Long known as Atlanta’s quiet suburban neighbor, Decatur now boasts a music scene and food culture to rival those of Georgia’s capital. “Decatur’s always had an artsy, quirky feel to it, but there were only a few shops here up until the 1990s,” says Aileen de la Torre, a city planner. “It took the city’s forward-thinking attitude and intentioned community to make Decatur what it is today.” The central downtown is home to nearly 200 independently owned businesses housed in buildings painted in murals. Small, historic neighborhoods and universities surround this area, and beyond them lie larger, newer suburbs. Just over 24,000 people call Decatur home, many of whom work in the medical field, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Emory University are nearby in Atlanta.
Visit Decatur's open plaza, which is surrounded by lots of local retail and dining options.
Murals painted by local artists are found all throughout the College Heights community.
Emory University is one of the top local employers in the Decatur area.
Enjoy live music performed on the streets around the College Heights area.
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Decatur’s historic homes and new construction
"Over the last 15 years, there's been [more] new construction and there's been a lot of renovations of historic homes," says local Realtor Juli St George of Keller Williams Realty Intown Atlanta. Decatur's five historic districts are McDonough-Adams-Kings Highway, Clairemont Avenue, Ponce de Leon Court, Parkwood and Old Decatur. De la Torre says each has its own feel, for example, Parkwood has a garden layout and Ponce de Leon Heights looks like a Florida suburb with palm trees. Porch ceilings of the early 19th-century Craftsman bungalows that Decatur is known for are often painted in haint blue, which St George explains is an old Southern tradition said to "keep the spirits away." Restrictions on historic properties depend on the street and neighborhood, she adds, but maintaining facades is important. Decatur's historic homes mix with traditional styles built from the 1940s to the early 2000s. While development is picking up, the city's new home selection — townhouses, condos and single-family options — is still a fraction of its market. Decatur's median home price is roughly $335,000, around 2% less than the state median.
Craftsman styled bungalows are found throughout the Decatur area.
Cottage styled homes are found in the Decatur area, and are often a bit older.
Living in Downtown Decatur can be easy in a condominium.
Chelsea Heights is full of newly built homes all throughout the area.
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Award-winning restaurants and festivities in downtown Decatur
The square in downtown Decatur is the soul of the city. Its 15 blocks are lined with nearly 100 independent businesses and restaurants, including the James Beard-winning The Deer and The Dove. Fun at the square continues into the night at bars like the Brick Store Pub, which hosts Decatur's annual beer festival. The city hosts events at the Square almost every week, including the popular Decatur Book Festival and its regular farmers market. Eddie’s Attic is The Square’s intimate, acoustic listening room that’s served as a springboard for artists like John Mayor.
The Decatur Farmers Market takes place in front of the First Baptist Church on Clairemont.
Locals gather at the popular Brick Store Pub for daily specials in College Heights.
Decatur Square in downtown Decatur, is a popular gathering spot.
Eddie's Attic near North Decatur, GA.
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Not far from Emory University
City Schools of Decatur earns an impressive A ranking on Niche. Georgia’s participation in school choice also creates options. Agnes Scott College, a private women’s liberal arts institution, is in Decatur, and Emory University is within 2 miles.
Decatur City Schools' main office is located directly next to the police station.
Druid Hills sits next to the Emory University campus.
Students enjoy the scenic walk through Agnes Scott's campus in College Heights.
Decatur High School serves approximately 1700 students.
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Places to play in Decatur
Decatur has over 195 acres of nature preserves and parks, offering places to play tennis, garden, skate and swim. Bikers and walkers frequent the paved trails at the 77-acre Legacy Park, where the city just opened an inclusive playground and is breaking ground on a track-and-field area. St George says Oakhurst Dog Park is one of the most popular dog parks in the city for its wooded areas with rolling hills and its large, fenced-in field.
McKoy Park offers several amenities including a popular skate park.
Glenlake Park has several well-maintained tennis courts for public use.
Take your furry friend to Oakhurst Dog Park in Decatur for some much needed exercise.
Legacy Park is home to over 77 acres of green space in Decatur.
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Atlanta's greenery, and its pollen
Decatur is a tree city but the greenery also brings pollen. According to Atlanta Allergy and Asthma, Georgia has seen record-breaking pollen counts in recent years. The city has a moderate risk for flooding but St George says Atlanta isn’t really known for weather extremes.
Traffic to Atlanta
Several highways and state routes pass through Decatur. Ponce de Leon Avenue leads to downtown Atlanta but can get congested at peak drive times. Residents can avoid traffic jams by hopping on the light rail on the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) Blue Line at Decatur Station. Parking is limited in commercial and historic areas. Decatur has one of the most expansive sidewalk and bike lane systems in the state and provides walking maps to show residents how to best navigate the city on foot.
Low crime rates in Decatur
Crime in Decatur is lower than state and national averages. Most crime in Decatur is concentrated around the downtown area and is limited to petty theft.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
Photography Contributed By
Bradley Parrish
Video By
Houston Knight
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Donna Augello,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Decatur, GA sell after 56 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Decatur, GA over the last 12 months is $293,000, down 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Fully renovated and full of possibility, this brick split-level home delivers modern updates with flexible living spaces on a generous, nearly half-acre lot. Reimagined in 2020, this spacious, turn-key, home offers 3 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms with a versatile layout designed for a variety of lifestyles.Inside, an open floor plan sets the tone for easy living and effortless entertaining.
Welcome to one of the most ideal locations for intown living. Just outside the City of Decatur limits, this 2022-built townhome offers 3 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, highlighted by a private, covered rooftop patio perfect for year-round enjoyment. Situated in the highly desirable East Lake neighborhood, this home delivers true turnkey living. Just across the street, you'll find an exceptional
This inviting, light-filled Decatur home blends comfort, flexibility, and thoughtful design with the indoor–outdoor living today’s buyers seek. Multiple living spaces flow seamlessly throughout the home, offering room to gather, work, play, and relax. The bright white kitchen serves as the heart of the home, featuring distinctive granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, ample storage, and
Welcome to this beautifully renovated gem nestled on a level lot, offering the ideal combination of charm, comfort, and modern living. With three spacious bedrooms and three full bathrooms, this home was designed with your lifestyle in mind - open, bright, and full of warmth from the moment you step inside. The thoughtfully updated interior features a welcoming layout that flows effortlessly easy
Turnkey, flexible, and just minutes from the beach—this 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo offers the kind of Southwest Florida lifestyle buyers and investors are searching for. With NO rental or lease restrictions, you can rent weekly, monthly, or annually, making it ideal as a year round living, vacation rental, income-producing property, or second home. This second-floor unit is located in a building
"Stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom split-level home. Entertain effortlessly in the spacious eat-in kitchen, complete with modern appliances and ample natural light. Retreat to the cozy fireplace in the living room or head downstairs to the finished basement, perfect for a media room or home gym. Outside, enjoy summer evenings on the deck overlooking the expansive fenced yard. This home has it all -
Welcome Home to Decatur Living! This beautiful move in ready home offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience. Enjoy an open-concept floor plan ideal for entertaining, with hardwood floors throughout and abundant natural light. The primary suite features a large walk-in closet and a spa-like bathroom retreat designed for relaxation. Spacious secondary bedrooms provide plenty of
Welcome home to this charming Decatur condo, close to Emory and the CDC, showcasing the perfect blend of comfort and style. Step inside and discover a delightful living space with LVP floors throughout that offers everything you need for a cozy home grounded by an inviting living room with built-in bookcases surrounding the wood burning fireplace. The chef of the home will love the renovated
Welcome to 2080 Bluffton Way in DeKalb County! This beautifully remodeled split-level home offers 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 modern baths, and a fully finished basement, providing ample living space for all your needs. With 1,734 square feet of living area, this home features durable vinyl and tile flooring throughout, as well as elegantly tiled bathrooms. The layout is perfect for entertaining,
GORGEOUS, MODERN RENOVATION! OPEN CONCEPT floor plan welcomes you into the spacious living room with a cozy fireplace. Enjoy the Chef's kitchen surrounded by white cabinets, breakfast bar seating, granite countertops, elegant marble backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. Through the French doors, discover the beautiful new deck and fenced backyard with storage shed, perfect for entertaining,
GORGEOUS, MODERN RENOVATION! OPEN CONCEPT floor plan welcomes you into the spacious living/dining room combo with cozy fireplace. Enjoy the Chef's kitchen surrounded by white cabinets, breakfast bar seating, granite countertops, elegant marble backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. Relax in your primary bedroom retreat featuring a sitting area and walk-in closet. The ensuite primary bathroom
Experience refined living in one of Decatur's most sought-after communities - Emory Parc Manor. Completely reimagined from top to bottom, this residence showcases a flawless renovation where every finish and detail has been thoughtfully curated. The updated exterior, manicured landscaping, and elegant Japanese maple create a welcoming first impression that sets the tone for what's inside. Step
Welcome to 724 Sycamore Drive a beautifully maintained home in the highly sought-after Decatur Heights neighborhood. Perfectly situated just minutes from Emory University, Downtown Decatur, and Emory Decatur Hospital, this property offers the ideal combination of charm, convenience, and potential. Step inside to a light-filled living room featuring elegant crown molding, hardwood floors, and a
Nestled in a serene and picturesque setting, this captivating home embodies the perfect blend of elegance and functionality. As you approach the property, you are greeted by an inviting facade, characterized by its charming entrance that sets the stage for what lies within. The meticulously landscaped yard showcases a vibrant array of flora, enhancing the home's curb appeal and providing a warm
This is a 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath, 2 car garage home in a quiet Decatur neighborhood and is situated in a Cul-da-sac. This very well-maintained 2 story home is very spacious with an oversized master bedroom with sitting area. This home also offers new stainless-steel appliances in the kitchen, new laminate flooring in kitchen. Nice size backyard with a soundproof barrier, conveniently located near
Updated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath rental in a well-established Decatur neighborhood with 1,300+ sq ft of flexible living space. Refinished hardwood floors, fresh paint, and an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, butcher-block countertops, and tile backsplash. A glass sunroom off the kitchen adds bonus space that works well as a home office, dining area, or extra living space. All three
Traditional two-story townhome available near I-20 and Panthersville. This home features the following: * Gorgeous LVP flooring throughout * Three spacious bedrooms and 2.5 baths * Master bathroom with en-suite, double sinks, soaker tub, and separate shower * Open-concept main floor with a great room featuring a fireplace * Kitchen equipped with stainless steel and black appliances, including a
Stunning Totally New Renovated Home in the Heart of the City! Welcome to this beautifully renovated home, perfectly blending modern with a peaceful, spacious setting. Nestled on a large lot in a quiet neighborhood, this property offers a rare combination of privacy and convenience. Step inside to an open and airy layout filled with natural light, featuring all brand-new appliances and stylish
Great rental Opportunity in Decatur area. This can be a rent to own or a straight rental. 4 spacious bedrooms an 3 full bathrooms available now, located in a cul-de-sac with an attached 2 car garage. great for roommates or a family. No smokers or pets. Absolutely no EVICTIONS!
Beautiful ranch-style home offering 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms in the heart of Decatur. This charming one-level property sits on a desirable corner lot, providing added privacy, extra yard space, and great curb appeal. Inside, you’ll find an open-concept layout with a bright living area, a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and elegant stone countertops. The spacious primary bedroom
Beautiful 3 bedroom 2.5 bath townhome located in the heart of Decatur. Interior features an open floor plan with living/dining combo. The living comes with bay windows and a cozy fireplace. The kitchen features oak cabinets with brand new appliances and a breakfast bar. All three bedrooms are located upstairs in addition to the full size laundry room. Primary suite features a standup shower and
Welcome to this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home located in the heart of Decatur. This property features an inviting front yard and a cozy front porch, perfect for enjoying quiet mornings. Step inside to an open floor plan with a fireplace, ideal for enjoying warm and relaxing afternoons on cold days. The home includes a modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and the bathroom offers a
Sweet Condo on Lawrenceville Hwy, Complex is Norgate Manor, with a community pool. Brand new flooring, appliances and interior paint! 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, with space for living, dining, balcony to a wooded area, and parking lot entrance. Top floor unit. Plenty of parking. Condo is empty, clean and ready. Apply today. Washer and dryer included in kitchen! Water included! Great location for
ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED!! FULLY FURNISHED!! Available immediately. 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths on an extremely quiet and private street. Over $500 per month in utilities savings!! Includes electric, water, sewer, trash, landscaping, AND WiFi internet!! Large living room, kitchen, and separate dining room. Terms negotiable. Inquire today. Owner/Agent/Landlord is a Georgia licensed Real Estate Broker.
SHORT TERM OPTIONS 3 MN, 6 MN, OR 12 MN, Immediately available and fully furnished, this charming Kirkwood craftsman is the idealsolution for insurance claim relocations or anyone seeking a move-in ready home. Offering flexible lease terms furnished or unfurnished,this residence blends timeless character with thoughtful modern updates in a prime intown location. Inside, the three-bedroom
Welcome to one of the most ideal locations for intown living. Just outside the City of Decatur limits, this 2022-built townhome offers 3 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, highlighted by a private, covered rooftop patio perfect for year-round enjoyment. Situated in the highly desirable East Lake neighborhood, this home delivers true turnkey living. Just across the street, you'll find an exceptional
Clairmont Reserve has the perfect apartment home for you. It hosts One & Two Bedroom Apartment Homes located in the North Druid Hills area of North Decatur. Easy access to Cliff Shuttle, Emory University, Walking Trails, Restaurants, Shopping, Hospitals and convenient highway access.
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