Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Marietta is by using a shared airport shuttle or a rideshare (Uber/Lyft), balancing cost and convenience for the ~20-mile journey. The cheapest option is public transit (MARTA + CobbLinc bus) for under $3, but it takes over 90 minutes. The fastest direct option is a taxi or private car, taking 25-45 minutes depending on traffic. Total cost ranges from $2.50 to $70+.
2. Taxi & Private Car Service â Fastest & Most Direct
Ideal for those prioritizing speed, privacy, or traveling in a group with lots of luggage.
Official Atlanta Taxis
Taxis are readily available at the Ground Transportation Center on the Domestic Terminal's lower level. They operate on a zone fare system to Marietta.
- Fixed Fare: Approximately $60 - $75 to most Marietta addresses (confirm before departure).
- Time: 25-45 minutes.
- Pros: Immediately available, no price surges, professional drivers.
- Cons: Most expensive standard option, cash or card accepted.
Pre-Booked Private Car Services
Companies like Atlanta Black Car or Carey offer luxury sedans, SUVs, or vans.
- Cost: $80 - $150+ one-way.
- Best For: Business travel, families, special occasions, or large groups wanting a guaranteed, high-end experience.
3. Public Transit (MARTA & Bus) â The Budget Champion
This is by far the cheapest method but requires time and some effort with luggage.
Step-by-Step Guide: MARTA Train + CobbLinc Bus
- ATL Airport to MARTA: Follow signs to the ATL SkyTrain in the Domestic Terminal. Take it to the MARTA Airport Station (it's free).
- MARTA Red or Gold Line Northbound: Take a train heading to North Springs or Doraville. Your destination is the Arts Center Station.
- Transfer to CobbLinc Bus #10: At Arts Center Station, go to the bus bay. Take CobbLinc Route #10 (Marietta Blvd/Veterans Memorial) heading west. Get off at a stop near your destination in Marietta (e.g., Franklin Rd, Roswell St).
| Leg | Cost | Approx. Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATL SkyTrain | Free | 5 min | Inside airport. |
| MARTA Train | $2.50 | 30 min | Buy a Breeze Card/Ticket at Airport Station. |
| CobbLinc Bus #10 | $2.50 | 40-55 min | Transfers from MARTA may be discounted. Check schedules, service ends by midnight. |
| Total (One-Way) | ~$5.00 | 90-120 min | Cheapest but longest option. |
Resource: Plan your trip using the MARTA website and CobbLinc website.
4. Rental Car â For Maximum Flexibility
Renting a car is excellent if you plan to explore the greater Atlanta area or Georgia beyond Marietta.
Key Information
- Rental Location: The Rental Car Center is connected to the terminals via the ATL SkyTrain (free). Follow signs.
- Drive to Marietta: Take I-85 North to I-285 West (Perimeter), then I-75 North to exits for Marietta. Distance: ~20 miles.
- Drive Time: 25-50 minutes (highly traffic-dependent).
- Daily Cost: $35 - $70/day for an economy car, plus taxes, fees, gas, and potential parking costs in Marietta.
- Tip: Atlanta traffic is notorious, especially during rush hours (7-10 AM, 4-7 PM). Factor this in. Consider price comparison sites to find deals.
5. Side-by-Side Cost & Time Comparison
| Transport Method | Avg. Cost (One-Way) | Travel Time | Best For | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Transit (MARTA+Bus) | $2.50 - $5.00 | 90-120 min | Solo budget travelers, no rush | Low (Multiple transfers) |
| Shared Airport Shuttle | $25 - $40 | 45-70 min | Solo travelers, small groups | Medium (Pre-booked, shared) |
| Rideshare (UberX/Lyft) | $35 - $55 | 25-40 min | Couples, small groups, convenience | High (On-demand) |
| ð RECOMMENDED: Rideshare/Shuttle | $25 - $55 | 25-70 min | Most travelers (Best balance) | Medium-High |
| Taxi | $60 - $75 | 25-45 min | Immediate departure, no smartphone | High (Direct) |
| Private Car | $80 - $150+ | 25-45 min | Business, luxury, large groups | Very High |
| Rental Car | $35+/day + extras | 25-50 min | Multi-day stay, regional exploration | Varies (You drive) |
6. Traveler Tips & Local Advice
Handling Luggage
If you have multiple large bags, rideshare (UberXL), shuttle, or taxi is strongly advised. MARTA trains have space but bus transfers with heavy luggage are challenging.
Traffic & Timing
- Rush Hour (Weekdays 7-9 AM, 4-7 PM): Can double travel time for road options. Consider MARTA (train portion avoids road traffic) if arriving then.
- Late-Night Arrivals (After 11 PM): Public bus service (CobbLinc) is limited or unavailable. Your only practical options are taxi, rideshare, or pre-booked shuttle/private car.
Money-Saving Hack
For two or more people, a rideshare often costs the same or less per person than the shared shuttle and is faster and more direct.
First-Time in Atlanta?
The airport is large but well-signed. Allow an extra 20-30 minutes to collect bags and navigate to your chosen transport pickup point, especially for the Rental Car Center or Rideshare lot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a direct train from Atlanta Airport to Marietta?
No. There is no direct train. You must take the MARTA train from the airport and then transfer to a Cobb County bus (Route #10) to reach Marietta.
What is the cheapest way from ATL to Marietta?
The cheapest way is the combined MARTA train and CobbLinc bus #10, with a total one-way fare of approximately $5.00.
How much is an Uber from Atlanta Airport to Marietta?
An UberX or standard Lyft typically costs between $35 and $55 for the trip to Marietta, but this can surge during peak times or high demand.
Is the MARTA + Bus option safe at night?
The MARTA train portion is generally safe and patrolled. However, CobbLinc bus service becomes very limited after evening hours. For arrivals after 9 PM, it's not recommended for travelers with luggage. Opt for a rideshare or taxi instead.
What's the best option for a family of 4?
For a family of four, an UberXL or Lyft XL or a pre-booked private van service is often the most cost-effective and hassle-free choice, providing door-to-door service for roughly $60-$90.
How long does the taxi ride take?
Without traffic, a taxi takes about 25-30 minutes. During Atlanta's rush hour, expect the trip to take 45-60 minutes or more.
Can I use my JR Pass or similar for this trip?
No. JR Passes are for Japan's rail network. In Atlanta, you will need a MARTA Breeze Card/Ticket for the train and separate bus fare (with possible transfer discount) for CobbLinc.
Is it better to fly into a different airport for Marietta?
No. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL) is the closest major airport to Marietta (~20 miles). Other airports are much farther and not practical.