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Monday, January 27, 2025

Dunwoody Neighborhoods: 5 Best Places To Live in This Atlanta Suburb

Photo of Dunwoody Georgia

Atlanta has one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States. As a result, its suburbs have become coveted places for people to live and work. These suburbs are some of the best places to live in the South.

Dunwoody is no exception. Located on the northern outskirts of Atlanta, it has a history that goes back almost 200 years. However, Dunwoody officially became a city in 2008. It offers a variety of living environments, from rural to dense urban, with properties ranging from apartments and flats to luxury single-family homes.

Dunwoody City Overview

Located in DeKalb County, Georgia, just 17 miles north of Atlanta, Dunwoody has a population of over 51,000 residents. The city offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities and has a history that dates back to the 1830s.

It has evolved into a vibrant community with a strong sense of pride and identity. Dunwoody is known for its excellent schools, low crime rate, and high quality of life, making it an attractive option for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

If you’re considering relocating, it’s essential to thoroughly research the local neighborhoods and consider which option is best for you and your family. Start by considering the five best places to live in Dunwoody, GA.

Why live in Dunwoody, GA? Events and Attractions

Dunwoody has been steadily growing alongside Atlanta as a major hub of commerce and community. It is a 10-mile drive into the city—convenient but far enough from the hustle and bustle to provide pockets of rural charm among several thriving commercial districts. While Dunwoody has its own police force and other municipal services, educational services are managed by DeKalb County Schools, which operates several highly-rated schools in the area.

Shopping and dining opportunities abound in Dunwoody, with five major shopping malls within the town’s borders: the Dunwoody Village Shopping Center, the Perimeter Mall, the Williamsburg at Dunwoody Shopping Center, the Orchard Park Shopping Center, and the Mt. Vernon Shopping Center. But there’s plenty more to do in Dunwoody besides shopping.

Dunwoody Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor adventurers will find opportunities for exploration in one of the city’s many parks and preserves, including the Dunwoody Nature Center, Brook Run Park, and Windwood Hollow Park. Thrill seekers may want to check out the Treetop Quest adventure course, while golfers may consider joining the Dunwoody Country Club.

There’s also the Dunwoody Butterfly Festival, Apple Cider Day, Lemonade Day, and two annual carnivals, each providing an abundance of family fun.

Alternatively, adults can check out a performance at the Stage Door Theatre or an exhibition at the Spruill Art Gallery.

With plenty of opportunities for work and play, Dunwoody is the perfect place for young professionals, new families, and everyone in between! Dunwoody also offers ample employment opportunities in diverse sectors such as healthcare and technical services, making it an attractive place for professionals.

Demographics and Education

Dunwoody has a diverse population with a mix of young families, professionals, and retirees. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the city has a population density of 3,967.7 people per square mile. The median household income in Dunwoody is $109,116, and the median home value is $650,000.

The the city of dunwoody is served by the DeKalb County School System, which operates several highly-rated schools in the area, including Dunwoody High School, Dunwoody Elementary School, and Kingsley Elementary School. Additionally, Dunwoody is home to the Art Institute of Atlanta, a private college that offers a range of academic programs.

About the Dunwoody Real Estate Market

Currently, listing prices in much of the United States are higher than average. This is also true of Dunwoody, although the year-over-year increase is only 3.2%, a much smaller margin than other areas of the country have seen.

The real estate market in Dunwoody has been shaped by significant construction efforts over the years, contributing to the city’s growth and modernization.

The sale-to-list price ratio in Dunwoody is 97.6%, with houses selling for about 14% above the list price. The average price per square foot ranges between $240 and $258. Townhouses and single-family homes are currently for sale in Dunwoody, ranging from a one-bedroom, one-bath apartment under $200,000 to brand-new luxury homes priced in the millions.

Community Amenities (Parks and Recreation)

Dunwoody boasts a range of community amenities that make it an attractive place to live. The city has several parks and recreational facilities, including Brook Run Park, which features a playground, skate park, baseball fields, and walking trails. The Dunwoody Nature Center is another popular destination, offering hiking trails, a treehouse, and a variety of educational programs.

The city also has several country clubs and golf courses, including the Dunwoody Country Club and the Peachtree Golf Club. Residents can also enjoy a range of community events, including the annual Dunwoody Art Festival, the Dunwoody Village Holiday Celebration, and the Dunwoody Farmers Market.

Cost of Living and Safety

The cost of living in Dunwoody is slightly higher than the national average, with a cost of living index score of 104.8. The median home price is $650,000, and the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,400. However, the city’s high quality of life and excellent schools make it a worthwhile investment for many residents.

In terms of safety, Dunwoody has a lower crime rate than many other cities in the Atlanta metro area. According to FBI data, the city had a violent crime rate of 0.34 per 1,000 residents in 2020, which is lower than the national average.

What are the best places to live in Dunwoody, GA?

The city is split into six districts, each with its own draws—including restaurants, various shopping areas, entertainment, and a variety of neighborhoods with plenty of different housing options. Each district plays a crucial role in serving the community with essential services and amenities, enhancing the quality of life for residents. Here are the five districts of Dunwoody that feature the most extensive housing options.

Dunwoody Village

The historic town center of Dunwoody was built around a shopping mall of the same name. Residents are close to several amenities, like shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Some can walk to dinner or a movie.

Located just outside the village off Mt. Vernon Road, the gated community of Bellewood Square offers a quaint, private neighborhood of competitively priced homes designed and built by Bill Grant. Featuring wide-open floor plans on the interior and beautiful brick facades on the outside, you’ll feel tucked away in its small but meticulously designed parks. Its prime location means residents are just a short walk away from the Dunwoody Village Shopping Center.

Also off Mt. Vernon Road is the charming community of Hidden Branches, affectionately called “The Branches” by locals. Appropriately, a long, winding main road branches into several smaller neighborhoods, all tucked away between two convenient shopping malls: Dunwoody Village and Perimeter Center. 

Those interested in apartment living may consider Hawthorne Gates, a pet-friendly community of one-to-three-bedroom apartments featuring high, nine-foot ceilings, private balconies, walk-in closets, and granite countertops. Residents also have access to a gym, an outdoor pool, two tennis courts, and garage parking. 

Perimeter Center and Perimeter Mall

After the development of the Perimeter Mall in 1971, Perimeter Center quickly became one of the greater Atlanta metropolitan area’s most prominent areas of employment and continues to grow and thrive to this day. Perimeter Center is one of the most prominent areas of employment in Metro Atlanta, attracting professionals from across the region. Most of the living options here are apartments, townhomes, and flats.

Manhattan is a high-rise luxury Dunwoody condominium located on Olde Perimeter Way to the north of the Perimeter Mall. It features 222 units and is pet-friendly. Residents have access to a parking garage, swimming pool, tennis court, and gym. Some units have stunning views of the urban skyline.

On the opposite side of State Route 400 is the Park Towers complex, which features three high-rise apartments and condominiums. In addition to a gym, swimming pool, and tennis courts, residents of Park Towers have access to a 24-hour concierge, a garage, and additional storage space.

Suppose luxury, high-rise living isn’t what you’re looking for. Then check out The Gardens at Dunwoody Springs is a smaller, quieter neighborhood of apartments directly to the west of the Perimeter Mall. Featuring a gym, clubhouse with billiards, and exclusive access to a community lake, this is a perfect spot for low-key living without losing access to the convenience of the Perimeter’s nearby shopping centers.

Georgetown

Bordering the city limits of Chamblee, the neighborhood of Georgetown sits on the southern side of Dunwoody. This is a perfect suburban area for growing families, as it has many apartments, residential subdivisions, custom luxury homes, and a shopping district.

Designed and built by Stephen Fuller and Bill Grant, respectively, the exclusive subdivision of Boxwood lies just off Chamblee Dunwoody Road and features nine luxury homes.

Another neighborhood of luxury homes on Vermack Road, the Heritage at Dunwoody features 50 luxury homes with an eclectic mix of colors and styles.

The expansive neighborhood of North Springs features modestly sized homes and a quieter atmosphere while still being just a short distance from essential stores like Kroger and recreational areas like Georgetown Park.

Finally, just adjacent to Georgetown Park is Drift Dunwoody, which positions itself as a luxury apartment community with commodities comparable to a resort. These pet-friendly spaces range from one to two bedrooms. Residents have access to a Zen Garden, koi pond, swimming pool, and extensive fitness center.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a shopping and dining destination with three major retail areas, an extensive selection of fast-food options, and traditional sit-down restaurants. It also features a wide range of residential spaces, from quieter suburban areas to luxury subdivisions. Williamsburg plays a crucial role in serving the community with its extensive shopping and dining options.

Across the street from the Dunwoody Country Club is Dunwoody Club Forest, a quaint residential neighborhood expanding to the south. Here, you will find a wide range of one-to-two-story homes built through the 60s and 70s that are perfect for families of all sizes and needs. Most residences here sit on a half-acre of land.

Another quiet neighborhood with winding backroads is Brooke Farm, which awaits right down the street from Dunwoody Country Club. This community of 269 homes was developed by Robert Marett, John Cowart, and Bill Grant and includes exclusive access to a small nearby lake. Residents can also access four tennis courts, two pools, and a very family friendly and, welcoming community.

Winter’s Chapel

On the far east side of Dunwoody, bordering the adjacent town of Peachtree Corners is the rural wooded community of Winter’s Chapel. With a longer drive to the major commercial areas and more green spaces than development, there are more opportunities for outdoor adventures than in the surrounding districts, thanks to its two extensive parks. The construction of homes in Winter’s Chapel has been carefully planned to preserve the area’s natural beauty.

Off Winters Chapel road is Spalding Glen, a small and quaint community featuring an eclectic blend of home styles and sizes.

The community of Winter Rose features 51 modest, modern homes and a welcoming community of families.

Commuting and Transportation

Dunwoody offers a range of transportation options, making it easy to get around the city and surrounding areas. The city is served by the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), which offers bus and rail service to Atlanta and other surrounding cities.

The city is also located near several major highways, including Interstate 285 and Georgia 400, making it easy to commute to work or travel to other parts of the state. Additionally, the city has a range of bike lanes and pedestrian paths, making it a bike-friendly and walkable community.

Living in Dunwoody, GA

Not only are Dunwoody residents just a short drive from the thriving city of Atlanta, but they are also living in one of the fastest-growing communities in the area, with countless shopping, dining, and entertainment options as well as a wide variety of housing options.

Dunwoody’s location within Metro Atlanta provides residents with easy access to the city’s major business hubs and lifestyle offerings.

Nearby Communities:

You may also want to consider looking for a home in Sandy Springs (the west side of 400) or just north in Roswell. Both offer a larger number of houses, townhomes, and condos for sale many with properties that are newer than Dunwood.


If you’re considering moving to Dunwoody, contact a local real estate agent to help find the right neighborhood for you and your family.

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Preston Guyton