Moving to HOTlanta

[Blue Phoenix]

Hey All,
Today I accepted an offer to attend the Emory University School of Medicine PA Program next year and now I need to figure out where to live.

Here's what I know (or think I know):
I have been told by several students and faculty not to live more than about 10 miles from campus because of traffic. I believe them after going to the interview how congested the streets are around the university.
Having grown up in Houston, TX, I understand that traffic can wreak havoc on a commute.

So I am asking for recommendations about where to live and where to stay away from more importantly.
1. We plan to rent a house
2. No more than $1300/mo.
3. Prefer quiet/historic neighborhoods as opposed to contemporary areas
4. Regardless of mileage, I don't want to commute anymore than 45 minutes

Areas I am considering based on budget:
Marietta
Decatur
Druid Hills

Thanks in advance. I can't wait to see what the Georgia mountains are like.

 

[GXO]

I can't speak to ITP (inside the perimeter) living, but plenty here can. I live up in Alpharetta if you ever want to get a beer.

 

[BMThiker]

I've lived near the Emory area for about 15 years.

Decatur is awfully convenient to Emory. Look in the neighborhoods around the intersection of Clairmont Rd and North Decatur Rd. I rented off N. Superior about 12 yrs ago and it was very affordable. Lots of rental houses in that neighborhood cater to Emory students. Anything on the south side of Scott Blvd will be in the city limits of Decatur and much more expensive. Another good area to check is further north along N. Druid Hills Rd or Clairmont Rd near where they intersect with Lavista Rd or Briarcliff Rd.

Druid Hills is typically old money, historical homes and you probably won't find much rental property unless someone is renting out their carriage house (apartment over a garage building). This area is adjacent to the campus, so if you find something here, you could probably walk/bike to campus.

Oakhurst/Kirkwood have some good affordable properties and are just south of downtown Decatur & the Agnes Scott campus. Anything in the city limits of Decatur is going to be expensive, but just outside the city limits and you'll find older homes that are much more affordable. You don't want anything too far south as the neighborhood starts getting sketchier the closer you get to Memorial Dr. Your commute from Oakhurst/Kirkwood would only be about 15-20 minutes during rush hour.

You would hate the commute from Marietta. Your commute would be pushing 45-60 minutes easy during rush hour.

 

[pfran42]

If you are single and social, you can't beat Virginia Highlands. Tons of restaurants, bars, younger (25-30) people, close to Midtown (in case you want to check out better restaurants, museums, concerts, etc.). Its nice being able to walk everywhere after getting home from school/work. Plus, in my younger days, it probably saved me from racking up huge monthly taxi fees from getting rides home on Fri/Sat nights!

 

[LDowney]

My oldest daughter works at the CDC campus adjacent to Emory. She opt'd for the Virginia Highlands area as the best fit for her (cost, commute, access for running/cycling areas, plus early 20s single activities). There is plenty of help here that can offer up intel as needed if you have more criteria.

Good luck in your search and welcome to GA.