Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Decatur, GA
Considering a move to Decatur, GA? With a vibrant population of 25,700, Decatur offers a lively, walkable community featuring excellent schools (nearly 67% hold bachelor’s degrees or higher) and a median home price of $635,000. The city enjoys a warm Southern climate with 61% sunny days and short average commutes of 26 minutes. Although property crime is higher than the national average, Decatur boasts a strong local economy, top-rated healthcare, and a family-friendly atmosphere close to Atlanta’s cultural amenities.
Demographics - Decatur, GA
Demographics - Decatur, GA
Decatur is home to about 25,700 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 38 years. The city features a mix of ethnic backgrounds, with a majority White population, a significant Black community, and a notable presence of Asian and other groups. Its moderate population density and high percentage of college-educated residents contribute to its vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.
Population:
25,700
Density:
5,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.9
Gender Ratio:
85 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
56.0%
Black:
27.5%
Asian:
7.2%
Others:
9.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Decatur, GA?
Living in Decatur comes with a relatively high cost of living, reflected in a median home value of $635,000 and an overall cost of living index of 133. While housing costs are above the national average, utilities and healthcare remain more affordable. Residents benefit from moderate state tax rates and access to a variety of local amenities.
Median House Value:
$635,000
Gross Rent:
$1,700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$150
Auto Insurance:
$1,540
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$800
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
133.0
Grocery:
100.3
Housing:
145.8
Utilities:
102.7
Transportation:
109.4
Health Care:
97.2
Miscellaneous:
102.0
Crime
Is Decatur, GA a safe place to live?
Decatur experiences a higher rate of property crime compared to the national average, with a 1 in 38 chance annually, while violent crime remains relatively low at 277 incidents per 100,000 residents. The city is generally considered safe, but newcomers should be aware of property crime trends. Community safety initiatives and active neighborhood groups help foster a secure environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
277
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,650
Crime Index:
2,927
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 361
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 38
Weather
What is the weather like in Decatur, GA year-round?
Decatur enjoys a mild Southern climate with warm summers reaching highs near 89°F and winters that rarely dip below 33°F. The city receives about 53 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 61% sunny days, making it ideal for year-round outdoor activities. Residents appreciate the comfortable seasons and abundant sunshine.
Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
53°F
Spring
Min:
49°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
69°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
53°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
53.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Decatur’s neighborhoods are known for high educational attainment, with nearly 98% of adults holding at least a high school diploma and 67% earning a bachelor's degree or higher. The median household income is $97,200 and the unemployment rate is low at 2.9%, supporting a stable and prosperous community. Residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle with short commutes and active civic engagement.
Median Income:
$49,600
Household Income:
$97,200
Family Income:
$125,000
Per Capita Income:
$58,300
Income Male:
$67,500
Income Female:
$53,700
Poverty Rate:
11.2%
Non English Speakers:
10.5%
Rent:
$1,700
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
Public Transport Usage:
8.1%
Commute Time:
26.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.8%
Bachelors or More:
66.9%
Education
How are the schools in Decatur, GA?
Decatur is renowned for its strong educational offerings, including highly rated public schools like Decatur High and Clairemont Elementary, and private options such as St. Thomas More Catholic School. The city is also home to Agnes Scott College and is just minutes from Emory University, making it an excellent location for families and lifelong learners. Small class sizes and diverse educational opportunities contribute to the city’s appeal.
Public Schools
Name:
Decatur High School
Street:
310 N McDonough St
Phone:
404-370-4420
Students:
1,400
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Clairemont Elementary School
Street:
155 Erie Ave
Phone:
404-370-4450
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.0
Private Schools
Name:
St. Thomas More Catholic School
Street:
636 W Ponce de Leon Ave
Phone:
404-373-8456
Students:
320
Colleges
Name:
Agnes Scott College
City:
Decatur
State:
GA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,000
Name:
Emory University
City:
Atlanta
State:
GA
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
15,000
Healthcare
Decatur offers excellent healthcare access, featuring major hospitals like Emory Decatur Hospital and an above-average 3.1 physicians per 1,000 residents. Over 92% of locals have health insurance coverage, ensuring comprehensive care. The city’s healthcare system is well-rated and supports a high quality of life.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Emory Decatur Hospital
Address:
2701 N Decatur Rd, Decatur, GA 30033
Phone:
(404) 501-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta – Egleston
Address:
1405 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30322
Phone:
(404) 785-6000
Type:
Children's Hospital
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.5%
Health Care Index:
78.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Decatur, GA?
The Decatur housing market is robust, with a median home price of $635,000 and a 4.3% appreciation rate over the past year. Most residents own their homes, and the rental market remains competitive with an average two-bedroom rent of $2,000. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates reflect a stable, desirable market.
Median Home Price:
$635,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,000
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents of Decatur handle licensing and vehicle registration through the Georgia Department of Driver Services, conveniently located in nearby Conyers. The state DMV provides accessible services both online and in-person. For more information, visit the official website or contact their main office.
State:
Georgia
Department:
Georgia Department of Driver Services
Address:
2206 East View Parkway, Conyers, GA 30013
Phone:
678-413-8400
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.