Explore the elevation of Atlanta—perched over 1,000 feet above sea level, this capital city rises higher than many major U.S. cities, blending Southern charm with historic landmarks, rolling hills, and forested landscapes in the heart of Georgia.

Table of Contents

Where is Atlanta?

  • Location: Atlanta is located in northern Georgia, within Fulton County.

City Profile

  • Nicknames: Known as “The City in a Forest” and ATL.
  • Fame: Renowned for diverse culture, Civil Rights history, and the world’s busiest airport.
  • Population: Around 490,000 residents in the city and 5.8 million in the metro area.
  • Size rank: Most populous city in Georgia and the 38th largest city in the U.S.

Elevation Basics

  • City elevation: Atlanta sits at an elevation of 1,050 feet (320 m) above sea level.
  • State comparison: Georgia’s average elevation is 600 feet (180 m), making Atlanta one of its highest major cities.
  • Tallest nearby peak: Kennesaw Mountain reaches 1,808 feet (551 m) in the metro area.
  • City founding: Established in 1837 as a transportation hub at the junction of major railroads.
  • Name origin: Originally named Terminus, it was later renamed Atlanta after the Western & Atlantic Railroad.
  • Growth story: Rebuilt after devastation in the Civil War, Atlanta grew into a vital Southern metropolis.
  • Modern evolution: Today, Atlanta is a center for business, culture, and media, with significant influence in music, politics, and film.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Regional contrast: Atlanta sits far higher than other major Georgia cities like Augusta – 136 ft (45 m), and Macon – 381 ft (116 m).
  • Highest city in Georgia: Sky Valley – 3,100 feet (945 m), located in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
  • Highest point in Georgia: Brasstown Bald – 4,784 feet (1,458 m).
  • Lowest point in Georgia: Atlantic Ocean shoreline at sea level.
  • Mean elevation: Georgia’s average elevation is 600 feet (180 m), making Atlanta notably higher.

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Atlanta has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons.
  • Rainfall: Receives around 50 inches of rain annually—more than Seattle.
  • Summer temperatures: July averages around 80°F (27°C) with high humidity.
  • Winter temperatures: January averages 44°F (7°C)—cool, with occasional freezing days.
  • Snowfall: Snow is rare, but light flurries are possible in winter.
  • Tourist appeal: Attractions include Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, CNN Center, and Georgia Aquarium.
  • Outdoor vibe: Nicknamed “The City in a Forest” due to its lush greenery and abundance of parks and trails.

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