There are many different faces of Atlanta. The north side is where you want to be, with things deteriorating the further south you go. Alpharetta is well north of the Atlanta that many have referenced negatively. I would agree with all of their observations... but Alpharetta is far from the "Detroit of the South". It's more like a subdivision of "McMansions" on every corner, and two German SUV's in every garage - nothing like downtown Atlanta. The best thing about this area is that you can access all of the states best trout fishing by driving north and leaving Atlanta further and further behind. Another thing not to sneeze at is that you can get in your car after breakfast and be fly-fishing for tarpon, redfish, and specs (or lounging on white sand beaches) by mid-afternoon. I'm sure NM is wonderful, but don't confuse north Georgia with Atlanta when making your decision.
Bill O. (from the extreme most northern corner of GA!)
www.oysterbamboo.com