Life in Decatur, GA
Decatur, Georgia is an eclectic, progressive city located just east of downtown Atlanta. Known for its walkability, excellent schools, and thriving arts scene, Decatur offers a vibrant mix of urban and small-town living. With tree-lined streets, charming historic homes, and a strong sense of community, Decatur is a top choice for families, professionals, and retirees.
Decatur Neighborhoods
- Oakhurst: Family-friendly with parks, cafes, and top-rated schools.
- Downtown Decatur: Walkable with boutiques, restaurants, and public transit.
- Winnona Park: Historic homes and peaceful streets near Agnes Scott College.
- Great Lakes: Residential charm with proximity to Emory and CDC.
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Decatur Population
Decatur has a population of around 25,000, with a strong sense of local identity and civic involvement.
Demographics
- White: 70%
- African American: 20%
- Asian: 5%
- Hispanic or Latino: 4%
- Median Age: 39 years
- Median Household Income: $106,000
Schools and Zones
Public School System:
- City Schools of Decatur (a separate, high-performing district)
Top-Rated Schools:
- Decatur High School
- Renfroe Middle School
- Winnona Park Elementary
- Glennwood Elementary
- Emory School of Inclusion
View school ratings on GreatSchools.org
Daycare & After-School Care
- College Heights Early Childhood Learning Center
- Oakhurst Cooperative Preschool
- Decatur Parks and Rec after-school programs
Extracurricular Activities
- Dance: Atlanta Ballet Decatur Centre
- Swim: Decatur Dekalb YMCA>
- Martial Arts: Tiger Academy of Martial Arts
- Art & Music: Decatur Makers, Little Shop of Stories workshops
Decatur is known for
- Hosting the Decatur Book Festival and numerous cultural events
- Its progressive values and inclusive policies
- Proximity to Emory University, CDC, and downtown Atlanta
Parks and Recreation
- Glenlake Park (pool, tennis, trails)
- Decatur Recreation Center
- McKoy Park
- Oakhurst Park
Living in Decatur
Owners vs Renters
- Homeownership rate: 60%
- Renting: 40%, primarily in multi-family homes and walkable districts
Why Live in Decatur?
- Excellent school system
- Family-friendly with walkable neighborhoods
- Robust local restaurant and arts scene
- Safe, close-knit community
Weather
- Winters: Mild (lows in 30s)
- Summers: Hot and humid (highs in 80s-90s)
- Spring/Fall: Comfortable with vibrant outdoor activities
Working in Decatur
LMajor Employers & Top Hiring Fields
- Emory University and Emory Healthcare
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Agnes Scott College
- Local government and education services
Hiring Sectors:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Public Administration
- Research and Development
Transportation
- MARTA rail stations at Decatur, East Lake, and Avondale
- Easy access to I-285 and I-20
- Biking and walking trails throughout the city
Shopping, Dining and Entertainment
Grocery Stores
- Kroger, Publix, Whole Foods
- Sprouts, Aldi, and Decatur Farmers Market
Dining Scene
- The Iberian Pig
- Leon's Full Service
- No. 246
- Butter & Cream (artisan ice cream)
- Kimball House
Entertainment Options
- Eddie's Attic (live music venue)
- Decatur Square festivals and events
- Beacon Hill Black Alliance for Human Rights cultural activities
Community Services & Resources in Decatur
Emergency & Healthcare Services
- Police: Decatur Police Department
- Fire: Decatur Fire and Rescue Services
- Hospitals: Emory Decatur Hospital
- Urgent Care: Piedmont Urgent Care, Emory Urgent Care
Medical Providers
- Emory Healthcare - Decatur Campus
- North Decatur Pediatrics
- Local wellness clinics and family practices
Religious Institutions
- First Baptist Church of Decatur
- All Souls Fellowship
- Decatur City Church
- Decatur Islamic Center
