Decatur : Georgia

Although considered a suburb of Atlanta, Decatur is a vibrant town in its own right. With a population of just over 20,000 (2013 census), it boasts a small town feel, a walkable and historic downtown, and is tech friendly by offering municipal wi-fi. Named after Stephen Decatur, a 19^th century U.S. Naval hero, Decatur offers easy access to downtown Atlanta, and is recognized as a Bicycle Friendly Community. It is also home to several schools of higher education which includes Emory University, Columbia Theological Seminary, and Agnes Scott College. Another claim to fame is Eddie's Attic, a popular music club, where the Indigo Girls, Sugarland and John Mayer all played in their early days. Picture of Old DeKalb Courthouse courtesy of Wikipedia and Goingstuckey; picture of Downtown Decatur courtesy of Wikipedia and Lincolnh.

Downtown are townhouses, condominiums and lofts. City-Data.com reports the median sale price of a home in Decatur was about $210,000 in late 2014. Zillow reports it to be much higher at $301,315 in late 2015.

Decatur is a college town with a low crime rate, a medical center, a great library, and is considered a very walkable and bike friendly community.

It's hard to find what is not special about this community except to say winters are chilly with temperatures only in the 40's. 

Those who are looking for a historical yet trendy town that offers a host of cultural events, a vibrant downtown and a medical center would enjoy retiring here; Decatur is just minutes from Atlanta with easy access on MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority); OLLI at Emory is a lifelong learning program for seniors, and offers more than 70 classes and programs.

Education and Professional Services

The average January temperature is 45 degrees, with the average July temperture about 80 degrees.

The town offers audio walking tours of its historic downtown, with restaurants, shops, and art galleries to visit, along with parks and community gardens. Several festivals and community-wide events are held throughout the year. Emory University adds much to the cultural scene in Decatur with concerts, theater performances, and a full calendar of the arts.