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DeKalb County Cities: The Best Cities for Every Lifestyle

View of the Dekalb County Courthouse for Dekalb County cities.

Dekalb County Cities

Welcome to the incredible diversity that DeKalb County cities have to offer. Each city offers a unique essence and lifestyle that can be tailored to your preferences. As you embark on the journey of finding your ideal home in this county, it becomes essential to look at the distinct characteristics that define each city. From quiet havens to bustling hubs of culture and activities, DeKalb County can cater to a spectrum of lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking the best schools for your children, aiming for a serene and peaceful abode, or craving a dynamic urban experience, this guide will help you navigate through each city’s unique offerings. Explore DeKalb County with us as we uncover the safest, most vibrant, and most conveniently located cities. This guide will ensure that your move to DeKalb County is perfectly aligned with your desired way of life.

Safest Cities in DeKalb County

Safety in this Metro Atlanta county is a beacon for attracting prospective residents. DeKalb County boasts some of the safest cities in the state, including Brookhaven, Dectaur, and Dunwoody. In addition to these safe cities, the county also holds some of the safest neighborhoods in the state, including areas such as Druid Hills, Candler Park, and North Decatur. Each city in DeKalb County can utilize the county police department. Additionally, each city is protected by their own city police force. DeKalb County’s numerous safe cities and areas ensure that each resident can have peace of mind for themselves and their families.

Grandfather carrying his grandson on his shoulders in the park

Schools in DeKalb County Cities

DeKalb County hosts a range of exemplary public and private schools. These institutions reflect DeKalb’s dedication to academic achievement and holistic learning. Schools play a crucial role in the diverse and dynamic educational landscape of the region. From elementary to high schools, these institutions prioritize academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and community engagement. Committed to fostering a positive and inclusive environment, DeKalb County’s schools emphasize critical thinking, creativity, and community involvement. With dedicated educators and a focus on continuous improvement, these schools prepare students for success in an ever-evolving world.

View of Druid Hills High School in Dekalb County Georgia

Public School Offerings

Druid Hills High School boasts consistently high scores in state assessments. DeKalb School of the Arts, in Avondale Estates, is the best public high school in the county. Decatur High School, located in Decatur, has a nearly perfect graduation rate and extremely high test scores.

 

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Private School Offerings

Meanwhile, within the realm of private education, the Paideia School, near Druid Hills, stands as a beacon of academic excellence. This private school is renowned for its innovative curriculum and impressive college placement records.

 

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Most Affordable DeKalb County Cities

The words “Metro Atlanta” and “affordable” typically do not belong in the same sentence. However, charming and safe locales like Lithonia, Ellenwood, Clarkston, and Stonecrest make affordability within reach in DeKalb County. These cities offer a blend of reasonable housing costs and living expenses, making them attractive options for budget-conscious residents, without compromising on quality.

Lithonia

Lithonia is known for its diverse housing options and relatively lower home prices compared to neighboring areas. This area provides an accessible entry point into homeownership.

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Ellenwood

Alternatively, Ellenwood offers a mix of affordable housing options while maintaining proximity to urban amenities.

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Clarkston

Clarkston, recognized for its cultural diversity and community-driven atmosphere, stands as an affordable gem in the county.

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Stonecrest

Meanwhile, Stonecrest, with its emerging real estate market and competitive housing prices, provides an affordable yet promising living environment. 

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Most Walkable Cities in DeKalb County

In DeKalb County cities, enjoy walkability and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. These cities offer well-connected sidewalks, bike lanes, and access to amenities on foot. Decatur, celebrated for its walkable downtown and network of sidewalks, presents a haven where residents can stroll to shops, restaurants, and parks effortlessly. Decatur was ranked as the most walkable city in all of Georgia. It also boasts the Peachtree Creek Trails in Mason Mill Park, which are beautiful greenery trails among the busy metro area. Avondale Estates boasts picturesque tree-lined streets and the scenic Stone Mountain Trail, providing over 19 miles of walking and biking paths, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Similarly, Chamblee, with its accessible pathways and the Peachtree Creek Greenway featuring miles of trails and boardwalks, invites residents to explore the outdoors on foot. These cities within DeKalb County embrace walkability, making them ideal for pedestrians seeking a blend of urban convenience and outdoor accessibility.

Happy Asian family taking a walk through the city on a pedestrian bridge in one of the best neighborhoods in atlanta for families

Tranquil Cities in DeKalb County

Amidst the hustle of Metro Atlanta, residents can find tranquility in the suburbs of DeKalb county. Cities like Dunwoody, Brookhaven, and Stone Mountain are among some of the calmest cities in Metro Atlanta, all nestled in the convenience of DeKalb County. These cities exude a suburban charm characterized by peaceful neighborhoods and a slower pace of life.

Two wooden chairs on a empty bank of a lake surrounded by lush green trees

Dunwoody

Dunwoody, known for its tree-lined streets and spacious parks, offers a tranquil escape from the urban bustle, with minimal traffic and a serene ambiance.

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Brookhaven

Brookhaven, nestled among lush greenery and boasting well-maintained residential areas, provides a serene environment away from the city's noise.

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Stone Mountain

Stone Mountain, with its spacious parks and plentiful pedestrian trails, offers a peaceful haven for residents seeking a tranquil lifestyle.

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Most Commuter-Friendly cities in DeKalb County

Commuter-friendly hubs like Decatur, Brookhaven, and Chamblee stand out in DeKalb County for their excellent access to public transportation and seamless connectivity to downtown Atlanta.

Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority ( MARTA )

Decatur serves as a major transit hub, with walkable access to MARTA (Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) buses and train stations. Multiple bus and rail services connect out of Decatur, providing swift connections to downtown Atlanta. Brookhaven also boasts convenient MARTA stations, with  streamlined commutes for residents working in downtown Atlanta. Finally, Chamblee offers easy access to multiple MARTA bus and train stations. In addition, its proximity to downtown Atlanta makes commuting to the city seamless and stress-free. These DeKalb County cities prioritize commuter convenience, positioning them as ideal locations for those seeking effortless connectivity to Atlanta’s bustling downtown.

blurred out tram train

Best Food in DeKalb County

In the realm of DeKalb County cities, culinary diversity thrives in vibrant locales like Decatur, Doraville, and Clarkston. Decatur, celebrated for its diverse food scene, hosts an array of international cuisines ranging from Thai at Mali Restaurant to Latin American delights at Raging Burrito. Additionally, the iconic DeKalb Farmers Market in Decatur offers a vast selection of global ingredients, reflecting the area’s cultural diversity. Doraville stands out with its multicultural eateries along Buford Highway. Here, one can find everything from Korean barbecue at Breakers BBQ to authentic Vietnamese pho at Pho Bac. Moreover, Clarkston, known for its cultural richness, boasts Ethiopian cuisine at Desta Ethiopian Kitchen and global flavors at Panahar Bangladeshi Cuisine, embracing the area’s diverse heritage. These cities in DeKalb County beckon food enthusiasts with their rich culinary offerings, both in restaurants and diverse supermarkets, reflecting the area’s cultural melting pot.

diverse group of friends, laughing and drinking while enjoying trendy dinner

DeKalb County cities with Fun Things To Do

In the vibrant landscape of DeKalb County cities, an array of entertainment and excitement awaits. Cities like Decatur, Brookhaven, and Stone Mountain are full of activities and entertainment for all residents. Decatur, renowned for its lively arts scene, hosts the annual Decatur Arts Festival and boasts eclectic boutiques, galleries, and music venues along with frequent community events at the historic town square. Meanwhile, Brookhaven offers recreational activities at Murphey Candler Park, where visitors can enjoy walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Stone Mountain holds Stone Mountain Park, a historic landmark famous for its hiking and walking trails. Additionally, Stone Mountain Park features a variety of activities such as scenic railroad rides, arts festivals, and the iconic Laser Light Show. These cities within DeKalb County provide a diverse range of engaging and entertaining options. DeKalb County contains vibrant hubs for residents who are seeking memorable experiences and fun-filled lifestyles.

View of Stone Mountain Park in Dekalb County; visitors seated waiting for the laser light show

Find Your Home in DeKalb County

Discover diverse cities in DeKalb County, each offering tailored lifestyles, from safe neighborhoods to top-tier education. Whether you seek tranquility, convenience, or excitement, find your ideal home with our guides.