Life in Dekalb County
DeKalb County, located just east of Atlanta, is one of Georgiaβs most populous and diverse counties. It blends urban neighborhoods, vibrant suburbs, and scenic greenspaces with access to top-tier schools, a major transportation network, and global employers. Itβs home to Emory University, CDC headquarters, and thriving communities that range from trendy and walkable to quiet and family-friendly. With direct MARTA access, strong public services, and a mix of cultural heritage and modern development, DeKalb County offers something for everyone.
For a limited time
New customers receive a a FREE HD camera!
Quick Facts about Dekalb County
Quick Facts
- County Seat: Decatur
- Population: 770,000+
- Median Household Income: $68,000
- School System: DeKalb County School District, plus several independent city systems
- Major Employers: Emory University & Healthcare, CDC, DeKalb County Government, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
ποΈ Cities & Communities Within DeKalb County
Incorporated Cities:
- Atlanta (partially in DeKalb)
- Avondale Estates
- Brookhaven
- Chamblee
- Clarkston
- Decatur (County seat)
- Doraville
- Dunwoody
- Lithonia
- Pine Lake
- Stone Mountain
- Stonecrest
- Tucker
Unincorporated but recognized communities:
- Belvedere Park
- Candler-McAfee
- North Druid Hills
- Redan
- Panthersville
- Scottdale
- Gresham Park
- East Lake (partially in Atlanta)
- Lake Claire (Atlanta neighborhood straddling county lines)
These areas are part of unincorporated DeKalb County, which is governed directly by the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners and enjoys access to the county's schools, police, and fire services.
Population
DeKalb County is a racially and ethnically diverse county, home to a vibrant mix of cultures, languages, and communities. With a population of over 760,000 residents, DeKalb represents a dynamic urban-suburban blend that includes major hubs like Decatur, Stone Mountain, and parts of Atlanta.
This diversity fuels a rich cultural landscape marked by international cuisine, multilingual schools, and thriving small business corridors. The county is known for its strong sense of community and inclusivity, where heritage festivals, neighborhood block parties, and multicultural events are celebrated year-round.
DeKalb County also has a relatively youthful population, supported by a robust public school system, several higher education institutions, and growing economic sectors. Whether you're moving in, growing a family, or building a business, DeKalb offers a welcoming, culturally proud environment.
DeKalb County Schools
Education & School Districts
- DeKalb County School District: One of Georgia's largest school systems
- Independent school districts in Decatur and Atlanta
- Charter and Magnet schools: Arabia Mountain HS, DeKalb School of the Arts, Chamblee Charter HS
- Private Schools: Agnes Scott Academy, St. Pius X, Cliff Valley School, The Paideia School
- Higher Education: Emory University, Georgia State University-Perimeter, Agnes Scott College, Mercer University (Atlanta campus)
Notable Programs & Schools
- Magnet, Charter, IB, AP: The district features IB programs, AP courses, gifted education, and charter schools
- DeKalb School of the Arts (DSA): Nationally recognized - top 10 in GA, Gold status for AP offerings
- Chamblee High School: Known for strong SAT performance and broad AP offerings
- Lakeside High School: Solid academics and extensive extracurricular success
- Wadsworth Magnet School for High Achievers (grades 4-8): Consistently top-ranked; Niche gives an A-, noting its excellence.
- Beacon Hill Middle School: Among 2025's top 3 by Public School Review.
-
Chamblee Middle School: Recognized for strong academics on SchoolDigger and PSR lists.
- Chamblee High School: Rated A+; #1 on Niche with strong support systems and academic challenge (17:1 ratio).
- DeKalb Early College Academy (DECA): Ranked top by Public School Review for its college-level curriculum.
- DeKalb School of the Arts (DSA): Known for a 100% graduation rate, high AP participation, and top-10 state ranking in arts.
- Decatur High School: Regularly featured among top high schools in the county.
Top-performing schools
View school ratings at greatschools.org
Top Elementary Schools
Based on 2025 rankings from Public School Review and Niche:
| School | Grades | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Kittredge Magnet School | 4-6 | Ranked top by Public School Review; praised for strong academics and supportive faculty. |
| Wadsworth Magnet School for High Achievers | 4-6 | High achievers-focused, dual-ranked top elementary and middle school . |
| Oakhurst Elementary | PK-5 | Frequently listed among top 10 for strong test scores . |
| Fernbank Elementary | PK-5 | Rated A by Niche; parent praises "best public elementary" for longevity of family satisfaction . |
Top Middle Schools
Top High Schools
Dining, Culture & Lifestyle
Transportation
- MARTA rail & bus system - Widely available across central and south DeKalb
- Highways: I-285, I-20, US-78, GA-400 nearby
- Easy access to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport
- Bike trails: PATH Foundation trails, South River Trail, Stone Mountain Trail
Parks & Outdoor Spaces
- Stone Mountain Park - Iconic landmark with hiking, events, and lake
- Mason Mill Park, Kittredge Park, and Henderson Park - Family recreation
- Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area - Biking and historic trails
- South Peachtree Creek Trail, Medlock Park, Gresham Park
Entertainment
- Global cuisine in Clarkston, known as the most diverse square mile in America
- Trendy restaurants and shops in Decatur, Brookhaven, and Chamblee
- Plaza Theatre and Decatur Arts Alliance
- Buford Highway Corridor - International food and grocery destination
- Stonecrest Mall and North DeKalb Mall Redevelopment
Living in DeKalb County: What to Know
1. Diverse & Welcoming Communities
DeKalb County is known as one of the most diverse counties in Georgia. You'll find a blend of cultures, languages, and traditions throughout cities like Decatur, Stone Mountain, Tucker, Chamblee, and parts of Atlanta.
- Benefits: Cultural festivals, diverse cuisine, and strong neighborhood identities.
- Community Feel: Welcoming to newcomers, with active neighborhood associations and events.
2. Cost of Living & Housing
-
Housing: Options range from historic bungalows in Decatur to more affordable suburban homes in Lithonia or Clarkston.
-
Home Prices: Generally more affordable than central Atlanta, though areas like Decatur may trend higher.
-
Rental Market: Wide variety of apartments, condos, and single-family rentals across all budgets.
3. Public Services & Safety
-
Emergency Services: Served by DeKalb County Police & Fire, and local city departments where applicable.
-
Healthcare: Access to major medical centers including Emory University Hospital and DeKalb Medical Center.
-
Libraries & Recreation: A robust library system and many parks, trails, and recreation centers.
Things to Consider
-
Traffic: Can be heavy during peak hours, especially near I-285 and I-85 interchanges.
-
Zoning & Municipal Boundaries: Several cities operate within the county — each with its own rules, taxes, and services.
-
Taxes: Property taxes vary by city and school district; it's worth checking before purchasing a home.
Quick Tips for New Residents
- Register your vehicle and update your address with the DeKalb County Tax Commissioner.
- Set up utilities with providers like Georgia Power, Scana, DeKalb County Water & Sewer, and local gas and internet companies.
- Explore your new neighborhood by joining Nextdoor, attending local city council meetings, or visiting community centers.
Secure Your Dekalb County Home with Ackerman Security
β
24/7 Monitoring
β
Doorbell Cameras & App Control
β
Fire, CO & Water Sensors
β
No-theft Guarantee
Schedule an appointment or call us at 800.552.1111
Georgia Service Areas
We are a local security system provider protecting the homes and businesses in the following areas:
