Why Augusta Is One of Georgia's Best-Kept Secrets

Most people know Augusta for one thing: The Masters Tournament. Every April, the world's attention turns to Augusta National Golf Club, and the city basks in its moment of international fame. But beyond the azaleas and green jackets, Augusta is a rapidly growing city with a surprisingly affordable cost of living, a major military presence, expanding tech and cyber sectors, and a quality of life that makes it one of Georgia's most attractive relocation destinations.

Whether you are moving for a military assignment, a healthcare career, a tech job, or simply seeking a more affordable alternative to Atlanta, this guide covers everything you need to know about relocating to Augusta.

Economy and Employment

Augusta's economy is anchored by several major employers and industries that provide stability and growth opportunities:

Fort Eisenhower (Formerly Fort Gordon)

Renamed in 2023, Fort Eisenhower is one of the largest military installations in the eastern United States and the single biggest economic driver in the Augusta area. The fort is home to:

U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence — the Army's primary training and doctrine center for cyber, signal, and electronic warfare
U.S. Army Cyber Command — a growing presence that has attracted defense contractors and tech companies to the region
NSA/CSS Georgia — the National Security Agency's Georgia cryptologic center
Over 30,000 military and civilian personnel, making it the area's largest employer

Healthcare

Augusta is a significant regional healthcare hub:

Augusta University Medical Center (formerly MCG Health) — the state's only public academic medical center
Doctors Hospital and University Hospital provide additional care options
Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center serves veterans from across the region
The medical sector employs thousands and continues to expand

Savannah River Site

Located across the river in Aiken, South Carolina, the Savannah River Site (SRS) is a U.S. Department of Energy nuclear facility that employs approximately 11,000 workers, many of whom live in the Augusta metro area. SRS provides high-paying scientific and engineering jobs.

Growing Cyber and Tech Sector

The Army Cyber Command's presence has sparked a growing ecosystem of defense contractors, cybersecurity firms, and tech startups. Companies like Parsons, Unisys, and GDIT have established significant operations in Augusta, and the Georgia Cyber Innovation and Training Center downtown has further solidified the city's tech credentials.

Cost of Living

One of Augusta's biggest advantages is its affordability. Compared to Atlanta, Augusta offers significantly lower costs across the board:

Housing costs are 35-45% lower than Atlanta
Median home price: $220,000-$280,000 (compared to $400,000+ in Atlanta)
Average rent (2-bedroom): $1,000-$1,300/month
Overall cost of living is approximately 12-15% below the national average
No state income tax on military retirement pay — a significant benefit for Fort Eisenhower retirees

Best Neighborhoods and Areas

Augusta's neighborhoods range from historic and walkable to spacious and suburban. Here are the top areas for newcomers:

Summerville (The Hill)

Augusta's most prestigious historic neighborhood sits on a hilltop above downtown. Summerville features grand antebellum and Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, and a quiet, established feel. It is close to downtown and Augusta University.

Home prices: $250,000-$600,000+
Best for: Those seeking historic character and proximity to downtown

Surrey Center

A well-established residential area with mid-century and traditional homes, Surrey Center offers good schools and convenient access to shopping and dining along Wheeler Road.

Home prices: $180,000-$350,000
Best for: Families looking for an established, central neighborhood

West Lake

A suburban neighborhood with a mix of housing styles and price points. West Lake is popular with families and offers proximity to Fort Eisenhower.

Home prices: $150,000-$280,000
Best for: Military families and budget-conscious buyers

Martinez

An unincorporated community in Columbia County, Martinez is one of the fastest-growing areas near Augusta. It offers newer subdivisions, excellent Columbia County schools, and a suburban lifestyle with easy access to Fort Eisenhower.

Home prices: $230,000-$380,000
Best for: Families prioritizing top-rated schools

Evans

Evans is the premier suburban area in Columbia County and one of the most desirable addresses in the Augusta metro. With top-rated schools, newer developments, and extensive retail and dining options, Evans attracts families and professionals.

Home prices: $280,000-$500,000+
Best for: Families wanting the best schools and newest amenities

Grovetown

Located just outside Fort Eisenhower's main gate, Grovetown has exploded with growth in recent years. New subdivisions, retail centers, and restaurants are appearing rapidly, making it a popular choice for military families and young professionals.

Home prices: $220,000-$350,000
Best for: Military personnel wanting a short commute to Fort Eisenhower

The South Carolina Border Advantage

Augusta sits directly on the Georgia-South Carolina border, and many Augusta-area residents choose to live in North Augusta or Aiken, South Carolina. This can offer:

Lower property taxes in some South Carolina areas
Different school district options
Access to South Carolina's lower vehicle registration fees
A short commute across the Savannah River to Augusta employers

However, living in one state and working in another creates tax filing complexity, so consult a tax professional before making this decision.

Education

Augusta offers solid educational options at every level:

Columbia County Schools — consistently ranked among the top public school districts in Georgia
Richmond County Schools — the Augusta-area district, with magnet and academy programs
Augusta University — Georgia's only public academic health center, offering undergraduate through doctoral programs
Augusta Technical College — workforce-focused programs aligned with local industry needs
Several private schools including Westminster Schools of Augusta and Aquinas High School

Outdoor Recreation

Augusta's mild climate and natural setting provide excellent outdoor opportunities:

Augusta Canal National Heritage Area — hiking, biking, and kayaking along a historic canal
Savannah River — fishing, kayaking, and rowing
Phinizy Swamp Nature Park — birding and nature trails
Thurmond Lake (Clarks Hill Lake) — one of the largest inland lakes in the Southeast, just 30 minutes from downtown
Masters season — attending practice rounds or watching the tournament from nearby establishments is a quintessential Augusta experience

Plan Your Move to Augusta

Augusta offers an appealing combination of affordability, employment opportunities, outdoor living, and small-city charm that is hard to match. Whether you are PCS-ing to Fort Eisenhower, taking a healthcare position, or joining the growing cyber community, Augusta welcomes newcomers with Southern hospitality and reasonable living costs.

Get a free moving quote today and connect with experienced movers who can get you to Augusta safely and affordably.

Moving to Augusta: A Relocation Guide