Doraville

About Doraville

Doraville is a small city in DeKalb County, Georgia. Less than half-an-hour from Atlanta and connected by the MARTA public transit system, it's a popular choice for families who want the convenience of Atlanta without living downtown. Proximity to the big city makes it easy to commute for work or entertainment, all while enjoying the quiet lifestyle offered by this small town.

The History of Doraville

In 1871, the Georgia General Assembly passed a measure to incorporate the quiet community of Doraville. For more than half a century, the city remained a quiet agricultural community, playing a small but important role in the larger farming industry that surrounded it.

After World War II, a major railroad line was established through Doraville, and a new water system was established to supply the community with the much-needed resource . This addition put the small city on the map, earning the attention of large automobile company, General Motors. When General Motors chose Doraville as the location of a new auto assembly plant, it fueled massive growth through the 1940s and 50s.

By the late 1940s, plans had been created for the city's first residential subdivision, Guilford Village. In 1950, just over 450 people called Doraville home, a number that exploded to more than 6,000 by the mid-1960s. In the span of just over a decade, the city had grown considerably, attracting new residents and also annexing the nearby communities of Northwoods and Oakcliff.

Throughout the second half of the 20th century, Doraville attracted a large population of immigrants. Today, the city houses one of the country's largest Asian communities, and also has a thriving Latin American community.

Local Events in Doraville

Although Doraville is a small town, that doesn't stop its residents from hosting a number of local events and celebrations. You'll have plenty of opportunities to meet and get to know your neighbors at Doraville's community get-togethers, which range from large holiday events to small charity fundraisers.

One of the biggest events in the city is "Celebrate the Season!" a winter-time celebration that spans over an entire weekend. The event emphasized the city's diversity with a variety of cultural performers like Indian dancers and Chinese yo-yo experts, as well as hosting local bands for live shows. The Mayor's Tree Lighting, a neighborhood car show and a large Santa's Workshop are also featured.

Other Doraville events include charity fundraisers like the city softball tournament, auctions to benefit the local K-9 team and National Night Out.

Doraville Schools

The public schools in Doraville are part of the DeKalb County School District. Because the city is so small, private schools are limited, though you have plenty of options in nearby Atlanta.

Resources for Moving to Doraville

As you plan your move to Doraville, the following information may be helpful:

• Utilities: Georgia Power is the city's electricity provider, while the DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management supplies residential water.
• Garbage and Recycling: Trash and recyclables disposal is provided by the city of Doraville, but you will need to complete an application process to activate services.
• Transportation: Easy access to Atlanta and its surrounding communities is provided by the MARTA transit system.

Doraville Housing

Even though Doraville is a small city, the median home price here is higher than the averages for the greater Atlanta area. This is mainly due to the community's high desirability as a home base for commuters, its safe neighborhoods and its local amenities. However, a mix of rental properties and homes for sale make it possible to find something that fits your budget needs.