Marietta is the Cobb County seat, about 20 miles northwest of Downtown Atlanta, and one of metro Atlanta’s most established and walkable communities. It’s centered on its historic Square and offers homes from Victorian to brand-new. If you’re thinking about buying here, here’s what to know and my step-by-step guide.
Want the big picture first? See my Marietta neighborhood guide for the video tour, market update and local favorites.
Marietta at a glance
- Location: Cobb County, about 20 miles northwest of Downtown Atlanta
- ZIP codes: 30060, 30062, 30064, 30066, 30067, 30068 and more
- Median sale price: $490,000, Marietta area, past 12 months (FMLS)
- Days on market: 19 (median)
- Known for: Marietta Square, the Big Chicken, the Strand Theatre and Kennesaw Mountain
A little history
Marietta was established in 1834, making it older than Atlanta. It became the Cobb County seat and grew around its town square, which still anchors the city today. Local tradition holds that it was named for Mary Cobb, wife of U.S. Senator Thomas Willis Cobb. In 1963 the 56-foot Big Chicken went up on a local restaurant and became a beloved landmark that locals still use for directions. Kennesaw Mountain, just northwest of town, is now a national battlefield park.
What it’s like to live in Marietta
Marietta Square is the heart of the city, with local restaurants, boutiques and year-round events, plus a weekend farmers market around Glover Park. The Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre hosts live shows and classic films, and festivals like Chalktoberfest fill the Square with color. For the outdoors, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park offers trails and views just minutes away. Most residents drive, using I-75, US-41 and I-575.
Homes and prices
Near the Square you’ll find historic Victorian homes and Craftsman bungalows; farther out are mid-century ranches, traditional brick homes, larger executive properties and newer swim-and-tennis communities. In the Marietta area, 3,420 homes sold over the past 12 months (Nov 2025–Oct 2026) at a median of $490,000, with a median of 19 days on the market and homes selling at about 99% of list price. There were 1,164 homes for sale in October. That area includes every Marietta mailing address, including East Cobb, so prices vary widely by location.
Who Marietta fits
Marietta fits buyers who want a walkable historic downtown and community events, families looking for established neighborhoods and amenities, and people who work in Cobb County or along I-75.
My step-by-step guide to buying in Marietta
Step 1: Get pre-approved
With a median of 19 days on market, have your pre-approval ready before you tour.
Step 2: Pick your Marietta
Decide between homes near the Square, East Cobb and outer Cobb subdivisions.
Step 3: Confirm city limits and schools
Many Marietta addresses are in unincorporated Cobb County; check taxes, services and school assignments.
Step 4: Review HOAs
Ask about HOA and swim-tennis fees in subdivisions.
Step 5: Test the commute
Drive I-75 at the times you’ll actually travel.
Step 6: Make a strong offer
I’ll pull recent sales so you can price your offer well.
Step 7: Inspect and close
Get a full inspection and a sewer scope on older homes.
Local favorites in Marietta
- Marietta Square and Glover Park, restaurants, shops and events
- Strand Theatre, live shows and classic films
- Marietta Square Farmers Market, weekends
- The Big Chicken, a landmark since 1963
- Kennesaw Mountain, trails and views
- Chalktoberfest, chalk art on the Square
Marietta FAQ
Is Marietta, GA a good place to buy a home?
Many buyers love Marietta for its historic Square, events and wide range of homes. Prices vary a lot by area.
What is the median home price in Marietta?
The median sale price in the Marietta area was $490,000 over the past 12 months (Nov 2025–Oct 2026), according to FMLS InfoSparks.
Is Marietta older than Atlanta?
Yes, Marietta was established in 1834.
What county is Marietta in?
Cobb County; it’s the county seat.
Is East Cobb part of Marietta?
Many East Cobb homes have Marietta addresses but are in unincorporated Cobb County.
Ready to explore Marietta?
Whether you’re buying your first home, moving up, selling, relocating to Atlanta, or looking for an agent who welcomes LGBTQ+ clients, I’d love to help you find your place in Marietta. Start with my Marietta neighborhood guide, or call or text me at 404-643-2013.