
Life in McDonough, GA
McDonough is a fast-growing city in Henry County, Georgia, located approximately 30 miles south of downtown Atlanta. Known for its charming town square, excellent schools, and family-oriented neighborhoods, McDonough blends small-town character with suburban convenience and proximity to major job hubs.
Acworth Neighborhoods
- Historic Downtown McDonough: Brick-paved streets, local restaurants, shops, and events on the square.
- Eagles Landing: Upscale community with golf, gated homes, and nearby shopping.
- Lake Dow North/South: Waterfront and golf communities with custom homes.
- Avalon Park: Popular for new builds and growing families.

McDonough Population
McDonough's population is over 30,000, with rapid expansion due to affordable housing and accessibility to metro Atlanta via I-75.
McDonough Demographics
- African American: 67%
- White: 24%
- Hispanic or Latino: 6%
- Asian: 2%
- Median Age: 34 years
- Median Household Income: $70,000
McDonough Schools
Public School System:
- Operated by Henry County Schools
Top-Rated Schools:
- Union Grove High School
- Ola High School
- Eagle's Landing High School
- Timber Ridge Elementary
Daycare & After-School Care
- The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy
- Discovery Point McDonough
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Henry County
Extracurricular Activities
- Dance: Southern Crescent Dance Theatre
- Swim: J.P. Moseley Aquatic Center
- Martial Arts: The Dojo McDonough
- Art & Music: Henry Arts Alliance, McDonough Music
Living in McDonough
Homeownership vs Renters
- Homeownership rate: 69%
- Renting: 31%, mostly near the town center and newer apartment communities
What McDonough, GA Is Known For?
Historic Town Square and Courthouse
At the heart of McDonough lies its charming historic town square, complete with the iconic Henry County Courthouse. This area is the hub of community life, lined with boutiques, restaurants, and antique shops. The square often hosts concerts, festivals, and seasonal events, giving residents and visitors a true small-town Southern experience.
Annual Geranium Festival
Each May, McDonough celebrates the Geranium Festival, a beloved tradition that draws tens of thousands of visitors. The festival features arts and crafts, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. It's a highlight of the year that showcases local talent and reinforces McDonough's strong sense of community pride.
Family-Friendly Housing Developments
McDonough is one of the fastest-growing cities in Henry County, with numerous new subdivisions and master-planned communities. Affordable housing, good schools, and a suburban atmosphere attract families, first-time homebuyers, and commuters who work in Atlanta but want quieter living. The area offers a mix of historic homes, townhomes, and modern single-family houses.
Local Filming Locations for TV and Film
Thanks to Georgia's booming film industry, McDonough has become a popular location for TV shows, movies, and commercials. Its picturesque square and historic backdrops have been featured in productions ranging from romantic dramas to action series. This has added a layer of cultural interest and boosted tourism.
Working in McDonough
Major Employers & Top Hiring Fields
- Henry County Board of Education
- Piedmont Henry Hospital
- Amazon Fulfillment Center (nearby)
- Goya Foods Distribution Center
Hiring Sectors:
- Healthcare
- Logistics and Warehousing
- Education
- Retail and Food Services
Transportation
- Quick access to I-75
- Henry County Transit (local shuttle service)
- 30-40 minutes to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport
Shopping, Dining and Entertainment
Grocery Stores
- Publix, Kroger, Walmart Supercenter
- Ingles Markets and Sprouts (Stockbridge)
- Local produce stands and farmers markets
Dining Scene
- Pasta Max Café
- Fusion Restaurant and Bar
- KirbyG's Diner & Pub (retro-themed)
- Red Orchid Thai Cuisine
Entertainment Options
- Heritage Park Veterans Museum
- Southern Belle Farm (seasonal activities)
- Fun Bowl of Henry County
- McDonough Square Events and Concerts
Community Services & Resources in McDonough
Emergency & Healthcare Services
- Police: McDonough Police Department
- Fire: Henry County Fire Department
- Hospitals: Piedmont Henry Hospital
- Urgent Care: South Atlanta Urgent Care, Peachtree Immediate Care
Religious Institutions
- Tabernacle of Praise Church
- McDonough Presbyterian Church
- St. James Catholic Church
- Masjid Al-Bayyinah (nearby in Stockbridge)