Planning a trip to Atlanta and looking for some outdoor fun? Take a trip outside of the city limits to Cobb County, where you'll find a host of top-rated attractions and charming historic communities surrounded by stunning parks and outdoor recreation.



Whether you're planning a visit or a permanent move, getting to know the top cities in Cobb County is a great way to start. This comprehensive guide covers all the cities in the county, as well as census-designated places as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau.

About Cobb County, Georgia

Cobb County, which is part of the Atlanta metropolitan area, was established in 1832 following the passage of the Indian Removal Act, which resulted in the acquisition of land from the Cherokee Nation. To redistribute the land to settlers, a lottery was conducted. With a population ranking third in Georgia after Fulton County (where Atlanta is located) and Gwinnett County, Cobb County is located in north-central Georgia and is situated directly northwest of Atlanta.

Despite not having any cities that make the list of largest cities in Georgia, Cobb County, Georgia has a lot to offer. Home to the Cumberland District, an edge city with over 100,000 residents and 122,000 workers, it's the 5th largest business district in the region with 24 million square feet of office space. The area is also home to The Battery Atlanta, a massive mixed-use development surrounding Truist Park, the home of the Atlanta Braves.



Cobb County is also the most educated county in Georgia and the 12th most educated in the United States, with a place among the top 100 counties in the country for income. Although the county has no cities, it comprises six counties, three census-designated places (CDPs), and over a dozen unincorporated communities. Despite this, it's the second-most densely populated county in Georgia, even outranking Atlanta's Fulton County.

Cobb County Demographics

• Population: 760,141
• Population density: 2,237 people per square mile
• Area: 339.8 square miles
• Median age: 37.3
• Median household income: $79,601
• Median home price: $360,000
• Educational attainment: 92% high school or higher, 48% bachelor’s degree or higher

• Population: 60,544
• Population density: 2,587 people per square mile
• Area: 23.4 square miles
• Median age: 34.9
• Median household income: $57,452
• Median home price: $376,000
• Marietta, GA Map

Marietta is the county seat of Cobb County, located just 20 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta. The city is renowned for its historic town square, rich Civil War heritage, and exceptional quality of life. Marietta boasts a stunning backdrop of the Kennesaw Mountains and is comparatively more affordable than other neighboring cities in Cobb County, Georgia.

Marietta is a city that is often recognized as one of the best places to live, thanks in part to its affordability. In fact, it was ranked 8th among the Top 10 Affordable Suburbs with a City Feel by Zillow and Yelp for offering a balance between suburban and urban living. Notably, its culinary scene was singled out as being comparable to that of Atlanta. Marietta provides a wealth of attractions for individuals of all ages, from families to retirees to singles.

• Six Flags White Water
• Marietta Museum of History
• Gone with the Wind Museum
• Marietta Square (Glover Park)
• Marietta Cobb Museum of Art
• Marietta Fire Museum
• Elizabeth Porter Park & Sprayground
• More than 320 restaurants!

The Paces neighborhood is located just 17 minutes from downtown Atlanta and is situated along the Chattahoochee River. This affluent area is recognized as one of Atlanta’s wealthiest neighborhoods, boasting a median household income of $166,600. The neighborhood is highly sought after by families with school-age children as it is home to two elite private schools, The Westminster Schools and Lovett.

Paces neighborhood mainly comprises of secluded, single-family, traditional and European-style estate homes, with large acreage and prices averaging at $504,000, and some selling for as high as $20 million. Additionally, the elevated location of the neighborhood offers stunning views of the Atlanta skyline.

Canoe is a top-rated restaurant in the area, offering farm-to-table dining with an elegant garden that overlooks the Chattahoochee River, providing a scenic dining experience.

With a population of 2,694 and zip code 30327, Paces neighborhood is a highly desirable location for those seeking upscale living with access to excellent schools, top-rated restaurants, and stunning views of the city. If you are looking to purchase a home in this area, there are several options available for sale.

• Paces Population – 2,694
• Zip code – 30327
• Paces median household income – $166,600
• Paces average home price – $504,000
• Paces homes for sale

#2. Smyrna

• Population: 56,268
• Population density: 3,618 people per square mile
• Area: 15.6 square miles
• Median age: 35.2
• Median household income: $76,444
• Median home price: $386,000
• Smyrna, GA Map

Smyrna, the second-largest city in Cobb County by population, is situated at the perimeter (ATP), along I-285, the beltway loop of Atlanta. Locals categorize Metro Atlanta communities as inside the perimeter (ITP), outside the perimeter (OTP), or at the perimeter (ATP). Smyrna's location offers a short 16-mile commute to the city, making it an attractive option for those who work in Atlanta.

With its great amenities, affordability, and job opportunities, Smyrna has been one of the fastest-growing cities in Georgia for two decades. Money magazine recently recognized Smyrna's quality of life, affordability, and job opportunities and listed it among the Best Places to Live in America. It's also the most affluent of all Cobb County cities, appealing to both commuters and young families.

Smyrna boasts 29 beautiful parks and two golf courses and is adjacent to the Cumberland Mall and Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves. If you're considering relocating to Smyrna, our comprehensive guide to the city provides more information.

#3. Kennesaw

• Population: 33,960
• Population density: 3,496 people per square mile
• Area: 9.7 square miles
• Median age: 33.3
• Median household income: $70,930
• Median home price: $328,500
• Kennesaw, GA Map

Kennesaw, the third-largest among cities in Cobb County, is a unique blend of urban amenities and small-town charm. The city is well-known for its ordinance that requires gun ownership for its citizens (with some exceptions) and its historical significance as the site of the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain during the Civil War.

One of Kennesaw's main attractions is the Swift Cantrell Park, a massive 42-acre community park that offers an array of recreational activities for visitors. The park features a 3,200-square-foot splash pad, two playgrounds, asphalt trails, a dog park, a fitness station, a lighted skatepark, and Wi-Fi. It is also home to one of Georgia's largest inclusive playgrounds designed to accommodate children of all abilities.

With a central business district, the Kennesaw State University, and a low cost of living, it’s easy to see why Kennesaw is attracting young professionals and families alike. Learn more about living in Kennesaw, GA with our complete city guide.

#4. Acworth

• Population: 22,534
• Population density: 2,508 people per square mile
• Area: 9 square miles
• Median age: 35
• Median household income: $68,860
• Median home price: $347,000
• Acworth, GA Map

Acworth, though only the 4th largest among Cobb County cities, is a true gem. Situated on the banks of Lake Acworth and Lake Allatoona, Acworth is a beautiful city bordered by Kennesaw and the counties of Cherokee and Bartow. Its nickname, the Lake City, is well-earned, and it's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming on the lakes, as well as hiking at nearby Red Top Mountain State Park. Acworth also boasts a low cost of living and an excellent school district, making it an ideal place to call home.



#5. Powder Springs

• Population: 15,163
• Population density: 2,060 people per square mile
• Area: 7.4 square miles
• Median age: 38
• Median household income: $69,807
• Median home price: $330,000
• Powder Springs, GA Map

Despite its small size, the city of Powder Springs in Cobb County, Georgia, should not be underestimated. Situated about 22 miles northwest of Atlanta, the city has a rich history and was once named Gunpowder Springs due to the black powder-like sand formed by the springs in the area. Powder Springs is a desirable destination for families, with its great schools, beautiful parks, low crime rate, and reasonable cost of living.



Powder Springs boasts plenty of amenities for such a small city. It’s home to the Walter H. Cantrell Stadium, Seven Springs Water Park, and tons of community events and family fun.

Which of These Cobb County Cities Is Right for You?

Cobb County, despite having only six cities and three CDPs, is one of the most populous and densely populated counties in Georgia. All of the communities mentioned above offer world-class outdoor recreation and amenities just outside Atlanta. Once you have decided which city is right for you, Elite Moving & Storage is here to assist you in settling into your new neighborhood with a stress-free moving experience.