What to know when moving to Forest Park, GA
TL;DR: Forest Park at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 64.5% of residents are renters and the median household income is $45,975.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $1,144, which is relatively affordable compared to nearby areas.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 19.9%, some residents face economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 4.3% of the population commutes via public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median rent of $1,144 when considering a move here.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Forest Park has a population of 28,892, where education levels are modest with only 13.2% holding a bachelor's degree. The high renter percentage of 64.5% suggests a transient community. Residents face a poverty rate of 19.9%, which may influence local dynamics. The area's climate is characterized by significant rainfall, with around 128 rainy days each year, so preparing for wet weather is advisable.
Probably not your spot if you prefer a highly educated community or have a strong preference for public transit, as only 4.3% of residents utilize it.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent stands at $1,144, meaning you can find relatively affordable options.
- The median home value is $121,400, making homeownership a possibility for many.
- The community has a poverty rate of 19.9%, which can affect overall economic conditions.
- With 64.5% of residents renting, there is a strong rental market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime data for Georgia indicates a mixed safety profile. The state has a motor vehicle theft rate of 156.2 per 100,000 residents, which is 20.8% lower than the national average of 197.3. The homicide rate stands at 5.6 per 100,000, 30.2% higher than the national average of 4.3, though it has dropped by 35.9% since 2022.
- Violent crime: Data not available at the city level.
- Property crime: Data not available at the city level.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have decreased by 35.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Georgia).
Schools & Higher Ed
Forest Park has access to a total of 27 postsecondary institutions across nearby Clayton, DeKalb, and Fulton Counties. Notable options include Clayton State University and several technical colleges in Morrow.
- Postsecondary institutions: 27 total.
- With College Scorecard data: 27 total.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
While specific climate data is unavailable, residents can enjoy several nearby parks and outdoor spaces. Notable options include:
- Grant Park - 4.6 stars from 6,706 reviews
- Delta Flight Museum - 4.7 stars from 3,591 reviews
- Woodruff Park - 4.0 stars from 2,269 reviews
- Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - 4.5 stars from 2,256 reviews
Source: Google Places API (New).
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Clayton County, where Forest Park is located, the unemployment rate is 4.5% as of December 2025. The labor force consists of 147,810 individuals, with 141,191 currently employed.
- Unemployment rate: 4.5% as of December 2025.
- Employed: 141,191 individuals.
- Labor force: 147,810 individuals.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
