45 Facts About Sandy Springs

Location and Geography

Sandy Springs, Georgia, is a city with a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes. Its strategic location and geographical features make it a standout suburb of Atlanta.

1. Sandy Springs is situated in northern Fulton County, approximately 12 miles north of Downtown Atlanta.
2. The city spans an area of 38.52 square miles, with 37.66 square miles being land and 0.86 square miles being water.

Population and Incorporation

Understanding the city's demographics and its journey to becoming an official city provides insight into its growth and development.

3. As of the 2020 census, the population of Sandy Springs is 108,080, making it Georgia's 7th most populous city.
4. Sandy Springs was formally incorporated on December 1, 2005, making it the third-largest city ever to incorporate in the United States.

Innovative Governance

Sandy Springs has taken a unique approach to city management, setting it apart from many other municipalities.

5. Upon incorporation, Sandy Springs initiated a public-private partnership (PPP), with nearly half of its city staff employed by a private company.
6. In 2010, the city rebid all general city services, which was won by CH2M Hill, allowing the city to leverage cheaper services during the Great Recession.
7. Sandy Springs became the first jurisdiction in Georgia to successfully "bail out" from the preclearance requirements of Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act in 2010.

City Springs and Heritage Green

The heart of Sandy Springs is its downtown district, City Springs, which combines modern amenities with historical significance.

8. City Springs is defined as the area to the south and east of Sandy Springs Circle, north of Interstate 285, and west of Boylston Drive.
9. Heritage Green, within City Springs, is home to the natural spring that gave the city its name. This area has become a center for urban renewal, with many new mixed-use apartment developments replacing old strip malls along Roswell Road.

Economic Drivers and Corporate Headquarters

Sandy Springs is a hub for various industries and home to several major corporate headquarters, contributing significantly to its economy.

10. Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services, Health Care and Social Assistance, and Retail Trade are the most important economic drivers in Sandy Springs, employing 61.2k people.
11. The city is home to several corporate headquarters, including UPS, Newell Brands, Inspire Brands, Focus Brands, Cox Enterprises, and Mercedes-Benz USA’s corporate offices.

Historical Roots

The history of Sandy Springs dates back to the 1800s, with several landmarks and institutions that tell the story of its past.

12. The area now known as Sandy Springs was a watering stop for Native-Americans who frequented the bubbling springs.
13. The Austin-Johnson House, built in 1842 on what is now Johnson Ferry Road, is the oldest existing unaltered house in the city.
14. In 1851, Wilson Spruill donated 5 acres of land for the founding of Sandy Springs United Methodist Church, near the natural spring for which the city is named.
15. The Hammond School, built in 1905 at Johnson Ferry Road and Mt. Vernon Highway, has been an integral part of the city's educational history.

Parks and Recreation

Sandy Springs offers numerous parks and recreational facilities, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

16. The city boasts over a dozen beautiful parks, including the Abernathy Greenway and Heritage Park.
17. The John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve is a 30-acre wildlife refuge located just 4 miles from Sandy Springs.

Education and Cost of Living

Sandy Springs is known for its excellent schools and high cost of living, making it an attractive location for families.

18. The schools in Fulton County School System are rated A, making it an attractive location for families.
19. Sandy Springs has a total cost of living of 137.3, significantly more expensive than the rest of Georgia (93.4) and the rest of the United States (100).
20. The median home price is $628,839, almost 50% higher than the national average of $428,000.

Weather and Safety

The city's climate and safety record contribute to its high quality of life.

21. Sandy Springs experiences pleasant weather for most of the year, with an average of 53 inches of rain annually and only 1 inch of snow on average every year.
22. The city has a crime rate of 1,531 per 100,000 residents, which is 36.4% lower than the state average and 34.70% lower than the national average.

Cultural and Community Events

Sandy Springs hosts various cultural and community events that bring residents together and celebrate the city's vibrant spirit.

23. The Sandy Springs Festival is an annual three-day event featuring live music, food, and fun for the whole family.
24. The Sandy Springs Music Festival is an annual two-day event showcasing live music from local and national acts.
25. The Sandy Springs Art Festival is an annual two-day event featuring art from local and national artists.

Attractions and Landmarks

The city is home to several notable attractions and landmarks that draw visitors from near and far.

26. Sandy Springs is home to the Georgia Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the world.
27. The CNN Center, located in Sandy Springs, is the headquarters of CNN and offers tours of the facilities.
28. The Heritage Sandy Springs Museum, located in the Williams-Payne House, features permanent exhibits and temporary galleries showcasing historical objects and local contributions.

Transportation and Facilities

Sandy Springs offers various transportation options and facilities that cater to the needs of its residents.

29. The city is served by MARTA, the metropolitan Atlanta rapid transit system, providing convenient transportation to Sandy Springs and other areas of Atlanta.
30. Sandy Springs has a public tennis facility with 28 courts, a pro shop, and various programs and classes.
31. The Sandy Springs Golf Course is a public golf course featuring 18 holes, a clubhouse, and a pro shop.
32. The Sandy Springs Recreation Center is a public recreation center featuring a gymnasium, an indoor pool, and various programs and classes.

Nature and Performing Arts

Sandy Springs offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making it a well-rounded community.

33. The city is home to a nature preserve that features various hiking trails and a diverse array of plant and animal life.
34. The Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of shows and events, providing opportunities for artistic expression and entertainment.

Notable Residents

Several notable individuals have called Sandy Springs home, adding to the city's rich cultural tapestry.

35. Sandy Springs has been the hometown of several notable individuals, including Akon, Champ Bailey, Harris Barton, Kate Bedingfield, Mike Bettes, Todd English, Eva Galambos, David Justice, Simon Kornblit, Hines Ward, and Usher.

Economic Impact and Urban Renewal

The city's thriving business environment and urban renewal efforts contribute to its appeal and growth.

36. The presence of corporate headquarters and major economic drivers in Sandy Springs contributes significantly to the local economy.
37. The City Springs district has undergone significant urban renewal efforts, transforming the area into a vibrant downtown with mixed-use developments, green spaces, and cultural attractions.

Historic Landmarks and Medical Center

Sandy Springs is home to several historic landmarks and a major medical center, adding to its significance.

38. The city is home to several historic landmarks, including Hammond Park and the Concourse at Landmark Center.
39. Pill Hill, located in the Sandy Springs section of Perimeter Center, is the largest medical center in Georgia, including Northside Hospital, St. Joseph's Hospital, and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

Perimeter Center and Community Events

The Perimeter Center and various community events play a crucial role in the city's social and economic life.

40. Perimeter Center is a commercial edge city and business district surrounding Perimeter Mall, with about 60% of the area located in Sandy Springs.
41. Sandy Springs hosts various community events throughout the year, fostering a sense of community and providing opportunities for residents to come together and celebrate.

Educational Institutions and Quality of Life

The city's commitment to education and overall quality of life make it an attractive place to live.

42. Sandy Springs is served by the highly rated Fulton County School System.
43. The city's excellent schools and educational programs are evident in its well-maintained schools.
44. Sandy Springs offers a high quality of life, with numerous parks and a thriving economy.
45. The city's unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities makes it an attractive place to live, work, and visit.

Sandy Springs: A Blend of History and Modern Living

Sandy Springs, Georgia, offers a unique mix of rich history and modern amenities. From its roots as a Native American watering stop to becoming a bustling suburb of Atlanta, this city has grown into a vibrant community. With a population of over 108,000, it’s the 7th most populous city in Georgia. The innovative public-private partnership model has set it apart, providing efficient city services. Economic drivers like healthcare, retail, and corporate headquarters, including UPS and Mercedes-Benz USA, fuel its thriving economy. The City Springs district and numerous parks offer residents and visitors plenty of recreational and cultural activities. Excellent schools, low crime rates, and a high quality of life make Sandy Springs an attractive place to live. Whether you’re interested in its history, economic opportunities, or community events, Sandy Springs has something for everyone.