Moving to
East Point.
East Point is one of Metro Atlanta's most accessible and affordable cities, sitting just southwest of downtown with its own MARTA station, a historic downtown district, and a growing reputation as a smart place to live and invest. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Small city, big
opportunity.
What It's Like to Live Here
East Point is an independent city within Fulton County, located about four miles southwest of downtown Atlanta. It has its own government, police department, and a historic downtown district centered around Main Street and Cleveland Avenue. The city has a small-town feel with big-city access. You will find a mix of historic bungalows, mid-century homes, and new construction, with tree-lined streets and a growing roster of local businesses. East Point has been experiencing a revival over the past several years, driven by its MARTA station, affordable housing stock, and proximity to the airport. The community is diverse, welcoming, and increasingly popular with young families and professionals who want more space for their money.
Cost of Living
East Point's cost of living index is 99, right at the national average and significantly lower than intown Atlanta. Median home values range from approximately $217,000 to $262,000, well below the Atlanta metro median. This makes East Point one of the most affordable communities within easy commuting distance of downtown. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages around $1,100 to $1,300, and two-bedroom units range from $1,300 to $1,700. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are all in line with or below national averages.
Fulton County Schools
and charter options.
Public Schools (Fulton County Schools)
- Brookview Elementary School - Serves the East Point community with a 13:1 student-teacher ratio and strong parental involvement.
- Tri-Cities High School - Serving East Point, College Park, and surrounding areas with AP courses, athletics, and performing arts programs. Enrollment around 1,500 students.
- Woodland Middle School - Serves East Point students in grades 6-8 with a focus on academic achievement and character development.
Charter and Private Options
- Resurgence Hall Charter School - Ranked as a top charter school in Georgia, serving students in East Point and the surrounding area.
- Christ Lutheran School - Private school option serving families in the East Point area.
School assignments can change. Verify current zoning with Fulton County Schools before making decisions.
MARTA rail and highway
access make it easy.
Commute Times
East Point is approximately four miles from downtown Atlanta, with typical drive times of 15 to 20 minutes in regular traffic. The airport is just 8 to 12 minutes south via I-85. Midtown is about 20 minutes. Buckhead is 25 to 30 minutes. The average commute time for East Point residents is about 30 minutes, which is below the Atlanta metro average. Highway access is excellent, with I-285, I-85, and I-75 all within easy reach.
Transit and Walkability
The East Point MARTA station, located on the Red and Gold lines, is one of the city's biggest assets. A train ride from East Point to downtown Atlanta takes about 10 minutes, and the airport is just two stops south. The station area is walkable, with a Walk Score in the 71 to 74 range. Downtown East Point, centered around Main Street, is pedestrian-friendly with shops, restaurants, and services within walking distance. Other parts of the city are more car-dependent, but the MARTA station provides a viable transit option for daily commuting.
A city that values its
identity.
Who Lives Here
East Point attracts a diverse mix of longtime residents, young professionals, artists, and families. The city has its own identity and civic pride, with a active city government, community events, and a growing arts scene. You will find a blend of blue-collar families, creative professionals, and newcomers drawn by the affordability and transit access. The community is welcoming and engaged, with neighborhood associations, community gardens, and regular festivals that bring people together.
Who the Neighborhood Is Best For
East Point is ideal for people who want more space and affordability than intown Atlanta offers, without sacrificing transit access. It works well for MARTA commuters who work in downtown or Midtown and want a short, reliable train ride. It is excellent for first-time homebuyers who want an affordable entry point into the housing market. Families will find good schools, parks, and a safe community. And investors are increasingly recognizing East Point as one of the best value plays in Metro Atlanta.
Advice for a smooth
move to 30344.
Explore downtown East Point
The historic downtown district around Main Street and Cleveland Avenue is the heart of the city. Visit the local restaurants and shops, check out the East Point Farmers Market, and get a feel for the community. The downtown area has been revitalizing in recent years and is the social and commercial center of the city.
Consider the housing variety
East Point's housing stock includes historic bungalows, Craftsman homes, mid-century ranches, and newer construction. The historic district near the MARTA station has some of the city's most charming homes, while other areas offer larger lots and more modern floor plans. Prices are generally affordable, but condition and location matter. Work with a local agent who knows the East Point market.
Take the MARTA train
One of East Point's best features is the MARTA station. If you work in downtown or Midtown Atlanta, the train ride is about 10 minutes and runs frequently. Try the commute yourself during peak hours to see how it fits your routine. Many East Point residents use the train for work and keep a car for weekends and errands.
Get to know the community resources
East Point has its own city services, parks, and recreation programs. The city's website and social media channels are active with community events, city council meetings, and neighborhood updates. Get involved early. Attend a city council meeting, join a neighborhood association, and introduce yourself to your city council representative.
Value, transit, and a
rising tide.
Why the Numbers Work
East Point offers investors a compelling combination of low entry prices and strong fundamentals. Median home prices around $240K leave room for both cash flow and appreciation. The MARTA station provides the kind of transit access that consistently drives demand in Metro Atlanta. The airport proximity adds another layer of tenant demand from aviation industry workers. Cap rates for single-family rentals in East Point typically range from 6% to 8%, with strong cash flow potential for buy-and-hold investors.
Growth Catalysts
East Point is positioned to benefit from multiple growth drivers. The Tyler Perry Studios development at Fort McPherson is bringing jobs and investment to the south side. The airport's continued expansion drives housing demand throughout the I-85 corridor. The city's own revitalization efforts, including downtown improvements and new development, signal confidence in East Point's trajectory. And the affordability gap between East Point and intown neighborhoods continues to widen, making the city increasingly attractive to buyers priced out of the core.
Best Strategies for This Area
Buy-and-hold is the primary play in East Point. Properties near the MARTA station and downtown command the highest rents and strongest appreciation. For investors with renovation skills, the BRRRR strategy works well on older bungalows and ranches that need updates. Duplexes and small multifamily properties provide opportunities for house hacking or pure rental income. The key is to focus on properties within walking distance of the MARTA station or the downtown core, where demand is strongest.
Tommy's Take
East Point is one of the smartest value plays in Metro Atlanta right now. You get MARTA rail access, airport proximity, and a historic downtown all at price points that are hard to find anywhere else in the region. The city is on a positive trajectory, and the fundamentals are solid. Whether you are buying your first home or adding to a portfolio, East Point deserves a close look.
Tommy Williams - Tom Will Sell Atlanta
Tommy has helped hundreds of buyers, sellers, and investors across Metro Atlanta. He knows East Point's market inside and out. If you are considering a move or an investment in East Point, Tommy can help you find the right property and make a confident decision.