Decatur
About Decatur
Take a stroll through Decatur and see how friendly neighbors, tree-lined streets, great schools, parks and playing fields, libraries, colleges, and businesses all make our town a wonderful place to spend some time. We’re just minutes east of downtown Atlanta, minutes west of Stone Mountain, and the MARTA rail station is right under our downtown square, so getting here is a breeze.
Named after Stephen Decatur, a 19th century U.S. Naval hero, Decatur retains a strong connection to its history, while preparing for the future with managed growth and responsible development.
Decatur maintains its own identity while forging bonds with other communities locally, nationally and internationally. Other U.S. cities and counties named Decatur participate in some of our festivities. We are a member of Sister Cities International.
What It's Like to Live Here
Although Decatur, Ga. is part of the Atlanta metro area, it is a city unto itself, with an identity all its own. At 19,000 people, Decatur sits just to the east of Atlanta, and it has become a favorite of single professionals, young couples and families thanks to its strong schools, low crime rate and beautiful historic homes.
The county seat of DeKalb County, Decatur was founded in 1822 and named after Stephen Decatur, a naval hero most noted for his service in the Barbary Wars and the War of 1812. Even in its early days, residents preferred a small-town feel; when a railroad wanted to make the town the final stop on its line, residents rejected the offer. The railroad then moved to the settlement that would become Atlanta.
After suffering a decline in real estate values during the 1960s and 1970s, Decatur is enjoying a resurgence. Downtown development efforts have led to a popular mixed-use district. The city’s downtown is a busy hub, with activities year-round, including concerts in the community bandstand on the square (folks can bring their own picnic), a beach party every June featuring inflatable water slides, and a July 4 celebration that includes the Pied Piper Parade, a concert and a fireworks show. In August, the city hosts the BBQ, Blues & Bluegrass Festival.
Residents and visitors also enjoy “Terrific Thursdays” – special shopping days throughout the year during which downtown’s 30-plus stores and restaurants offer discounts and treats.
Each December, the city hosts the Decatur Tour of Homes, featuring homes and other points of interest decorated for the holidays.
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