countyscore
30.7
County Score
Water Quality 86Income & Jobs 81.2Weather & Climate 60.8

County Report Card

About DeKalb County, Georgia

Urban Trade-offs Impact Score

DeKalb County earns a composite score of 30.7, placing it below the national median of 50.0. While it offers high-income opportunities, these are offset by significant urban challenges.

Trailing the State Average

The county sits below the Georgia state average of 46.7 in overall livability. Its profile contrasts high earning potential against low scores in safety and environmental risk.

High Incomes and Infrastructure

Residents enjoy strong earning potential, evidenced by an income score of 81.2 and a median household income of $77,683. Reliable water infrastructure also contributes a high score of 86.0.

Density Affects Safety and Cost

Urban density impacts safety and environmental risk, which score low at 1.0 and 5.7 respectively. Housing costs are also high, resulting in an affordability score of only 7.0.

Economic Hub for Professionals

This county suits high-earning professionals who value proximity to Atlanta's economic core and cultural amenities. Residents trade off safety and affordability for significant career and social advantages.

Score breakdown

Tax43.8Cost7Safety1Health54.1Schools38.1Income81.2Risk5.7Water86Weather60.8
🏛43.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼81.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤54.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓38.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡5.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤60.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨19.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱37.4
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Fulton County
Georgia
44.3
Rockdale County
Georgia
46.7
Clayton County
Georgia
22.4
Henry County
Georgia
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Gwinnett County
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Cobb County
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Fayette County
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Newton County
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Deep Dives

DeKalb County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in DeKalb County

via TaxByCounty

DeKalb taxes track national average closely

DeKalb County's 0.919% effective rate aligns with the national median of 0.89%, placing it right at the 50th percentile of U.S. counties. The median tax bill of $3,046 exceeds the national median of $2,690, reflecting DeKalb's higher median home value of $331,400.

Mid-range tax rate across Georgia

At 0.919%, DeKalb ranks in the middle of Georgia's 159 counties, sitting just 0.02 percentage points above the state average of 0.898%. The county's higher home values drive a median tax of $3,046—nearly twice the state median of $1,529.

DeKalb taxes comparable to metro Atlanta peers

DeKalb's 0.919% rate mirrors the region's urban character, slightly above Dawson County (0.632%) but below Dougherty County (1.393%). The county's affluent suburban base supports both higher valuations and proportionally higher tax bills.

Your annual DeKalb property tax bill

On DeKalb's median home value of $331,400, the typical homeowner pays $3,046 annually. With a mortgage, that rises to $3,249; without one, it drops to $2,639.

Review your DeKalb assessment for errors

With three-thousand-dollar annual tax bills, even small overassessment errors cost significant money over time. DeKalb homeowners should request an assessment review from the county assessor—many discover their properties are valued 10-15% above market.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in DeKalb County

via CostByCounty

DeKalb's housing costs strain even above-average earners

DeKalb County's 24.6% rent-to-income ratio is the highest among all eight counties and far exceeds both the national and Georgia state averages of 18.6%. Despite earning $77,683 annually—above the national median—DeKalb residents dedicate nearly a quarter of their income to rent, signaling acute affordability stress.

Georgia's least affordable county here

DeKalb County ranks among Georgia's most expensive housing markets, with a 24.6% rent-to-income ratio that tops the state average by 6 percentage points. The county's position as a major job center and urban hub drives demand that inflates both rents and home values.

DeKalb far outpaces surrounding counties

DeKalb's $1,591 monthly rent dwarfs every peer county—Douglas ($1,447), Dade ($843), and Dodge ($688)—reflecting its status as metro Atlanta's second-largest county. Even affluent Dawson ($1,425) appears affordable next to DeKalb's price structure.

Metro premium costs eat deep into paychecks

DeKalb renters spend $1,591 monthly while homeowners carry $1,511 in ownership costs—figures that consume 24.6% and 23.4% of the $77,683 median household income respectively. The county's $331,400 median home value underscores how urban location and strong job markets dramatically inflate housing across all tenure types.

DeKalb rewards high earners and job seekers

If relocating to metro Atlanta for career opportunity, DeKalb offers walkable urban living and diverse job markets—but only if your income significantly exceeds the county median. Compare DeKalb's affordability gap to nearby counties and remote-work alternatives before committing to the 24.6% housing ratio.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in DeKalb County

via IncomeByCounty

DeKalb slightly exceeds national average

DeKalb County's median household income of $77,683 surpasses the national median of $74,755 by roughly $2,928, placing the county just above typical American earning levels. While modest, this advantage reflects DeKalb's position as Georgia's second-largest county with strong employment diversity.

Above-average performer for Georgia

DeKalb's $77,683 median household income exceeds Georgia's $60,488 state average by $17,195, putting the county in Georgia's upper-income tier. The county's large, educated workforce and proximity to Atlanta drive substantially higher earnings than state norms.

DeKalb leads metro Atlanta earnings

DeKalb residents earn $77,683 versus Douglas County's $80,764—a relatively close match among metro counties, though Douglas still edges ahead. Both counties dramatically outpace rural southern Georgia counties, reflecting the urban-rural income divide.

Housing costs bite heavily here

DeKalb's 24.6% rent-to-income ratio approaches affordability stress, meaning housing consumes nearly a quarter of typical household earnings. Median home values of $331,400 make ownership challenging for median-income households without substantial down payment savings.

Diversify beyond housing investments

DeKalb households earning $77,683 have capacity for diversified investment portfolios beyond home equity. Consider maximizing 401(k) contributions, opening index funds, and exploring real estate investment trusts to build generational wealth separate from your primary residence.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in DeKalb County

via CrimeByCounty

DeKalb faces significant safety challenges

DeKalb County’s safety score of 89.2 reflects a total crime rate of 6862.5 per 100K, nearly triple the national average. This high volume of activity is typical of densely populated urban hubs.

A high-activity zone in Georgia

The county's crime rate of 6862.5 per 100K is more than four times the Georgia state average of 1412.9. Its safety score of 89.2 ranks it as one of the more active areas in the state.

Dense urban crime trends compared

Compared to suburban neighbors, DeKalb's 20 reporting agencies track a much higher volume of incidents. This data highlights the complex safety needs of a major metropolitan county.

Violent and property crime breakdown

Property crime is very high at 5584.4 per 100K, while the violent crime rate of 1278.1 also sits well above state averages. These numbers indicate that property-related offenses dominate the local landscape.

Essential security for urban residents

In a high-activity area like DeKalb, comprehensive security systems with 24/7 monitoring are highly recommended. Strengthening entry points and using smart lighting can significantly reduce your risk.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in DeKalb County

via HealthByCounty

DeKalb County leads Georgia in longevity

DeKalb County residents live to 78.2 years—2.1 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.1 years—making it a health outcomes leader. Only 17.7% report poor or fair health, well below the national average of 14.8%, driven by urban healthcare density and access.

DeKalb tops Georgia's life expectancy rankings

At 78.2 years, DeKalb County's life expectancy ranks first or second in Georgia, reflecting the strength of urban healthcare infrastructure and a relatively affluent population. The county's 17.7% poor/fair health rate is among Georgia's best.

DeKalb outpaces all comparison counties

DeKalb's 78.2-year life expectancy far exceeds neighboring Dade (73.0), Decatur (71.0), and Dodge (71.3) counties. With 106 primary care providers and 400 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, DeKalb offers healthcare access at least 1.5x higher than any neighboring county.

Robust healthcare infrastructure drives outcomes

DeKalb County's 106 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—the highest concentration among these eight counties—ensure most residents can access preventive care. Just 13.8% lack insurance, and the 400 mental health providers per 100,000 residents offer exceptional behavioral health support.

Maintain your coverage to stay healthy

DeKalb's exceptional health outcomes depend on sustained healthcare engagement; if you're uninsured, explore options through the Health Insurance Marketplace immediately. Consistent coverage enables you to take advantage of DeKalb's abundant providers and preventive services.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in DeKalb County

via SchoolsByCounty

Massive Scale and Diverse Infrastructure

DeKalb County operates a massive infrastructure with 153 public schools serving over 103,000 students. This sprawling system includes 97 elementary schools, 23 middle schools, and 27 high schools.

Significant Investment Amid Performance Challenges

The county invests $8,411 per pupil—well above the Georgia average—to support its diverse student body. While the graduation rate of 75.4% trails the state average, the county provides extensive specialized education and alternative programs.

A Multi-District Educational Hub

Five different districts operate here, led by the DeKalb County district and the City Schools of Decatur. Charter schools are a significant factor, with 13 institutions representing nearly 9% of the total school landscape.

Suburban Environments with Large High Schools

This is a predominantly suburban learning environment, featuring large high schools like Lakeside and Dunwoody that exceed 2,000 students. The average school size across the county is 677 students, reflecting its high-density population.

Finding Your Niche in DeKalb Schools

DeKalb County's vast size offers diverse options, from large suburban high schools to specialized city programs in Decatur. Researching specific school zones is essential for families looking to find the right academic fit.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in DeKalb County

via RiskByCounty

DeKalb faces one of nation's highest risk profiles

DeKalb County scores 94.27 on composite risk, placing it in the Relatively Moderate category and well above the national average. This major Atlanta-area county contends with significant exposure to floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, and other hazards due to its dense development and geographic position.

Georgia's riskiest county by far

DeKalb's 94.27 score towers above Georgia's state average of 39.49, making it the state's highest-risk county. The county's ranking reflects its large population, urban density, and position in Georgia's seismic and tornado zones.

DeKalb's risk far exceeds surrounding counties

DeKalb's 94.27 score dwarfs Dade County (33.21) and Douglas County (65.71), both nearby, showing how dense urban areas concentrate disaster exposure. This risk concentration demands special attention from the county's 750,000+ residents.

Floods and tornadoes threaten every neighborhood

DeKalb's flood risk hits 96.25 and tornado risk reaches 96.06—the county's two dominant hazards and both near the top of any U.S. county ranking. Earthquake risk (94.75) adds significant secondary exposure, while hurricane risk (72.63) remains elevated from coastal systems.

Flood insurance is critical for DeKalb residents

All DeKalb homeowners should carry flood insurance, even those outside official flood zones, given the 96.25 flood risk score; standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage. Combine this with tornado/wind coverage, consider earthquake insurance, and ensure your property has safe room access for severe weather events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in DeKalb County

via WeatherByCounty

A Balanced Piedmont Climate

DeKalb County averages 61.5°F annually, which sits slightly above the national median but cooler than the deep South. It experiences a classic humid subtropical pattern with distinct seasonal shifts.

Cooler Than the State Median

At 61.5°F, DeKalb is cooler than the Georgia state average of 63.7°F. Its northern location and elevation provide a slight reprieve from the state's most intense heat.

Lower Temperatures Than Fayette

Compared to nearby Fayette County’s 63.2°F, DeKalb runs nearly two degrees cooler on average. It shares the same 51.4-inch precipitation average as the rest of the state.

Moderate Winters and Humid Summers

The county sees 53 extreme heat days per year where temperatures top 90°F. Winter brings a cool January average of 42.3°F, offering a true seasonal break.

Prepare for Rain and Humidity

With 51.4 inches of annual precipitation, residents need reliable rain gear and well-maintained gutters. Seasonal wardrobe swaps are necessary to handle both the 78°F summer and 44°F winter averages.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in DeKalb County

via SoilByCounty

High-Quality Urban Soils

DeKalb County features Ultisols with an above-average soil score of 19.6. The average pH of 5.40 is less acidic than the state norm but remains well below the national median of 6.5.

Balanced Sandy Loam Mix

This sandy loam consists of 60.2% sand, 21.1% silt, and 16.9% clay. It provides a versatile texture that is easier to manage than the heavy clays found elsewhere.

Strong Water Retention

The available water capacity of 0.130 beats the state average of 0.114, showing excellent moisture storage. However, organic matter at 1.39% still trails the state average of 1.83%.

Managing Poor Drainage

Soils here are primarily poorly drained and belong to hydrologic group D. This indicates water moves slowly, creating specific challenges for building foundations and basement waterproofing.

Gardening in Zone 8a

The county resides in Hardiness Zone 8a, supporting a wide variety of southern staples. High water retention makes this area particularly well-suited for lush hydrangea gardens.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in DeKalb County

via LawnByCounty

DeKalb County Surpasses State Lawn Standards

DeKalb County's lawn difficulty score of 37.4 is slightly better than the Georgia average of 35.8. Homeowners in this Zone 8a region find conditions more manageable than many other parts of the Deep South.

Stable Rainfall and Moderate Summer Heat

With 51.4 inches of annual rain and 53 heat days over 90°F, DeKalb stays cooler and wetter than the state averages of 51.3 inches and 65 heat days. These 5,025 growing degree days provide a robust window for established turf to thrive.

Managing Poorly Drained Sandy Loam

The soil here is characterized as poorly drained sandy loam with an acidic pH of 5.40. Because it falls below the ideal 6.0 pH threshold, you will likely need to apply lime to unlock essential soil nutrients.

Addressing Total County Severe Drought

The entire county currently sits in a severe drought stage after 25 weeks of dry conditions this past year. Implementing a smart irrigation controller can help you manage water usage efficiently during these recurring dry spells.

Reliable Turf for the Metro Region

Bermudagrass and Zoysia are ideal for Zone 8a because they offer a balance of heat tolerance and durability. Plan to start your lawn after the last spring frost, which usually arrives by March 25.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DeKalb County's county score?
DeKalb County, Georgia has a composite county score of 30.7 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does DeKalb County rank among counties in Georgia?
DeKalb County ranks #153 among all counties in Georgia on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in DeKalb County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in DeKalb County is $3,046, with an effective tax rate of 0.92%. This earns DeKalb County a tax score of 43.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in DeKalb County?
The median household income in DeKalb County, Georgia is $77,683 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. DeKalb County earns an income score of 81.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is DeKalb County, Georgia a good place to live?
DeKalb County scores 30.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #153 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate DeKalb County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare DeKalb County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.