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Downtown Atlanta’s iconic landmark, The Center (CTR) —formerly known as the CNN Center—is gearing up for a highly anticipated reopening in May, AtlantaFi.com has learned.
The project will transform the historic property into a vibrant, inclusive hub for community, culture, dining, and connection.
The CTR To Open In Downtown Atlanta
After extensive renovations and community input, the reimagined space aims to once again serve as a welcoming gathering place for Atlantans and visitors alike.
The project, led by owner-operator CP Group, marks a major revival for the downtown staple, which has long been a recognizable part of the city’s skyline and identity.
The refreshed Common Ground vision emphasizes openness and accessibility, moving away from its past as a more enclosed, single-tenant-focused building.
Highlights include a fully revamped central atrium serving as the property’s lively heart, plus a brand-new 24,000-square-foot food hall called CTR Food Works featuring 12 diverse dining concepts—anchored by popular steakhouse and seafood options—and what organizers say will be the city’s largest bar.
“We’re thrilled to welcome back this beloved Atlanta landmark under its new identity as Common Ground,” a spokesperson for The Center shared. “This is more than a reopening—it’s a commitment to creating a dynamic space where people from all walks of life can connect, create, learn, and celebrate together.”
The May launch will coincide with the building’s 50th anniversary and come just ahead of Atlanta hosting 2026 FIFA World Cup matches, adding extra excitement to the area’s momentum.
Expect a grand opening celebration packed with live performances, local food vendors, family-friendly interactive activities, and showcases of partnerships with organizations focused on social impact, youth development, and economic opportunity.
With millions invested in exterior upgrades, a new arrival experience, and interior enhancements, The Center is poised to draw crowds and help energize downtown Atlanta as a true neighborhood destination for work, dining, entertainment, and community events.
Stay tuned for more details on the opening schedule and programming as May approaches—Atlanta’s Common Ground is ready to reclaim its spot as a cornerstone of the city.
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The past 125 years—from the dawn of the 1900s to the present day in 2025—represent a period of profound change for Georgia.
Emerging from the shadows of Reconstruction and Jim Crow, the state navigated racial upheaval, economic booms, global spotlights, and political realignments.
5 Most Significant Moments in Georgia’s History
At the urging of fellow scholars, I’ve revised my selection to incorporate the creation of the Federal Reserve in 1914, a landmark event with deep Georgia roots that reshaped national finance
What follows are the five most significant historical events (with one honorable expansion) that redefined Georgia, selected for their lasting impact on its society, economy, and identity.
1. The Atlanta Race Riot of 1906: Igniting Racial Tensions in the New South
In the sweltering heat of September 1906, Atlanta erupted in violence that exposed the fragility of the “New South” ideal promoted by figures like Henry W. Grady.
False newspaper reports of Black assaults on white women fueled mobs of white residents, who rampaged through Black neighborhoods for days.
At least 25 Black Georgians were killed, hundreds injured, and property destroyed, forcing thousands to flee the city.
This riot marked a grim pinnacle of early 20th-century racial terror, accelerating the Great Migration of Black Southerners northward and hardening Jim Crow segregation.
It underscored Georgia’s role in the national struggle for racial justice, setting the stage for future civil rights battles.
Most historians view the riot as the dark underbelly of Georgia’s push toward industrialization—progress built on exclusion.
Read about the Atlanta Race Massacre.
2. The Creation of the Federal Reserve in 1914: A Blueprint for Banking
Photo credit: Playhouse Media In November 1910, a secretive meeting unfolded on Georgia’s Jekyll Island, hosted by the exclusive Jekyll Island Club.
U.S. Senator Nelson Aldrich of Rhode Island, alongside bankers like J.P. Morgan representatives Paul Warburg and Frank Vanderlip, drafted the blueprint for a central banking system amid the club’s opulent hunting lodges and oceanfront cottages.
This “Duck Hunt” gathering addressed the Panic of 1907’s bank runs, proposing a national reserve to stabilize currency and credit.
The resulting Aldrich Plan evolved into the Federal Reserve Act, signed by President Woodrow Wilson on December 23, 1913, and operational by 1914.
Georgia’s secluded shores thus birthed the Fed, which has governed U.S. monetary policy for over a century—managing inflation, employment, and crises like the Great Depression and 2008 recession.
For Georgia, it elevated Atlanta as a Federal Reserve Branch hub in 1914, boosting the city’s financial stature and attracting institutions that fueled its growth into a banking powerhouse.
Want to take a deep dive? Check out how the Federal Reserve was created.
3. The Boll Weevil Devastation and the Agricultural Collapse of the 1920s
Georgia’s economy in the early 1900s was tethered to cotton, the “king” that employed much of the rural population. Then came the boll weevil, a tiny beetle that invaded from Mexico in 1915 and ravaged crops by the 1920s.
By 1921, infestations wiped out up to 50% of yields in some counties, plunging farmers into debt and triggering mass foreclosures.
Sharecroppers, both Black and white, faced starvation, leading to urban migration and the diversification of agriculture into peanuts, pecans, and poultry.
This crisis hastened the end of the plantation system and spurred New Deal reforms under Franklin D. Roosevelt, who drew inspiration from Georgia’s Warm Springs.
In my research, the boll weevil symbolizes nature’s role in dismantling an outdated economy, paving the way for Georgia’s mid-century industrialization.
4. The Civil Rights Movement and Atlanta’s Role as a Beacon (1950s–1960s)
Georgia stood at the epicenter of America’s moral reckoning with segregation. Atlanta native Martin Luther King Jr. led the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955–1956, then returned home to co-found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) in 1957.
Not only did he marry the elegant Coretta Scott King, but King Jr. added fuel to the civil rights movement by inspiring lunch counter sit-ins (1960), the Albany Movement (1961–1962), and the March on Washington (1963)—where King delivered “I Have a Dream”—drew global attention.
Atlanta’s pragmatic leaders, under Mayor William B. Hartsfield, adopted the slogan “the city too busy to hate” to avoid the violence plaguing Birmingham.
Read up on some key facts about MLK you might not know.
The movement culminated in the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Voting Rights Act of 1965, dismantling legal Jim Crow.
As an early 1900s specialist, I see this as the fulfillment—and rejection—of the disenfranchisement my era entrenched in 1908. It transformed Georgia from a bastion of white supremacy to a hub of Black political power.
5. The 1996 Atlanta Olympics: Catapulting Georgia onto the World Stage
On July 19, 1996, Atlanta hosted the Centennial Olympic Games, the largest in history with 197 nations participating.
Over 2 million visitors flooded the city, generating $5 billion in economic impact and showcasing Georgia’s modernity through venues like Centennial Olympic Park.
Tragically, a bombing by domestic terrorist Eric Rudolph killed two and injured over 100, testing the state’s resilience.
The Games boosted infrastructure—expanding Hartsfield Airport (now the world’s busiest) and MARTA transit—and rebranded Atlanta as an international metropolis.
In the late 20th century, this event symbolized Georgia’s Sunbelt rise, attracting corporations like CNN and Coca-Cola headquarters. It marked the state’s transition from agrarian roots to global player.
These five events weave a narrative of resilience: from racial violence and financial innovation to economic ruin, triumphant activism, and global prestige.
The Jekyll Island meeting, in particular, highlights Georgia’s behind-the-scenes influence on national institutions.
Final Word
Georgia today is a diverse, booming state of 11 million, yet echoes of the early 1900s—disenfranchisement, agricultural shifts, and monetary reforms—linger in its challenges.
Many figures helped shape Georgia’s history and the world we live in right now. What they didn’t tell you about Rosa Parks.
As journalists, we document not just facts, but the human stories that propel change. The Peach State’s past 125 years remind us that history is not static; it is the foundation for tomorrow.
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Atlanta is a city that is organized by zones. Knowing what zone you’re in can make quite a difference.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about Atlanta zones.
How Many Zones Does Atlanta have?
Atlanta is made up of six zones. The city’s planners came up with the idea to divide Atlanta into zones. Here are the zones that make up Atlanta:
Zone 1: Northwest Atlanta
The neighborhoods that make up Zone 1 include:
- Adamsville
- Bankhead
- The Bluff
- Collier Heights
- English Avenue
- Hunter Hills
- Vine City
- West Lake
Zone 2: Buckhead/Northeast Atlanta
The neighborhoods that make up Zone 2 include:
- Buckhead
- Garden Hills
- Lindbergh
- Morningside
- Piedmont Heights
Zone 3: Southeast Atlanta
The neighborhoods that make up Zone 3 include:
- Capitol View
- Lakewood Heights
- Mechanicsville
- Pittsburgh
- Peoplestown
- Polar Rock
- Summerhill
- Sylvan Hills
- Thomasville
Zone 4: Southwest Atlanta
The neighborhoods that make up Zone 4 include:
- Ben Hill
- Cascade
- Greenbriar
- Oakland City
- West End
Zone 5: Downtown And Midtown
The neighborhoods that make up Zone 5 include:
- Ansley Park
- Castleberry Hill
- Downtown
- Midtown
- Piedmont Park
Zone 6: East Atlanta
The neighborhoods that make up Zone 6 include:
- Old Fourth Ward
- Candler Park
- East Atlanta
- East Lake
- Edgewood
- Kirkwood
- Glenwood
- Little Five Points
- Grant Park
- Virginia Highlands
- Moreland Avenue
Here Is A Map Of Atlanta’s Zones
And there you have it. Those are all of Atlanta’s six zones. If you want to know what type of fod Atlanta is known for, here it is.
Georgia’s largest city continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Do you know how many people live here?
Final Word
If you’ve lived in Atlanta for any amount of time, perhaps you’ve heard about Zone 5 or Zone 6. This article is going to discuss Atlanta’s zones.
Atlanta is a great place and there’s a lot happening. To find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. Downtown Atlanta or Midtown often has something cool going on!
The fun is just starting. Are you a beer drinker? You also may want to visit a craft brewery in the city.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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This Valentine’s Day, why not make it memorable by going to a new restaurant with your special someone? Atlanta, Georgia has several nice restaurants that you’ll love for Valentine’s Day.
We’re going to show you some of the best places in Atlanta to eat for Valentines Day this year. All of these eateries specialize in fine dining, with great executive chefs and top-notch beverage programs. You won’t be sorry.
Where To Eat For Valentines Day In Atlanta
Many of the city’s restaurants have designed special meals for the special day, but why not try some eateries that have proven to be a hit on any given day? If you’re spontaneous -(and she loves that about you) here are some of the best places to eat.
Varuni Napoli
1540 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (404) 709-2690
Looking to have a lovely night on Valentine’s Day? Check out Chef Luca at Neapolitan pizzeria Varuni Napoli this Feb. 14. Treat your Valentine + holiday gathering to a feast for lovers.
Varuni Napoli is offering heart-shaped Margherita pizzas upon request at both their Midtown and Krog locations.
LaGrotta Ristorante
2637 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 231-1368
Here’s what one reviewer says about LaGrotta: “This is a hidden gem in Atlanta. Located in the basement of an extremely unassuming condominium tower, La Grotta is a very authentic and tasty Italian restaurant. Everything in the menu seems to be well prepared and extremely tasty.”
Bone’s Restaurant
3130 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 237-2663
If you come for the king, you best not miss. This Buckhead institution is the defacto king of the city. With its succulent prime beef and seafood, it’s hard to beat. But you’d better get a reservation.
The Optimist
914 Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 477-6260
Here’s what one Google reviewer says about The Optimist: “Took my wife to dinner for date night and we had an excellent first experience. In short, everything was perfect. The service was outstanding, our waitress was personable and thorough. We had the calamari appetizer which was fantastic.”
Chops Lobster Bar
70 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 262-2675
If Bones is the king, then Chops is the president: confident, immaculate and sure in its power. Don’t be surprised to see a who’s who of old-school Atlanta in this classic chophouse.
One reviewer says this about Chops: “The food was awesome! The service is very attentive without being overwhelming all the way from the host to waiters. Great ambience. It is important to point out that they’re two restaurants in one with one being on top of the other. I could myself upstairs searching for the rest of my dinner party when they were already downstairs. Upstairs has more of speak-easy vibes while downstairs (Lobster) is more focused on fine-dining.”
The Consulate
10 10th St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
Interior designer Douglas Hines and his wife Mei Lin, a chef with global influences, teamed up to open The Consulate in 2016 in Midtown. Before that, the Atlanta power couple opened Honey Bubble Tea in Poncey-Highland.
Make a reservation at The Consulate
If you want to experience different cultures through food, this couple has you covered. They plan to open as many as eight restaurants across the city.
9 Mile Station
675 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, Georgia 30308 | (770) 999-1532
Entrepreneur Kelvin Slater and wife Mandy have a hit on their hands with 9 Mile Station. Described as an “elevated beer garden,” 9 Mile Station is located on the rooftop of Ponce City Market in Midtown Atlanta.
Final Word
If you’re looking for a place to eat for Valentine’s Day in Atlanta, you’re in good company. There are quite a few nice eateries that are catering to lovers like you.
Some of the best places to take a date in Atlanta are places off the beaten path. Here are some more special places to dine.
More Food Coverage:
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Sandy Springs, Georgia, is fast becoming a foodie hot spot due to a combination of strategic developments, a diverse and growing culinary scene, and community-driven initiatives that highlight its restaurants.
This article will show you some of the best restaurants to eat at in Sandy Springs.
C&S Seafood & Oyster Bar – Sandy Springs
6125 Roswell Rd Suite 700, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (470) 427-3826
Photo credit: C&S Seafood & Oyster Here’s what one customer says about C&S Seafood & Oyster Bar. “Can you say amazing!!! The best charbroiled oysters ever! The Cesar salad was great I loved the dressing! The bread was even great! Great simple Atmosphere great vibe! Our Waiter was wonderful great experience!”
Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles
5600 Roswell Rd, Atlanta, GA 30342
Owned by Atlanta celebrity restaurateur Kelli Ferrell, this eatery packs a crowd for brunch and more.
Here’s what one customer says about Nana’s: “I enjoyed the experience overall. We came in late on a Saturday afternoon, so it wasn’t too crowded. Busy, but we were seated right away. Our server LA took care of us and made some good recommendations. The chicken paired perfectly with my waffle (Peach cobbler waffle with Pecans). The half tea half lemonade combo was good, but I have had better. I am looking forward to returning and trying some of the menu offerings.”
Love that combo? Check out our Atlanta Chicken & Waffles Guide.
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
4600 Roswell Rd Bldg C Ste 110, Sandy Springs, GA 30342 | (404) 649-6334
Here’s what one diner at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar says. “Cute atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for freebies and discounts on your meal. The ingredients seem fairly high quality and well prepared. Definitely recommend the Tupelo Shrimp and Grits and the Fried Green Tomatoes, some of the better versions of those dishes I’ve had anywhere. The Creole Shrimp Linguine, while decent and filling, was a bit bland so not really worth ordering compared to the shrimp and grits.”
Abuelos Mexican Kitchen and Cantina
6631 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (404) 565-0410
Here’s what one customer says about Abuelos. “Definitely looking forward to our second visit here. Hands down best margaritas and oh did I mention the outstanding and superb steak tacos we had. Best homemade salsa ever!!! And best customer service bar none. So if your looking the best go to Abuelos mexican. Roswell rd Sandy Springs.”
NAM Kitchen
6400 Blue Stone Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (404) 205-5510
Here’s what one diner says about NAM Kitchen. “We had a fantastic lunch. The food and drinks were fresh and delicious. The customer service was amazing. Definitely some of the best pho and sushi I’ve ever had. Very authentic. Love the aesthetic of the place as well. Cute and cozy.”
Southern Bistro
4920 Roswell Rd Suite 55, Sandy Springs, GA 30342 | (404) 705-8444
Here’s what one customer says about Southern Bistro. “This is one of the best breakfast spots I have been to in a long time. The food was delicious and well seasoned. The staff was so personable and Mrs. Maggie was such a joy. I was well please.”
Jinya Ramen Bar
5975 Roswell Rd Suite B217, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (404) 600-6974
Here’s what one person says about Jinya Ramen Bar. “The ramen is one of the best I’ve had. The noodles aren’t overcooked and just right. Even the broth was delicious to drink afterwards. The chicken was fried but it wasn’t soggy even though it was sitting in the broth. It kept it’s consistency.”
Rumi’s Kitchen
6112 Roswell Rd, Atlanta, GA 30328 | (404) 477-2100
Here’s what one customer says about Rumi’s Kitchen in Sandy Springs. “Beautiful atmosphere, excellent service, spectacular food! We had the sea bass- melt in your mouth! The baklava was heavenly!! Rumi’s is the best!”
Tre Vele
6017 Sandy Springs Cir, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (404) 303-8423
Photo credit: Tre Vele Here’s what one diner says about Tre Vele. “Phenomenal atmosphere at bar and one of our go-to favorite places because of Omar and Avery, who are mixologists.par excellent! Such a pleasure each time to dine at bar! Also, the delicious, slightly-spicy lasagna is a must-share entree! Best Caesar dressing around!”
Cibo e Beve
4969 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30342 | (404) 250-8988
Here’s what one customer says about Cibo e Beve. “The food at Cibo e Beve is fantastic. My husband had the Tuscan kale and bean soup and the Carbonara pasta. Both were delicious. I had veal marsala and it was fabulous. The tiramisu dessert was the best I have ever had. The wait staff was wonderful. We certainly recommend this restaurant. We will be back for sure!”
Final Bite
North Fulton County has some great spots to enjoy a meal, including at The Avalon in Alpharetta and in Johns Creek.
If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
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If you love to travel via public transit, or even eat at local restaurants in Atlanta, then MARTA is your pal.
As a key component of MARTA’s broader NextGen Bus Network redesign—the most significant update to the region’s bus system in decades—the system will soon debut MARTA Reach, user-requested rides that bridge gaps in traditional fixed-route service.
Want to learn more? All aboard!
This article will tell you everything you need to know about the MARTA train, including how to board and where it runs.
MARTA: Everything You Need To Know
MARTA, or the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, is the easiest way to travel around Atlanta. Its four rail lines (red and gold (north/south) and blue and green (east/west) will take you to every quadrant within the city limits.Even with easy access to the city’s surrounding areas, you could get lost if you don’t know where you’re going. Read on to see what MARTA is all about and how to ride it with confidence.Where Does MARTA Run In Atlanta?
MARTA runs north, south, east, west and northeast and mostly within the perimeter of the city limits of Atlanta. Technically, there are some train routes that go to suburban cities as well like Doraville, Sandy Springs and Decatur.
For the most part, the MARTA train stays within the city of Atlanta while the many bus routes take you beyond the Interstate 285 loop, which is the unofficial border.
Photo credit: MARTA Is MARTA Safe?
MARTA is one of the safest public transportation systems in America. Although there have been some headline-worthy incidents, compared to other big cities, MARTA is one of the safest rail systems there is.If you happen to witness an incident that needs to be reported, MARTA has blue phones on site for police emergencies and they also are for contacting MARTA Police directly. The white phones are courtesy phones for asking any general questions.Like most major U.S. cities, you can find a uniformed police officer at every bus, train station and parking lot.How Much Does MARTA Cost?
MARTA’s costs vary depending on your destination, age and more. In general, children 46 inches and under can ride MARTA or the Atlanta Streetcar for free (limit two children per paying adult). Here are the fare prices to ride MARTA:Standard Fares Price Regular Fare $2.50 Atlanta Streetcar Regular Fare $1.00 Senior Citizens, Disabled Riders and Medicare Recipients $1.00 MARTA Mobility $4.00 MARTA Passes are also available for discounted rates:- 1 Day Pass — $9.00
- 2 Day Pass — $14.00
- 3 Day Pass — $16.00
- 4 Day Pass — $19.00
- 7 Day Pass — $23.75
- 10 Trip Pass — $25
- 20 Trip Pass — $42.50
- 30 Day Pass — $95
About Breeze Cards And Breeze Tickets
Breeze cards are what MARTA fares are paid with. Breeze cards are $2 and may be reloaded for up to 3 years, whereas Breeze tickets are $1 for single-use only. MARTA fare is $2.50 for a one-way trip — but you can switch up your options depending on your destination and how you want to get there.
The current Breeze fare media—including physical Breeze cards and the existing Breeze Mobile app—will become incompatible with the upgraded system and will be discontinued after May 2, 2026. After that date, riders will need to use the new fare options to board trains or buses.
Fares are loaded onto a Breeze Card/Ticket and can be paid with cash or debit/credit cards at Breeze Vending Machines or RideStores. If you pay with cash on a bus you will still need a Breeze Card/Ticket to receive your transfer.
Does MARTA Run 24 Hours A Day?
MARTA does not run 24 hours a day, but it runs throughout most of the day. Depending on whether it’s a weekday or weekend, MARTA may run up to 2 a.m. on most nights. The train typically begins service at 6 a.m.
How Frequent Does MARTA Run?
- 5-6am — Approx. 20 mins
- 6am-7pm — Approx. 15 mins
- 7pm and later — Approx. 20 mins
What To Do If I Have a Disturbance on MARTA
From time to time, you may come across a person on MARTA who is intent on causing a disturbance. What should you do?
If it’s someone who’s more of a nuisance than a threat, ignore him or her. If you feel that your life is threatened, that’s another matter.
Feel free to connect to a MARTA Police dispatcher directly by calling 404-848-4911 or texting 1-877-371-8477 In cases where it’s not an emergency, feel free to ask a nearby MARTA employee for assistance. Dialing 911 on your phone will connect you directly to a local jurisdiction’s dispatch, not MARTA Police.
Final Word
MARTA is a great way to go to and fro around Atlanta. If you’re using it after dark, be careful around Five Points MARTA station, which is a bit for sketchy than some of the neighboring stations (Georgia State, GWCC/CNN and Peachtree Center).
Check out our Atlanta Travel Guide for more ways to get around Georgia’s biggest city.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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As Atlanta’s job market continues to thrive in early 2026, with strong demand across sectors like automotive, healthcare, legal, and tech, numerous employers are actively seeking talent.
Despite national fluctuations, the metro area boasts thousands of openings, from entry-level positions to specialized roles.
Whether you’re in sales, service, or skilled trades, opportunities abound. In this updated guide, we’ve highlighted 10 companies hiring immediately in and around Atlanta, complete with sample jobs, locations, and direct application links. All positions are current as of February 2026.
Here are 10 standout companies currently recruiting:
- Jim Ellis Automotive Group
Looking for support roles in automotive services.- Sample Job: Gate Attendant / Porter – Jim Ellis University
- Location: Atlanta, GA
- Pay: $15.00 per hour
- Apply: Jim Ellis Automotive Group Careers
- Citywide Plumbing
Opportunities for skilled tradespeople in plumbing.- Sample Job: Commercial Plumbing Technician
- Location: Atlanta, GA
- Pay: $60K – $80K
- Apply: Citywide Plumbing Careers
- GOODMAN MCGUFFEY LLP
Legal firm seeking attorneys for their team.- Sample Job: Associate Attorney
- Location: Atlanta, GA
- Pay: $98K – $155K (estimated)
- Apply: GOODMAN MCGUFFEY LLP Careers
- Babel Audio
Tech roles focused on AI and language processing.- Sample Job: AI Trainer – English Dialogue & Speech
- Location: Georgia (remote-friendly)
- Pay: $17.50 per hour
- Apply: Babel Audio Careers
- Behavior Frontiers
Healthcare positions in behavioral analysis.- Sample Job: Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
- Location: Smyrna, GA
- Pay: $87K – $95K
- Apply: Behavior Frontiers Careers
- Customs and Border Protection
Government roles in security and enforcement.- Sample Job: Border Patrol Agent – Experienced
- Location: Atlanta, GA
- Pay: $63K – $120K
- Apply: Customs and Border Protection Careers
- Rick Hendrick Chevrolet – Duluth
Automotive technician opportunities.- Sample Job: GM and Diesel Automotive Technician/Mechanic
- Location: Duluth, GA
- Pay: $35.00 – $50.00 per hour
- Apply: Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Careers
- Power Home Remodeling
Entry-level sales positions available.- Sample Job: Entry Level Sales Representative
- Location: Atlanta, GA
- Pay: $72K – $130K
- Apply: Power Home Remodeling Careers
- Cenveo
Manufacturing roles in printing and packaging.- Sample Job: Envelope Machine Adjuster
- Location: Smyrna, GA
- Pay: $24.00 per hour
- Apply: Cenveo Careers
- Taco Mac Restaurant Group
Hospitality jobs in food service.- Sample Job: Cook – Crabapple
- Location: Roswell, GA
- Pay: $18.00 per hour
- Apply: Taco Mac Restaurant Group Careers
These companies offer a range of opportunities across various industries. Visit their career pages for more details on openings
Is It Hard To Get A Job In Atlanta?
The main way to get a job in Atlanta is to know which companies are hiring. Once you know that and your resume is tight, you can submit applications and hopefully get the gig — but one thing at a time.
In addition to a diverse job market, Atlanta has a vibrant gig economy that makes it easy to make money by ridesharing or some other way.
Atlanta, Georgia has a wide-ranging economy, which bodes well for job seekers looking to move to the city, especially in the city’s tech industry.
If you’re looking for a job in Atlanta, make sure you check out our Jobs Page that has employment resources.
Read more: Best Work-From-Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
- Jim Ellis Automotive Group
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Atlanta, the beating heart of the South, isn’t just a hub for hip-hop, film, and Fortune 500 companies—it’s also a powerhouse for storytelling through sound.
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse voices, the city has birthed some of the most captivating podcasts out there — and they’re all unabashedly Atlanta.
What Are the Best Atlanta Podcasts?
Whether you’re navigating the I-85 traffic crawl, jogging along the BeltLine, or just unwinding at a Ponce City Market rooftop bar, these audio gems capture the essence of ATL.
In 2026, you can expect podcasts to remain a staple for busy Atlantans, blending true crime chills, music vibes, sports fervor, and city lore.
We’ve rounded up some of the standout shows—based on listener ratings, cultural impact, and fresh episodes—to add to your queue.
(Pro tip: Most are audio-only, but many offer video versions on YouTube or Spotify for that visual fix. Search the title plus “video” to check.) Here’s how to tune in and “watch” them.
Here Are Top Podcasts in Atlanta
We’ve rounded up seven standout podcasts that are thriving right now, all actively dropping episodes and engaging fans. Tune in via major platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube for that seamless listen (or watch) experience. Here’s our curated list:
1. Atlanta Monster
Atlanta Monster is a chilling true crime series that dives deep into Atlanta’s most notorious cold cases and unsolved mysteries, with gripping storytelling that keeps you hooked. It’s a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the darker side of our city’s past.
How to Watch/Listen: Atmospheric narration and local insights make it feel personal to Atlantans.
Access: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and major platforms. Search “Atlanta Monster” or visit tenderfoot.tv for episodes.2. Breakdown
From the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, this investigative powerhouse dives into high-stakes Georgia court cases with journalists Bill Rankin and Christian Boone.
Season 9 unpacks the ongoing Trump-related probes in Fulton County, blending courtroom drama with ATL’s political intrigue. It’s gripping, journalistic gold.
How to Watch/Listen: Audio on Spotify or Apple Podcasts; bonus video breakdowns on the AJC’s YouTube. Episodes drop bi-weekly, with live Q&As via their app.
3. Locked On Falcons
Football fanatics, rise up! Hosted by Aaron Freeman, Locked on Falcons features a daily deep dive into the Atlanta Falcons delivers film breakdowns, player interviews, and hot takes on everything from draft picks to Mercedes-Benz Stadium tailgates.
With the 2025 season heating up, it’s your ultimate Dirty Birds playbook.
How to Watch/Listen: Quick audio hits on Apple Podcasts or Spotify; full video episodes on the Locked On Network’s YouTube. Daily drops—start your game-day with it.
4. What’s Good, Atlanta?
On What’s Good, Atlanta?, comedians Mark Kendall and David Perdue turn overlooked headlines into hilarious highlights, from BeltLine expansions to chicken wing rankings (ATL’s top 5, y’all).
It’s uplifting, Atlanta-centric escapism that celebrates the city’s quirks.
How to Watch/Listen: Audio on NPR One or Spotify; live recordings and clips on their YouTube channel. Weekly episodes, with bonus live shows at spots like Dad’s Garage.
5. Atlanta Startup Podcast
Tech meets hustle in Atlanta Startup Podcast’s spotlight on ATL’s booming innovation scene.
Host David Cummings chats with founders behind AI ventures and fintech disruptors, tying into events like Venture Atlanta 2025. It’s inspiring fuel for the city’s entrepreneurial spirit.
How to Watch/Listen: Audio via Apple Podcasts or Spotify; video interviews on their dedicated YouTube. Bi-weekly releases, often with live streams from Ponce City Market.
6. Southern Fried Soccer
AJC’s Doug Roberson serves up post-match analysis for Atlanta United fans, from Five Stripes triumphs at Mercedes-Benz Stadium to MLS transfer rumors.
With the 2025 season’s playoff push, it’s essential listening for soccer die-hards.
How to Watch/Listen: Audio on Spotify or Apple Podcasts; extended video recaps on the AJC Sports YouTube. Weekly episodes, synced to match days.
7. Southern Vanguard
A celebration of Southern hip-hop and underground music culture, with interviews, mixes, and discussions straight from the ATL scene.
Why it’s cool: It highlights the Dirty South’s influence on global music—essential listening for hip-hop heads.
How to Watch/Listen: Full video episodes on their YouTube channel; audio versions on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Monthly drops, with bonus live recordings from hotspots like CreateATL.
Social Proof
Hosted by David Shands and Donni Wiggins, the Social Proof podcast breaks down black entrepreneurship into digestible content that people can understand.
How To Watch/Listen: Catch them on their Youtube Channel and Apple Podcasts.
These podcasts aren’t just entertaining—they’re weaving Atlanta’s narrative one episode at a time.
Final Word
From the Falcons’ gridiron glory to the echoes of civil rights in “Buried Truths” (a close runner-up), our airwaves are alive with Southern swagger. Got a favorite we missed? Drop it in the comments. Stay tuned, ATL—your next binge is calling.
These pods aren’t just entertainment; they’re a sonic love letter to Atlanta’s hustle, heart, and history.
In the heart of the Peach State, Atlanta’s podcast scene is buzzing louder than ever. As the city’s creative pulse beats strong—from hip-hop history to Southern sports drama—local shows are capturing global ears while keeping their roots firmly planted in ATL.
Whether you’re commuting down Peachtree Street or chilling on the BeltLine, these audio gems offer everything from true crime chills to cultural deep dives.
Whether you’re a transplant decoding the city’s quirks or a lifelong resident craving fresh takes, they’ve got you covered. Fire up your app, hit play, and let ATL’s voices guide your next adventure.
Got a fave we missed? Drop it in the comments. Stay tuned for more local spotlights—because in the A, the story never stops.
AtlantaFi.com: Covering the city that never sleeps, one story at a time.
More from AtlantaFi.com:
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As the new year takes hold, the American landscape of work continues to evolve, shaped significantly by the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
There’s no doubt that remote work, once a niche perk, has become a mainstream expectation for many professionals. While some companies push for return-to-office mandates, employee preferences lean heavily toward flexibility.
List: High-Paying Remote Jobs Hiring Right Now
This article explores remote jobs that pay $100,000 a year or more. As Atlanta’s go-to source for job market updates, AtlantaFi.com is back with an enhanced guide to high-paying remote opportunities.
“Finding a job is especially difficult today,” says Jessica Jackson, a retired job counselor who lives in Fulton County. Before moving to Georgia, she oversaw workforce opportunities for a county in Virginia. “People need more than skills and even a good network. They need to know about high-paying opportunities.”
Salaries reflect national medians and trends as of early 2026, with many roles offering flexibility ideal for Georgia residents. Search filters for “remote” on these sites to find the latest postings—opportunities update daily!
Table of Remote Jobs Paying $100K+
I’ve selected a variety of active postings with explicit high-salary indications.
Job Title Company Salary Range Job Link Senior Amazon Brand Manager GNO Partners $100,000+ USD Apply Here Director of Revenue Yoko Co $100,000+ USD Apply Here Senior Growth Marketer (Product-Led, Full-Funnel) Positive Intelligence $100,000+ USD Apply Here Account Executive, Enterprise Zapier $100,000+ USD Apply Here Senior Cloud Infrastructure Engineer Digioh $100,000+ USD Apply Here Senior Software Engineer – Backend/Python (USA Only) Close $100,000+ USD Apply Here Senior Director, Data Engineering Autodesk $210,800 – $341,000 Annually Apply Here (via Remote.co) Staff Product Designer, Core UX Design GitHub $140,400 – $372,300 Annually Apply Here (via Remote.co) Chief Engineer – Software Eaton $137,000 – $201,000 Annually Apply Here (via Remote.co) Staff Product Manager Kraken $127,200 – $254,400 Annually Apply Here (via Remote.co) These are examples from reliable remote-focused sources like We Work Remotely and Remote.co. Salaries are as listed in postings (base or range; total comp may be higher with bonuses/equity). Availability can change quickly—click the links to apply or view full details, requirements, and to confirm remote status.
Pro tip for Atlanta job seekers: Use location-agnostic searches (e.g., “remote” filter) on these platforms, and highlight your local advantages like cost of living and timezone alignment in applications.
The remote job market remains strong in 2026, especially in tech, healthcare, and sales. If you’re in the Atlanta area and eyeing a transition, focus on certifications or portfolios that stand out in virtual interviews. Check back with AtlantaFi.com for more tailored updates, salary trends, and local networking tips. Your next six-figure remote role could be just a click away!
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Move over, Uber. The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) is set to transform local mobility with the upcoming launch of MARTA Reach, an innovative on-demand transit service rolling out on March 7, 2026.
As a key component of MARTA’s broader NextGen Bus Network redesign—the most significant update to the region’s bus system in decades—Reach introduces flexible, user-requested rides that bridge gaps in traditional fixed-route service.
MARTA Reach to Mobilize Vans Like Uber
MARTA Reach delivers point-to-point shared rides using modern vans, providing quick and convenient transportation at riders’ request.
The service operates in 12 designated zones spread across MARTA’s service area, allowing passengers to travel seamlessly within each zone or connect to the larger transit network.
Key Features of MARTA Reach
- Curb-to-Curb Service: Within a designated zone, vehicles pick up and drop off passengers directly from their starting point (A) to their destination (B). This makes it ideal for neighborhood travel, errands, or short trips where traditional bus stops might not align perfectly with your needs.
- First- and Last-Mile Connections: Reach excels at linking riders to fixed bus routes and rail stations. It serves as a vital bridge, enabling seamless continuation of journeys beyond the zone boundaries to access MARTA’s extensive rail and bus system.
- Extended Availability: Service runs 18 hours per day, seven days a week across all 12 zones, offering reliable options from early morning through late evening.
- Easy Booking: Requesting a ride is straightforward—simply use the dedicated MARTA app or place a phone call. No need to wait at fixed stops or follow rigid schedules.
- Accessible for Everyone: All vans are ADA-compliant and fully equipped to accommodate wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility devices, ensuring inclusive service for riders of all abilities.
How the Zones Work
MARTA Reach functions within 12 clearly defined geographic zones throughout the MARTA transit footprint. Riders can request trips anywhere within their current zone for direct, shared transportation.
In select zones, the service also supports connections to and from other MARTA bus routes or rail lines outside the zone, enhancing overall connectivity.
These zones target areas where traditional fixed-route service may be less frequent, providing a more responsive option for lower-density neighborhoods and improving access to jobs, healthcare, shopping, and other essential destinations.
Part of a Bigger Transformation
MARTA Reach launches ahead of the full NextGen Bus Network rollout (scheduled for April 18, 2026), giving riders an early taste of the agency’s “smarter, faster, better” vision.
By combining on-demand flexibility with high-frequency fixed routes, the initiative aims to make public transit more efficient, accessible, and appealing across metro Atlanta.
For more details, including zone maps, zone profiles (such as West Atlanta, Kirkwood/Candler Park, and others), trip planning tools, and updates, visit the official MARTA Reach page at itsmarta.com/reach or explore the NextGen resources at itsmarta.com/nextgen.
With MARTA Reach, getting around metro Atlanta is about to become more convenient and connected than ever before. Stay tuned for the March 7 launch—your next ride could be just a tap or call away!
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