Living Close to the Runway: Guide to Apartments Near Atlanta Airport

Looking for apartments near the Atlanta airport (Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport) can make a lot of sense if you work in aviation, travel often, or just want quick access to I‑75, I‑85, and downtown. But finding the right place near the world’s busiest airport also means thinking about noise, traffic, safety, and commute patterns in a very specific part of Metro Atlanta.

This guide walks through which neighborhoods to consider, what to expect from rent prices and living conditions, and how to evaluate specific apartment communities near the airport.

Why Choose an Apartment Near Atlanta Airport?

People who look for apartments near Atlanta airport are usually trying to solve one or more of these needs:

• Short commute to the airport (Delta, TSA, airlines, concessions, logistics, hotels, ride-share, etc.).
• Easy travel if you fly often for work.
• Access to major highways: I‑75, I‑85, I‑285, Camp Creek Parkway.
• More budget-friendly options than some intown neighborhoods, depending on the area.

However, being close to Hartsfield–Jackson also comes with tradeoffs:

• Aircraft noise depending on flight paths and insulation.
• Heavy traffic during peak airport and rush-hour times.
• Certain nearby areas are more industrial or commercial than residential, which affects walkability and overall feel.

Understanding the specific sub-areas around the airport is the best way to narrow your search.

Key Areas for Apartments Near Atlanta Airport

The airport straddles the line between Atlanta (Fulton County) and several nearby cities, including College Park, East Point, Hapeville, Forest Park, and parts of Clayton County. Each area has a different character and housing stock.

1. College Park (North and West of the Airport)

Best for: People wanting to be very close to the airport and MARTA, with mixed housing options.

What to expect:

• Older and newer garden-style apartments, some townhomes, and a growing number of renovated units.
• Convenient access to College Park MARTA Station and Airport Station, plus direct access to I‑85 and I‑285.
• A mix of residential streets and commercial corridors like Old National Highway and Main Street.

Pros:

• Very short drive or MARTA ride to the terminals.
• Many airport workers live here, so hours and services often cater to shift work.
• Access to City of College Park services:
  • City Hall: 3667 Main St, College Park, GA 30337
  • General Info: (404) 767‑1537

Things to check:

• Noise from planes on certain runways.
• Street-by-street differences in property upkeep and lighting.
• Parking policies and security features at apartment complexes.

2. East Point (North of the Airport)

Best for: Those wanting quick airport access plus more established residential neighborhoods.

What to expect:

• A mix of older brick apartment buildings, small complexes, and some newer developments, especially near Camp Creek Parkway.
• Access to East Point MARTA Station, which is one stop away from Airport Station.
• Proximity to the Camp Creek Marketplace area for shopping and dining.

Pros:

• Still close to the airport (often 10–15 minutes by car, depending on traffic).
• More traditional residential feel in many blocks.
• Easy access to downtown Atlanta via I‑85 or MARTA.

Things to check:

• Traffic on Camp Creek Parkway during rush hours.
• Whether the apartment is closer to quiet residential streets or busier commercial corridors.

3. Hapeville (Northeast of the Airport)

Best for: Those who want small-town feel within minutes of the airport.

What to expect:

• A smaller city bordered by Atlanta and the airport, with boutique-style apartments, older garden communities, and a few newer developments.
• Walkable downtown area with local restaurants and murals.
• Close to major employment centers like Delta’s headquarters and Porsche Experience Center.

Pros:

• Very short drive to the domestic terminal and surrounding airport offices.
• Good option if you want to balance neighborhood charm with airport convenience.
• City services:
  • Hapeville City Hall: 3468 N Fulton Ave, Hapeville, GA 30354
  • General Info: (404) 669‑2100

Things to check:

• Unit soundproofing if the property is under common flight paths.
• Parking availability if you have more than one vehicle.

4. Forest Park & Clayton County (East/Southeast of the Airport)

Best for: Renters prioritizing budget and access to airport-area logistics hubs.

What to expect:

• Many older garden-style complexes and duplexes.
• Quick access to I‑285 and I‑75; common for people working in warehouses, trucking, and distribution centers serving the airport.
• Less direct MARTA rail access, but bus routes can connect you to the main lines.

Pros:

• Often more affordable rents than some parts of Atlanta and East Point.
• Easy drive to the Domestic and International terminals via I‑285 and I‑75.

Things to check:

• Commute time during heavy traffic on I‑75 and I‑285.
• How well the complex is maintained and managed.

5. Airport West / Camp Creek Corridor

Best for: Those wanting a more suburban-style feel but still near the airport.

What to expect:

• Apartment communities and townhome complexes spread along Camp Creek Parkway, especially in the City of East Point and into South Fulton.
• Large shopping area at Camp Creek Marketplace with groceries, retail, and dining.
• A bit farther from the terminals than College Park/Hapeville, but still generally within a 15–20 minute drive outside peak traffic.

Pros:

• More modern developments in some spots.
• Convenient for airline employees and business travelers who also want suburban amenities.

Things to check:

• Commute time to your specific airport work location (domestic vs. international terminal, cargo, etc.).
• Noise from major roads and commercial centers rather than the airport itself.

Typical Commute Times from Nearby Areas

Use this as a rough guide from apartment-heavy areas near the airport to the main terminal area (by car in normal conditions):

*Times can increase significantly at peak rush hours or during major airport events.

Noise, Safety, and Quality of Life Near the Airport

Living near Hartsfield–Jackson means you should pay particular attention to three factors: noise, safety, and day-to-day quality of life.

Aircraft and Traffic Noise

• Ask leasing staff whether units have double-pane windows or extra insulation.
• If possible, visit the property at different times (early morning, late night) to gauge noise from:
  • Takeoffs and landings
  • Nearby highways (I‑85, I‑75, I‑285)
  • Freight and truck traffic
• Higher floors can sometimes experience more noticeable aircraft noise, depending on the flight path.

Neighborhood Safety Considerations

Instead of relying on one source, many renters near the airport:

• Drive the area both daytime and nighttime to see activity, lighting, and traffic.
• Look at street conditions, building upkeep, and whether complexes have:
  • Controlled access gates
  • Visible security cameras
  • Well-lit parking lots and walkways
• Talk to current residents, if possible, about:
  • Response from local police
  • Parking issues or break-ins
  • Overall comfort walking around at night

You can also contact local police departments for general non-emergency questions about community programs:

• College Park Police Department
  3717 College St, College Park, GA 30337
  Non-Emergency: (404) 761‑3131

• East Point Police Department
  2727 East Point St, East Point, GA 30344
  Non-Emergency: (404) 761‑2177

• Hapeville Police Department
  700 Doug Davis Dr, Hapeville, GA 30354
  Non-Emergency: (404) 767‑8550

Rent Expectations Near Atlanta Airport

Rents around the airport vary widely based on age of building, renovation level, and exact location. In general:

• Older garden-style complexes in College Park, Forest Park, and Clayton County often have lower rents, but may also have fewer amenities or older finishes.
• Renovated or newer communities around Camp Creek, Hapeville, or select parts of East Point may charge mid-range rents compared to intown Atlanta.
• Some buildings position themselves specifically for airport and airline employees, offering:
  • Slightly flexible lease lengths
  • Shuttles or easy access to MARTA

To get a realistic picture, compare:

• Square footage vs. price
• What utilities are included (water, trash, sometimes gas)
• Fees for parking, pets, and amenities

Transportation Options: Not Just Driving

If you’re choosing an apartment near the airport, it helps to think about all the ways you’ll get around, not just your car.

MARTA Rail and Bus

Hartsfield–Jackson is directly served by MARTA’s Red and Gold rail lines at:

• Airport Station (inside the Domestic Terminal)
• Nearby stations: College Park, East Point, Lakewood/Ft. McPherson

Living near a rail station can:

• Cut down on parking costs at work if you’re an airport employee.
• Make travel into downtown or Midtown easier on busy days.

MARTA Headquarters & Customer Service:
2424 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
Customer Info: (404) 848‑5000

Check which apartments are along well-served bus routes or within walking distance to stations.

Driving and Parking

If you plan to drive regularly:

• Factor in airport shift times; traffic can spike outside of typical 9–5 hours.
• Ask about:
  • Number of parking spaces per unit
  • Visitor parking rules
  • Towing policies and reserved spots

For frequent travelers, living close by can save money and time on long-term parking by using MARTA or ride-share from home.

What to Ask When Touring Apartments Near the Airport

When you’re actually on-site at a complex, tailor your questions to the airport-area reality:

1. Noise & Insulation

   • “How do you handle aircraft and highway noise in the units?”
   • “Can I stand in a unit with windows open and closed for a few minutes to compare?”

2. Commute Practicalities

   • “How long do most residents say it takes to reach the Domestic or International terminals during rush hour?”
   • “Is there a MARTA stop or bus route within walking distance?”

3. Shift Work & Schedules

   • “Do many residents work at the airport on early-morning or overnight shifts?”
   • “Are there any quiet hours or rules that help people sleep during the day?”

4. Security & Maintenance

   • “Is the gate staffed or just keypad-controlled?”
   • “What is your average response time for maintenance requests?”

5. Lease Flexibility

   • “Do you offer shorter lease terms or renewal flexibility for airline and airport staff?”
   • “Are there penalties if my work schedule or base assignment changes?”

Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Spot ✈️

• Map your exact job location, not just “the airport.” Cargo, rental car centers, and corporate offices can be several minutes away from the main terminals.
• Visit at your typical commute time to get a real feel for traffic.
• Test your route to MARTA (walking or bus) if you plan to rely on transit.
• Check cell service and internet options inside the unit, especially if you work odd hours or from home.
• Walk the perimeter of the complex to see lighting, sidewalks, and general upkeep.

Where to Turn for Local Rental Help

If you need more personalized guidance about renting near the Atlanta airport, you can reach out to:

• Atlanta Housing Authority (for income-based and voucher programs)
  230 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
  Phone: (404) 892‑4700

• City Planning / Community Development Offices
  These offices can explain zoning, ongoing developments, and neighborhood plans that may affect airport-area living:

  • City of College Park – Planning & Community Development
    3667 Main St, College Park, GA 30337
    Main Line: (404) 761‑3131
  • City of East Point – Planning & Community Development
    2757 East Point St, East Point, GA 30344
    Main Line: (404) 270‑7091

These resources can help you understand how the airport area is changing, where new housing may be built, and what to expect long term.

If you’re looking for apartments near Atlanta airport, focusing on College Park, East Point, Hapeville, Forest Park, and the Camp Creek corridor will give you the best mix of options. From there, use noise level, commute pattern, transit access, and overall neighborhood comfort as your main decision filters.