Lawrenceville,Gainesville or Athens? (Atlanta, Pendergrass: rental, good schools, college)

[gjs]

Hello, I am new to the area. I am relocating to the area and will be working in Pendergrass. I want a commute time of 30 minuets or less. Also I want to live in an area that has things to do, such as parks,good schools, a round of golf now and then, good places to eat out,etc.... Also an area without heavy traffic.
After spending a week in the Pendergrass area I have narrowed it down to 3 Loations,Lawrenceville,Gainesville,Athens. For those of you that are familiar with these locations, what area would you prefer and why.

Thank you in advance for your input.

[meadgrad]

I prefer Athens vastly, but schools may be an issue and watkinsville, where the better schools are, may be further out than 30 minutes. But overall my vote is for Athens. no real traffic in Athens either.

lawrenceville is okay, little sprawlly for my likeing, but if that doesnt bother you, then it may be okay. Living in L'ville, you may be bucking traffic as well, which is GREAT in atlanta.

Dont know much about Gainesville, but if you like lakes, maybe a spot near Lanier would be nice. Traffic is a little tuff from what I remember too...but not as bad as Atlanta!

my criteria for a nice place is history, culture, walkable, etc...which may not even be on your radar, so keep that in mind. But my vote is for Athens for sure...cant beat a college town!!!

[netdragon]

I have heard great things about Athens. Gainesville is a dive aside from near Lake Lanier and Lawrenceville is suburban sprawl.

[gjs]

Thanks for the input, after visiting all 3 areas I kind of prefer Athens also. Athens seems easier to get around in compared to Lawrenceville and Gainesville. Also the rental prices are a little less in Athens.