Johns Creek, GA: #1 Best Suburb in USA?!

A recent article by Travel and Leisure listed Johns Creek, GA, as the number one suburb in the U.S. for affordable housing, top-rated schools, and excellent job opportunities. While this recognition is noteworthy, the characterization of Johns Creek as "affordable" might raise a few eyebrows for those familiar with the area.

The Background of Johns Creek

Johns Creek is located in North Metro Atlanta, adjacent to Alpharetta in Fulton County. Interestingly, Johns Creek was originally considered part of Alpharetta until it became its own city in 2006. The push for incorporation was driven by residents who wanted more localized governance to address zoning, development, and public services tailored to their community’s needs. Since becoming a city, Johns Creek has developed its own municipal government, complete with a mayor, city council, and various departments dedicated to local governance.

Job Opportunities in Johns Creek

One aspect that Travel and Leisure got right is the abundance of excellent job opportunities in Johns Creek. According to Census data, Johns Creek is among the wealthiest communities, with a median income of $130,000. Much like Alpharetta, Johns Creek boasts a strong presence of IT and technology-based jobs, attracting professionals from across the country. This economic vitality is a significant draw for many relocating to the area.

Moreover, a new development called Medley is set to further enhance Johns Creek's appeal. This 52-acre mixed-use development will feature luxury residences, retail spaces, and lifestyle amenities. Medley, part of Johns Creek's new Town Center, is expected to create a vibrant community space and provide more job opportunities in the area.

Top-Rated Schools in Johns Creek

Another point in favor of Johns Creek is its top-rated schools. The suburb is home to about 14 public elementary, middle, and high schools, all of which boast impressive ratings on greatschools.org. Whether you're looking for an elementary school with a nine rating or a high school with a perfect 10, Johns Creek has educational options that rank among the best in the state. However, it's crucial for parents to do their own research beyond online ratings, such as visiting schools and seeking out opinions from other parents in the community.

The Reality of Housing Costs in Johns Creek

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: housing affordability. Contrary to what Travel and Leisure suggests, Johns Creek is far from affordable by most standards. The average sales price of a home in Johns Creek currently sits just over $1 million, with the median sales price around $880,000. These figures are significantly higher than what the article reports, and they reflect the high demand for homes in this desirable suburb.

Despite the steep housing prices, many people are willing to pay a premium to live in Johns Creek due to its excellent schools, strong job market, and beautiful surroundings. The suburb is known for its pristine, clean environment and its numerous amenities, including parks like Newtown Park and Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, as well as shopping options like Target, TJ Maxx, Whole Foods, and Hmart.

KeyPoint

Johns Creek, GA, is undeniably a fantastic place to live, offering top-rated schools, great job opportunities, and a high quality of life. However, the characterization of Johns Creek as an "affordable" suburb may be misleading. The reality is that this sought-after area comes with a hefty price tag. If you're considering moving to Johns Creek, it's essential to be prepared for the costs associated with living in one of the best suburbs in the country. While the suburb may not be affordable for everyone, it certainly offers a wealth of benefits for those who can afford it.