Atlanta, Georgia, is one of the fastest-growing U.S. cities, home to over 300,000 students across top universities like Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), Emory University, and Georgia State University (GSU). Known for its affordability compared to New York or Los Angeles, Atlanta also offers students access to some of the most energetic communities in the South. Exploring the rich neighborhoods in Atlanta Georgia isn’t just about luxury; it’s about safety, strong employment opportunities, and proximity to universities. In this guide, we’ll highlight the Atlanta richest neighborhoods that balance upscale living with student-friendly access to housing, culture, and career options.
Rich Neighborhoods in Atlanta That Students Can Explore in 2025
Atlanta blends Southern charm with modern opportunities, making it a hub for both students and young professionals. The city’s upscale districts offer more than luxury; they provide safety, career prospects, and proximity to top universities. Here are the rich neighborhoods in Atlanta Georgia, that students should keep an eye on in 2025.
1. Buckhead
Buckhead is one of the most iconic rich neighborhoods in Atlanta Georgia, often called the “Beverly Hills of the South.” Home to over 25,000 students living in and around the area, it’s a hotspot for both luxury living and student convenience. Known for its high-rises, upscale shopping at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza, and lively nightlife, Buckhead balances glamour with accessibility. Beyond lifestyle perks, it’s also one of the Atlanta richest neighborhoods for career opportunities, with Fortune 500 offices and business hubs providing internships and graduate roles. With easy access to universities like Georgia Tech and Georgia State University, students benefit from high employability, safe surroundings, and strong transit connections.
If you’re considering upscale student housing near Buckhead, The Ridge Atlanta offers modern amenities and convenient access to Georgia Tech and Georgia State University.
2. Brookhaven
Brookhaven is one of the most desirable Atlanta Georgia rich neighborhoods, combining suburban calm with easy access to the city. With a student population of nearly 12,000 residents, many from nearby Oglethorpe University, the area is popular among those who want quieter surroundings without giving up connectivity. Tree-lined streets, family-friendly parks, and upscale dining along Dresden Drive make Brookhaven a community-centered option. As one of the established rich neighborhoods in Atlanta Georgia, it offers students both a safe living environment and career opportunities, while being just minutes from Buckhead and Midtown.
3. Druid Hills
Druid Hills is one of the most established rich neighborhoods in Atlanta Georgia, blending historic estates with a strong academic presence. Home to Emory University and its 15,000+ students, the neighborhood offers a unique mix of student life and upscale living. With rolling green spaces like Fernbank Forest and tree-lined residential avenues, it’s also considered one of the rich Atlanta suburbs that maintains a peaceful, community-driven feel. Druid Hills provides students access to academic resources, cultural attractions, and safe surroundings while being just 5 miles from Downtown Atlanta.
For students at Emory looking for modern housing with premium amenities, The Ridge Atlanta offers an excellent option close to campus.
4. Morningside-Lenox Park
Morningside-Lenox Park is one of the most established rich neighborhoods in Atlanta Georgia, famous for its early 20th-century Tudor and Craftsman-style homes that often sell for $900,000 to $1.5 million. Wide tree-lined streets, strong neighborhood associations, and access to high-rated schools make it one of the rich suburbs of Atlanta where families and professionals settle long-term. For students, the area is especially appealing because it’s just a short commute to Emory University, Georgia Tech, and Georgia State University, while still offering a quieter, safer environment compared to Midtown. With a student population of around 6,000 residents, many enjoy the balance of historic charm, green space at Morningside Nature Preserve, and walkable access to local cafés and farmers’ markets.
For students seeking modern housing close to Georgia State University and Midtown, The Mix Atlanta offers stylish apartments with easy access to the Morningside-Lenox Park area.
5. Virginia-Highland (VaHi)
Virginia‑Highland, or VaHi, is one of the most beloved rich neighborhoods in Atlanta Georgia, known for its historic streetcar-era bungalows, lively nightlife, and upscale boutiques. The neighborhood has attracted Atlanta-area luminaries, for instance, CNN journalist Don Lemon made VaHi his home. Its annual Summerfest, tight-knit civic associations, and eclectic cultural scene continue to draw both creative professionals and students. Located just 2 miles from Emory University and 4 miles from Georgia Tech, VaHi blends trendy urban living with local charm, making it one of the most Atlanta wealthy neighborhoods with considerable appeal for students.
If you're exploring student housing options near the cultural heart of VaHi, check out The Connector Atlanta, stylish apartments just a short walk from boutique cafés, nightlife, and Emory University.
6. Ansley Park
Ansley Park is one of the most iconic rich neighborhoods in Atlanta Georgia, celebrated for its tree-lined streets, historic mansions, and proximity to cultural landmarks like the High Museum of Art and the Atlanta Symphony Hall. Developed in the early 1900s, it was Atlanta’s first “suburban” neighborhood designed for automobiles, and today it remains one of the most desirable Atlanta wealthy suburbs. The area is home to several civic leaders and business executives, giving it an elite reputation while still being just minutes from Midtown’s student-friendly hubs. For students, its location is unbeatable, close to Georgia Tech, Georgia State University, and Emory University, while the neighborhood’s parks and walkability add a unique blend of luxury and livability.
7. Inman Park
Inman Park is one of the most sought-after rich neighborhoods in Atlanta Georgia, renowned for its Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, and proximity to Ponce City Market and the Atlanta BeltLine. As one of Atlanta's first planned neighborhoods, it offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. Often considered one of the wealthy Atlanta suburbs, Inman Park attracts affluent professionals, families, and students due to its walkability, green spaces, and access to some of the city's best restaurants and shops. With a Walk Score of 85/100, it’s perfect for students at Georgia Tech, Emory University, and Georgia State University who seek upscale living with a strong community atmosphere.
8. Tuxedo Park
Tuxedo Park stands as one of the most distinguished rich neighborhoods in Atlanta, Georgia, renowned for its expansive estates, gated properties, and proximity to the Georgia Governor’s Mansion. This exclusive enclave has attracted prominent figures such as former U.S. Senator Kelly Loeffler, actor Robert Downey Jr., and NFL quarterback Matt Ryan. The neighborhood's allure is further enhanced by its association with elite institutions like the Pace Academy, a private school serving the area.
9. Old Fourth Ward (O4W)
Old Fourth Ward (O4W) is one of the most dynamic, rich neighborhoods in Atlanta Georgia, blending historic significance with modern luxury. Once a majority-Black community and the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the neighborhood has undergone significant transformation over the years. Today, it stands as a testament to urban revitalization, featuring upscale developments like Ponce City Market and Historic Fourth Ward Park. The area has an arts scene, with murals and galleries dotting the landscape, and a thriving culinary culture highlighted by renowned establishments such as Staplehouse and Two Urban Licks. These cultural and economic developments have attracted affluent residents, making Old Fourth Ward one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Atlanta.
Things Students Should Keep in Mind Before Moving to Atlanta
1. Rent Range: Expect $1,700–$2,500 for a 1-bedroom apartment in rich neighborhoods in Atlanta Georgia.
2. Safety: Druid Hills and Ansley Park rank as some of the safest neighborhoods in Atlanta, ideal for students.
3. Commute: MARTA + the BeltLine provide excellent transportation, making it easy to commute between neighborhoods and universities.
4. Universities Nearby: Emory, Georgia Tech, Georgia State University, and SCAD are all within reach of the city’s rich neighborhoods.
5. Lifestyle: Choose between quieter Brookhaven or the lively, artsy vibes of Virginia-Highland (VaHi) and Old Fourth Ward (O4W).
Atlanta’s rich neighborhoods in Atlanta Georgia offer luxury, safety, and proximity to top universities. Whether it’s Buckhead or Virginia-Highland, each area offers something unique for students. With amber, you can find verified, student-friendly housing in these prestigious neighborhoods, ensuring convenience, comfort, and security. Whether you’re looking for affordable apartments or upscale living, amber helps you find the perfect place to call home.