Life in Clayton County, GA
Located just south of Atlanta, Clayton County is known for its central location, diverse population, and affordability. Home to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the world’s busiest airport, Clayton is a key logistics and transportation hub for the region. Residents enjoy a mix of suburban and urban living, easy access to Atlanta, and revitalization projects across the county. It’s an ideal location for commuters, airport employees, and first-time homeowners.
Quick Facts on Clayton County
- County Seat: Jonesboro
- Population: 300,000
- School System: Clayton County Public Schools (CCPS)
- Median Household Income: $52,000
- Top Employers: Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, Clayton County Government, Southern Regional Medical Center, CCPS, Delta Air Lines
Weather in Clayton County
- Spring: 60s-70s, ideal for outdoor festivals
- Summer: 80s-90s, humid and stormy afternoons
- Fall: 50s-70s, breezy and colorful
- Winter: 30s-50s, occasional frost or snow
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Incorporated Cities in Clayton County
Clayton County includes 7 incorporated cities and several unincorporated communities.
List of Cities:
- Jonesboro (county seat) - Historic charm, courthouse square, and revitalization projects
- Forest Park - Large city with industrial growth and close access to the airport
- Riverdale - Centrally located with growing retail and housing development
- Lovejoy - Residential and family-focused with new housing developments
- Lake City - Quiet, small-town feel with access to schools and transit
- Morrow - Home to Southlake Mall and Clayton State University
- College Park (partially in Fulton County) - Business hub near airport, with hotels, restaurants, and rapid development
Unincorporated Communities:
- Conley
- Ellenwood (partially in DeKalb & Henry counties)
- Bonanza
- Irondale
These areas are served by Clayton County Government for public safety, zoning, and public services.
Population
One of Georgia's most racially and ethnically diverse counties. Clayton County has a youthful population with a strong sense of cultural pride and community events that celebrate this diversity.
Education and Public Services
Education
- Clayton County Public Schools (CCPS) - The 5th largest school district in Georgia, serving over 50,000 students
- Specialty programs in STEM, Fine Arts, Dual Enrollment, and Magnet Academies
- Top Schools: Elite Scholars Academy, M.E. Stilwell School of the Arts
- Clayton State University (Morrow) - Public university with strong nursing, business, and liberal arts programs
Safety & Public Services
- Clayton County Police Department and Sheriff's Office serve unincorporated areas
- Incorporated cities maintain their own police departments>
- Fire & Emergency Services provided by Clayton County Fire & EMS
Shopping, Dining and Entertainment
Shopping & Dining
- Southlake Mall (Morrow) - Regional shopping center
- Olde Towne Jonesboro - Antique shops, cafes, and farmers markets
- Riverdale Town Center - Community events and retail
- International grocery stores, Southern diners, BBQ, Caribbean, Mexican, and Asian cuisine across the county
Parks & Recreation
- International Park - Former Olympic venue, trails, beach, and tennis
- Clayton County Parks & Rec - Youth sports, adult leagues, and seasonal events
- Reynolds Nature Preserve - Forests, trails, and nature programs
- Lake Spivey - Private lake community with waterfront homes
Transportation & Commute
- Interstates: I-75, I-285, I-85 (airport access)
- Airport: Home to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
- Transit: MARTA bus routes and stations in College Park and Forest Park
- Future Plans: Southside commuter rail under development
Community Services & Resources in Clayton County
Hospitals & Healthcare
- Southern Regional Medical Center (Riverdale) - Full-service hospital
- Grady & Emory clinics - Available throughout the county
- Urgent Care Centers: Peachtree Immediate Care, Emory at Morrow
Religious & Faith Communities
- Strong Baptist, Methodist, and Pentecostal presence
- Catholic and Non-Denominational Mega-Churches
- Mosques and interfaith worship centers in Jonesboro and Forest Park
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Georgia Service Areas
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