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ATLANTA
A Big City with Southern Charm
Atlanta's a dynamic city full of opportunities. With numerous possibilities for work and leisure, Atlanta is ideal for young workers ready to make a mark on the world at a slower, more enjoyable pace.
Atlanta is a unique exception to other big cities. Despite being one of the major metropolitan areas in the country, it still retains a good ol' Southern charm. But unlike popular misconceptions of the South, Atlanta has emerged as one of America's most diverse cultural and industrial centers.
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Many Fortune 500 companies are either headquartered in Atlanta (Coca-Cola and Home Depot to name a couple) or have branches in the area. So while many college grads flock to New York, Chicago or L.A. in search of work only to be confronted with extremely stiff job competition and exorbitant rent, Atlanta is a sweet alternative that presents just as many, if not more, job opportunities. Plus none of those other cities offer the added incentive of Southern charm and hospitality.
With over thirty colleges and universities located within Atlanta, a sizeable community exists of recent grads looking to break ground in the working world. And when they're not busy on the job, there are plenty of things to do no matter what you're into. Each neighborhood displays its own vibe and personality, so it doesn't take long to become acclimated and call Atlanta home.
Neighborhoods
 Buckhead
In the words of local rap virtuoso Jermaine Dupri, Buckhead is where Atlanta's "playas play." Affluent and upscale, it offers a unique combination of business and pleasure. Many of Atlanta's leading businesses are located within walking distance of some of the most popular bars, restaurants and late-night hangouts.
Despite the posh lifestyle, Buckhead can be affordable for young workers. Although it may be more expensive than other neighborhoods, it's best to consider specific factors-like commuting. If you work in the area or plan on frequenting the bar scene, it's easier to live right in Buckhead rather than paying for expensive taxis or parking.
Midtown
Midtown is a nice blend of urban and residential. The centralized location makes it an ideal neighborhood since it offers convenient access to the rest of the city. It also surrounds Piedmont Park, Atlanta's largest park and site of some of the city's largest and most popular events, such as the Dogwood Festival, Pride Festival and Screen on the Green.
Midtown meets any price range. There are nice, older houses and apartments for rent or chic spots closer to downtown. You might have to travel a little further for grocery stores and such, but the convenience to many of Atlanta's largest events, and the city as a whole, is very handy.
Atlantic Station
Atlantic Station is a new neighborhood built for convenience. It's like living in an outdoor mall with new stores, restaurants and a movie theater all within walking distance. But Atlantic Station is not only convenient in and of itself. Located near downtown, Midtown, Buckhead and the I-75/85 interchange, it makes the rest of Atlanta very accessible.
Plenty of popular housing options from apartments to townhouses are very affordable for young professionals. Since nearly every necessity is within walking distance, it cuts down on driving or traveling around the city. So paying a little more in rent may be cheaper than buying more gas.
East Atlanta/Little 5 Points
East Atlanta and its surrounding vicinity was a neglected portion of the city for many years, but that's no longer the case. Recent gentrification has transformed previously worn-down and neglected warehouses and buildings into new, modern lofts, apartments and townhouses. Its distance from more business-oriented parts of town allows this area a bit of a Bohemian personality.
East Atlanta is close to Little 5 Points and many of the city's alternative music venues and art galleries. Housing options run the entire price spectrum in East Atlanta. Many new spots are available, but cheaper options exist in portions of the neighborhood still awaiting more rejuvenation.
OTP
Most people who work in Atlanta don't live in Atlanta, so anyone moving here needs to know the phrase "OTP." Short for "outside the perimeter," it describes the towns located immediately outside I-285, the city's unofficial boundary. OTP towns have a more suburban and family-oriented feel, but it can be incredibly convenient for any young worker looking to save on rent.
Many big businesses are located OTP in cities like Sandy Springs, Marietta and Roswell. If you work in one of these areas or even if you work in the city, OTP can be a cheap nearby option.
Transportation
Atlanta is a sprawling city. During weekday rush hour, a usual fifteen-minute drive across the city can take up to an hour. Although there is a rather large and expansive public transportation system known as MARTA, its convenience depends heavily on what part of town you work in. The buses go everywhere, but the rail system is only useful in certain situations. If you plan on living in Atlanta, plan on owning a car.
Local Lingo
Fixin' to move to Atlannah? The unofficial capital of the south, the famous drawl awaits you. Although the natives speak slow and are pretty easy to understand, y'all may be thrown for a loop by some of the outlandish expressions you come across. Don't worry; you can pick up some local terms faster than all get out (a phrase that means 'the utmost').
Keep in mind, y'all can be singular or plural. If you want to be sure folks know you're talking to everyone, be sure to specify all y'all as opposed to just y'all. You'd hate for anyone to feel left out.
If you're headed out to see the Braves play, you'll be going to Turner Field, otherwise known as The Ted. While you're there, have some goobers - peanuts to the rest of us.
Don't be surprised if you ask for a Coke and natives say, "What kind?" In Georgia and much of the south, where Coca-cola originated, all sodas are referred to casually as Coke. If you want cola, say "just a Coke." For anything else, ask for it by name.
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Tom DeFreytas graduated from Emory University in 2006 with a major in Creative Writing and a minor in Political Science. He currently resides in Atlanta working as a freelance writer.
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Comm. And Telecomm
• Turner Broadcasting
• Cingular
• Cox Communications
• Bellsouth
Consumer Products
• Coca-Cola Co.
• Delta Airlines
• Nintendo of America
• Home Depot
What do you love about working here?
It's affordable for young adults in comparison to other major cities.
Eileen, 23
Emory Goizueta School of Business, Credit Analyst
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