Well, I can't comment on the Emory area, but I've lived in the metro area for over 15 years.. and have lived in Midtown for the last 5.
Generally, I would say a car is very important in Atlanta. Public transportation in Atlanta isn't the greatest. The trains are pretty good, but I would stay away from the buses. However, unless you live within short distance of the train stations, they are fairly useless. Here is the rail system map.
Even though I only live 2 miles from school, I still chose to drive. It is very difficult to walk that much on a regular basis in the Atlanta heat during the warmer months. This is also a major city, so you must always be aware of crime. Walking everywhere leaves you more vulnerable. I would not call Atlanta a bicycle friendly city, but that is a better option than walking ofcourse. I personally find it very hard to imagine having to survive in the city without a car. Unless you live next to a grocery and retail center, you are going to need a car just to get the basics to survive.
On the other hand, if you plan to reside on campus and don't plan on going out much, then perhaps you could survive without a car. However, to experience everything that Atlanta has to offer, you almost certainly will want a car.
Congratulations on your acceptance, and I think you will enjoy Atlanta. The cost of living is pretty good for a major city, and Atlanta has everything that you could possibly want, including great weather.
gt6 got a reaction from frmin in Atlanta, GA