Clarkston's housing stock centers on apartments, townhomes, and modest single-family homes within a compact 1.4-square-mile footprint. Much of the housing dates to the mid-to-late 20th century and serves a diverse population, including many newly arrived residents. The city's walkability and relative affordability have long made it an entry point for newcomers to the Atlanta region. Development includes both established apartment communities and single-family neighborhoods near the city center.

Clarkston is a compact city whose residential areas are organized around its small downtown and nearby commercial corridors. Apartment communities and older single-family neighborhoods sit close together, and the city's density supports walkability. The city is bordered by I-285 and the broader DeKalb County communities of Tucker and Stone Mountain, placing residents near regional shopping, parks, and transit connections, and many residents live within walking distance of shops, schools, and services.

Clarkston's lifestyle is defined by its extraordinary diversity and community spirit. International markets, restaurants, and cultural organizations line the city's streets, reflecting residents from more than 150 ethnic groups. The compact, walkable layout fosters neighborly connection, and community organizations, churches, and service groups play an active role in daily life. Residents value the city's welcoming atmosphere, affordability, and access to transit, education, and the opportunities of metro Atlanta.

Clarkston's students attend DeKalb County School District, with Clarkston High School serving the community along with elementary and middle schools in the area. The city also hosts campuses of Georgia State University and Georgia Piedmont Technical College, providing higher education and workforce training close to home. This combination of K-12 schools and post-secondary institutions makes education a notable presence in the small city.

Clarkston sits just outside Interstate 285, the Atlanta perimeter highway, providing highway access to the entire metro region. MARTA bus routes serve the city and connect to nearby rail stations on the region's rapid-transit network, offering transit access to downtown Atlanta and DeKalb County. The city's small size makes walking practical for many trips. This combination of transit, walkability, and freeway access is central to Clarkston's appeal.

Recreation in Clarkston includes the city's local parks and community facilities, with the larger Stone Mountain Park a short drive away for hiking, lake activities, and major regional events. The city's walkable streets and nearby green spaces support everyday outdoor activity, and its location within DeKalb County provides access to the county's trail and park systems. Community events and cultural celebrations reflect the city's diverse population throughout the year.