If you are thinking about moving to McDonough, Georgia, you are not alone. McDonough has become one of the fastest-growing areas in Henry County and South Metro Atlanta, and with that growth comes opportunity, convenience, and a few growing pains.
People often ask, “Is McDonough actually worth it, or is it just the next hot spot everyone is talking about?”
The truth is, it depends on what you are looking for.
In this guide, I am breaking down the real pros and cons of living in McDonough, GA, so you can decide if it fits your lifestyle, your family, and your long-term plans.
Not that long ago, McDonough was mostly farmland, quiet back roads, and small-town living. Long stretches of road had no streetlights, traffic was minimal, and it truly felt rural.
Today, McDonough looks very different.
The area has experienced rapid growth with new neighborhoods, shopping centers, warehouses, schools, and mixed-use developments. Some residents love the convenience and new options. Others miss the slower pace and open land.
The reality now is a blend of both worlds. You can still find quiet country roads and larger lots in parts of Henry County, while also enjoying the benefits of growth and development. Understanding this balance is key when deciding if McDonough is right for you.
One of the biggest reasons people move to McDonough is its location.
McDonough sits about 30 minutes south of Atlanta, depending on traffic, which gives residents access to:
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Professional sports teams like the Falcons, Braves, Hawks, Dream, and Atlanta United
Major concerts and events
Broadway-style shows at the Fox Theatre
Attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta
Upcoming global events tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Closer to home, the Stockbridge Amphitheater is only about 20 minutes away and regularly hosts well-known artists, making entertainment accessible without always driving into Atlanta.
What makes McDonough unique is that after enjoying all of that, you still get to come home to quieter neighborhoods, slower evenings, and a strong sense of community. Many people see this as the best of both worlds.
McDonough offers far more shopping and convenience than most people expect from a suburban city.
Nearly every exit off I-75 features shopping options, including major retailers, furniture stores, and grocery chains like Publix and Kroger Marketplace. Tanger Outlets in nearby Locust Grove adds even more variety.
One of the biggest recent additions is the mixed-use development near Jodeco Road, which includes Costco, luxury-style apartments, and future additions like Starbucks and Sprouts Farmers Market.
This level of convenience means most residents rarely need to drive into Atlanta for daily errands, which is a major quality-of-life perk.
Schools are a major deciding factor for families considering McDonough.
Henry County Schools consistently rank well compared to surrounding counties, with strong performance in academics, athletics, and diversity. The district’s graduation rate for the 2024–2025 school year was approximately 89.8 percent, exceeding the state average.
In McDonough, families often ask about school clusters such as Union Grove, Ola, and Dutchtown. These schools are well known for both academic and athletic programs.
Families also have options beyond assigned schools, including School Choice programs within Henry County and nearby magnet programs. Tools like Niche.com can help parents research rankings, culture, and college readiness.
As a former Henry County educator, I can confidently say education is one of McDonough’s strongest assets.
No honest conversation about McDonough would be complete without talking about traffic.
McDonough sits directly along Interstate 75, one of the busiest freight corridors in the country. Much of the freight traffic coming from the Port of Savannah passes through this area, along with daily commuters.
The express lanes can help in some situations, but they are not accessible from every exit, which can surprise new residents. Learning the layout of the express lanes and mastering back roads is essential for living comfortably in McDonough.
While road improvement projects are underway, traffic remains one of the most common challenges residents mention.
Another important consideration is property taxes.
While home prices in McDonough are often more affordable than some North Atlanta suburbs, property taxes in Henry County tend to be higher than average. Filing for a homestead exemption after purchasing a home is critical and can save homeowners a significant amount over time.
Additionally, growth brings adjustments. Busier roads, more construction, and increased demand for services are all part of living in a rapidly expanding area.
For some, this growth represents opportunity. For others, it feels overwhelming. Knowing which camp you fall into matters.
McDonough is worth it for people who want:
Suburban living with strong city access
Good schools and family-friendly neighborhoods
Shopping, dining, and entertainment nearby
A community that is growing and evolving
It may not be the best fit for those who want complete quiet, minimal traffic, or areas with little to no development.
Every city has trade-offs. The key is understanding what matters most to you.
Keep reading other bits of knowledge from our team.
Have a question about this article or want to learn more?