Considering a move to Decatur, GA, and curious about the Great Lake neighborhood? Tucked just east of the bustling Decatur Square, Great Lake offers a tranquil suburban feel with urban perks. As a local, here’s my insider’s guide to what it’s really like living in this cherished corner of Decatur.
A Warm, Welcoming Community
The first thing new residents notice in Great Lake is the genuine sense of community. Neighbors wave from porches, greeting each other while walking dogs or pushing strollers along the leafy sidewalks. Events like block parties, Halloween parades, and impromptu porch gatherings happen all year. It’s common for neighbors to know each other's names—including the names of their pets. Whether you’re a young family, empty nester, or single professional, folks here value friendliness and look out for each other.
Housing: Charming Variety and Historic Character
Great Lake is known for its eclectic mix of homes. You’ll find:
- Classic 1920s and ‘30s bungalows with wide front porches, especially along Coventry Place and Ponce de Leon Court.
- Tudor Revivals, cozy cottages, and updated ranches nestled among mature trees.
- Tasteful renovations that preserve the neighborhood’s historic feel while offering modern comfort.
Lot sizes are generous for the area, and most streets don’t have through traffic, making them peaceful—ideal if you’re seeking a reprieve from city noise. Home prices tend to be above the Decatur average, reflecting both demand and the neighborhood’s desirability.
Walkability: Strolling to All You Need
Great Lake scores high on walkability. Tree-shaded sidewalks wind through the neighborhood, connecting you easily to nearby destinations. Residents commonly walk or bike to:
- Decatur Square (about a 10–15 minute stroll), home to restaurants, coffee shops, and unique boutiques.
- Your DeKalb Farmers Market for local produce and international foods.
- Renfroe Middle School, Clairemont Elementary, and local playgrounds.
If you live on streets like Pinetree Drive or Avery Street, you’re especially close to neighborhood favorites like Revolution Doughnuts or Oakhurst Village. Little traffic and attentive drivers make walking with kids or pets safe and stress-free.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
One of Great Lake’s biggest draws for families is access to Decatur’s award-winning City Schools:
- Clairemont Elementary is walkable for many families and known for its nurturing staff and active PTA.
- Renfroe Middle School and Decatur High School are also nearby, and both have strong academic and extracurricular reputations.
Playgrounds at nearby parks, plus organized neighborhood kid activities, mean children quickly make friends. The area feels like a place where classic childhood memories—bike rides, catching fireflies, lemonade stands—are still possible.
Parks and Green Spaces
Though Great Lake itself is a small water feature surrounded by private homes, the neighborhood boasts easy access to several green escapes:
- Glenlake Park (off Church Street) is the heart of outdoor life, offering tennis courts, a pool, a playground, and open fields for pick-up soccer or frisbee.
- The Westchester Woods Trail, a hidden gem off Scott Boulevard, is perfect for morning jogs and dog walks.
- Community gardens and shady pocket parks dot the region, providing quiet spots to read or picnic.
Residents say that on weekends, Glenlake’s ballfields and pool fill up with families, while adults relax on the shaded benches catching up with friends and neighbors.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is a priority for Great Lake residents, and the sense of security contributes to its relaxed feel. The City of Decatur Police Department is highly responsive, and residents are both vigilant and supportive. The Decatur Neighborhood Watch program is active, with regular communications and occasional safety meetings. Street lighting is plentiful, and low crime rates bring peace of mind, especially to families and seniors.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Commuting is a breeze from Great Lake. You’re just:
- A 5-minute drive (or a pleasant 15-minute walk) to Downtown Decatur’s MARTA station, with direct train access to downtown Atlanta, Emory University, and the CDC.
- A short drive to Emory University and Agnes Scott College, which are also popular local employers.
- Quick access to major routes like Clairemont Avenue and Ponce de Leon Avenue makes getting around the metro area simple.
Whether you work in Midtown, downtown, or at a neighborhood business, you’ll love skipping the stress of long commutes that many Atlantans face.
What Residents Love Most
Through countless conversations among neighbors and in local online groups, a few things come up again and again when people talk about why they love Great Lake:
- The old-growth trees and sense of established calm.
- Being close enough to Decatur’s restaurants, festivals, and night life—without all the hustle and bustle on your doorstep.
- Strong schools and safe streets—giving families peace of mind.
- The pride residents take in their homes and gardens, reflected in beautiful landscaping and block-wide efforts like spring clean-ups and porch decorating contests.
- That “front porch culture”—where it’s normal to linger and chat with a neighbor, and where new folks are quickly welcomed.
Final Thoughts
For those considering a move, Great Lake may just be Decatur’s best-kept secret: a neighborhood that feels like a small town in the heart of the city. Its blend of classic homes, walkability, strong schools, and community spirit makes it a place where people put down roots and stay for years. If you value friendly neighbors, green spaces, and a truly livable location, Great Lake is a wonderful place to call home.