Living in Buckhead, Atlanta: The Beverly Hills of the South

Updated September 2020.

Known as an affluent, upscale neighborhood within the Atlanta city limits, beautiful Buckhead has both ‘old’ money and ‘new’ money. The area’s wealth is evidenced by its continued growth, which includes the newly developed shopping areas, high-rise apartments, and trendy restaurants. There’s never a lack of entertainment options when living here, as many of its residents would confirm.

It is made up of mostly single-family homes and is considered one of the wealthiest Atlanta neighborhoods to live in. It is the third-largest commercial neighborhood in Atlanta and is also crowned as the financial hub of the Southeast. For these reasons and many others, Buckhead remains one of the most popular neighborhoods in Atlanta.

Where is Buckhead, Atlanta?

Buckhead neighborhood is a short 17-minute commute from downtown Atlanta and is situated along the east side of Interstate 85 and the west side of Interstate 75. It borders Midtown Atlanta to the south, Sandy Springs to the north, Cobb County neighborhoods of Vinings and Cumberland to the northwest, DeKalb County neighborhoods of Brookhaven and North Druid Hills to the east, and to the west, West Midtown. Also, living in Buckhead means that you’re 40-minutes away from Atlanta Airport, so catching a flight to your favorite destination is a relatively short drive away.

History of Buckhead, Atlanta

Henry Irby purchased a lot of land in 1838, which became known as Irbyville. Later, he built a tavern and a general store located on the northwest corner of the intersection. The town received its name after Irby killed a buck deer, which he prominently displayed for all to see. In the late 1800s, the area became a rural vacation destination for affluent visitors. The Atlanta History Museum showcases the development of this community in great detail, from its original landowners to Henry Irby’s first land purchase.

The Great Depression did not affect this community; elaborate mansions were still being built. During this period, parks and theaters were constructed to encourage socialization. In 1956, what is now Lenox Square Mall was built. The area’s first skyscraper, Tower Place, was built in 1974.

Booming with both residential and commercial developments in the past few years, the area is sure to meet the expectations of anyone looking to move in a thriving and lively neighborhood.

Transportation in Buckhead, Atlanta

Buckhead is 16 minutes (7.1 mi) from downtown Atlanta via I-75 and Northside Dr. NW. It is 21 minutes (6.4 mi) from downtown via Marietta St. NW and Northside Dr. NW.

The MARTA Northeast rail line also services the area with several stations, (Lindbergh) N6 and (Lenox) NE7 where there are 15 connecting bus routes, and (Buckhead) N7 North rail line station along Peachtree.

When commuting from downtown, the airport or Midtown Atlanta, take the red line train to the Buckhead MARTA station. Commuters can also exit the Lindberg or Lenox stations.

Lifestyle

The reason why this neighborhood is considered the Beverly Hills of the South is because of the shopping areas that encompass the neighborhood. Phipps Plaza is a premium, upscale shopping center where you will find Tiffany & Co., Saks Fifth Avenue, and Versace. It is owned by Simon Property Group and can be accessed off of GA 400 at the intersection of Lenox Rd. and Peachtree Rd. There are also entertainment and dining options available at Phipps Plaza. Just across the street from it is the area’s most recognized shopping destination, Lenox Mall. The newest shopping destination is The Shops Buckhead Atlanta. It is six blocks of upmarket shopping, art, entertainment, and dining, which makes it a magnet for the rich and famous that call this part of Atlanta home.

Wondering what to do in Buckhead, Atlanta? Get a sweet treat at Amorino, a specialty gelato shop in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta. Experience semi-fine dining in a low-key restaurant, Terra Terroir in nearby Brookhaven, just north of the city. Whether working in one of the financial institutions in the area or as an entrepreneur utilizing Atlanta Tech Village co-working space, a great after-work spot is Fado Irish Pub, where they specialize in handcrafted cocktails and craft beers. Specialty coffees can be enjoyed at Octane Coffee located at the Atlanta Tech Village in Buckhead.

There are three golf courses in this community, Chastain Park Golf Course, Cross Creek Golf Club, and Bobby Jones Golf Course. The Cross Creek Golf Club offers a range of amenities, which includes several swimming pools, tennis courts, a restaurant, and a bar. The Bobby Jones Golf Course is a one-of-a-kind course, with its reversible course design.

Boardroom Salon for Men replicates an old-fashion barbershop and cigar lounge with its oversized leather chairs, chessboards, pool table, and dark wood paneling. While it looks more like a social club than a barbershop, it is somewhat of the ultimate man cave for its patrons. Haircuts, shaving, and spa services are offered exclusively to their male clientele.

Real Estate Snapshot

Buckhead’s cost of living is under 20% compared to the national average. Housing expenses are 54% lower and utility costs are 9% higher. The million-dollar homes and pristine gardens add to its charm and sophistication. High-rise apartments and condominiums are becoming more of a feature in this area, as younger, upwardly mobile graduates are moving into the neighborhood. Some of the most popular properties in the area include The Residence Buckhead Atlanta, 92 West Places, and the luxurious SkyHouse Buckhead Atlanta, which features sparkling dual rooftop pools as well as many other impressive perks.

Since it is one of the most desirable places to live in Atlanta, rental prices are often higher than other parts of the city. This is why a 1-bedroom apartment could cost between $1,500 to $1,800 or more per month.

Schools & Employment

There are more than 15 public and private schools situated in Buckhead, Atlanta. Its most notable private school is the Atlanta International School where 99 nationalities are represented and 65 languages are spoken. North Fulton High School, formed in 1991, is recognized for its strenuous, college-preparatory courses. Georgia State University has a facility located in the Buckhead Center, the J. Mack Robinson College of Business. The University’s Executive MBA program is also located in this part of town. Completing the list is the Terry College of Business Executive Education Center which is part of the University of Georgia campus.

Buckhead’s top employers include the Piedmont Hospital and the Shepherd Center, where they specialize in spinal cord and brain injuries. There are also several consulates, such as the Consulate-General of Australia, and the Consulate-General of Japan located here.

The area has two public libraries, one is located on Northside Drive and the other is located on Buckhead Ave., just off of Peachtree St.

With all that it has to offer, it is clear to see why so many want to call this part of Atlanta home. Luxury living is at the core of the community. When you begin your exploration of this prestigious neighborhood, start by considering useful information about it at www.rentcafe.com.