Atlanta

by The Linguist

Atlanta, Georgia – Capital of the South

Atlanta is the capital and most populous city in the U.S. state of Georgia. With an estimated 2022 population of 506,811, it is also the 37th most populous city in the United States. The city serves as the cultural and economic center of the Atlanta metropolitan area, home to more than 6 million people and the 9th largest metropolitan area in the country.

History

Atlanta was founded in 1837 as the terminus of a major state-sponsored railroad. Due to its location at the intersection of two railroad lines, Atlanta very quickly became a regional hub for transportation and commerce. Atlanta played a critical role in the American Civil War as a key supply hub and defended city for the Confederacy. After the war, Atlanta was rebuilt and entered a new era of rapid growth and economic prosperity.

Today, Atlanta is a major center for media operations, transportation, education, and business. It is home to the world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and several Fortune 500 companies like The Coca-Cola Company, Home Depot, UPS, and Delta Air Lines.

To learn more about the history of Atlanta, visit the Atlanta History Center.

Population and Demographics

The 2020 census recorded Atlanta’s population at 506,811 residents within the city limits. The Atlanta metropolitan area has over 6 million residents. Atlanta is known for its large African American population, which comprises around 50% of the city’s residents. Atlanta also has growing Hispanic, Asian American, and immigrant communities.

Economy

Atlanta has one of the largest and most dynamic economies in the country. As home to 18 Fortune 500 companies and over 75% of Fortune 1000 companies have a presence in Atlanta, the city is a major hub for business and financial services.

Some of the largest companies and organizations headquartered in Atlanta include:

In addition to large corporations, Atlanta is home to many startups and emerging companies in fields like financial technology, health care, and software/internet services. The metro area’s GDP was estimated at around $422 billion in 2021, making it one of the 10 largest economies in the U.S.

To learn more, visit the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.

Government

Atlanta is the county seat of Fulton County, Georgia. The city has operated under a mayor–council form of government since 1854. The city council consists of 15 representatives, one from each of NPU’s (Neighborhood Planning Unit) in the city.

Some of the key government offices and services in Atlanta include:

The City of Atlanta government website provides access to all city departments and services. Visit www.atlantaga.gov to learn more.

Attractions and Tourism

As a major convention and tourism destination, Atlanta offers many unique attractions and landmarks. Some of the top sites include:

The Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau provides complete visitor information at www.atlanta.net.

Transportation

Atlanta’s major transportation infrastructure includes:

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – The world’s busiest airport, offering flights to over 150 domestic and 75 international destinations. 6000 N Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30320, (800) 897-1910
  • Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) – Public transit system operating bus and rail lines throughout Atlanta and surrounding areas.
  • Atlanta Streetcar – Streetcar system serving downtown Atlanta neighborhoods. www.streetcar.atlantaga.gov

Education

Atlanta is home to several renowned universities and colleges, including:

The Atlanta Public Schools system (APS) manages the city’s public schools. APS operates charter and partner schools as well. See the APS website for more information.

Some of the larger school districts in the metro area include:

Sports

Atlanta is home to many professional and collegiate sports teams, with some of the most popular being:

  • Atlanta Braves – Major League Baseball team playing at Truist Park. www.mlb.com/braves
  • Atlanta Falcons – National Football League team playing at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. www.atlantafalcons.com
  • Atlanta Hawks – National Basketball Association team playing at State Farm Arena. www.nba.com/hawks/
  • Atlanta United FC – Major League Soccer team playing at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. www.atlutd.com

Other pro teams include the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream basketball team. NCAA teams like the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and Georgia State Panthers are based in the city too.

Landmarks

Here are some of Atlanta’s most famous buildings and landmarks:

Additional Local Resources

Here are some other useful resources to learn more about Atlanta: