Progressive rural neighborhood for family? (Atlanta, Roswell: renting, homes, college)

[dueses]

Hi! I'm moving to Atlanta (with husband, having kids soon), and I'm looking for a *progressive, rural* neighborhood.

I know it's a contradiction in terms, since progressive folks are often drawn to more urban areas (Little Five Points, Virginia Highland, Decatur, etc, based on what I've read in this forum).

The thing is I want to live in the country (or in a neighborhood with a country feel), but still have neighbors I can relate to. I'm a youthful 37yo liberal writer from California and NYC. I like all people, but I have to admit that lefties are my kindred spirits.

This is what I mean by "progressive" and "rural":

Progressive = attracts creative people/families who are probably in favor of gay marriage, non-violent parenting, etc.

Rural = lots of trees and some space between homes.

Thanks so much for your help! We're visiting Atlanta Nov 29 - Dec 3, and will check out the areas you suggest.

[lastminutemom]

where will your or your husband be working?

[thedudewiththeplan]

That will be near impossible to find outside of the Atlanta city limits. Most of the suburbs and rural areas of Atlanta are EXTREMLY conservative (Especially Peachtree City) so unless you are looking into Decatur, it may be hard to find. Several of the most Republican congressional districts in the country are in the Atlanta suburbs.

[mmenomen]

Also, how far out would you want to live? - First thing that comes to mind (other than the areas you mention) for me is Athens, (the college town) but that is well over an hour's drive east of Atlanta and it is not considered part of metro Atlanta.

[matt8325]

Originally Posted by mmenomen

Also, how far out would you want to live? - First thing that comes to mind (other than the areas you mention) for me is Athens, (the college town) but that is well over an hour's drive east of Atlanta and it is not considered part of metro Atlanta.

Is Athens really considered rural ?

[sweettea1]

I'd possibly throw Roswell into the mix.

[matt8325]

Originally Posted by sweettea1

I'd possibly throw Roswell into the mix.

Roswell isnt rural.

[Saintmarks]

Originally Posted by dueses

Hi! I'm moving to Atlanta (with husband, having kids soon), and I'm looking for a *progressive, rural* neighborhood.

I know it's a contradiction in terms, since progressive folks are often drawn to more urban areas (Little Five Points, Virginia Highland, Decatur, etc, based on what I've read in this forum).

The thing is I want to live in the country (or in a neighborhood with a country feel), but still have neighbors I can relate to. I'm a youthful 37yo liberal writer from California and NYC. I like all people, but I have to admit that lefties are my kindred spirits.

This is what I mean by "progressive" and "rural":

Progressive = attracts creative people/families who are probably in favor of gay marriage, non-violent parenting, etc.

Rural = lots of trees and some space between homes.

Thanks so much for your help! We're visiting Atlanta Nov 29 - Dec 3, and will check out the areas you suggest.

So, if you live in the country, you are a violent parent?

??????

[travelingtrainer]

The original post sums up my dilemma as well - I checked out Athens and like it but it does not exactly have easy access (no interstate to/from). I can live anywhere within 80 miles of the city and have not a clue where I want to be. For some reason, Peachtree Dunwoody area calls me but it's just too concrete. And how would I access nature? HELP! Help me fall inlove with the Atlanta area! I'm struggling here.

[southgeorgia]

Originally Posted by Saintmarks

So, if you live in the country, you are a violent parent?

??????

i'm curious for a further explanation about "non-violent" parenting myself.

by the way, i used to know a guy from the atlanta area and lived in the valdosta area at one time who is now in mckinney; would that be you? (went to sprayberry HS)