The capital of the US state of Georgia, Atlanta is a hub of history and culture mixed with spectacular scenery and modern architecture. With the tenth largest economy in the USA, this city is as inspiring as it is vibrant.
With several universities and a great student scene, Atlanta certainly has a lot to offer international students with a dream of living in the USA.
What is Atlanta like?
Location and demographics
Atlanta is situated in the USA’s Deep South, in inland Georgia, around 250 miles from the Atlantic coast. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Atlanta doesn’t experience as much of the oppressive heat of summertime as elsewhere in Georgia. Instead, it offers more seasonal weather with warm, humid summers and mild winters.
Atlanta has a population of 510,000 and is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the USA. With its heritage so deeply rooted in organisation of the American Civil Rights movement, it is rightly proud of its diversity and achievements.
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Culture and history
Several of the most influential US civil rights leaders were Atlanta residents. Martin Luther King Jr. was born in the city and lived there much of his life. As such, you’ll find a great deal of historical and cultural sites in Atlanta commemorating him. Visit the National Centre for Civil and Human Rights or the Martin Luther King Jnr. National Historical Park to get a sense of this poignant history.
Atlanta has many museums and galleries, all of which are certainly worth a visit if you have the chance. If you’re an art fan on a budget, you’ll be pleased to hear Atlanta also has plenty of public art and is famed for its stunning, bold murals.
You’ll almost certainly recognise Atlanta’s iconic modern skyline from the long list of TV shows and films it features in. But did you know that its uncharacteristically ‘northern’ design is due to the city having its roots as a railroad town linking it the country’s Midwest? Atlanta is full of similar gems of history, just waiting to be discovered.
Atlanta is known for being an attractive place of residence for talented individuals and has been home to a significant number of actors, musicians and sportspeople over the years.
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What universities are in Atlanta?
Atlanta has a number of universities and colleges. Here we list a few of the most popular, but of course you should consider researching others in the area too to be sure to find the best fit for you.
The Georgia Institute of Technology is a public university in Atlanta. Ranked 38th by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023, this prestigious institution wins globally with its technological research and degree programmes. A number of expert scientists have attended this university over the years and even US President Jimmy Carter.
Emory University is a private university ranked 82 by THE 2023. It is a prestigious institution and excels across all fields. It is particularly well known for the high quality of its liberal arts colleges and its graduate and professional schools. Alumni include 7 Pulitzer Prize winners.
Other important universities in and around the Atlanta area include:
- Georgia State University – a public university ranked 234 in the U.S. News & World Report 2022 (USNWR)
- The University of Georgia – a public university located in the city of Athens, approximately 70 miles from Atlanta, it ranks 49 in the USNWR 2022.
If you are hoping to apply to a community college to obtain an associate degree, consider Atlanta Technical College or Atlanta Metropolitan State College.
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What does Atlanta offer students?
What is transport like?
If you prefer getting around on foot or bicycle, it’s definitely possible in Atlanta, although its hills can make it quite tiring at times. When your legs need a rest, you can turn to MARTA, the city’s public transportation system.
The easiest way to get around in Atlanta is by transit rail (trains run every 20 minutes) with streetcars and buses also options in some areas.
To travel on MARTA, you must purchase a Breeze ticket (single-use only) or for more regular travellers, consider a Breeze card – a travelcard you can top up in advance of your journey. You may get cheaper fares with a MARTA Pass or Streetcard pass if you plan to travel lots in one day. If your university participates in the University Pass Program, purchase a pass to access student discounts.
Atlanta is also well-connected globally by its airport.
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What about entertainment and food?
Atlanta is without doubt an up-and-coming foodie city. Innovative and diverse flavours fill the city’s eateries. Head out into some of the neighbourhoods to fully appreciate the food scene. Buford Highway has over 1,000 places to eat, with a real feel for international cuisine. Or for a more traditionally Southern meal, head to the city’s Southwest. From high-end restaurants to food halls and everything in between, Atlanta has something for every taste.
In the evening, explore Atlanta’s Southern charm in whatever way you fancy. Whether you want to head to a sophisticated bar or lounge, watch some gentle comedy or party the hours away in a nightclub you’ll have plenty of choice.
Atlanta’s soulful live music scene includes venues of every size and for every vibe. And as the capital of hip hop, you’ll definitely come across some truly exceptional acts, both local and international.
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Are there public services for students?
Studying in Atlanta, you’ll have access to resources at the government, state, and university levels to help you settle into the American higher education system and way of life.
The US government provides a lot of free information to assist international students. You can access student resources via the US Department of State website. You can also explore financial aid options across Atlanta with Education USA’s helpful tool.
Your university’s international office will be able to assist you with any queries or concerns you have, from accessing financial aid to settling into life in Atlanta.
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How much does it cost to live in Atlanta?
The general cost of Atlanta
Pleasingly for students hoping to study in Atlanta, it is considered one of the most affordable major cities in the USA to live in. Of course, you’ll still need to budget to make the most of your student experience, but prices here shouldn’t feel too scary.
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Student budget
As you’ll be aware, international students living in the USA have to pay a number of upfront costs, such as health insurance and tuition fees. But once those are settled, Emory University suggests the annual cost of living in Atlanta to be around USD 21,000.
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What is accommodation like in Atlanta?
Many international students dream of living on-campus to fully immerse themselves in the USA’s student culture and lifestyle. Costs vary significantly between institutions, but the benefit of campus living is that bills are typically included in your rent.
For an approximation of on-campus accommodation costs in Atlanta, Emory University suggests an annual rental budget of around USD 9,670.
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What are the main attractions of Atlanta?
Perhaps when you think of Atlanta, the first thing that comes to mind is glossy skyscrapers and modern vibes, but did you know this city is also famed for its great outdoors? To feel at one with nature, take a breather in one of the city’s parks or green spaces or take a trip to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Or travel slightly outside the city to the stunning Stone Mountain Park for views you’ll never forget.
Once a host to the summer Olympics, Atlanta has a great sporting scene and lots of fantastic infrastructure to keep you active. When it comes to spectator sports, whether you’re an NFL fan, a baseball lover or want to watch an exciting game of basketball, soccer or ice hockey, you won’t struggle to find something to watch.
Atlanta is packed with things for students to do, any day of the week. Spend a morning wandering the boutique shopping districts and markets. Stop for lunch then stroll through the city’s inspiring museums to absorb the constantly-evolving history of Atlanta. Finish your day with dinner and a show at a world-class theatre, or get a ticket to see the Grammy winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Whatever your vibe, Georgia’s capital city has plenty to keep you occupied.
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