As of the 2020 United States Census, Clarkston has a population of 14,756, though this number often fluctuates due to the continuous cycle of refugee resettlement and subsequent relocation. The city boasts one of the highest population densities in Georgia.
The defining characteristic of Clarkston's population is its incredible diversity. It is estimated that more than half of the city's residents are foreign-born. The ethnic composition is a striking mosaic, including significant populations of African Americans, white Americans, and a vast array of immigrant communities from Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
Due to the presence of multiple international communities, Clarkston is multi-religious, housing vibrant Christian, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist populations. While this diversity brings rich cultural capital, the city has historically faced economic challenges, with a notable percentage of new arrivals initially living below the poverty line as they acclimate to the U.S. economy.