Great Lakes, Decatur,GA

If you're considering a move to Decatur, GA, the Great Lakes neighborhood in the northwest part of the city is definitely worth a closer look. This charming area offers a perfect blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience, making it a top choice for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. One of the standout features of Great Lakes is its lush, tree-lined streets and beautifully maintained homes that range from classic mid-century styles to modern builds. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community, with neighborhood events and local gatherings that help foster connections among neighbors.

Great Lakes is known for its proximity to several great recreational spots, including the nearby Fernbank Museum of Natural History and Fernbank Forest, where locals can explore nature trails and enjoy educational exhibits. For those who love spending time outdoors, the neighborhood also offers easy access to the expansive Decatur Cemetery and several smaller parks perfect for afternoon strolls or weekend picnics. Food lovers will appreciate the variety of dining options just a short drive away, with Downtown Decatur’s popular cafés, breweries, and eclectic restaurants all within a 10-minute commute. This close-knit community strikes a wonderful balance between peaceful residential life and vibrant city amenities.

One of the biggest perks of living in Great Lakes is its convenient access to Downtown Decatur, which is known for its walkability, charming shops, and lively cultural scene. Whether you’re heading out for a morning coffee, attending a local farmers market, or enjoying live music at one of the nearby venues, downtown is never far away. Plus, the neighborhood’s location offers easy connections to Atlanta’s broader metro area, making commuting or weekend adventures a breeze. For those relocating, Great Lakes provides a welcoming atmosphere combined with accessibility, making it an ideal spot to settle down and enjoy all that Decatur has to offer.

In Great Lakes, 36% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

36% of people over 16 have children, so you're likely to find a balanced mix of family life and adult-oriented living. The neighborhood tends to feel lively without being overwhelming, with a good blend of young families, professionals, and long-term residents. Parks, playgrounds, and local schools contribute to a friendly community atmosphere, while quieter pockets and mature spaces appeal to those seeking peace and privacy. This balance makes the area welcoming to nearly everyone.

Great Lakes demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 514 residents, Great Lakes is notably smaller than many other Decatur neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Great Lakes has a population density of 4,144, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Decatur neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 49, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

The Great Lakes crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Great Lakes, home prices come in around $558,700, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Great Lakes can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

The median rent is around $811, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Great Lakes combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Great Lakes can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.