Are you considering relocating to DeKalb County but haven’t found the perfect city yet? DeKalb boasts numerous cities, towns, villages, and CDPs (Census Designated Places); each has a unique set of attractive attributes and can meet many needs and desires. Below we have major insight into the ten largest Dekalb County cities, CDPs, and towns; we discuss population, location, demographics, and more!
DeKalb County
On December 9th, 1822 (over 201 years ago), DeKalb County was founded! It’s located in north central Georgia and is part of the Atlanta–Sandy Springs–Roswell, GA Metropolitan Statistical Area; it’s 4th most populous county in the state and 86th in the nation. Two of the most well-known cities in Dekalb County are Decatur and Atlanta; we provide useful information on those and many others, helping you make an informed decision on your next move. There are 663 incorporated Georgia cities, and 13 are in DeKalb County; DeKalb also has large CDPs that we cover in the text.
DeKalb County was named after Baron Johann de Kalb, a Bavarian-born soldier of the French army. It’s known for its notable landmarks, which include Emory University, Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, and Stone Mountain Park. Other ideal activities in DeKalb County are SkyHike and Summit Skyride. The county also provides proximity to top sports teams like Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Falcons.
Thanks to DeKalb County’s proximity to large cities like Atlanta, its economy is thriving. There are countless job opportunities at impressive institutes like Emory University or the CDC (Center for Disease Control). Not to mention the numerous Fortune 500 companies located in Atlanta; United Parcel Service, Delta Air Lines, and The Coca-Cola Company are a few of the best!
DeKalb County even boasts enjoyable weather year-round. It has a Köppen Classification of Cfa or humid subtropical climate, which is best explained as hot, humid summers and cool, mild winters. The temperature in DeKalb typically stays above 40 degrees and can get as warm as the mid to high 90s. The county sees an average of 52 inches of rain and 1 inch of snow yearly. There are 217 sunny days a year in DeKalb, which is ten more than the average US city!
DeKalb County Demographics
- DeKalb County population: 757,718
- DeKalb County median Age: 36.6
- DeKalb County median household income: $70,985
- DeKalb County median price of housing: $375,000
- DeKalb County area: 271 mi²
- DeKalb County density: 2,830 per square mile
- DeKalb County educational attainment: 91.6% have high school diplomas (or higher), 47% have bachelors degrees (or higher)
Cities in DeKalb County
1. Stonecrest
If you’re wondering what cities are in DeKalb County, your list starts here! Stonecrest is the most populous city in DeKalb County and is the largest Dekalb County city (by area). Stonecrest has a notable Black and African American population (91.3%.). The city’s most notable attraction is Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, a 2,550-acre nature preserve offering top-tier hiking, fishing, and historical tours. Countless outdoor activities aren’t all this city has to offer; Stonecrest is only 16.6 miles from Atlanta, making it an ideal city/suburb for those who are a part of the Atlanta workforce. Stonecrests economy employs 27,800 people, and its largest industry is health care.
- Stonecrest population: 59,194
- Stonecrest population growth: 3.2% since 2010
- Stonecrest area: 37.97 mi²
- Stonecrest median age: 34.7
- Stonecrest median household income: $57,226
- Stonecrest median house price: $281,000 (per Redfin)
- Stonecrest crime rate: 2,591 per 100k people (7.6% higher than the state and 10.4% higher than the country)
- Stonecrest map
The crime rate statistics above are for Clarkston, which is only 14 miles from Stonecrest; you can expect a similar crime rate in Stonecrest.
2. Brookhaven
Brookhaven, GA, is located on the west side of DeKalb County, and while is a notable suburb of Atlanta, the city isn’t technically a part of Atlanta. Brookhaven was incorporated into DeKalb County, GA, only 11 years ago and is the 11th official city of DeKalb County.
If you’re trying to narrow down your list of cities in DeKalb County, GA, we suggest bumping Brookhaven to the top—and here’s why! Brookhaven, Georgia, has a diverse population, several notable schools, and is one of the safest neighborhoods in its metro area! Cross Key High School is rated the 9th best high school in its large school district—DeKalb County School District. The city also supplies a handful of popular attractions, such as Oglethorpe University Museum of Art and Brookhaven Park.
Brookhaven’s most impressive quality is its economy—the city is projected to see a 47.4% jobs market increase by 2033, which is well above the US average of 33.5%.
- Brookhaven population: 55,161
- Brookhaven population increase: 2.0% since 2010
- Brookhaven area: 11.86 mi²
- Brookhaven median age: 34.6
- Brookhaven median household income: $105,464
- Brookhaven median house price: $663,000 (per Redfin)
- Brookhaven crime rate: 2,905 per 100k people (20.7% higher than the state and 23.8% higher than the country)
- Brookhaven Map
3. Dunwoody
Dunwoody is a northern Atlanta suburb known for its optimal location, fine dining, and premium shopping options. The city is one of the most affluent Atlanta suburbs and offers an array of breathtaking historic and new-construction homes. The most noteworthy attractions within the city limits are Treetop Quest Dunwoody, Dunwoody Nature Center, and Perimeter Mall.
The median household income in Dunwoody ($97,868) is nearly twice the state average, and the city is projected to see a 45.1% job market increase by 2033. And according to the city’s website, nine new shopping centers and stores are opening throughout 2023. Dunwoody is also safer than 70% of US cities!
- Dunwoody population: 51,683
- Dunwoody population increase: 1.0% since 2010
- Dunwoody area: 13.25 mi²
- Median age: 36.5
- Dunwoody median household income: $97,868
- Median house price: $620,000 (per Redfin)
- Dunwoody crime rate: 2,957 per 100k people (22.9% higher than the state and 26% higher than the country)
- Dunwoody Map
4. Tucker
Tucker is the 4th most populous Dekalb County city and is known for its various, unique job opportunities; the corporate headquarters for Oglethorpe Power, YP Holdings, Primo Grills and Smokers, and Inland Seafood is located in Tucker, Georgia. 14.9% of residents earn between $100,000 and $150,000 a year, and 13.1% earn $75,000 to $100,000.
Tucker has a Cost of Living Index (COLI) of 107.4, which is only 7.4% above the national average; its cost of housing index is only 5.1% above the national average, whereas its cost of healthcare index is 2% below the US average.
The Tucker Nature Preserve and Henderson Park are the city’s most notable attractions, and thanks to Tucker’s optimal location, Atlanta and other more developed cities are nearby. Tucker is a friendly and inclusive place to live! The city recently passed a non-discrimination ordinance to provide a safer, more comfortable environment for LGBTQ members. If you’re seeking a quiet suburban city with countless outdoor activities, Tucker, GA, is one of the best Dekalb County cities!
- Tucker population: 36,969
- Tucker population increase: -0.4%
- Tucker area: 20.34 mi²
- Median age: 45.2
- Tucker median household income: $75,377
- Median house price: $420,000 (per Redfin)
- Tucker crime rate: 3,441 per 100k people (safer than 53% of US cities)
- Tucker Map
5. Redan
Redan is a populous CDP (census-designated place) in DeKalb. Redan is located east of Atlanta and is only 17.8 miles from the city. Although there aren’t many activities within Redan’s city limits, thanks to its ideal location, a trip to the aquarium or an Atlanta Braves game is only a short drive away! Redan Par and Mystery Valley Golf Course are the CDP’s most renowned activities.
The weather in Redan is enjoyable most of the year; it has a Koppen classification of a humid subtropical climate (Cfa), better explained as warm, humid summers and cool, mild winters. The temperature varies from 36 degrees Fahrenheit and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The weather is optimal in April to early June and from late August to mid-October, ideal for enjoying warm-weather activities like golf or hiking!
- Redan population: 31,749
- Redan population increase: -1.26%
- Redan area: 8.127 mi²
- Redan median age: 37.5
- Redan median household income: $57,263
- Redan median house price: $270,000 (per Redfin)
- Redan crime rate: 6,792 per 100k people
- Redan Map
6. Chamblee
Chamblee is northeast of Atlanta and is bordered by Brookhaven, Embry Hills, and Dunwoody. It’s the 6th most populous city in DeKalb County and is known for hosting the second busiest airport in Georgia, DeKalb Peachtree Airport (PDK). The city also boasts one of the country’s largest collections of antique stores and top eateries in its area—Chamblee is one of the most popular cities in Dekalb for more reasons than one.
There is a diverse population in Chamblee: 36% White, 36% Hispanic, 17% Black and African American, 9% Asian, and 3% two or more. Its economy employs 17,400 people, and its main industries are construction, technical services, and retail trade. Chamblee’s projected job growth is 11.2% above the national average, and the city has seen a 2.9% job market increase since 2022.
Expect plenty of activities to keep you busy; the city’s movie theater Regal Hollywood, is highly-reviewed and known for providing top-tier service, and there are plenty of notable parks like Dresden Park.
- Chamblee population: 29,869
- Chamblee population increase: -0.9%
- Chamblee area: 7.699 mi²
- Chamblee median age: 33.7
- Chamblee median household income: $72,960
- Chamblee median house price: $451,000 (per Redfin)
- Chamblee crime rate: 5,010 per 100k people
- Chamblee Map
7. Decatur
Decatur is the oldest city in DeKalb County, one of the first in the Atlanta metro area, and the third oldest in Georgia! It’s also the county seat of DeKalb County, Georgia, and has some of the richest history on this list of cities in DeKalb County. Decatur has the highest median household income out of the DeKalb County cities! Its deep roots provide countless attractive attributes like an established economy, beautiful homes, and timeless architecture. Not to mention Decatur is one of the closest cities to Atlanta on this list, situated only 6 miles from the city’s downtown.
Decatur’s median age is 38.6, and 35% of its population are 19 and under—-many young couples choose Decatur to raise their families. Decatur has an independent school district—City Schools of Decatur, and according to the city’s website, the district is known for obtaining strong test scores! Agnes College is the 63rd-best liberal arts college in the nation and boasts 3rd best undergraduate program in the US. Decatur also has the lowest crime rate out of these DeKalb County cities.
The city provides a notable education system and plenty of activities to partake in! Decatur is great; some even consider it one of the best cities in DeKalb County, GA!
- Decatur population: 24,928
- Decatur population increase: -2.4%
- Decatur area: 4.6 mi²
- Decatur median age: 38.6
- Decatur median household income: $123,617
- Decatur median house price: $458,000 (per Redfin)
- Decatur crime rate: 1,994 per 100k people (17.2% lower than the state and 15% lower than the country)
- Decatur Map
8. Candler-McAfee
Candler-McAfee is a populous census-designated place in DeKalb County. This CDP is quiet and inviting; it provides optimal positioning, is 10 miles east of Atlanta, and provides plenty of new and historic attractions. The most notable activities in Candler-McAfee, GA, are Misty Water Park and East Lake Golf Course.
There are 983 veterans in Candler’s 6.9 square acres, and 4.2% of its population weren’t born in the US. 84.7% of Candler-McAfee have a high school education or higher.
Candler-McAfee has a Cost of Living Index (COLI) that’s 0.2% below the US average, and its cost of housing index is 27% below the US average! This CDP is one of the most affordable places to live in Dekalb County.
- Candler-McAfee population: 22,468
- Candler-McAfee population increase: -2.4%
- Candler-McAfee area: 6.981 mi²
- Candler-McAfee median age: 39.6
- Candler-McAfee median household income: $46,217
- Candler-McAfee median home price: $289,000 (per Redfin)
- Candler-McAfee crime rate: 4,526 per 100k people
- Candler-McAfee Map
9. North Druid Hills
Commonly referred to as Briarcliff or Toco Hills is North Druid Hills, an unincorporated DeKalb County community and census-designated place. North Druid Hills began around the early 1900s when Chapman Powell built a “Medicine House” that still stands today. While North Druid Hills is a vibrant and economically established town today, it was considered a rural community until the 1960s.
The city’s nickname, “Toco Hills,” refers to a large neighborhood within the CDP limits. This area was developed in the 1950s and now hosts the largest shopping center in the CDP (Toco Hills Shopping Center.) There is speculation that the developer chose Toco Hills for the shopping center’s name as it’s the Brazilian word for “good luck.”
This community is home to numerous notable neighborhoods and has a large Jewish Orthodox community.
- North Druid Hills population: 20,385
- North Druid Hills population increase:
- North Druid Hills area: 5 mi²
- North Druid Hills median age: 45.2
- North Druid Hills median household income: $81,830
- North Druid Hills median home price: $521,000 (per Redfin)
- North Druid Hills crime rate: 3,122 per 100k people (safer than 59% of US cities)
- North Druid Hills Map
10. North Decatur
North Decatur is a census-designated place in DeKalb County with the 10th highest population in the county. North Decatur provides proximity to Atlanta, top-rated colleges, and plenty of activities. A few notable attractions in North Decatur are AMC North Dekalb 16 and Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve; South Fork Peachtree Creek runs through the north side of the CDP, and DeVry University is on the south side.
North Decatur is safer than 67% of US cities and boasts an affordable cost of living. Its Cost of Living Index (COLI) is 120, which is only 20% more expensive to live in North Decatur than the average US city.
- North Decatur population: 18,511
- North Decatur population increase: 10.8%
- North Decatur area: 4.911 mi²
- North Decatur median age: 40.4
- Median household income: $92,627
- North Decatur median house price: $525,000 (per Redfin)
- North Decatur crime rate: 2,905 per 100k people (safer than 67% of US cities)
- North Decatur Map
Cities in DeKalb County Map
FAQ Section
How Many Cities Are There in the County?
There are 13 cities in Dekalb County, Georgia.
What Is the Most Populous City in the County?
Stonecrest is the most populous city in DeKalb County, with a population of 59,194.
What Is the Wealthiest City in the County?
Decatur has the highest median household income in DeKalb County.
Which City Is the Largest in Land Size?
Stonecrest is the largest city (by land size), with an area of 37.97 mi².
What Is the Most Crowded City Instate?
Clarkston has a population density of 7,058.7 or 7,058.7 people per square mile
Which of the DeKalb County Cities Is Right for You?
As you can see, there are many DeKalb cities to choose from, some boasting a low crime rate while others provide a noteworthy school system. Regardless of your needs, there’s a city for you in DeKalb County, Georgia. When you do choose the perfect place to stake your claim, give Wirks Moving & Storage a call at 404-635-6683; we can help make your transition feel straightforward!
