Two of the biggest sources for my nightmares are haunted houses and puppets—both of which feature heavily in Grady Hendrix’s latest novel How to Sell a Haunted House. Why are we always drawn to the things that terrify us the most?
Hendrix is an author best known for his wildly popular horror novels, many of which have been (or are being) adapted for film and television including My Best Friend’s Exorcism, Horrorstör, We Sold Our Souls, and The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires. He is also the author of the non-fiction book Paperbacks from Hell, which examines the history of the horror paperback boom of the 1970s and ’80s.
Hendrix is appearing at the Savannah Book Festival to present his latest novel—however it won’t be a typical author reading. Hendrix would “rather die than go to a book reading,” and he believes many people feel the same way.
“I felt like when people leave their house where they could be watching Netflix or having sex, they should be rewarded with something entertaining, so I do a one-man show.”
Hendrix’s one-man shows often feature visual elements and music, and usually focus on whatever subject he exhaustively researched for his latest book. When he wrote Final Girl Support Group, for example, he dove into serial killers and murder books. For We Sold Our Souls, Hendrix studied heavy metal music and its links to horror.
A book many Savannahians can relate to
When researching for How to Sell a Haunted House, naturally Hendrix dove deep into real estate.
“I think 46 to 49% of American homeowners believe they currently live in or previously lived in a haunted property,” said Hendrix. “I know New York state and California have disclosure laws where you have to disclose to a potential buyer if your house is generally considered haunted. That’s not so much because people don’t want to share a house with a ghost, but the original suit in New York was brought because the new homeowners moved in and realized they were a tourist destination for ghost tours, and they could no longer hang out on their front porch at night without people coming by and taking their pictures.”
I think many Savannahians can relate.
Hendrix doesn’t discredit the idea that hauntings are real. He used to work as an office manager a parapsychological research organization answering phone calls from people purporting to have supernatural experiences.
“Whether they are objectively true or not, they’re really powerful emotionally loaded experiences for people, so I think it would be a little ungracious to say they don’t exist, said Hendrix. “People experience them.”
Hendrix grew up in Charleston, South Carolina, so he is well familiar with the South’s penchant for hauntings.
“The thing I like about the South, and especially historic cities like St. Augustine or Savannah or Charleston is that everything sits on top of each other. You have all these different eras and interpretations of history sitting in a pretty small geographic base. You end up with some wild juxtapositions.”
The stuff of nightmares
How to Sell a Haunted House is about Louise and Mark, feuding siblings who must sell their childhood home after their parent pass away, but old traumas and secrets are stirred up. Some creepy inanimate objects get stirred up, as well.
“Puppets and dolls are always disgusting and scary,” said Hendrix. “They’re the inanimate object that when we look at it, it looks back. We always associate haunted puppets or dolls with porcelain faced Victorian dolls or old marionettes, but we surround ourselves with action figures and Funkos. We love imitation people.”
Hendrix drew from his own history with puppets when developing the character of Mark.
“Mark’s experiences are very similar to mine, right down to working with a radical puppet collective that performed an ill-conceived politically charged show for an elementary school,” explained Hendrix. “Ours was pre-9/11 and about the Pinochet regime in Chile and the disappeared and political torture. We thought we were doing those fourth graders a favor, opening their eyes to the world around them. The teachers did not feel similarly.”
Grief and mourning are another important theme of How to Sell a Haunted House. Hendrix even structured the book around the 5 Stages of Grief.
“So much about ghosts and haunted houses is about grief—it starts with a dead person,” explained Hendrix. “It starts with death and loss and absence.”
Hendrix points to the spiritualist movement of the 19th century as a source of inspiration when talking about how people deal with the paranormal and grief.
“[It] was a really potent force that straddled the world between female suffrage and abolishing slavery and getting the vote to disenfranchised groups and labor activism, and it was largely predicated on this idea that your dead loved ones weren’t necessarily inaccessible to you,” said Hendrix. “You could contact them, and they weren’t burning in Hell or some abstraction in Heaven. They were in a better place, and you would see them again. It was the first religion with a leadership role for women. But it was also predicated on grief. Hauntings have always been connected to the history of grief and mourning.”
“I wrote this book during lockdown, and I really missed my family and I wanted to make up an imaginary family that I could hang out with,” Hendrix continued. “When you’re writing about haunted houses, they’re always about family secrets, family curses that go on for generations, ancestors. I can’t think of any haunted house story that doesn’t revolve around a family.
“The reason I had Mark and Louise so opposed to each other is because I know a lot of families, my own included from time to time, where you fall in love and hate with different siblings. I just think that’s normal and very much part of a family. To me, if you’re going to talk about family, you’re going to talk about family fights…and ghosts.”
How to Sell a Haunted House is currently being adapted into a feature film by Legendary entertainment and Sam Raimi’s Ghost House Pictures, with Hendrix writing the screenplay.
Hendrix’s appearance at The Savannah Book Festival promises to be a unique, fun, and educational experience.
“You’ll learn what to do if you have a haunted house and need to put it on the market,” said Hendrix. “And it’s hopefully entertaining. There are digressions into ghost sex which, unfortunately, was a category of horror fiction in the 80s, but I feel people need to be warned.”
If You Go >>
What: Grady Hendrix How to Sell a Haunted House at the Savannah Book Festival
When: 2:20-3:15 p.m., Feb. 17
Where: Cultural Arts Center, Ben Tucker Theater, 201 Montgomery St.
Cost: Free
Info: savannahbookfestival.org
Savannah, GA, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Convention Consultants of Savannah (CCS) launches a new program, “Curating Savannah” as the long-standing travel experts broaden their services to meet the needs of today’s visitors to the hostess city and surrounding areas. According to Forbes magazine, private group travel is likely to be one of the biggest travel trends of 2024 and travelers are already more inclined towards domestic exploration and showing a preference for private and personalized experiences.
“We have launched our ‘Curating Savannah’ program as this encapsulates the tailored programs we offer group and individual travelers. Our family-owned business was founded 45 years ago by my mother, and we carefully design unique Savannah experiences with curated tours, experiences and itineraries based on the travelers’ particular interests,” said CEO DeAnne Mitchell. “Traveling has evolved for many people in recent years. We want to communicate that our services are not just designed for corporate audiences but increasingly about diverse groups: from alumni travel groups, history enthusiasts, nature lovers and more, who want the hostess city curated to their personal tastes.”
Convention Consultants strives to share their unique perspective of Savannah with visitors. Their extensive experience and the relationships cultivated over time enable them to offer visitors access to exceptional experiences such as historic homes, gardens and other hidden treasures, that are not usually available to most travelers.
“Our three-day trip to Savannah could not have been better,” said client Jim Robinson, who is responsible for his graduating year’s Princeton alumni annual get togethers. “The service level offered by Convention Consultants was outstanding as the tours, staff and her team were excellent onsite and on location. It was all top notch and memorable – from the low country oyster roast, to the Fort Pulaski expedition and the architect’s lecture. We all love history and Convention Consultants brought Savannah’s rich history to life for us.”
For more information about Convention Consultants, visit www.savtours.com
– ENDS –
For media inquiries, please contact Lesley Francis at lesley@lesleyfrancispr.com or the team at 912-417-LFPR (5377).
CONTACT: Lesley Francis Convention Consultants 912-417-5377 lesley@lesleyfrancispr.com
Savannah, GA, is a charming and historic city that captures the hearts of residents and visitors alike. Iconic for its picturesque streets lined with oak trees and Spanish moss, Savannah exudes Southern charm and hospitality. The city’s rich history, vibrant arts scene, and delicious cuisine are just a few of the things that draw people to Savannah. If you’re considering living in the city, the average rent in Savannah is $1,951, and the median home sale price is $325,000.
At Redfin, we’ve compiled a list of 9 popular Savannah neighborhoods to explore if you’re moving to this Georgia gem. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bungalow or an apartment in Savannah, this city has a neighborhood that will make you feel right at home.
1. Ardsley Park-Chatham Crescent
Ardsley Park-Chatham Crescent is a charming neighborhood with beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and proximity to downtown Savannah. Residents can enjoy the nearby Daffin Park, which features walking trails, sports fields, and a lake. The neighborhood also boasts several historic places, including the Ardsley Park-Chatham Crescent Historic District.
The housing types in Ardsley Park-Chatam Crescent range from single-family homes to townhouses, with a variety of architectural styles such as Craftsman, Colonial Revival, and Tudor. The neighborhood offers a mix of historic homes and newer constructions, providing options for different preferences and budgets.
Median Sale Price: $673,500
Homes for Sale in Ardsley Park-Chatham Crescent | Apartments for Rent in Ardsley Park-Chatham Crescent
2. Baldwin Park
Baldwin Park is just north of Chatham Crescent, known for its picturesque streets with Spanish moss-covered trees and beautiful homes. It’s conveniently located near downtown Savannah and offers easy access to major attractions such as Forsyth Park and the Savannah Historic District. Residents can also enjoy Baldwin Park, which features walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The housing types in Baldwin Park include single-family homes and townhouses, with architectural styles ranging from Victorian to Craftsman.
Median Sale Price: $459,000
Homes for Sale in Baldwin Park | Apartments for Rent in Baldwin Park
3. Cuyler-Brownsville
Cuyler-Brownsville is a vibrant area with a mix of residential and commercial areas. The neighborhood is known for its community feel and rich history. The housing types in Cuyler-Brownsville include single-family homes and townhouses, with various of architectural styles such as Victorian and Craftsman.
Median Sale Price: $217,000
Homes for Sale in Cuyler-Brownsville | Apartments for Rent in Cuyler-Brownsville
4. Downtown
Downtown Savannah is the heart of the city, offering a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The area encompasses sub-neighborhoods like the North Historic District and the South Historic District. It’s home to numerous historic sites, including the Savannah Historic District, which is a designated National Historic Landmark. Residents and visitors can explore the city’s rich history, enjoy the bustling River Street, and visit popular attractions such as Forsyth Park and City Market.
The types of homes in Downtown Savannah range from historic homes to modern condos, in a mix of architectural styles like Victorian, Greek Revival, and Italianate. The neighborhood provides a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary living options.
Median Sale Price: $710,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,790
Homes for Sale in Downtown | Apartments for Rent in Downtown
5. Eastside
Eastside is a charming neighborhood offering a mix of residential and commercial areas. It’s known for its tree-lined streets and historic homes. The neighborhood is conveniently located near downtown Savannah and provides easy access to major attractions and amenities. The housing types in Eastside include single-family homes and townhouses, with a variety of architectural styles such as Victorian and Craftsman.
Median Sale Price: $518,000
Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,450
Homes for Sale in Eastside | Apartments for Rent in Eastside
6. North Historic District
The North Historic District is a picturesque neighborhood along the Savannah River, known for its well-preserved historic homes and charming streets. It’s part of the Savannah Historic District, a designated National Historic Landmark. The neighborhood has countless museums and landmarks like The Olde Pink House restaurant, Telfair Academy, Chippewa Square, The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, and River Street.
The housing types in the North Historic District include historic homes and townhouses, with architectural styles ranging from Victorian to Greek Revival. The neighborhood offers a unique opportunity to live in a historic setting with modern amenities.
Median Sale Price: $537,500
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,790
Homes for Sale in North Historic District | Apartments for Rent in North Historic District
7. South Historic District
The South Historic District is another iconic Savannah neighborhood known for its stunning historic homes and charming atmosphere. Residents can enjoy the neighborhood’s proximity to popular attractions, including Forsyth Park, the Andrew Low House, and the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum. The housing types in the South Historic District include historic homes and townhouses, with architectural styles ranging from Victorian to Greek Revival.
Median Sale Price: $962,500
Homes for Sale in South Historic District | Apartments for Rent in South Historic District
8. Midtown
Midtown is a vibrant neighborhood encompassing many smaller neighborhoods like Chatham Crescent, Edgemere, Tatemville, and many more. It’s known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, and convenient access to attractions like Savannah State University and Hull Park. Residents can enjoy the nearby Daffin Park, which features walking trails, sports fields, and a lake.
The housing types in Midtown range from single-family homes to townhouses, in a variety of architectural styles such as Ranch and Colonial Revival. The neighborhood offers a mix of older homes and newer constructions, providing options for different preferences and budgets.
Median Sale Price: $347,500
Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,875
Homes for Sale in Midtown | Apartments for Rent in Midtown
9. Parkside
Parkside is a charming neighborhood located in the Midtown area. It’s conveniently located near downtown Savannah and offers easy access to major attractions such as Forsyth Park, Savannah Historic District, and Daffin Park. Homes in Parkside include single-family homes and townhouses, with architectural styles ranging from Victorian to Craftsman.
Median Sale Price: $415,000
Homes for Sale in Parkside | Apartments for Rent in Parkside
Methodology: All neighborhoods must be listed as a “neighborhood” on Redfin.com. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during November 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com during November 2023.
Vibrant cities like Atlanta and Savannah, farmlands filled with peanuts, pecans, and peaches, lush Blue Ridge Mountains, coastlines, and historic sites – Georgia has an endless list of reasons that might make you want to move there. So if you’re considering living in Georgia then chances are you also have a budget you’re hoping to stay under in your home or apartment search. As of August, the median home sale price in Georgia is $375,000.
If that price doesn’t fit into your budget, don’t worry. Redfin has collected 8 of the most affordable places to live in Georgia. And the best part is that they all have a median home sale price under the state’s average. Read on to see what cities you may want to consider moving to this year.
#1: Albany
Median home price: $145,000
Average sale price per square foot: $75
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $600
Median household income: $40,036
Nearest major metro: Tallahassee, FL (90 miles)
Albany, GA homes for sale
Albany, GA apartments for rent
With a median home sale price of $145,000, Albany comes in at number one on our list of most affordable places to live in Georgia. About 69,600 people live in this city and is roughly 90 miles from the nearest major metropolitan city, Tallahassee, FL. If you’re considering moving to this area make sure to check out downtown Albany, visit the Flint RiverQuarium, and explore the Riverfront Trail where you’ll find Ray Charles Memorial Park.
#2: Valdosta
Median home price: $185,000
Average sale price per square foot: $111
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $850
Median household income: $35,188
Nearest major metro: Tallahassee, FL (20 miles)
Valdosta, GA homes for sale
Valdosta, GA apartments for rent
Georgia’s second most affordable city to live in is Valdosta, located just north of the Georgia-Florida border. When living in this city of 55,400 people, you can explore the charming downtown Valdosta streets, visit museums like Lowndes County Historical Museum or Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts, and golf at one of the courses.
#3: Macon
Median home price: $190,000
Average sale price per square foot: $107
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,282
Median household income: $33,163
Nearest major metro: Atlanta (85 miles)
Macon, GA homes for sale
Macon, GA apartments for rent
Third is Macon where about 152,700 residents currently live. The median home sale price is $190,000 which is about $185K less than the median home sale price in Georgia. If you find yourself moving to the third most affordable place, make sure to check out Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, and explore the riverfront area where you’ll find shops and restaurants. There are also plenty of museums to visit such as the Tubman Museum, the Allman Brothers Band Museum, and the Museum of Arts and Sciences.
#4: Augusta
Median home price: $215,000
Average sale price per square foot: $126
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,006
Median household income: $35,188
Nearest major metro: Columbia, SC (70 miles)
Augusta, GA homes for sale
Augusta, GA apartments for rent
Only slightly more expensive than Macon is none other than Augusta. About 202,100 people live in Augusta, where there are plenty of unique activities to do. Be sure to have a picnic at New Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam Park, explore the August Riverwalk and the charming downtown area, and visit museums like the Augusta Museum of History and the Morris Museum of Art.
#5: Columbus
Median home price: $224,900
Average sale price per square foot: $121
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $936
Median household income: $35,188
Nearest major metro: Atlanta (100 miles)
Columbus, GA homes for sale
Columbus, GA apartments for rent
Another great area to add to your list is Columbus. Home to 206,900 residents, this affordable town can be a great option to add to your list. In Columbus, you can walk or bike along the Chattahoochee Riverwalk, check out museums like Coca-Cola Space Science Center and National Civil War Naval Museum, and visit green spaces like Flat Rock Park and Columbus Botanical Garden.
#6: Warner Robins
Median home price: $251,225
Average sale price per square foot: $136
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $810
Median household income: $58,379
Nearest major metro: Macon (20 miles)
Warner Robins, GA homes for sale
Warner Robins, GA apartments for rent
Sixth on the list is another well-known city, Warner Robins, where the median home sale price is about $125K less than the state’s average. Home to roughly 80,300 people, Warner Robins is a great place to consider renting or buying a home this year. You’ll also have easy access to what makes this city special, like visiting the Museum of Aviation and checking out the restaurants and shops in town.
#7: Savannah
Median home price: $313,000
Average sale price per square foot: $198
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,633
Median household income: $49,832
Nearest major metro: Jacksonville, FL (130 miles)
Savannah, GA homes for sale
Savannah, GA apartments for rent
Next on our list of affordable places to live in Georgia is Savannah. With a population of roughly 147,800, living in Savannah is a great option for those looking for a mid-sized city. If you find yourself moving to this city make sure to visit Savannah’s Historic District where you’ll find historic homes, cobblestone streets, and preserved architecture. You can also explore River Street and the beautiful waterfront areas where you’ll find shops and restaurants, and check out one of the countless museums like SCAD Museum of Art.
#8: Athens
Median home price: $315,000
Average sale price per square foot: $190
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,250
Median household income: $43,466
Nearest major metro: Atlanta (70 miles)
Athens, GA homes for sale
Athens, GA apartments for rent
Last but not least on our list of most affordable places to live in Georgia is Athens, located about 70 miles east of Atlanta. About 127,300 people reside in Athens, so be sure to visit the beautiful State Botanical Garden of Georgia and explore the Sandy Creek Nature Center. You can also check out the University of Georgia campus and grab a meal at one of the local restaurants once you move to Athens.
Methodology: All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have a median home sale price under the average median home sale price in Georgia. Median home sale price and median sale price per square foot from the Redfin Data Center during August 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com August 2023. Population and median household income data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
The “Big Peach,” Atlanta, GA, is widely known for its vibrant music scene, Southern cuisine, Coca-Cola, and of course, peaches. Home to top colleges like Georgia Institute of Technology and Spelman College, and iconic sports teams like the Atlanta Falcons, there’s something for everyone living in Atlanta.
While Atlanta has so much to offer, even the most loved cities have drawbacks. So the cost of living, large population, and traffic may outweigh Atlanta’s positives. Thankfully, you have options if you want to live near Atlanta without buying or renting in the city center.
We’ve gathered a list of 8 cities near Atlanta, all within 50 miles of the city, that you may want to consider living in this year. Let’s take a look.
#1: Brookhaven, GA
Miles from Atlanta: 11
Population: 55,000
Median home sale price: $650,000
Average 1-bed rent: $2,183
Walk Score: 27
Bike Score: 20
Transit Score: 24
Homes for sale in Brookhaven, GA
Apartments for rent in Brookhaven, GA
Brookhaven has a lot of Atlanta’s historic charm, even though it was only incorporated in 2012. With a population of 55,000, it’s small enough to have that community feel while remaining only a 20-minute drive from downtown Atlanta. Brookhaven welcomes the community for festivals and events and has plenty of green space to wander or have a picnic on a nice afternoon.
#2: Smyrna, GA
Miles from Atlanta: 16
Population: 56,400
Median home sale price: $445,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,607
Walk Score: 34
Bike Score: 23
Transit Score: 28
Homes for sale in Smyrna, GA
Apartments for rent in Smyrna, GA
Smyrna is located about 16 miles northwest of Atlanta. Downtown Smyrna is home to Village Green, where you can find a community center, library, and arboretum. The Market Village is the heart of downtown and sits adjacent to the Village Green. In between these two areas, you’ll find the 20th Century Veterans Memorial. Lastly, Smyrna’s historic district is home to the Concord Covered Bridge.
The Smyrna History Museum is definitely worth a visit to connect with Smyrna’s rich 200-year history. The museum is located in an old 1910 train depot and features thousands of photographs, objects, and documents.
#3: Sandy Springs, GA
Miles from Atlanta: 17
Population: 108,000
Median home sale price: $676,433
Average 1-bed rent: $1,773
Walk Score: 27
Bike Score: 25
Transit Score: 20
Homes for sale in Sandy Springs, GA
Apartments for rent in Sandy Springs, GA
Sandy Springs is a great place to live in Georgia. The city has a lot to offer, whether its amenities and activities or its close proximity to Atlanta.
There are many things to do in Sandy Springs. A few examples include visiting the Chattahoochee Nature Center, going for a hike at the Big Creek Greenway, and checking out the Sandy Springs Museum.
#4: Dunwoody, GA
Miles from Atlanta: 17
Population: 50,000
Median home sale price: $549,500
Average 1-bed rent: $2,248
Walk Score: 33
Bike Score: 25
Transit Score: 25
Homes for sale in Dunwoody, GA
Apartments for rent in Dunwoody, GA
Although it was established in the early 1830s, Dunwoody didn’t become an official city until 2008. Living in this town offers the benefit of a small-city lifestyle with the perks of big-city convenience. Every year, the area holds a Butterfly Festival where visitors and locals can admire different types of free-roaming butterflies.
There are many things to do in Dunwoody, including shopping at the Perimeter Mall, going on a nature hike at Dunwoody Nature Center, playing golf at Dunwoody Country Club, and exploring the historic village of Dunwoody.
#5: Marietta, GA
Miles from Atlanta: 20
Population: 61,000
Median home sale price: $455,750
Average 1-bed rent: $1,343
Walk Score: 36
Bike Score: 21
Transit Score: 27
Homes for sale in Marietta, GA
Apartments for rent in Marietta, GA
Marietta is famous for its plentiful nature preserves and historic buildings. The city is home to the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, where the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain took place during the Civil War, and has numerous history museums, including the Gone With the Wind Museum.
There are a number of things to do in Marietta, including visiting Marietta Square, the Marietta Museum of History, and the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art. There are also a number of parks and recreation areas in Marietta, like the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area.
#6: Roswell, GA
Miles from Atlanta: 22
Population: 95,000
Median home sale price: $615,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,315
Walk Score: 22
Bike Score: 14
Transit Score: 22
Homes for sale in Roswell, GA
Apartments for rent in Roswell, GA
Roswell is filled with history. It’s known for its 640-acre historic district, which features a trio of house museums that exhibit the city’s 19th-century roots. Roswell is a great place for foodies of all kinds as there are countless restaurants to check out. From southern BBQ to cozy tea rooms and sidewalk cafes, there’s always a new restaurant to visit.
There is plenty to do in Roswell, such as shopping in historic downtown Roswell, exploring the Chattahoochee Nature Center, visiting the Roswell Mill, and taking a walk or bike ride on the Big Creek Greenway.
#7: Alpharetta, GA
Miles from Atlanta: 27
Population: 70,000
Median home sale price: $700,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,910
Walk Score: 22
Bike Score: 15
Transit Score: 24
Homes for sale in Alpharetta, GA
Apartments for rent in Alpharetta, GA
The city of Alpharetta is known for its technology industry and historic buildings. Many of these historic buildings and homes in the area feature wrap-around verandas and Greek Revival architecture.
There are many things to do in Alpharetta, including shopping at the North Point Mall, visiting the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre for an outdoor concert, taking a walk through Avalon, playing golf at Windermere Golf Club, and enjoying a meal at one of the many great restaurants.
#8: Johns Creek, GA
Miles from Atlanta: 28
Population: 85,000
Median home sale price: $620,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,719
Walk Score: 18
Transit Score: 21
Homes for sale in Johns Creek, GA
Apartments for rent in Johns Creek, GA
Johns Creek is located in Fulton County and is one of many Atlanta suburbs. The city is named after John Rogers, who settled in the area in the 1820s. There are many things to do in Johns Creek, whether you love the outdoors or prefer to stay inside.
You can visit the Johns Creek Environmental Campus, take a walk or hike through one of Johns Creek’s many parks, play a round of golf at one of the golf courses in the area, and visit the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Check out one of the malls and shopping centers in the area, dine at one of Johns Creek’s local restaurants, or visit the Johns Creek Arts Center.
Methodology:
All cities must have a population of more than 50,000 and be less than 50 miles away from Atlanta. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during August 2022. Average rental data from Rent.com during August 2022. Walk Score, Bike Score, and Transit Score from Walkscore.com during August 2022. Population data sourced from United States Census Bureau.
Explore more Atlanta articles
Top 8 Reasons to Move to Atlanta
7 Crave-Worthy Vegan Restaurants in Atlanta
The Unique Angles of Atlanta: Explore Your City One Photo Op at a Time
A city known by many names, “the Big Peach,” “The ATL,” or even, “Hotlanta,” Atlanta, Georgia, is known for its Southern hospitality and rich history. And it’s no surprise that nearly 500K people call this metropolis home. If you’re currently living in Atlanta or relocating from another city, you may find that Atlanta’s median home sale price of $403,750 is outside of your budget.
But, if you don’t see yourself living anywhere else, there’s no need to worry. We’ve rounded up the ten best affordable suburbs within driving distance of Atlanta that may fit better with how much house you can afford. That way, you can explore all Atlanta has to offer, from Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park to the Georgia Aquarium, without paying the premium of living in the city.
#1: Forest Park, GA
Median home price: $180,000
Driving distance from Atlanta: 20 minutes
Forest Park, GA homes for sale
Forest Park, GA apartments for rent
With a population of 19,932, Forest Park is the most affordable Atlanta suburb on our list. Forest Park’s median home sale price is significantly less – about $220K – than in Atlanta and under 30 minutes away from downtown. Living in Forest Park, you’ll have close access to the Atlanta State Farmers Market and Starr Park, so make sure to enjoy the great outdoors and pick up some fresh peaches while you’re at it.
#2: Morrow, GA
Median home price: $215,000
Driving distance from Atlanta: 25 minutes
Morrow, GA homes for sale
Morrow, GA apartments for rent
Coming in as Atlanta’s second-best affordable suburb is Morrow. Only 25 minutes from Atlanta’s city center, you’ll find yourself grabbing some BBQ for lunch in no time. One popular thing to do in Morrow includes visiting Reynolds Nature Preserve where you can watch butterflies during the spring and summer. When living in this suburb of just over 6,500 people, you can also spend time cheering on the Clayton State University Lakers’ sports teams.
#3: East Point, GA
Median home price: $264,650
Driving distance from Atlanta: 15 minutes
East Point, GA homes for sale
East Point, GA apartments for rent
A recognizable suburb of Atlanta is East Point, where the home prices are about $140K less than in Atlanta. East Point is a great suburb to consider moving to and has just about 38,400 people living there. From hiking through the hidden forests at Connally Nature Park to supporting the many local businesses in town, you’ll have plenty of activities to do throughout East Point.
#4: Redan, GA
Median home price: $265,000
Driving distance from Atlanta: 30 minutes
Redan, GA homes for sale
Redan, GA apartments for rent
Just 30 minutes away is the Atlanta suburb of Redan. With a population around 32,000, you’ll have a small-town feel while being able to explore Atlanta in your free time. If you find yourself moving to the fourth most affordable suburb, make sure to visit Redan Park for an afternoon picnic or a baseball game with friends.
#5: Conyers, GA
Median home price: $279,000
Driving distance from Atlanta: 30 minutes
Conyers, GA homes for sale
Conyers, GA apartments for rent
If you’ve been living in Atlanta for some time, you’ve probably heard about the suburb of Conyers. About 17,300 residents call this affordable city home, so you’ll have a fraction of Atlanta’s population and live outside of the hustle and bustle of everyday city life. There are plenty of places to add to your list of must-sees in Conyers, including Olde Town Conyers, the city’s historic district, and Lewis Vaughn Botanical Gardens, where you can see an impressive collection of native plants from Georgia’s Piedmont region.
#6: Panthersville, GA
Median home price: $280,000
Driving distance from Atlanta: 15 minutes
Pathersville, GA homes for sale
Pathersville, GA apartments for rent
Drive 15 minutes southeast of Atlanta and you’ll find the suburb of Panthersville, home to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation headquarters. With about 11,000 residents, moving to this affordable suburb can keep you close enough to Atlanta, while spending about $120K less on a home. In Panthersville, you’ll find Exchange Park which features splash pads for warm summer days and a hiking trail.
#7: College Park, GA
Median home price: $281,050
Driving distance from Atlanta: 20 minutes
College Park, GA homes for sale
College Park, GA apartments for rent
Next on our list of affordable Atlanta suburbs is College Park, which is almost 20 minutes away from the city center. With a population of 13,930, relocating to College Park will give you a smaller town atmosphere compared to the Big Peach. After moving to this affordable suburb, play a round of golf at the College Park Golf Course or explore the quaint downtown. You can also start planning your next vacation as you’re just minutes away from the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
#8: Decatur, GA
Median home price: $290,500
Driving distance from Atlanta: 20 minutes
Decatur, GA homes for sale
Decatur, GA apartments for rent
Decatur is a great place to consider moving to with easy access to downtown Atlanta, just about 20 minutes away. About 24,000 people live in this affordable suburban town, but you’ll be surrounded by lots of small towns to explore in your free time. Popular things to do in Decatur include exploring the DeKalb History Center Museum, picking up some fresh produce from Your DeKalb Farmers Market, and going for a stroll at Glenlake Park.
#9: Powder Springs, GA
Median home price: $357,000
Driving distance from Atlanta: 35 minutes
Powder Springs, GA homes for sale
Powder Springs, GA apartments for rent
If you move to Powder Springs, you’ll find yourself in Atlanta in roughly 35 minutes without significant traffic. While Powder Springs only has a population of about 16,900, you won’t miss out on the great things that make this suburb great. Home to Silver Comet Trail and Seven Springs Water Park, you’ll have plenty of outdoor activities to do while living in Powder Springs.
#10: Tucker, GA
Median home price: $380,000
Driving distance from Atlanta: 25 minutes
Tucker, GA homes for sale
Tucker, GA apartments for rent
Last but not least on our list of most affordable Atlanta suburbs is Tucker. Located northeast of Atlanta, Tucker is only about a 25-minute drive away from the city center. Known for its natural areas, check out Friends of Tucker Nature Preserve, Kelley Cofer Park, or take a hike at nearby Probst Park. Tucker is also home to charming Main Street filled with local shops and restaurants. Each May, the city hosts Tucker Day, celebrating the city with a parade, live music, and food. If you’re not sure about buying your first home, you can check out the most affordable Atlanta suburbs to rent an apartment.
Methodology: Affordability based on whether a suburb is less than the median sale price of Atlanta and under a 30-minute drive from downtown Atlanta. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during March 2022. Population data sourced from United States Census Bureau.
Explore more Atlanta articles:
Top 8 Reasons to Move to Atlanta
7 Crave-Worthy Vegan Restaurants in Atlanta
The Unique Angles of Atlanta: Explore Your City One Photo Op at a Time