When thinking about a new place to call home, the ideal community that often comes to mind is one with the perfect balance of accessibility, convenience, nature, and potential for growth. That’s why in Georgia, the city of Roswell is increasingly becoming a top option for aspiring homebuyers.
Driving into Roswell along Atlanta Street will make you feel like you’re being welcomed into a charming small town. But you might be surprised to find out that, with a population of almost 95,000, Roswell is actually the ninth largest city in Georgia.
Read on to find out more about this growing city and why moving here is the first step to achieving the lifestyle you have always dreamed of.
Table of Contents
A BRIEF HISTORY OF ROSWELL
Located in an area called “The Enchanted Land” by the Cherokee on the northern banks of the Chattahoochee River, Roswell was carved out when gold was discovered here in 1828. This drew many prospectors and settlers, including Roswell King, an American businessman who passed through what is now known as Roswell (he initially named the place “Roswell Station”).
King founded the town in 1839, but Roswell didn’t incorporate as a city until February 16, 1854. Originally part of Cobb County, it was annexed to Fulton County in 1932.
Roswell thrived as a mill town and a major player in the cotton industry. But with Georgia’s secession from the Union in 1861, the city’s mills were destroyed. The houses and other structures were left untouched, however, allowing Roswell’s former residents to return and rebuild their lives. The mills were rebuilt, and the textile industry in the city was revitalized, going on to serve as Roswell’s main economic driver until 1975.
Today, Roswell thrives from industries such as retail, technology, and food services, as well as health care. It has since set itself far apart from its industrial past and has established a reputation as an affluent suburban community for people who work in Atlanta, with plenty of activities, destinations, and establishments that delight residents and visitors alike.
WHAT’S GREAT ABOUT LIVING IN ROSWELL, GA
Roswell is essentially a small city that offers all the conveniences of a big city. With Downtown Atlanta just approximately 25 miles away, Roswell residents get easy access to the city’s job and entertainment opportunities while coming home to a tranquil community with an abundance of natural beauty.
One of the interesting things about living in Roswell, GA is that you can pretty much consider it a city of contrasts. It’s a small city, yet even with its wealth of establishments, it never feels too crowded. While it is home to a fairly affluent population (the median household income here is $105,913), you can still expect the locals to be warm and down-to-earth, making you feel right at home.
But there are plenty of other factors that make living in Roswell, GA great for practically everyone at different stages in their lives, including single individuals, young professionals, growing families, and retirees.
Job opportunities are fairly abundant, thanks to the presence of businesses of all sizes. Major employers in the area include Wellstar North Fulton Hospital, the Kimberly-Clark Corporation, and the city of Roswell itself. The Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell metro area also has booming tech sectors. Downtown Atlanta also offers many job opportunities.
The schools are excellent. Roswell is served by two public school districts — Fulton County School District and Cobb County School District. Several high schools in these districts are ranked by US News as among the top 30 high schools in Georgia, including Walton High School, Lassiter High School, Roswell High School, Cambridge High School, Alpharetta High School, and others.
Roswell offers the height of suburban living, with easy access to shopping, dining, and various conveniences.
Affordable quality healthcare is highly accessible. Wellstar North Fulton Hospital, a nationally recognized hospital, is located here, along with other healthcare and urgent care providers. The average healthcare costs in Roswell are generally lower than the national and state averages.
THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN ROSWELL
The area’s amazing attractions and activities are among the factors that make living in Roswell, GA a wonderful experience.
Roswell is brimming with activities that will keep you coming back for more, or inspire you to try something new. The city holds events that bring the community together, and the numerous businesses and establishments here offer a diverse range of activities that cater to every interest.
Take a tour through history
Roswell has many extraordinarily preserved historical homes and structures, such as Barrington Hall, home of Barrington King, the son of Roswell King. This home is a stunning piece of Greek Revival architecture and is among Atlanta’s 50 Most Beautiful Homes.
Another location is the Archibald Smith Plantation Home built by Archibald Smith, one of Roswell’s founders. Artifacts from the time the family lived here have been preserved.
History buffs can also take a look at the ruins of the city’s mills by visiting the Roswell Mill and Old Mill Park at 95 Mill Street.
Enjoy sipping on various beverages and brews
Fans of craft beer, wines, and other spirits will have a blast visiting the city’s breweries and tasting rooms. Gate City Brewing Company From the Earth Brewing Company
Soak in some art and culture
Roswell is brimming with art galleries, visual art centers, and street art. Art Around Roswell showcases 10 permanent sculptures in the city’s public spaces, which are occasionally joined by temporary exhibits. The Roswell Visual Arts Center along Woodstock Road houses galleries and sculpture gardens on 37 acres of parkland. Smaller galleries featuring works by local artists are also part of the mix.
Music lovers will enjoy discovering local bands who perform at venues like Riverside Park Stage, while theater fans can catch local productions at the Georgia Ensemble Theater.
Shop and dine
If you’re looking for a varied array of cuisine and shopping options, Canton Street is where you want to go. Almost immediately, you’re transported to a quaint walkable neighborhood lined with restaurants and boutiques, and you’ll want to come back here to sample everything. Canton Street has more than 25 restaurants in a square mile, offering tacos and sandwiches, Italian and Mediterranean cuisines, fine dining experiences, and the best steaks in the metro.
Get in some tee time
While Roswell isn’t exactly known as golf country, you’ll still have plenty of opportunities to practice your swing. For example, Ansley Golf Club, which prides itself on offering warm, friendly service, has two courses: the nine-hole Midtown Course, also known as “The Old Lady,” and the 18-hole Settindown Course. Horseshoe Bend Country Club offers a challenging 18-hole golf course.
Celebrate life in Roswell
Every year, the city holds Alive in Roswell, which takes place every third Thursday evening (5:00–9:00 PM) from April through October. This family-friendly festival has three simultaneous venues – Historic Canton Street, Roswell Antique and Interiors Lot, and Historic Roswell Town Square. Recently given the 2022 Best of North Atlanta: Best Community Event Award by Appen Media Group, Alive in Roswell features live music, booths featuring products offered by local sellers, and food trucks. It’s a great opportunity to get to know your neighbors and sample some locally made finds.
Parks and Outdoor Recreation in Roswell
Living in Roswell, GA means enjoying an abundance of stunning outdoor spaces, which the local government strives to preserve and protect. The city has about 22 parks, encompassing a total of 918 acres of active and passive parkland. With so many options, it can be a bit challenging to choose which ones are most worthy of your time, but here’s a quick list of trails and parks that are perfect for nature lovers of all types and levels.
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
Established on August 15, 1978, the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area stretches 48 miles. Hikers can explore the trails around Vickery Creek or follow those that take you all the way to Chattahoochee River.
Vickery Creek Trail
This five-mile trail will take you through fascinating historic places such as Roswell Mill, and a covered bridge, as well as a spillway waterfall.
Leita Thompson Memorial Park
This park boasts a moderately challenging trail that stretches more than two miles and is great for those who are into birding, hiking, and fishing. The park is open all year, welcoming dogs on leash and their humans as well.
Oxbo Trail
Located just off Oxbo Road, this two-mile trail runs along Vickery Creek and offers stunning scenery.
Big Creek MTB Park.
The largest wooded park in Roswell, this park’s five miles of trails is open for biking, hiking, and trail running.
If you want to add to your enjoyment of the natural beauty of Roswell, this attraction is perfect. Covering 127 acres on the Chattahoochee River, the center offers plenty of things to do, including hiking, canoeing, and picnicking. But it goes beyond simply having all the green space you need to relax. The Center also helps kids and adults get acquainted with the wildlife in the area with their educational programs, guided bird walks, and “The Nature Club Dine and Discover” events, where a featured speaker will talk about different nature topics as members attend either in person or over Zoom.
If you’re looking to be a bit more active, drop by Nantahala Outdoor Center’s (NOC) Roswell Outpost, found on the Chattahoochee River at Azalea Park and Don White Memorial Park. You can rent a tube, kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard to explore the river, or go on a bike ride on NOC’s three miles of trails.
The weather in Roswell is perfect for all these outdoor adventures. While the area does get relatively more rain than other places, it also experiences 220 days of sunshine every year. The average temperature generally hovers at around 70 ºF—a perfectly comfortable temperature that’s ideal for outdoor fun.
REAL ESTATE IN ROSWELL
With Roswell’s attractions, amenities, and close proximity to Atlanta, it’s not surprising that there’s a strong demand for properties here. Even with a median home listing price of $578,000, the local real estate market is highly competitive, with 41% of homes selling above list price and properties being in the market for a median of only 18 days.
Homes in Roswell come in a diverse array of styles. There’s a good mix of historic homes, townhouses, condos, and single-family properties, but certain styles predominate in different areas.
The trendy Historic Downtown area features various property types, from newer luxury condos and townhouses in mixed-use developments to single-family homes and older properties. Given their location, these properties generally command higher prices than in most other places in Roswell.
Elsewhere, different communities and gated neighborhoods abound. For example, Woodfield, a residential neighborhood built in 1982, features traditional and ranch-style homes. Despite the age of the community, the properties are updated and outfitted with luxe details, such as chef’s kitchens, custom bars, and smart home features.
Horseshoe Bend was established in 1985, and the properties here are mainly Tudor and traditional-style homes, most of which showcase vinyl or stucco exterior finishes. These properties may be a few decades old, but you will find that many are well maintained or updated, with just a few requiring some extra attention before you move in.
Another notable community is Willow Springs, which boasts resort-style living with its country club amenities and numerous events exclusive only to its homeowners. Among the properties offered at Willow Springs are large lots as well as homes with views of the lake and the golf course.
Martin’s Landing is a unique community in that it provides residents with an opportunity to live close to nature and wildlife. The community ps 1,030 acres and includes a 53-acre lake, along with trails and resort-style amenities. Currently, Martin’s Landing consists of more than 1,900 homes distributed across 12 subdivisions, with properties ranging from apartments and townhomes to expansive single-family houses.
LET US HELP YOU FIND YOUR DREAM HOME IN ROSWELL
If you love the idea of living near Atlanta while enjoying the tranquility of a small city with a suburban feel, living in Roswell, GA is definitely something you should consider. We at The Page Morgan Group can help you find the perfect home in this highly desirable community.
We will work hard to meet — and exceed — your expectations and deliver the results you want. Over a period of more than 20 years, we have worked with all types of clients, from first-time homebuyers to relocating families. In every transaction, we make sure to listen to our clients’ unique needs to help us serve them better.
From start to finish, we anticipate every issue and make sure we are ready to assist you with all aspects of buying a home, from financing and taking care of all the paperwork, to helping you get to know more about the community you will be calling home.
Let us be your guide in navigating the Roswell, GA real estate market. We would love to hear from you. Get in touch with us at 770.579.5650 or send us an email at this address to learn more.