Atlanta, Georgia is higher than most other cities in the southern and eastern United States when it comes to elevation. What to know how high? Keep reading.
What is Atlanta’s Elevation?
Atlanta’s elevation is approximately 1,050 feet (320 meters) above sea level. Some areas, like Buckhead and Sandy Springs, reach elevations of 1,200 feet (366 meters) or more, while lower areas, such as parts of downtown, are closer to 800 feet (244 meters).
Atlanta’s relatively high elevation compared to much of the Southeastern U.S. contributes to its slightly cooler climate and lower humidity than coastal cities like Savannah or New Orleans.
Atlanta’s Elevation: Key Factors
- Atlanta is located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
- The elevation of Atlanta contributes to its more temperate climate.
- The highest point in Atlanta is Kennesaw Mountain at 1,808 feet. Kennesaw Mountain is a popular destination for hiking and cycling.
- Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is at 1,026 feet.
- The summit of Stone Mountain is at 1,686 feet.
- Brasstown Bald is the highest point in Georgia at 4,784 feet above sea level.
- Here’s a breakdown of Atlanta neighborhoods based on elevation, price range, and flood risks, so you can find the best fit depending on your priorities.
1. High-Elevation, Expensive, Low Flood Risk
Best for: Luxury homes, great views, lower insurance costs
Buckhead (North Atlanta) – Some of the city’s highest elevations (1,200+ ft), featuring multi-million-dollar homes, estates, and upscale condos.
Sandy Springs – Hilly terrain, luxury homes, and a mix of suburban and urban lifestyles.
Midtown (Peachtree Ridge area) – High-rise condos, pricey townhomes, and walkable areas.
💰 Price Range: $600K – $5M+
🌊 Flood Risk: Low
📈 Real Estate Trend: Strong appreciation due to demand for city views and central location.
2. Moderate Elevation, Mid-Priced, Some Flood Risk
Best for: More affordable homes, diverse architecture, decent elevation
Decatur – Historic bungalows, strong schools, and elevation around 1,000 ft.
East Atlanta (Ormewood Park, East Atlanta Village) – Affordable homes with some rolling hills, good investment potential.
Kirkwood & Edgewood – More affordable than Midtown but growing in value, some flood-prone areas near creeks.
💰 Price Range: $350K – $900K
🌊 Flood Risk: Moderate (depends on proximity to creeks)
📈 Real Estate Trend: Rising, due to demand for more affordable city homes.
3. Low Elevation, More Affordable, Higher Flood Risk
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, fixer-uppers, investment properties
South Atlanta (Lakewood, East Point, College Park) – Lower elevations (~800 ft), older homes, and more affordable prices.
Westside (Proctor Creek areas) – Lower-cost homes, but some flood risks.
Chattahoochee River Areas (Vinings, parts of Smyrna, Roswell) – Great for nature lovers, but homes near the river require flood insurance.
💰 Price Range: $150K – $500K
🌊 Flood Risk: Higher in low-lying areas
📈 Real Estate Trend: Improving, with redevelopment projects increasing property values.
Best Picks Based on Your Priorities
Best for Investment & Growth: Westside (near BeltLine expansion), East Atlanta, Edgewood
Best for Luxury & Views: Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Midtown high-rises
Best for Nature & Green Space: Vinings, Roswell (near the river), Decatur
Best for Affordability: South Atlanta (Lakewood, East Point), Westside (Proctor Creek area)
Would you like recommendations based on a specific budget or home type?
What Is Atlanta’s Topography?
tlanta’s topography is characterized by rolling hills, ridges, and valleys, making it distinct from the flatter terrain found in much of the southeastern U.S. Here are some key aspects:
1. Elevation & Terrain
- The city sits at an average elevation of 1,050 feet (320 meters) above sea level, making it one of the highest major cities east of the Mississippi River.
- Higher elevations are found in neighborhoods like Buckhead, Midtown, and Sandy Springs, reaching 1,200+ feet in some areas.
- Lower areas, such as parts of downtown and along the Chattahoochee River, dip to around 800 feet.
2. Hills & Ridges
- Atlanta is built on rolling hills and ridges, which is why some streets have steep inclines.
- Notable ridges include Peachtree Ridge, which follows Peachtree Street through Midtown and Buckhead.
- The city’s elevation changes give it more variation than many other southeastern cities.
3. Waterways & Valleys
- The Chattahoochee River runs along the western edge of the city and provides a natural boundary.
- The city has multiple creeks, including Peachtree Creek, Nancy Creek, and Proctor Creek, which contribute to local valleys and floodplains.
- Some areas, especially along these waterways, are prone to flooding.
4. Stone Mountain & the Piedmont Region
- Atlanta is part of the Piedmont region, a transitional zone between the Appalachian Mountains to the north and the Coastal Plain to the south.
- Stone Mountain, located just east of the city, is a massive granite monadnock rising 1,686 feet (514 meters) above sea level and is one of the most prominent natural landmarks in the region.
5. Red Clay Soil
- Atlanta’s soil is known for its red clay, which is rich in iron and gives the ground its distinctive color.
- This type of soil affects drainage, erosion, and construction in the area.
Overall, Atlanta’s topography adds to its unique character, influencing its roads, neighborhoods, and even the local climate.
Things To Do in Atlanta
No matter if you want to catch a comedy club, go out for a night of cocktails and hookah, or go to the club, Atlanta has it all. And if you want to eat in a special place, Atlanta new restaurants continue to pop up every week!
Atlanta has so much to do that you need a curated guide to help you sort through it all. Make sure you subscribe to our #ATLHaps newsletter that gives you a weekly tab of Atlanta events you don’t want to miss.
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