Augusta is mainly known for the yearly Master’s tournament, but it offers a lot more. The city has attracted movie makers, entrepreneurs, renowned doctors, and much more. If you are considering moving to the area, we have compiled a list of pros and cons to help you navigate your transition.
First, I want to start by highlighting the fact that the Augusta area has consistently ranked some of the best places to live in the United States by many publications. In 2021, Money Magazine named Evans the best place to live. Additionally, US News ranked Augusta as Georgia’s best place to live and retire this year.
With award-winning schools, a strategic military base, cutting-edge medical facilities, and a robust small business community, it’s no surprise the city attracts many newcomers yearly. However, this city with the Southern charm is not for everyone. I have seen plenty of negative comments about our beautiful community.
Outlined by the Savannah River, Augusta is the largest city in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) and the third largest city in the Peach state. Whether you are moving here on military orders or coming for the long haul, the Garden City of the South is a wonderful place to call home.
A Short History of Augusta
Augusta has a rich history that dates as far back as the 1700s. Initially, the settlement was established in 1736 by General James Oglethorpe. It was named after the bride of Frederick Louis, Prince of Wales.
At first, the settlement accommodated many neighboring tribes of Creek and Cherokee Indians. The area was also pivotal during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Confederate Powderworks, which still stands, is the only structure ever built by the Confederate States of America. In 1847, the city became the second largest inland cotton market in the world after the construction of the Augusta Canal.
Augusta served as the state capital of Georgia from 1785 to 1795. The city boasts many historically significant homes and buildings — some are nice while others are falling apart. The downtown area is engulfed by rich history and beautiful architecture.
While the Garden City of the South is best known as the Master’s Golf Tournament home, it is also a medicine, manufacturing, and military center.
How many people live in Augusta?
Augusta is not a very large city. As of 2020, the population was approaching 203,000 people. Conversely, the CSRA population is about 707,000. With Fort Gordon’s expansion, the area is expected to see growth in the next couple of years.
The feel of the city is somewhat small and suburban-like. There are no glass-sheathed skyscrapers in downtown nor robust public transportation. What Augusta has is friendly neighborhoods, light traffic, warm weather, and fine dining.
What is the Weather Like?
I spent most of my life in the Southern states; it was not until I moved to the Midwest for a couple of years that I realized how important the weather is. If you are moving from an area where the climate is very different, your first year might be a shocker.
Weather is a personal preference. Some move south in search of warmer weather; others go north seeking cooler climates. Either way, it is important to know that Georgia is hot and humid most of the year.
The weather is sub-tropical; in summer, most of spring and fall are hot and humid. In late July or early August, the temperatures will easily surpass 100. The winters are short and mild; low temperatures might reach the 20s or teens.
Pros and Cons of living in Augusta
Just like any other city, Augusta has its pros and cons.
Pros:
Great Community
In 2020, neighbor.com named Augusta “The Most Neighborly City in America” by neighbor.com. There were several reasons for the selection. According to the site, 87% of the residents donated to charity. They also found that nearly 25 percent of the population volunteered for an organization they believe in.
That’s a true testament to Southern Hospitality.
Cost of Living
According to Payscale, Augusta, Georgia, has an average of 13% lower cost of living than the national average. The city ranks lower in every category analyzed by the site, which includes 32% lower for housing.
Not to mention gas prices are lower here than in most states.
Amenities
Augusta offers a variety of amenities. Outdoor festivals, affordable concerts, theaters, and so much more are always available. The best part is that you can attend events downtown without worrying about paying big bucks for tickets and parking.
The best concerts I have ever attended were at Lady A., in Evans Towne Center. It was very affordable and enjoyable. Also, you can enjoy an excellent minor baseball league game for almost nothing.
Additionally, there is a thriving food scene, beautiful lakes, several parks, a historic theatre, and much more. For the size of the city, it offers a lot.
Medical Facilities
The Augusta area is surrounded by a robust healthcare system with cutting-edge medical care. Residents can find all kinds of specialists in most fields and have procedures done nearby.
The doctor-patient ratio is very high. The only downfall is that the health costs are slightly higher than the national average.
The Master’s Golf Tournament
If you love golf, you are going to love Augusta. The city has been hosting the Master’s tournament, one of the big four major championships in professional golf, since 1934. Books have been written about the Augusta National and its founder, Bob Jones.
Cons:
Bugs and insects.
There is an overwhelming variety of bugs, including the infamous Palmetto bug. Living in the area means fighting small insects most of the year, especially in the spring and summer months.
Stink bugs, silverfish, gnats, spiders, wasps, mosquitoes, and giant water bugs are just some of the many varieties of insects that you will encounter living in Augusta. An enjoyable stroll by the Augusta Canal can quickly become annoying when you constantly walk into clouds of gnats.
Mosquitoes are also a big turn-off. Though Richmond County offers free residential mosquito spraying, the area is still filled with these pesters. Be sure to apply repellent if going out in nature.
Walkability
To best enjoy all that Augusta offers, you must have a car. The city provides limited public transportation; thus, having a vehicle is undoubtedly necessary. WalkScores gives Richmond County an overall score of 22 — car-dependent.
Also, there are not many bike lanes throughout the city, limiting your transportation options to having a car of your own.
Public Schools
With a few exceptions, Richmond County public schools are notorious for being not so good. According to niche.com, the city gets a C- for public schools. If you have a family, you should keep that in mind before deciding on housing.
At the same time, its neighboring county, Columbia, boasts award-winning schools, getting an A for public schools.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Augusta is almost non-existent. You will find a few bars around downtown and fewer clubs; options are limited. Additionally, you will have to settle for fast food if you get hungry late at night.
Conclusion
Whatever reason is bringing you to Augusta, make the most of it. Many activities are available for people of all ages, most of which are affordable or free.