Ranked among the top 10 most populous metropolitan areas in the country, Atlanta is a dynamic urban center comprised of a thriving tapestry of diverse communities, cultures, and ways of being. The city’s rich history as a center for civil and human rights activities contributes to an atmosphere that is both open and welcoming. The cost of living in Atlanta is low relative to most major cities in the United States. Because of its dense tree canopy, Atlanta is known as “the city in the forest,” boasting the most expansive tree coverage of all major U.S. cities. The climate is generally mild in the fall and spring, winters are cool, and summers are hot and humid.
With its high concentration of local colleges and universities, the metropolitan area is a center for higher education, with Emory University, the Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, and Spelman College among the most well-known local institutions of higher education. Atlanta offers an array of museums and attractions in the arts, including fine arts, theater, music, ballet, and opera. With a large and diverse restaurant scene, the city has food choices that can meet almost all tastes and preferences. Community and neighborhood establishments for music, plays, and/or dance performances are plentiful. The city is home to professional baseball, basketball, football, and soccer teams, along with multiple collegiate sports teams. Outdoor recreation is easily accessible, including Lake Lanier (45 minutes north), Lake Allatoona (60 minutes north) and the North Georgia mountains, including the southern end of the Appalachian Trail (80 minutes north). Coastal beaches on the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico are within 4 to 6 hours driving time. More information about activities and events in the Atlanta area is available through the local digital Creative Loafing website.