Clarke County

Community Overview

Clarke County combines the energy of a college town with the warmth of a close-knit community. With affordable housing, quality education, and abundant recreational opportunities, it’s an ideal place to live, work, and thrive. Residents enjoy a vibrant cultural scene, outdoor activities, and community events. The county’s blend of urban amenities and natural beauty offers a high quality of life.

School District

The Clarke County School District serves over 12,000 students across 21 schools, including 14 elementary, four middle, and three high schools. The district is recognized for its diversity and commitment to educational excellence, offering a range of programs to cater to its diverse student population. Clarke County Schools – Georgia – Niche

Athens

Athens, Georgia, is a consolidated city-county about 70 miles from Atlanta and home to the University of Georgia. The city merged with Clarke County in 1991 and had a population of about 128,000 as of 2021. Known for its college-town vibe and influential music scene, Athens helped launch bands like R.E.M. and the B-52’s. Founded in the early 1800s around the university, Athens grew through industry and railroads. It served as a supply center during the Civil War and continued to expand year over year. Athens, Georgia | Hotels, Restaurants, Events & Things To Do

Life in Clarke County

Clarke County, home to the vibrant city of Athens, offers a dynamic blend of cultural richness, educational excellence, and natural beauty. With an estimated population of 130,347 in 2025, it stands as Georgia’s 20th largest county, reflecting steady growth and a youthful median age of 29.4.

Housing & Living
The housing market in Clarke County is competitive yet accessible. As of April 2025, the median listing home price was $385,000, while the average home value stood at $329,604, marking a 2.3% increase over the past year. Homes typically go to pending status within 30 days, indicating a healthy demand.