Atlanta at a Glance

Discover Key Facts about the Epicenter of the South

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Geography

The United States is the third-largest country, both in size, covering nearly 10,000,000 square kilometers, and population, with nearly 319 million people. The United States is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Canada to the north and Mexico to the south.

The width of the continental United States is 4,313 kilometers, but traveling from the East Coast to the West Coast can be lesser or greater, depending on the route traveled. The country consists of 50 states and the District of Columbia. Located in the foothills of the southern Appalachians in the north-central part of Georgia is Atlanta, the state’s largest city and the seat of Fulton County.

Climate

Despite having a mild climate, Atlanta experiences all four seasons. The city’s average annual temperature is around 61 degrees. July is typically the hottest month, with average high temperatures reaching 89 degrees, while January is the coldest, with average lows around 34 degrees. Spring brings warmer temperatures along with an increase in thunderstorms and rain showers, which often continue into the summer. Fall ushers in cooler weather before winter sets in. Atlanta’s moderate climate allows both visitors and locals to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Transportation & Infrastructure

Atlanta is the epicenter of the South, offering an accessible destination. A two-hour flight connects 80 percent of the U.S. population to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which also provides access to nearly 90 international destinations in 50 countries.

Once you’re in Atlanta, navigating the city is a breeze with MARTA, Atlanta’s rapid rail system. A short train ride directly connects the airport to Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead and beyond, with the city’s famous Peachtree Street serving as the main thoroughfare. Three major interstates converge in the heart of the city, making it easy to travel by car.

Fortune 500 Companies

Over the last two decades, Atlanta has experienced remarkable growth, attracting an increasing number of Fortune 500 companies. Atlanta’s robust economy, diverse work force and reputation for innovation make it a top choice for both established corporations and emerging ventures. Metro Atlanta is home to several Fortune 500 companies including:

• AGCO Corporation
• Asbury Automative Group
• Assurant
• Delta Air Lines
• Global Payments
• Genuine Parts Company
• Graphic Packaging Holding Company
• Intercontinental Exchange (ICE)
• Newell Brands
• Norfolk Southern
• PulteGroup
• Southern Company
• The Coca-Cola Company
• The Home Depot
• United Parcel Services (UPS)

Higher Education

As a leading hub for higher education in the Southeast, Atlanta is home to a wide range of institutions that play a key role in the region and state’s economies. The metropolitan area boasts numerous prominent colleges and universities, including:

• Emory University
• Georgia Institute of Technology
• Georgia State University
• Oglethorpe University

Founded in 1929, the city is also home to Atlanta University Center Consortium, the world’s oldest and largest association of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The Consortium’s members include:

• Clark Atlanta University
• Morehouse College
• Morehouse School of Medicine
• Spelman College