BEST and WORST of the Suburbs in Metro Atlanta: Part 2

by Sarah Maslowski

You’ve come to the realization that where you currently live just isn’t cutting it anymore. Whether it's the weather, soaring property taxes, or simply a craving for a fresh start, Georgia—and more specifically, North Georgia—has caught your attention. You're not interested in living directly in Atlanta, but you are exploring the many surrounding suburbs. With so many options, how do you know which town is the right fit?

Here’s a deeper dive into more towns you should know about—what makes them shine and what could make them a little less appealing.

Johns Creek

Johns Creek has made headlines as one of the top suburbs in the U.S. for its strong schools, high-paying job market, and community amenities. But affordability? That might be a stretch, with average home prices hovering near $947,000.

This city, officially incorporated in 2006, is known for its high median income, strong tech industry presence, and ambitious development projects like the 192-acre Town Center and Medley mixed-use community. You'll find excellent schools, great parks like Newtown Park and Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, and retail options like Whole Foods and HMart.

The downside? It’s expensive, and with popularity comes busyness. It's not for everyone, but it’s a top choice if it's in your budget.

Braselton

Spanning four counties—Barrow, Hall, Gwinnett, and Jackson—Braselton is a uniquely shaped town with growing residential developments and a strong emphasis on convenience. Located just off I-85, it's well connected for those needing easy highway access.

Average home prices hover around $586,000, but the area offers a wide range—from affordable new builds to luxury estates in Château Élan. It’s also home to Northeast Georgia Medical Center, making it popular among retirees and healthcare professionals.

The downside? Not much in the way of retail therapy—think no Target or TJ Maxx. You'll have to venture to nearby towns like Flowery Branch for that.

Loganville & Grayson

If you're looking for affordability without sacrificing space or schools, Loganville and Grayson are hidden gems in Gwinnett County. You can find five-bedroom homes in great districts under $550K—a rarity in Metro Atlanta.

Grayson’s average price is around $483,000 and Loganville is at $430,000. These towns have a mix of older homes and new construction options. Schools here frequently earn 8+ ratings on GreatSchools.org, making them great for families.

The downside? They’re a bit removed from bigger attractions like Lake Lanier and larger retail hubs, but that distance is part of the charm—offering a quieter, more hometown feel.

Lawrenceville

Lawrenceville brings affordable housing and proximity to Atlanta, just about 45 minutes to the city depending on traffic. Many homes were built in the '70s and '80s, so you’ll often find large floor plans—5–6 bedroom homes with basements—at an average price around $411,000.

It's a great spot for buyers looking to renovate and build equity, though there’s limited new construction due to how fully developed the area already is.

The downside? Lawrenceville leans more commercial and urban-feeling compared to its suburban neighbors. It's surrounded by major highways (85, 316, 29, and 20), which makes commuting a breeze but adds to that busy atmosphere.

KeyPoint: Best and Worst Suburbs in Metro Atlanta (Part 2)

Each of these towns brings something different to the table.

✔️ Best for luxury and amenities? Johns Creek
✔️ Best for highway access and healthcare? Braselton
✔️ Best for budget-friendly family living? Loganville and Grayson
✔️ Best for investors or DIY-ers? Lawrenceville

❌ Worst for shopping convenience? Braselton
❌ Worst for traffic and commercial sprawl? Lawrenceville
❌ Worst for budget-conscious buyers? Johns Creek

Whether you're looking for prestige, peace and quiet, affordability, or access to Atlanta, there's a suburb that fits your lifestyle—it’s just about finding the right match.