City Profile
Augusta, Georgia
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Augusta, Georgia, is a historic city situated along the Savannah River, renowned globally as the host of the Masters Golf Tournament at the Augusta National Golf Club. Founded in 1736, it blends rich antebellum heritage with a burgeoning modern identity driven by medicine, cyber technology, and higher education. Today, the city serves as a major cultural and economic hub in the CSRA (Central Savannah River Area), attracting new residents with its southern charm, relatively affordable living costs, and expanding professional opportunities.
Georgia, a southeastern U.S. state, is characterized by its Southern charm, diverse landscapes ranging from mountains to coastline, and a rich cultural blend of Native American, African American, and European influences. The state boasts a thriving and diverse economy with major industries including technology, manufacturing, logistics, agriculture (leading in pecans and blueberries, significant in peanuts and peaches), and a growing film and television production sector. Living in Georgia generally offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, with mild winters and long, hot, humid summers, supporting a lifestyle that often includes abundant outdoor activities and a strong sense of community.
How this 58/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 62 / 100 | 62.0 | 30% | 18.6 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 92.0 | 53.8 | 25% | 13.4 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $55,485 Income needed to live here: $48,000 Unemployment rate: 4.1% | 59.1 | 20% | 11.8 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.8% Job growth rate: 1.9% | 51.5 | 15% | 7.7 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 10% | 6.8 |
| Overall score | 58.4 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (ungrounded) (q=55, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
11 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Augusta remains notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious families and professionals. Housing costs in particular track significantly below national benchmarks, allowing residents to secure more spacious properties for a fraction of what they would pay in major coastal metros. Everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation also hover below typical U.S. levels, though localized utility spikes during hot summer months can impact monthly household budgets.
Income
Salary Insights
Augusta's economy is anchored by healthcare, military infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, and emerging cyber security sectors. Major employers like Augusta University, the Savannah River Site, and the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence at Fort Eisenhower provide a stable base of high-paying professional and technical positions. The job market has demonstrated steady resilience, supported by ongoing federal investments and a growing regional emphasis on tech entrepreneurship and advanced industrial projects.
The average salary in Augusta is $60,000 per year. You would need approximately $48,000 to live comfortably.
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Transport
Getting around Augusta relies predominantly on personal vehicles, with a well-connected network of highways and bridges crossing into South Carolina. The Augusta Public Transit system provides bus services across key commercial corridors, though headways and coverage are limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Average commute times remain short at roughly 21 to 24 minutes, reducing daily transit friction for local workers.
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Questions about Augusta
What people ask about living in and moving to Augusta, Georgia.
What’s the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Augusta?
In Augusta the average rent across all unit sizes is about $1,350 per month, according to recent market data. One‑bedroom apartments in central areas tend to be close to that figure, while units farther from the core can be lower, sometimes in the $1,100‑$1,200 range. When budgeting, also consider utilities, which may add $100‑$150 monthly depending on the building and season. Checking local rental listings on region...
How does Augusta’s cost of living compare to the national average?
Augusta’s cost‑of‑living index is 92, meaning it is about 8 % cheaper than the national average (which is set at 100). This lower index reflects more affordable housing, groceries, and services. While rent is around $1,350 per month, other everyday expenses such as transportation, dining, and healthcare also tend to be below national averages. Use the index as a baseline, but adjust for personal habits—if you plan to...
What’s the average salary in Augusta and which sectors are strongest?
The average annual salary in Augusta is about $60,000. The local economy is anchored by healthcare, education, manufacturing, and a growing technology sector that includes software development, IT services, and engineering support. While $60,000 is the overall average, tech roles often command higher wages, sometimes exceeding the city average by 20‑30 %. To gauge competitiveness, review salary surveys on national jo...
How are public schools rated in Augusta?
Augusta’s public schools are administered by the county school system, which provides performance data on its website. Test scores and graduation rates generally hover around state averages, with some schools performing above and others below. For elementary education, you can view school report cards, enrollment caps, and program offerings (such as STEM or arts) on the district’s portal. Visiting schools, attending...
Is Augusta a safe place to live?
Augusta’s safety score is 62 out of 100, indicating moderate safety levels relative to other U.S. cities. Crime tends to be higher in certain central districts and lower in many residential neighborhoods. The city’s police department publishes annual crime statistics, which you can review to see trends for violent and property crimes. When choosing a neighborhood, look for recent community surveys, talk to local resi...
What public transportation options exist in Augusta?
Augusta is served by a city transit authority that operates bus routes throughout the metropolitan area, connecting downtown, residential neighborhoods, and major employment centers. Service frequencies vary, with more frequent runs during peak commuting hours. The system also offers paratransit services for those with mobility challenges. For longer trips, regional rail and intercity bus lines have stations nearby....
Are there major hospitals or clinics near downtown Augusta?
Augusta’s healthcare landscape includes several large hospitals and a network of clinics that provide emergency, specialty, and primary care services. Most of the major facilities are located within a short drive of the downtown core, and the city’s health department offers information on locations, specialties, and patient ratings. For routine appointments, you can search the state medical board’s provider directory...
What free or low‑cost activities are popular in Augusta?
Augusta offers a variety of free or inexpensive attractions, especially in the warmer months. Public parks along the river provide walking trails, picnic areas, and occasional outdoor concerts. The city’s cultural calendar includes free museum days, community festivals, and historic walking tours that showcase local heritage. You can also explore farmers’ markets, which feature local produce and crafts at modest pric...
What should I know about utilities and services when moving to Augusta?
When you move to Augusta, the primary utility providers for electricity and natural gas are regulated by the state public service commission; you can set up service online or by phone. Water and sewage are managed by the city’s water department, which offers online account creation and bill payment. For internet and cable, several regional providers operate in the area, offering a range of speeds and packages. It’s a...
What’s the overall quality of life like in Augusta?
Augusta provides a moderate cost of living, with average rent at $1,350 and a median salary of $60,000, making it affordable for many families. The city balances urban amenities—such as cultural events, dining, and healthcare—with access to outdoor recreation along the river and nearby parks. While the safety score of 62 suggests some neighborhoods require extra caution, many residential areas are considered family‑f...
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