Clarkston, GA Utility & Living Guide

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Clarkston, GA Utility & Living Guide

Clarkston is a city in DeKalb County, Georgia, United States. The population was 14,756 as of the 2020 census, up from 7,554 in 2010.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$350/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax8%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Clarkston
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Georgia Power
🔥 Gas

$60/mo

Atlanta Gas Light
💧 Water

$50/mo

DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.05%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Clarkston is moderately competitive, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are also an option, particularly for those looking for affordability. However, prices are rising due to the city’s proximity to Atlanta.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

103

Transportation

96

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax8%
Property Tax Rate1.05%
<p>State 4% + County 3% + City 1%</p>

Georgia has a progressive state income tax with rates ranging from 1% to 5.99%, depending on income level

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+10% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of Democratic and Republican influences
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including healthcare, education, and retail
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordability, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Clarkston has a moderately stroller-friendly public transit system, with some bus routes and a downtown area that is relatively easy to navigate with a stroller

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    DeKalb Children's Theatre
  • 🎯
    Fernbank Museum of Natural History
  • 🎯
    Stone Mountain Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Clarkston include the downtown area, which offers a mix of older and newer homes, as well as the nearby suburbs, which provide more affordable options. The city is also investing in new parks and recreational facilities, making it an attractive option for families.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Clarkston based on your household profile.

📰 Live Local News

Clarkston has regulations regarding zoning, noise ordinances, and business licenses, which are enforced by the city government

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📊 Clarkston — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In the summer, utility costs in Clarkston can be higher due to the need for air conditioning, while in the winter, costs may be lower as the city experiences mild temperatures. However, residents can expect to pay more for heating in extremely cold snaps.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates range from 20-30 mills, with a local surtax of 1% in DeKalb County

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10: while Clarkston has some stroller-friendly infrastructure, including sidewalks and parks, there is room for improvement in terms of elevator access in transit and family-friendly amenities

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