What to know when moving to Lithonia, GA
Lithonia at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 38% of residents rent and the median household income is $70,860.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to 20 postsecondary institutions nearby, including Luther Rice College & Seminary and Strayer University.
- The Reality Check:
- The poverty rate is 10.8%, indicating some economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 2.5% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Median rent is $1,535, so budget accordingly.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Lithonia has a population of 42,744, with a median household income of $70,860. About 38% of residents are renters, which may appeal to those looking for flexibility in housing. The area has a relatively low education attainment rate, with only 33% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The local climate features 121 rainy days per year, so be prepared for wet weather.
Probably not your spot if: You prefer a higher rate of public transit usage, as only 2.5% of residents commute this way.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,535, which suggests a moderate housing market compared to some larger urban areas.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $234,900, reflecting a range of home affordability depending on your budget.
- The community has a poverty rate of 10.8%, which may impact local services and amenities.
- 38% of residents are renters, indicating a significant rental market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime data for Georgia shows some interesting trends. The state has a motor vehicle theft rate of 156.2 per 100,000 residents, which is 20.8% lower than the national average. Additionally, the homicide rate stands at 5.6 per 100,000, slightly above the national average of 4.3, but has decreased by 35.9% since 2022.
- Violent crime: State rate of 5.6 per 100k, higher than the national average.
- Property crime: Data not available.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 35.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Georgia).
Schools & Higher Ed
The area offers access to a total of 20 postsecondary institutions, primarily within DeKalb County. Notable nearby schools include Luther Rice College & Seminary and Strayer University.
- 20 postsecondary institutions available.
- Nearby notable schools: Luther Rice College & Seminary, Strayer University.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
DeKalb County experiences about 48 inches of precipitation annually, spread over 121 rainy days. This means you should be prepared for wet conditions throughout the year. Notably, there are several parks and outdoor spaces nearby.
- Stone Mountain Park - 4.6 stars (42,486 reviews)
- Fernbank Museum | 3D Theater | Forest - 4.5 stars (8,724 reviews)
- Lenora Park - 4.6 stars (2,923 reviews)
- Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area - 4.7 stars (1,763 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In DeKalb County, the unemployment rate is currently at 3.5%, with a labor force of 405,090. This suggests a relatively stable job market, with 390,721 individuals employed as of December 2025.
- Unemployment rate: 3.5% as of December 2025.
- Employed: 390,721 individuals.
- Labor force: 405,090 individuals.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.