Decatur Atlanta: Your Complete Guide to Atlanta’s Charming Neighbor
Just six miles east of downtown Atlanta lies Decatur, Georgia, an independent city that defies typical suburban expectations. With its walkable downtown square, James Beard Award-winning restaurants, top-rated public schools, and genuine small-town charm, Decatur has become one of the most desirable places to live in the entire Atlanta metropolitan area.
Quick Facts About Decatur, GA
- Location: 6 miles east of downtown Atlanta in DeKalb County
- Population: ~25,000 residents
- Size: 4.2 square miles
- Walk Score: 75-85 (Very Walkable)
- Transit: MARTA East Line (Decatur & East Lake stations)
- Founded: 1823
- Median Home Price: $900,000-$1,400,000 (2025)
- Known For: Excellent schools, walkability, Decatur Book Festival
Technically an independent city (not an Atlanta neighborhood), Decatur offers the best of both worlds: easy access to Atlanta’s job market and amenities while maintaining its own distinct municipal identity and community spirit.
Whether you’re considering relocating to the Atlanta area, looking for the perfect place to raise a family, or simply want to spend a day exploring one of Georgia’s most charming downtowns, this complete guide covers everything Decatur has to offer.
Decatur’s Vibe: Small-Town Charm Meets Urban Sophistication
Decatur represents a rare combination: progressive values, excellent public schools, walkable urbanism, and authentic Southern charm. The city’s compact downtown square serves as the community’s heart, surrounded by tree-lined residential streets filled with historic homes, young families, and neighbors who actually know each other.
Who Decatur is Perfect For:
- Families seeking top-rated schools and safe neighborhoods
- Young professionals who want community without sacrificing urban amenities
- Remote workers who value walkable coffee shops and coworking spaces
- Relocating professionals from other cities seeking a “real neighborhood” feel
- Arts & culture enthusiasts who appreciate independent businesses and community events
- Empty nesters downsizing but wanting to stay active and engaged
Best Time to Visit Decatur
Decatur shines year-round, but spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer ideal weather for exploring the downtown square and outdoor dining. The Decatur Book Festival (Labor Day weekend) is the city’s signature event, attracting over 85,000 visitors annually as the largest independent book festival in the United States.
Plan to spend: At least half a day—the downtown square, restaurants, and shops deserve leisurely exploration.
Getting There: Decatur is easily accessible via MARTA’s East Line (Decatur and East Lake stations) and multiple bus routes. Street parking and public parking decks serve the downtown area.
Understanding Decatur: Independent City vs. Atlanta Neighborhood
Before diving deeper, it’s crucial to understand that Decatur is an independent city with its own government, school system, and municipal identity—not an Atlanta neighborhood. The City of Decatur covers approximately 4.2 square miles with about 25,000 residents.
Why This Distinction Matters:
- City of Decatur Schools (CDS) are separate from Atlanta Public Schools and consistently rank among Georgia’s best
- Property taxes fund Decatur’s excellent schools and city services
- Independent municipal services including police force, parks department, and planning
- Real estate premium: Homes within city limits command $100,000-$200,000+ premiums due to school access
When people say “Decatur,” they might mean the City of Decatur proper or the broader Decatur area (which includes unincorporated DeKalb County neighborhoods nearby). For school access and city services, the official city limits matter significantly.
The History Behind Decatur’s Character
Decatur was founded in 1823 and named after naval hero Commodore Stephen Decatur. As the DeKalb County seat, Decatur developed as a traditional Southern town with a courthouse square, which remains the city’s heart today.
By the mid-20th century, Decatur faced the same suburban flight that affected many American downtowns. The turning point came in the 1980s and 1990s when the city made strategic decisions to:
- Invest in downtown revitalization
- Preserve historic character
- Attract independent businesses rather than chains
- Leverage MARTA rail service for transit-oriented development
The arrival of MARTA rail service, combined with intentional urban planning and strong schools, transformed Decatur into one of Atlanta’s most desirable addresses. Today’s Decatur successfully balances historic preservation with progressive values, creating a unique community that attracts families, young professionals, and empty-nesters alike.
Top Things to Do in Decatur
1. Explore Downtown Decatur Square
The historic Decatur Square is the city’s beating heart and one of metro Atlanta’s most successful downtown revitalizations.
Highlights:
- Old DeKalb County Courthouse – The 1898 courthouse anchors the square and now houses shops and offices
- Independent bookstores – Little Shop of Stories (beloved children’s bookstore)
- Locally-owned boutiques – Wild Oats & Billy Goats, Squash Blossom Boutique
- Year-round events – Festivals, concerts, farmers markets, community gatherings
- Public art & outdoor seating – Perfect for people-watching
The square is compact and entirely walkable, with a welcoming atmosphere that encourages lingering.
2. Visit the Decatur Farmers Market
Schedule:
- Wednesday: 4pm-7pm (April-December)
- Saturday: 9am-1pm (year-round)
One of metro Atlanta’s best farmers markets features local produce from Georgia farms, artisan breads, prepared foods, food trucks, live music, and handmade crafts.
Insider Tip: The Saturday market is especially lively. Arrive early (before 10am) for the best selection.
3. Attend the Decatur Book Festival
The Decatur Book Festival, held annually over Labor Day weekend, is the largest independent book festival in the country. This free event attracts 85,000+ attendees.
Features:
- Over 300 authors and presenters
- Panel discussions and readings
- Children’s programming
- Local booksellers and publishers
- Food vendors and live music
4. Explore Decatur’s Parks & Green Spaces
Despite its urban density, Decatur offers excellent parks:
- Glenlake Park (1121 Church St) – 23-acre park with playground, tennis courts, walking trails
- Decatur Cemetery (231 Bell St) – Historic cemetery doubling as a peaceful park with beautiful old trees
- Mason Mill Park (1340 McConnell Dr) – Extensive trails, creek access, hiking and mountain biking
- Oakhurst Park & Dog Park (414 East Lake Dr) – Community park with one of the area’s best dog parks
5. Experience Decatur’s Arts & Culture Scene
- Eddie’s Attic (515-B N McDonough St) – Legendary listening room that’s launched careers of major artists
- The Beacon (1154 Zonolite Rd) – Historic theater turned live music venue
- Decatur Arts Alliance – Programs public art, performances, and cultural events
6. Take a Historic Homes Walking Tour
Decatur’s residential streets showcase beautiful architecture:
- Craftsman bungalows (1920s-1930s)
- Victorian homes (late 1800s)
- Mid-century modern homes (1950s-60s)
Walk through Oakhurst, Winnona Park, and Ponce de Leon Heights neighborhoods.
Where to Eat & Drink in Decatur
Decatur punches well above its weight in dining, with multiple James Beard-nominated restaurants and nationally-recognized chefs.
Breakfast & Brunch
Butter & Cream – Creative Southern-inspired dishes, legendary biscuits ($$$) Cakes & Ale – Farm-to-table weekend brunch ($$$) Java Monkey – Cozy coffee shop and café ($)
Lunch & Casual Dining
Raging Burrito – Decatur institution since 1997 ($$) Community Q BBQ – Award-winning Texas-style brisket ($$) Victory Sandwich Bar – Creative sandwiches and craft beer ($$)
Dinner & Fine Dining
The Deer and The Dove – Upscale New American ($$$$) No. 246 – Italian-inspired, James Beard-nominated chef ($$$) Kimball House – Oyster bar and cocktail house ($$$) Chai Pani – James Beard Award-winning Indian street food ($$)
Bars & Nightlife
Brick Store Pub – Legendary craft beer bar with 1,000+ bottles ($$) The Marlay House – Irish pub with excellent whiskey selection ($$)
Living in Decatur: What You Need to Know
Real Estate & Housing Market (2025)
Decatur’s real estate market is one of metro Atlanta’s most competitive.
Price Ranges – City of Decatur Proper:
- Starter homes needing renovation: $500,000-$700,000
- Renovated smaller homes: $700,000-$900,000
- Fully renovated 3-4 bedroom homes: $900,000-$1,400,000
- Larger or luxury homes: $1,400,000-$2,500,000+
- Townhomes/condos: $400,000-$800,000
Rental Market:
- 2-bedroom apartment: $1,800-$2,800/month
- 3-bedroom house: $3,000-$4,500/month
- 4-bedroom house: $4,500-$6,500+/month
Schools: Decatur’s Biggest Draw
City of Decatur Schools are consistently ranked among Georgia’s best public schools.
Elementary Schools: Clairemont, Glennwood, Oakhurst, Winnona Park Middle School: Renfroe Middle School High School: Decatur High School
Why Decatur Schools Stand Out:
- Small class sizes and high teacher quality
- Strong parent involvement
- Excellent test scores and college preparation
- Diverse student body
- Well-funded through local property taxes
Walkability & Transportation
Walk Score: 75-85 (Very Walkable)
What’s Walkable:
- 50+ restaurants and bars
- Grocery stores (Whole Foods, Publix, Kroger)
- Independent shops
- Parks and schools
- Medical offices
MARTA Access: Decatur Station (heart of downtown) provides 20-minute access to Midtown and downtown Atlanta.
Practical Information for Visiting Decatur
Getting There
By MARTA: East Line to Decatur Station (20 min from downtown Atlanta) By Car: Ponce de Leon Avenue east from downtown (15 minutes) By Bike: Stone Mountain Trail and bike lanes
Parking
- Public parking decks (free first 2 hours, then $1/hour)
- Street parking ($1.50/hour metered)
- Residential street parking (free, 2-3 blocks from square)
Safety
Decatur is one of metro Atlanta’s safest communities with low crime rates and active neighborhood watch programs.
Insider Tips & Hidden Gems
- Belgian Bar at Brick Store Pub – Head upstairs for rare beers and quieter atmosphere
- Decatur Cemetery Walk – Peaceful early morning walks
- Oakhurst Village – Additional restaurants south of downtown
- Weeknight dining – Skip weekend crowds Monday-Thursday
- MARTA advantage – Avoid parking hassles entirely
Decatur vs. Other Atlanta Neighborhoods
vs. Virginia Highland: Decatur offers better schools and more family focus vs. Midtown: Decatur provides small-town feel with single-family homes vs. Buckhead: More progressive, walkable, and community-focused vs. Inman Park: Better schools and more family-oriented
Conclusion: Why Decatur Works
Decatur delivers something rare: genuine community, walkable urbanism, excellent schools, and small-town charm within a major metropolitan area. The tree-lined streets, thriving downtown square, and neighbors who know each other create a quality of life that justifies the premium housing costs.
Whether you’re raising a family, commuting to Atlanta for work, or seeking a place where you can walk to dinner and know your neighbors, Decatur offers an authentic community that feels increasingly rare in modern America.
Related Guides: Virginia Highland | Midtown Atlanta | Inman Park | Atlanta BeltLine
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