Redan, GA
- About the city
- Climate and weather
- Landmarks
- Transportation
- Sport and Sporting Legends
- Museums and Art
- Healthcare and Medical Facilities
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Universities and Education
Redan is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in DeKalb County, Georgia, United States. As of the 2020 census, the CDP had a total population of 31,749.
About the city
Official status and administrative affiliation
Redan is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in DeKalb County, Georgia, United States . It is a suburb of Atlanta and is located in the eastern part of the county . DeKalb County is known for its diversity and its location in the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Historical names and nicknames
The name "Redan" is believed to be an amalgamation of the names of two early settlers: N. M. Reid and Annie Alford . Another tradition suggests the name comes from the numerous redans, which are V-shaped fortifications, built during the Atlanta Campaign of the American Civil War, or from the Redan Store, a trading stop along the railway .
Date of foundation and age
Redan was established in the 1870s as a railroad stop along the Georgia Railroad . It has grown significantly since the post-World War II era .
Geographic location and coordinates
Redan is located at coordinates 33°44′21″N 84°9′57″W . It is situated in the Piedmont region of Georgia, approximately 10 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta and is bordered by Stone Mountain to the east and Tucker to the west . The center of the community is at an elevation of 299 meters (981 feet) above sea level . According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 8.13 square miles (21.05 km2), of which 0.039 square miles (0.10 km2), or 0.48%, is water .
City type and economic specialization
Redan is primarily a residential suburb and community within the Atlanta metropolitan area . Its economy is a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas, with major employers including Kroger, Home Depot, and Northside Hospital . It also benefits from its proximity to the major tourist attraction, Stone Mountain Park .
Population and demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Redan was 31,749 . It is a predominantly African American community, with 88.99% of the population identifying as Black or African American alone (non-Hispanic) in 2020 . The community has a young demographic, with a median age of 30 years as of the 2000 census .
"Visiting card" of the city
Redan is a vibrant and diverse suburban community located just east of Atlanta, offering a blend of residential charm and convenient access to the city's amenities. Known for its strong community spirit and its namesake high school, it serves as a peaceful haven with local parks like Redan Park and is a stone's throw away from the massive granite monolith of Stone Mountain, a true Georgia landmark.
Climate and weather
Climate type and general characteristics
Redan has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa under the Köppen–Geiger climate classification), characterized by hot, muggy summers and short, cold, wet winters . The area is partly cloudy year-round .
Average temperatures by month
The temperature in Redan typically varies from 36°F (2°C) to 89°F (32°C) . The hottest month is July, with an average high of 89°F (32°C) and a low of 72°F (22°C) . The coldest month is January, with an average high of 53°F (12°C) and a low of 36°F (2°C) . The warm season lasts from late May to mid-September, and the cool season from late November to late February . Record high temperatures can reach up to 36°C (98°F) .
Precipitation and humidity
Redan receives significant rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of about 45 inches (1140 mm) to 56.7 inches (1440 mm) . The wettest months are typically February, August, and December, each averaging around 5.6-5.8 inches of rain . February sees the most rain, with an average of 4.5 inches . October is typically the driest month . The chance of a wet day peaks in July at 44% . Snowfall is light and mostly occurs in January .
Sunshine and UV index
Redan enjoys an average of 3145 hours of sunshine per year . The sunniest months are May, July, and August . The UV index can reach extreme levels of 11 in April, May, June, and July, necessitating sun protection during outdoor activities .
Seasonality and best time to visit
Based on the tourism score, the best times to visit Redan for warm-weather activities are from late April to early June and from late August to mid-October .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm from average highs of 66°F (19°C) in March to 80°F (27°C) in May . This is an excellent time for outdoor exploration with blooming flora.
- Summer (June-August): This period is hot and muggy, with average highs in the upper 80s°F (around 31-32°C) . July is the wettest month . It's a good time for water-related activities and visiting parks early or late in the day.
- Fall (September-November): Temperatures become milder, with highs dropping from 82°F (28°C) in September to 64°F (18°C) in November . This is another ideal period for visiting, with less humidity and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December-February): Winters are short and cold, with average highs in the 50s°F (11-16°C) . While chilly, it can be a good time to visit indoor attractions in nearby Atlanta.
Landmarks
Redan Park
Redan Park is the primary recreational hub for the community . Located nearby in Stone Mountain, it is a popular destination for both locals and visitors . The park features vast open spaces, walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds . Visitors can also enjoy fishing, basketball and tennis courts, and a challenging disc golf course . The park is also noted for the Redan Mountain area, which is home to several Civil War battle sites .
The Historic Redan Depot
A notable historical landmark is the historic Redan Depot, built in the late 19th century . This former train station played a significant role in connecting communities across Georgia and now stands preserved as a reminder of the town's heritage, serving as a backdrop for various community events .
Stone Mountain Park
While technically outside of Redan, Stone Mountain Park is just a short drive away and is a major attraction for residents and visitors . Known for its massive granite mountain featuring a carving of Confederate leaders, the park offers numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, a scenic railroad ride, and fishing in Stone Mountain Lake . The nearby Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area is also a point of interest .
Educational Institutions
Redan High School is a significant landmark within the community . It serves as a focal point for local residents and hosts various community events. The DeKalb County Public Library also serves the area with branches like Redan-Trotti and Hairston Crossing .
Transportation
Main highways and roads
Redan is served by several major roadways, including I-20 and US-78, providing direct access to Atlanta and other parts of the metropolitan area . Redan Road is a primary thoroughfare through the community, lined with numerous shopping and dining options .
Public transportation
Public transportation in Redan is primarily provided by the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) . The Redan MARTA Station provides access to Atlanta's rail system . Numerous MARTA bus routes connect Redan to neighboring areas and key destinations such as downtown Atlanta and major shopping centers . A significant portion of the population (10.1%) uses mass transit for their commute to work .
Commuting
The average one-way commute for Redan residents is 38.7 minutes, which is longer than the U.S. average of 26.4 minutes . The vast majority of residents (77.3%) drive their own car alone to work, while 6.1% carpool . The community also has a network of well-maintained bike trails for cyclists and pedestrians .
Nearby amenities for travelers
For those needing to rent a car, services like Budget and Enterprise are available in the area . The community's location also provides easy access to nearby cities like Lilburn, Snellville, Conley, Doraville, and Chamblee .
Sport and Sporting Legends
The community of Redan has a strong sporting tradition, particularly centered around Redan High School, which has produced numerous athletes who have achieved success at the college level and beyond . The school actively celebrates this legacy.
High School Athletics and Hall of Fame
Redan High School is the focal point of local sports. Its athletic programs, including football, basketball, baseball, track and field, wrestling, and cheerleading, have been a source of community pride . The school's commitment to honoring its athletic history is evident in its Redan Athletic Hall of Fame. This event, held annually for over seven years, celebrates former Raider athletes who accomplished great feats during their time at the school .
Recent inductees showcase the breadth of talent developed at Redan:
- Armond Smith excelled in track and field, being named Atlanta Track Club’s Track Man of the Year in the 100-meter hurdles, 300-meter hurdles, and 4×400-meter relay. He won state titles in the 4×100 and 4×400 meter relays and secured the school's first individual track title .
- Darryl Cooper was a basketball standout. After high school, he played for LSU and later transferred to Georgia State University, where he was a key player in their historic NCAA tournament run, including an upset victory against Wisconsin .
- The 2025 Hall of Fame class also honored athletes in baseball, football, and wrestling, including names like Chennis Berry, Sean Brinkley, Everett Stull II, and David Dixon .
Notable Athletes
Beyond the Hall of Fame, Redan High School has been a stepping stone for athletes who went on to play at the collegiate level. Baseball players from the school have been scouted and recruited by major colleges. Players like Orlando Adams, Jr. (University of Kentucky), Taj Bradley (University of South Carolina), and Donye Evans (University of North Carolina-Charlotte) are among those who have moved on to compete in college baseball programs . Football player Jayden Hector also garnered attention as a college prospect from Redan .
Youth Sports
The spirit of competition extends to youth sports in the area. Teams like the Redan Dodgers, a youth baseball team based in nearby Stonecrest, provide a foundation for young athletes in the community to develop their skills .
Museums and Art
While Redan itself is primarily a residential community, it is located in the Atlanta metropolitan area and has access to a wide array of museums and cultural sites. A short drive will lead you to numerous options. For those looking for a unique local cultural experience nearby, the historic coastal town of Darien, GA, offers a distinctive museum.
A Nearby Historic Museum and Art Center
About four hours southeast of Redan, the Old Jail Art Center and Museum in Darien, GA, presents a fascinating blend of local history and community art . Housed in a building constructed in 1888 as the McIntosh County Jail, it is one of the three oldest public buildings in Darien . The building served as the county jail until 2002.
In a remarkable transformation, the McIntosh Art Association partnered with the city and county to renovate the historic structure. It reopened in 2007 as a cultural center . Today, visitors can explore several working art galleries featuring local artists, with exhibits changing quarterly . The old jail cells now house the McIntosh County History Museum, offering a unique setting to learn about the area's past . The site also serves as the Darien Welcome Center and features a gift shop .
Other Nearby Historic Sites
Also in Darien is the Fort King George State Historic Site . This site is a faithful reconstruction of the southern outpost of the British Empire in North America from the 1720s. Visitors can explore the cypress blockhouse, barracks, and other fort buildings, and a museum covers the history of the area from the Guale Indians to the 19th-century sawmilling era .
Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Redan is served by a robust healthcare network, typical of the Atlanta metropolitan area. The community has good access to medical services, with a higher number of physicians per capita than the US average .
Local Medical Access
Residents of Redan have access to numerous local hospitals and medical facilities in the surrounding area, including both private and public options . These facilities provide a full range of services, from emergency medical care and routine check-ups to primary care and specialist visits. The area also has several community health centers that offer free or low-cost services. For more specialized needs, numerous specialty clinics in the region provide treatments for conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes .
Healthcare Affordability and Quality
The cost of healthcare in the Redan area is considered favorable. The BestPlaces Health Cost Index for Redan is 89.8, which is lower (better) than the US average of 100 . The area also scores well on environmental health factors, with a Superfund Index of 96 (100=best), indicating relatively low levels of highly contaminated land sites needing cleanup . The Air Quality Index is 43, while the Water Quality Index is 32 .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
As a residential community within the diverse Atlanta metropolitan area, Redan's culinary scene is characterized by a wide array of international flavors and family-owned local businesses. Residents enjoy access to restaurants serving cuisine from around the world, reflecting the area's diversity .
A Community Hub for Food
Reviews of the Redan area (zip code 30088) highlight the presence of numerous local businesses and restaurants that offer delicious cuisine from around the world . While Redan may not have a single, centuries-old signature dish, its culinary identity is shaped by this modern diversity and the classic dishes of American Southern cooking. This means that in and around Redan, one can find both traditional Southern comfort food and authentic international cuisine, from Mexican and Asian to various other global flavors . This variety provides residents and visitors with numerous options to explore different culinary traditions without leaving the community.
Universities and Education
Redan is located in DeKalb County, which is home to several institutions of higher education. While Redan itself is not a college town, it is in close proximity to a number of universities and colleges in the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Nearby Higher Education
Residents of Redan have access to a wide range of educational opportunities at nearby institutions. Some of the notable colleges and universities within a reasonable commute include:
- Georgia State University (Atlanta Campus): A major public research university with a strong reputation in business, law, and the sciences. It was the institution where Redan Hall of Famer Darryl Cooper helped lead the Panthers to a historic NCAA tournament run .
- Emory University (Druid Hills): A world-renowned private research university, consistently ranked among the top in the nation, known for its schools of medicine, public health, and law.
- Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) (Atlanta): A top-tier public research university, famous for its engineering, computing, and science programs.
- Kennesaw State University: A large public university with multiple campuses in the region, offering a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
This proximity to major research and educational institutions is a significant asset for the Redan community.