ATLANTA, GA — Atlanta has been named one of the 10 best cities in the United States for families, according to a new study examining access to family-friendly attractions, affordability, education, safety and overall quality of life.
The study, conducted by Manhattan Mental Health Counseling, ranked Atlanta No. 6 nationally, placing it ahead of several major metropolitan areas, including Miami, Austin, Seattle and Dallas.
Atlanta stood out particularly for its abundance of family-friendly dining options and public parks, recording 139.81 family restaurants and 86 parks per 100,000 residents.
The city also scored well for its access to recreational attractions, with researchers identifying three water and amusement parks and four zoos and aquariums.
Researchers said the rankings were designed to highlight cities where families can balance work and home life while enjoying accessible outdoor spaces, entertainment and opportunities to spend time together.
The study examined a range of factors, including family amenities, affordability, education, safety and quality of life.
Atlanta's median household income was listed at $88,165, while median monthly rent stood at $1,953. The study also reported annual childcare costs of $20,742 and grocery expenses of $13,406.
The city's unemployment rate was listed at 3.3%, among the lowest of the cities ranked in the top 10.
Virginia Beach, Virginia, claimed the top spot nationally with a score of 64.77, followed closely by El Paso, Texas, at 64.69. Raleigh, North Carolina, ranked third with 63.08, while Tampa, Florida, and Columbus, Ohio, rounded out the top five.
Atlanta's sixth-place finish also put it ahead of Omaha, Nebraska; Mesa, Arizona; Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Fort Worth, Texas, which completed the top 10.
Natalie Buchwald, a spokesperson for Manhattan Mental Health Counseling, said access to recreational spaces and affordable activities can play an important role in strengthening family relationships.
"Having accessible places where families can spend time together can support stronger relationships and give children opportunities to play, explore and interact with others," Buchwald said.
She added that parks, community spaces and inexpensive outings can help parents establish family routines despite busy work schedules.
"Parents do not need expensive attractions to create meaningful experiences with their children," Buchwald said. "Regular trips to a local park, outdoor play and time together away from daily responsibilities can all contribute to a positive family routine."
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Across Georgia Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.