Downtown Atlanta Apartments: How to Find the Right Place in the Heart of the City

Looking for Atlanta apartments downtown puts you right in the middle of the city’s energy—walkable to offices, arenas, MARTA stations, and some of the best food in Georgia. But Downtown living has its own quirks, price ranges, and building types that are different from Midtown, Buckhead, or the suburbs.

This guide walks through what to expect, where to look, typical costs, parking and transit options, and how to decide if a Downtown Atlanta apartment actually fits your lifestyle.

What “Downtown Atlanta” Really Covers

When people say “Downtown,” they usually mean the core area roughly around:

• Five Points
• Peachtree Center
• Georgia State University campus
• Centennial Olympic Park / Mercedes‑Benz Stadium / State Farm Arena
• The government district near the Georgia State Capitol

Many apartment searches also lump in nearby pockets like Fairlie-Poplar and parts of Castleberry Hill on the south side of Downtown. These areas blend residential units with offices, student housing, and historic lofts.

If you want to be close to big employers, government buildings, or event venues, this is the center of it all.

Types of Downtown Atlanta Apartments

You’ll find a mix of modern high-rises, converted historic buildings, and student-focused units. Each comes with different tradeoffs.

1. High-Rise Luxury and Modern Buildings

These are the glass-and-steel towers you see near Peachtree Center and Centennial Olympic Park.

Common features:

• Secured access and on-site staff
• Fitness centers, pools, and lounges
• In-unit washer/dryer
• Garage parking (often extra cost)
• Pet-friendly options, sometimes with pet amenities

These buildings usually come with higher rents, but they offer convenience and amenities that appeal to professionals and people who want a more full-service lifestyle.

2. Historic Lofts and Conversions

Downtown has a number of older commercial and warehouse buildings converted into loft-style apartments, especially around Fairlie-Poplar and toward Castleberry Hill.

Typical characteristics:

• Exposed brick, beams, or concrete
• High ceilings, large windows
• More character, sometimes quirky layouts
• Mix of renovated units and more basic finishes

These can feel more “authentically urban” and may offer slightly better value per square foot compared with brand-new high-rises, depending on location.

3. Student-Oriented Apartments

With Georgia State University anchored downtown, you’ll see buildings that lean heavily student:

• Furnished or partially furnished units
• By-the-bedroom leasing (each roommate has their own lease)
• Study rooms, group spaces, and student-centric amenities

If you’re not a student, you can still rent in some of these buildings, but be aware of the community vibe (and potential for more noise at certain times of year).

4. Income-Restricted and Affordable Units

Some Downtown buildings include income-restricted or workforce housing units as part of city and state housing initiatives. These may:

• Have income limits based on household size
• Require documentation (pay stubs, tax returns, etc.)
• Maintain waitlists

To learn about affordable options in or near Downtown, residents often contact:

• Atlanta Housing (AH)
  230 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  Phone: (404) 892-4700

They can provide guidance on housing programs, vouchers, and income-restricted properties.

Typical Rent Expectations in Downtown Atlanta

Rents in Downtown Atlanta shift with the market, amenities, and how close you are to major attractions or offices. As a general pattern:

• Studios / Micro-units: Often the lowest entry point into Downtown living; good for solo renters who prioritize location over space.
• 1-bedroom units: Common choice for professionals; rent can change a lot depending on building age and amenities.
• 2-bedroom units: Cost more but can become manageable when split between roommates.
• Lofts: Prices vary widely depending on building, finishes, and square footage.

You’ll typically pay more for:

• Newer or recently renovated buildings
• Full amenity packages (pool, gym, concierge)
• Direct access to MARTA or skybridges
• Views of landmarks like Mercedes‑Benz Stadium or Centennial Olympic Park

And potentially less for:

• Older buildings with fewer amenities
• Units farther from Peachtree Street or main venues
• Buildings with limited or no on-site parking

For the most current rents, most people rely on apartment search platforms and local property management websites, then verify by calling leasing offices.

Pros and Cons of Living in Downtown Atlanta

Biggest Advantages

1. Walkability and Transit Access

Living Downtown means you’re near:

• MARTA rail stations like Five Points, Peachtree Center, and Georgia State
• Multiple bus routes
• Walkable distance to offices, government buildings, and campuses

If you don’t want to rely on a car every day, this is one of the most transit-friendly areas in the region.

2. Proximity to Jobs and Schools

You’re close to:

• Georgia State University
• State and local government offices (Capitol, courthouses, agencies)
• Corporate offices in and around Peachtree Center
• Major event and entertainment venues

For some residents, eliminating a long commute is the main reason to choose Downtown.

3. Entertainment and Culture at Your Doorstep

Within a short walk or quick ride, you’ll see:

• State Farm Arena, Mercedes‑Benz Stadium
• Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca‑Cola
• Concerts, festivals, conventions, and sports events
• A growing cluster of restaurants, coffee shops, and bars

If you like being near constant activity, Downtown delivers.

Common Tradeoffs

1. Noise and Crowds

Living near stadiums, arenas, and tourist attractions means:

• Game days and concert nights can be loud and busy
• Weekdays might feel very office-heavy, with quieter evenings on some blocks
• Sirens, traffic, and event noise are part of daily life

Higher floors and interior-facing units sometimes help, but noise is still a factor.

2. Parking and Car Storage

Many Downtown apartments offer garage parking, but usually:

• Parking is not included in base rent
• Spaces may be limited or assigned
• Guest parking can be tricky on busy nights

If you own a car, clarify parking fees, guest policies, and security before committing.

3. Perception of Safety

Like most city centers, Downtown Atlanta has:

• Areas that feel very busy and well-lit
• Blocks that are quieter or less active after business hours

Most buildings have controlled access, cameras, and on-site staff, but you should:

• Visit at different times of day
• Ask about security measures and incident response
• Plan routes to MARTA stations or parking garages you’ll use regularly

Key Areas and Micro-Neighborhoods to Know

Peachtree Center / Five Points

• Heavy business, transit, and tourist traffic
• Direct access to MARTA and skybridges in some buildings
• High-rise apartments and condo towers
• Very convenient if you work in nearby offices or use MARTA daily

Government & Campus District (Near Georgia State)

• Home to Georgia State University academic and housing buildings
• Mix of students, staff, and professionals
• A few blocks from Georgia State and Five Points MARTA stations
• More student-focused options, especially close to campus buildings

Centennial Olympic Park Area

• Near attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca‑Cola
• Walkable to convention centers and sports arenas
• A blend of residential buildings, hotels, and tourist activity
• Appealing if you want a more “landmark-centric” city feel

Castleberry Hill (Bordering Downtown)

• Technically its own neighborhood just southwest of the main Downtown core
• Known for art galleries, lofts, and historic warehouse buildings
• A walk or short ride to Mercedes‑Benz Stadium
• More neighborhood feel with a strong local identity

Transportation, Parking, and Getting Around

If you’re deciding whether Downtown works for you, transportation is a big part of the equation.

MARTA Rail and Bus

Major stations serving Downtown include:

• Five Points Station (transfer hub for all rail lines)
  30 Alabama St SW
  Atlanta, GA 30303

• Peachtree Center Station
  216 Peachtree St NE
  Atlanta, GA 30303

• Georgia State Station
  170 Piedmont Ave SE
  Atlanta, GA 30303

Living within a few blocks of these stations can significantly reduce your need for a car. Many Downtown residents rely on a combination of:

• MARTA rail and bus
• Walking
• Rideshare and bikes/scooters for shorter hops

For route planning and fare details, you can contact:

• Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA)
  Headquarters: 2424 Piedmont Rd NE
  Atlanta, GA 30324
  Customer Service: (404) 848-5000

Driving and Parking Considerations

If you have a car:

• Ask whether parking is included or separate from rent.
• Confirm monthly parking costs and whether rates can increase during your lease.
• Check if spaces are assigned, tandem, or first-come, first-served.
• Ask about visitor parking and policies during events.

Some Downtown workers choose to live car-free and use MARTA, rideshare, or car-sharing as needed. Others keep a single vehicle in the building garage for weekend trips and errands.

What to Look for When Touring Downtown Apartments

When you tour units, consider both the building and the block.

Inside the Building

Questions and checks:

• Security: How do residents and guests access the building? Is there on-site staff in the lobby?
• Noise between units: Can you hear neighbors easily through walls or ceilings?
• Elevators: How many are there? Are wait times reasonable during busy hours?
• Amenities condition: Is the gym clean? Pool well-maintained? Common areas in good repair?
• Packages: How are deliveries and groceries handled?

The Surrounding Streets

Visit at:

• Morning rush hour
• Midday
• Evening and late night (especially on event days, if possible)

Pay attention to:

• Street lighting and foot traffic
• Condition of sidewalks
• Your actual walking route to MARTA, work, or school
• Nearby bars, clubs, or venues that might affect nighttime noise

Budgeting Beyond Rent in Downtown

When comparing Downtown Atlanta apartments to other parts of the city, include total monthly costs, not just the advertised rent.

Common extras:

• Parking fees (in-building garage or nearby lot)
• Utilities (electric, water, sewer, trash; some may be bundled)
• Internet and TV (check if any providers are pre-wired or required)
• Amenity or community fees (often monthly in larger complexes)
• Pet fees (deposits, monthly pet rent)

Also weigh the money you might save:

• Lower transportation costs (gas, tolls, parking at work)
• Fewer rideshare trips home from Downtown events
• Less wear and tear on your car

Resources and Offices That Can Help

If you’re planning a move to Downtown Atlanta and need more structured help or support, some agencies and offices that many residents look to include:

• Atlanta Housing (AH) – for information on affordable housing programs and vouchers
  230 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  Phone: (404) 892-4700

• City of Atlanta – Department of City Planning – for zoning, building permits, and neighborhood planning information
  55 Trinity Ave SW, Suite 1450
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  Main Line: (404) 330-6150

• Atlanta Police Department – Zone 5 (covers much of Downtown) – for non-emergency safety concerns
  Zone 5 Precinct
  200 Ted Turner Dr SW
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  Non-Emergency: (404) 614-6544
  Emergency: 911

These offices do not place you into an apartment, but they give context on neighborhood conditions, housing supports, and city services in the Downtown area.

Quick Comparison: Is Downtown Right for You?

Use this simple comparison to see if a Downtown Atlanta apartment fits your priorities.

If most of your “yes” answers align with the left column, looking for apartments in Downtown Atlanta is likely worth serious consideration.

By focusing your search on the specific streets, transit access, and building types that match how you live day-to-day, you can narrow a long list of “Atlanta apartments downtown” into a short list of places that actually feel like home.