Tax Advantage

One of Marietta’s biggest selling points is lower property tax rates compared to neighboring Fulton or DeKalb counties:

• Senior Exemption: Cobb County offers homeowners aged 62 and older significant relief from county school taxes (which make up roughly 50% or more of the typical property tax bill), making it an attractive destination for retirees and empty nesters.

• Homestead Exemption: Georgia offers standard homestead exemptions for owner-occupied primary residences.

6. Commuting and Getting Around

Marietta is strategically positioned along key transportation arteries:

• I-75 & Northwest Corridor Express Lanes: The reversible toll lanes cut peak-hour commutes into Atlanta dramatically.

• I-285 ("The Perimeter"): Provides quick east-west access toward Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, and Buckhead.

• Airport Access: Expect a 35 to 55-minute drive to Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL), depending on departure time and toll lane usage.

• Public Transit: CobbLinc buses connect key Marietta stops to MARTA rail stations in Atlanta.

7. Dining, Entertainment & Parks

Marietta Square

The cultural heartbeat of the city. Enjoy weekend farmers markets, art festivals, summer concerts at Glover Park, and casual-to-fine dining at spots like Mac's Chophouse, The Marietta Local, and Two Birds Taphouse.

The Battery Atlanta & Truist Park

Located just minutes south down I-75 in the Cumberland area, home to the Atlanta Braves, the Coca-Cola Roxy concert venue, and dozens of restaurants, bars, and shopping outlets.

Outdoor Recreation

• Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park: Over 2,900 acres of preserved battlefield with 17+ miles of hiking trails and scenic views of the Atlanta skyline.

• Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Sope Creek and Johnson Ferry units offer mountain biking, riverside walking, and kayaking/paddleboarding.

8. Relocation Checklist: First 30 Days

• Driver's License: Transfer to a Georgia driver's license at the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) within 30 days of moving.

• Vehicle Registration: Register your vehicle with the Cobb County Tax Commissioner within 30 days. Georgia charges a one-time Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT) based on fair market value.

• Homestead Exemption: File for your Cobb County homestead exemption by April 1 of the year following your home purchase.

• Key Utilities:

  • Power: Cobb EMC or Georgia Power (depends on address)

  • Water: Marietta Water (City) or Cobb County Water System

  • Gas: Gas South, Scana Energy, or Georgia Natural Gas (deregulated market)

  • Internet: AT&T Fiber, Xfinity