8 Things to Know Before Moving to Chamblee, GA

Chamblee, Georgia, situated just 14 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta, is a welcoming suburb nestled between Brookhaven, Embry Hills, Doraville, and Dunwoody. 

Initially a farming community known for its dairy farms, Chamblee’s history includes being a major milk distributor. The city’s incorporation in 1907 marked the beginning of its growth into a charming residential community, maintaining a steady pace of development.

Before you make the move to this suburb, check out eight things to know before moving to Chamblee, GA.

1. A higher-than-average cost of living 

In Chamblee, the cost of living is 10% higher than the national average. While healthcare costs are lower than the state average, expenses for food, utilities, local transportation, and housing are notably higher. 

With a homeownership rate of 37%, purchasing a house in Chamblee is less common. The average home price is $450,000, while rent averages $1,762 per month.

2. Dekalb County School District hosts several great schools 

Chamblee boasts a vibrant community with approximately 7,600 children under the age of 18, comprising 26% of its total population. As a member of the Dekalb County School District, Chamblee is home to several top-rated schools in the state. Among these are Huntley Hills Elementary School, Chamblee Middle School, and Chamblee Charter High School, which holds the impressive rank of 46th among Georgia’s top high schools.

While Chamblee itself does not host any colleges, residents have convenient access to nearby institutions. Oglethorpe University, located in neighboring Brookhaven, offers a close-to-home option for higher education. Additionally, the Art Institute of Atlanta and Emory University are within easy reach in Atlanta, providing further educational opportunities for Chamblee residents.

3. Commute to nearby Atlanta for work 

Chamblee presents a range of job opportunities through prominent companies, with an average annual salary of $36,000. Among the top employers in Chamblee are Delta Airlines, Northside Hospital, The Coca-Cola Company, and Deloitte. 

Owing to its reputation as a sleepy suburb, many residents commute from Chamblee to Atlanta, a 14-mile journey taking approximately 30 minutes each way.

4. Summers are hot and humid 

Chamblee shares Atlanta’s temperate humid subtropical climate, characterized by cold, wet winters and warm, muggy summers. 

Summer temperatures range from the 70s to over 90°F, while winter brings lows in the 30s and daytime highs in the mid-50s. It is important to note that summers can be quite humid, so new residents should be ready for that. The area receives an average of around 50 inches of rainfall annually.

5. Buckhead is 5 miles away and Atlanta is 14 miles away

Chamblee, located just 5 miles from Buckhead, offers more than just antiques. Residents can enjoy world-class shopping and dining at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza malls, all within a short drive.

Chamblee’s location provides easy access to I-285 and I-85, making commuting convenient. The centrally located MARTA station offers a 20-minute train ride to central Atlanta, making Chamblee a popular choice for commuters looking to avoid rush hour traffic.

6. Attend the numerous Chamblee community events

Chamblee hosts various events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community among its residents. 

The Fourth of July festivities at Keswick Park are renowned for their impressive fireworks, live music, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, the Fourth Friday Concert Series at Peachtree Park during the summer provides locals with opportunities to come together, enjoy live music, and socialize in a welcoming environment.

Each October, Chamblee embraces its rich cultural diversity with the annual Taste of Chamblee Festival. This celebration attracts numerous attendees from the region, eager to sample different foods offered by local vendors.

7. Visit parks like Keswick Park, Huntley Hills Park, City Hall Park, or Ashford Forest Preserve 

Spanning 45 acres, Keswick Park stands as Chamblee’s largest and most beloved park, offering residents a serene retreat for dog walks along its trails and a designated dog park for furry friends needing more than just a stroll.

The park features numerous sports fields, tennis courts, picnic spots, and a gazebo, along with a spacious community building available for rental. Keswick Park’s welcoming atmosphere extends to the Keswick Park Extension Trail, also known as the Rail Trail, offering a neighborhood feel and a scenic route for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nestled at the intersection of Admiral Drive and Longview Drive, Huntley Hills is a charming neighborhood park with a walking path, a playground, and a picturesque creek traversed by a steel bridge. Visitors can also admire the ‘Butterfly Garden,’ meticulously designed, planted, and tended by local volunteers.

Located centrally in town and affectionately dubbed Peachtree Park by locals, City Hall Park has been the heart of Chamblee since its inauguration in 1995. The park features plenty of benches and a covered gazebo, making it a favored lunch spot for nearby workers during the warmer months.

For those seeking a nature escape, Ashford Forest Preserve offers an urban oasis on Clairmont Road, adjacent to PDK Airport in neighboring Brookhaven. Covering 30 acres of largely untouched land, the preserve boasts stunning old-growth trees, a gorgeous meadow, and a tranquil wetland area.

8. Chamblee is a walkable town

Chamblee stands out as a city dedicated to enhancing pedestrian and biking experiences, exemplified by the well-known Keswick Park Extension Trail. This tree-shaded trail stretches from Keswick Park to close to the MARTA station, offering a safe pathway beneath bustling Peachtree Industrial Boulevard. 

Chamblee’s ongoing efforts to improve its pedestrian infrastructure underscore its commitment to fostering a walkable and bike-friendly environment for residents and visitors alike.

To Sum it All Up 

Chamblee, Georgia, presents a blend of charm, convenience, and community spirit, making it an attractive place to call home. While its higher-than-average cost of living and humid summers may pose challenges, the city’s top-rated schools, proximity to Atlanta, and vibrant community events offer numerous advantages. 

With its commitment to pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and diverse park offerings, Chamblee provides a welcoming environment for residents seeking a balance between suburban tranquility and urban accessibility.