What Time Is It in Atlanta, Georgia Right Now?

If you’re wondering about the time in Atlanta, Georgia right now, here’s the short answer:

Atlanta follows Eastern Time.

• In fall and winter, Atlanta is on Eastern Standard Time (EST) — UTC−5.
• In spring and summer, Atlanta is on Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) — UTC−4.

Because time changes with the seasons, it helps to understand exactly how time in Atlanta, Georgia works, especially if you’re traveling, working with people in other time zones, or planning events.

Understanding Atlanta’s Time Zone

Atlanta is in the Eastern Time Zone (ET) of the United States.

Key points:

• Official time zone: Eastern Time (ET)
• Standard time: Eastern Standard Time (EST) — UTC−5
• Daylight time: Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) — UTC−4
• State: Atlanta follows the same time rules as the rest of Georgia

When people say “What’s the time in Georgia, Atlanta now?”, they’re really asking about Eastern Time as it currently applies today (either EST or EDT, depending on the month).

Does Atlanta Use Daylight Saving Time?

Yes. Atlanta observes Daylight Saving Time (DST) along with most of the United States.

When the clocks change in Atlanta

• ⏰ Spring (Clock moves forward)

  • Around early to mid-March
  • At 2:00 a.m., clocks jump to 3:00 a.m.
  • Atlanta moves from EST → EDT

• ⏰ Fall (Clock moves back)

  • Around early November
  • At 2:00 a.m., clocks go back to 1:00 a.m.
  • Atlanta moves from EDT → EST

Because of this, the current time in Atlanta may be an hour different from what you expect if you’re comparing from another country or U.S. time zone that doesn’t change in the same way.

Quick Reference: Atlanta vs. Other Major Time Zones

If you’re coordinating calls, travel, or online meetings, this simple table shows how Atlanta time compares to other common time zones.

When planning, always double-check if Daylight Saving Time is in effect both in Atlanta and at your comparison location.

How to Check the Exact Current Time in Atlanta

If you need the precise local time in Atlanta, Georgia right now, the most reliable options are:

• Your smartphone or computer
  • Make sure your device’s location is set to Atlanta or Eastern Time (US & Canada) and that automatic time is enabled.
• Digital clocks at key locations, such as:
  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
  • Major hotels and office lobbies in Downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead
• Cable or local broadcast TV channels based in Atlanta, which typically display the local time.

These sources automatically adjust for Daylight Saving Time, so you don’t have to do any manual calculations.

Time in Atlanta for Travelers

If you’re flying into or out of Atlanta, especially through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, it’s important to remember:

• All flight departure and arrival times listed for Atlanta are in local Atlanta time (Eastern Time).
• If you’re arriving from the Central, Mountain, or Pacific time zones, Atlanta time will likely be 1–3 hours ahead of your home city.
• International travelers (from Europe, Asia, or elsewhere) should convert their local time to Eastern Time when checking flight schedules or planning meetings in Atlanta.

Pro tip:
🕒 To avoid missed flights or meetings, set at least one device (phone, watch, or laptop) to Atlanta time as soon as your trip is confirmed.

Daily Life in Atlanta: Why Local Time Matters

For residents and visitors, being on the right time in Atlanta affects:

• Commutes and transit
  • MARTA trains and buses follow strict schedules based on local Atlanta time.
• Government and service offices
  • Offices like the Atlanta City Hall and Fulton County Government Center operate on Eastern Time business hours, typically around 8:30 or 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 or 5:00 p.m.
• Schools and universities
  • Institutions such as Georgia State University (Downtown), Georgia Tech (Midtown), and Atlanta Public Schools all schedule classes and activities on local Eastern Time.
• Events and entertainment
  • Concerts, sports games (like those at Mercedes-Benz Stadium or State Farm Arena), and festivals in Atlanta always list start times in local Atlanta time.

Knowing the correct current time in Atlanta, Georgia keeps you aligned with the city’s daily rhythm, from morning rush hour on the Downtown Connector to evening events around Midtown and Buckhead.

Common Questions About Time in Atlanta, Georgia

Is Atlanta always on the same time as New York?

Yes. Atlanta and New York are both in Eastern Time, so they share the same local time year-round, including during Daylight Saving Time.

Does any part of Georgia use a different time zone?

No. The entire state of Georgia, including Atlanta, uses Eastern Time.

If I work remotely with an Atlanta company, which time should I follow?

You should plan your schedule around Eastern Time (Atlanta local time). For example, if your Atlanta employer expects you online from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Atlanta time, convert that to your own time zone and adjust accordingly.

Simple Checklist: Keeping Time Straight in Atlanta

Use this quick list whenever you’re unsure about the time in Atlanta, Georgia now:

• ✅ Confirm whether it’s Standard Time (EST) or Daylight Saving Time (EDT)
• ✅ Make sure your phone or computer is set to Eastern Time or Atlanta, GA
• ✅ If you’re traveling, adjust your devices before your trip or upon landing
• ✅ When scheduling calls or meetings with people in other time zones, always state the time as “Eastern Time (Atlanta)” to avoid confusion

As long as you remember that Atlanta runs on Eastern Time and observes Daylight Saving Time, you’ll be able to figure out the current local time in Atlanta, Georgia quickly and accurately.