16 Pros and Cons of Living in Marietta, GA

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Georgia is often well-known for its southern hospitality – and some really uncomfortable summers.

If you’re thinking of moving to Georgia, there’s a good chance that Marietta has crossed your mind – or at least popped up during your research.

How does it compare to other areas in Georgia and across the nation?

And is it the best city to move to in the area?

Let’s take a look at some of the biggest pros and cons to find out so that you can make an educated decision.

Pros of Living in Marietta, GA

There are plenty of good reasons to consider living in Marietta.

The following are just some of the benefits that residents enjoy.

1. The Weather Is Usually Really Nice

About two-thirds of the year, it’s usually pretty sunny, with temperatures ranging from about 55 degrees to 80 degrees.

These moderate temperatures make living in Marietta a very pleasant experience.

Even at the hottest of times, it tends to be one of the coolest areas in all of Georgia.

And when it does get hot, you’ve got plenty of water within driving distance to help you stay cool.

2. Education Is Pretty Top-Notch

Both the government and the community are highly invested in the education system, which has turned out to be a great advantage for students.

The teacher-to-student ratio is 15 to 1, giving the teachers more time to dedicate to each student than in many school systems.

Students have access to great educational facilities, including technological rooms, libraries, and labs.

And teachers focus more on diving into the students’ questions and curiosity, rather than focusing on memorizing facts.

3. It’s a Diverse Population

Marietta is definitely a diverse population, with people of all ages, genders, and races making their homes in this city.

In fact, when the numbers are calculated, Marietta ranks higher on the diversity level than both the national average and the state average.

This fact makes it a great place for anyone looking to build a life and a bright future.

4. The Job Market Is Good

You can take pretty much any skill with you to Marietta, as the job market is wide open.

And the good news is that pretty steady job growth is expected over the next several years.

And even if you can’t find the perfect job inside Marietta, you are close to Atlanta and other places exploding with opportunities.

In short, you shouldn’t have an issue finding a job – even if you have to drive a little to work.

5. There’s Plenty for You to Do

No matter your age or adventure level, there is a lot of stuff to do.

From mountain climbing and water sports to the Ghosts of Marietta Tour and Strand Theatre, there’s something to explore all of the time.

And don’t forget you’re close to Six Flags, White Water, tons of shopping, and some delicious dishes for your enjoyment.

6. It’s a Family-Friendly Area

If you have kids, Marietta can be a great place to raise them.

Outside of the education system, there are also many family-friendly activities to enjoy.

If you want them to learn more about history, head to places like the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

If you want to get them outdoors more, go hiking on Kennesaw Mountain, visit various parks, hit bike trails, set them loose at the playgrounds, or enjoy a picnic just about anywhere.

7. Substance Abuse Rates Are Low

In comparison to many other areas in both Georgia and the country as a whole, Marietta has pretty low substance abuse rates.

This may seem strange to add to a list, but it really isn’t.

Substance abuse is often linked to issues like depression and poverty, and it often leads to more crime.

Therefore, having a low substance abuse rate is a good sign that most people are happy with their lives and – potentially – dealing with less poverty.

8. It’s a Great Place for Younger Crowds and Families

Marietta is full of ladies and gentlemen in their 20s and 30s – many of whom have young children.

The median age is about 33 years old.

It’s a really suitable place for younger people looking to network or give their kids a chance to make a lot of friends.

Cons of Living in Marietta, GA

It’s never good to make a decision to move without understanding the downsides, too.

Be sure you factor the following disadvantages into your decision.

1. It Stays Pretty Wet – And Can Get Really Hot

Although the weather is usually nice, it can be uncomfortable at times.

For one thing, the one-third of the year that isn’t nice and sunny is usually pretty wet – with an average of 53 inches of rain each year.

And there are some pretty hot days that can lead to temperatures well over 90 degrees.

2. The Mosquitoes Can Drive You Bananas

Mosquitoes are everywhere, but they tend to take over Marietta.

Sadly, the beautiful, warm, and wet climates are ideal breeding conditions for these pesky critters.

You’ll want to take plenty of precautions to limit the number of bites and possible exposure to transmittable diseases.

This includes using insect repellents and limiting your outdoor time when mosquitoes are active.

3. The Cost of Living Is Kind of High

Marietta has a lower cost of living than some areas in Georgia, but it’s still pretty high compared to many locations.

To put it in perspective, the average cost of living in the USA is set at 100.

Georgia as a whole sits at 93.4 out of that 100, while Marietta sits at 111.5 – more than the average.

4. And So Are the Property Rates

One area that Marietta definitely tops the average in is property rates.

The median cost of a home is $290,700 in Marietta.

The median price of a home in Georgia as a whole is $186,500 and $231,200 for the US.

With such high housing costs in Marietta, it’s important that you have a good job or career going to afford your home.

5. The Job Market Is Mostly Specialized

Though the job market is expanding, most of the residents currently work in specialized fields.

These include legal, computer and mathematical, engineering, and similar fields.

There are, of course, plenty of sales, food prep, construction, management, and office positions.

However, you’ll do better if you specialize in the previous fields mentioned.

6. Traffic Isn’t Exactly User Friendly

Marietta is close to Atlanta and in the midst of three interstates.

On the bright side, residents have plenty of opportunities to travel nearby.

Unfortunately, that also means contending with the traffic of visitors and travelers.

Typically, weekends, rush hour, and holidays can turn the roads into parking lots – or at least very close to being one.

7. Crime Rates Could Be Better

Marietta, GA has an overall crime grade of C-, which isn’t exactly terrible.

However, the property crime grade is a D, which is pretty bad.

Statistically, a crime happens about every 48 minutes in Marietta, and that can be cause for concern.

Crime tends to be highest in the central part of the city and is much lower in the northern areas of Marietta.

8. It Might Not Be the Best Place to Retire

Though Marietta has a lot to offer, don’t forget that most of the residents are in their 20s and 30s.

If being around a younger crowd makes you feel younger, it’s a good spot to retire.

And if you dream of playing golf throughout your retirement, Marietta has plenty of places for you to do so.

If – on the other hand – you want a quiet, more peaceful retirement, you might want to keep looking.

Pros and Cons of Living in Marietta, GA – Summary Table

Marietta Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Marietta Safety Review

Safety Index:

78

• OVERALL RISK: LOW
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: LOW
• TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
• SCAMS RISK: LOW
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW