Ball Ground, Cumming or Canton? (Atlanta, Macon: transplants, neighborhoods, good schools)

[hbejmom]

We're recent transplants to Georgia after being lifelong Florida residents. We've lived in Jones County outside of Macon for the past year, but have new job near Ball Ground so we're looking at both Cherokee and North Forsyth at this time. Looking for small town rural life, but with good schools and within 1/2 hour of civilization (i.e. Starbucks!). We prefer acreage to gated neighborhoods, and have no desire to live in a snotty area--scenery is very important, considering we lived in the flatlands of Florida. Any tips or input would be appreciated.

[wxjay]

The commute from Cumming to Ball Ground would be about 35-40 minutes one way. Certainly Forsyth County is a top county for schools as well as growing retail and restaurant developments. However, you have to consider that commute.

Ball Ground is quite rural by metro Atlanta standards, and the nearest "city" would be Woodstock really for major shopping and retail (20 minutes or so down I-575). Cherokee County schools, in my opinion, are not the greatest, but they're not the worst either. It's a tough call. If schools are not a major issue, then Canton or even Holly Springs would be the best bet for you.

[graywolf73]

The schools in Cherokee county are as good if not better than Forsyth. Ball Ground is nice, but Ball Ground Elem isn't the greatest, Macedonia is better. But there isn't anything to do there. Canton is beautiful but you will get smaller lots. Cumming is also very nice, again, with smaller lots. My suggestion is to just drive around and see what area you like best. Both Canton and Cumming are huge cities, Ball Ground is relatively small.

[wxjay]

Originally Posted by graywolf73

The schools in Cherokee county are as good if not better than Forsyth.

Well, I have to admit, it was mainly Woodstock schools that I have heard about, and the news there isn't that great. But I don't know about Canton schools.

[hbejmom]

Thanks for the input! We visited several weeks ago and circled around the area quite a bit. Definitely 400 is the worst of the traffic, especially vs. 575. Ultimately, I have to look at schools as the biggest factor as I have two young ones. My husband will be living up there for awhile before we all head up, so I hope he will be able to get a good feel for it.