Aiken, South Carolina is a charming town located in the heart of horse country. It is known for its rich history, equestrian events, and friendly community. The town is home to some of the best neighborhoods in the state, offering a variety of housing options to suit every lifestyle and budget.
Aiken has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the early 1800s. The town was originally founded as a health resort for wealthy Northerners, but it soon became a popular destination for horse lovers. Today, Aiken is a thriving community that offers residents a high quality of life, with excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities.
Key Takeaways
Aiken, South Carolina is a charming town located in the heart of horse country.
Aiken has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the early 1800s.
Aiken is home to some of the best neighborhoods in the state, offering a variety of housing options to suit every lifestyle and budget.
Historical Overview of Aiken
Aiken, South Carolina, is a city rich in history. Founded in the late 1800s, Aiken was originally a winter retreat for wealthy Northerners seeking to escape the harsh winters of the North. Today, Aiken is a vibrant city with a thriving equestrian community, beautiful parks, and a charming downtown.
One of the most significant events in Aiken's history was the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s. The railroad brought an influx of visitors to Aiken, including wealthy Northerners who were drawn to the town's mild climate and natural beauty. Many of these visitors built grand winter homes in Aiken, which can still be seen today.
During the early 1900s, Aiken became known as a center for horse racing and equestrian activities. The Aiken Steeplechase, which began in 1930, is still held annually and is one of the most popular events in the city.
Aiken has also played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement. In 1960, a group of African American students staged a sit-in at a lunch counter in downtown Aiken, which helped to bring attention to the issue of segregation in the South.
Today, Aiken is a thriving city with a rich history and a bright future. Visitors to Aiken can explore the city's history by visiting its many historical homes and museums, including the Aiken County Historical Museum and the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum.
Top Rated Neighborhoods in Aiken
Aiken, South Carolina has a lot to offer, from its rich history to its picturesque landscapes. It is a place where one can enjoy a slower pace of life while still having access to modern amenities. Here are some of the top-rated neighborhoods in Aiken:
Woodside Plantation
Woodside Plantation is a gated community located in the heart of Aiken. It is known for its beautiful homes, golf courses, and other amenities. The neighborhood has a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and villas. The homes in Woodside Plantation are well-maintained and offer a range of architectural styles. The neighborhood is also home to the Woodside Plantation Country Club, which offers a variety of activities for residents.
Hitchcock Woods
Hitchcock Woods is a unique neighborhood located in the heart of Aiken. It is a 2,100-acre forest that is open to the public for hiking, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities. The neighborhood is known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It is a great place for those who love the outdoors and want to be close to nature. The homes in Hitchcock Woods are mostly large, single-family homes that blend in with the natural surroundings.
Downtown Aiken
Downtown Aiken is the heart of the city and is known for its historic charm and vibrant atmosphere. The neighborhood has a variety of housing options, including historic homes, townhouses, and apartments. It is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Downtown Aiken is a great place for those who want to be close to the action and enjoy the city's vibrant culture.
Overall, Aiken has a lot to offer, and these neighborhoods are just a few examples of the city's diverse housing options. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or a vibrant city experience, Aiken has something to offer everyone.
Family-Friendly Areas
When it comes to finding family-friendly areas in Aiken, there are a few neighborhoods that stand out. These neighborhoods offer a safe and peaceful environment, good schools, and plenty of amenities for families to enjoy.
Gem Lakes
Gem Lakes is a popular neighborhood for families in Aiken. This neighborhood is located in the southwest part of the city and offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. The neighborhood is known for its beautiful lakes, which provide residents with opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.
Gem Lakes is also home to a community center, which hosts events and activities for residents of all ages. The neighborhood is served by the Aiken County School District, which includes some of the best schools in the area.
Aiken Estates
Another family-friendly neighborhood in Aiken is Aiken Estates. This neighborhood is located in the northwest part of the city and offers a mix of older and newer homes. The neighborhood is known for its large lots, which provide plenty of space for kids to play.
Aiken Estates is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, including the popular H. Odell Weeks Activity Center. This center offers a variety of programs and activities for kids and adults, including sports leagues, fitness classes, and more.
Overall, both Gem Lakes and Aiken Estates are great options for families looking for a safe and welcoming community in Aiken.
Affordable Living in Aiken
Aiken, SC is a great place to live for those who are looking for an affordable cost of living. The city offers a variety of neighborhoods that are ideal for those who are looking for a budget-friendly lifestyle.
Southside
The Southside of Aiken offers a range of affordable housing options. The area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and great schools. The median home price in the Southside is $175,000, which is lower than the median home price in the city as a whole. Some of the neighborhoods in the Southside that are worth considering include:
Houndslake: This neighborhood is located near the Houndslake Country Club and offers a mix of townhouses and single-family homes. The community is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community.
Woodside Plantation: This neighborhood is a gated community that offers a mix of townhouses and single-family homes. The community features a golf course, tennis courts, and a clubhouse.
Northside
The Northside of Aiken is another great option for those who are looking for affordable living. The area is known for its quiet neighborhoods and close proximity to downtown Aiken. The median home price in the Northside is $180,000. Some of the neighborhoods in the Northside that are worth considering include:
Kalmia Hills: This neighborhood is located near the Aiken Regional Medical Center and offers a range of affordable housing options. The community is known for its quiet streets and friendly neighbors.
Crosland Park: This neighborhood is located near the University of South Carolina Aiken and offers a mix of townhouses and single-family homes. The community is known for its strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere.
Overall, Aiken, SC offers a range of affordable neighborhoods that are ideal for those who are looking for a budget-friendly lifestyle. Whether you are looking for a quiet neighborhood or a family-friendly community, Aiken has something to offer.
Luxury Properties
Aiken, SC is home to several luxurious neighborhoods that offer a comfortable and high-end lifestyle. Here are two of the best neighborhoods for luxury properties in Aiken:
The Reserve at Woodside
The Reserve at Woodside is a gated community that offers luxurious homes with breathtaking views of the golf course and pond. The community is located within the Woodside Plantation Country Club and offers access to several amenities, including golf courses, tennis courts, swimming pools, and a fitness center.
The homes in The Reserve at Woodside are custom-built and feature high-end finishes, such as granite countertops, hardwood floors, and custom cabinetry. The community is also conveniently located near several shopping and dining options, making it an ideal location for those who want to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Highland Park
Highland Park is another luxurious neighborhood in Aiken that offers spacious homes with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The community is located near several parks and nature reserves, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
The homes in Highland Park are custom-built and feature high-end finishes, such as vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, and gourmet kitchens. The community also offers several amenities, including a clubhouse, swimming pool, and tennis courts.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a luxurious lifestyle in Aiken, SC, The Reserve at Woodside and Highland Park are two of the best neighborhoods to consider.
Retirement Communities
Aiken, South Carolina is a popular destination for retirees due to its mild climate, low cost of living, and abundance of amenities. There are several retirement communities in the area that offer a range of housing options and amenities for active adults. Here are two of the best:
Houndslake
Houndslake is a well-established retirement community located in the heart of Aiken. The community offers a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condos. Residents enjoy a variety of amenities, including a golf course, tennis courts, and a clubhouse with a fitness center and swimming pool. The community is also conveniently located near shopping, dining, and healthcare facilities.
The Village at Woodside
The Village at Woodside is a gated retirement community located in Aiken's prestigious Woodside Plantation. The community offers a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhomes, and cottages. Residents enjoy access to a variety of amenities, including a golf course, tennis courts, and a clubhouse with a fitness center and swimming pool. The community is also conveniently located near shopping, dining, and healthcare facilities.
Overall, retirees looking for a comfortable and active lifestyle in Aiken, SC will find a range of options to choose from in these two retirement communities.
Amenities and Services
Shopping and Dining
Aiken offers a variety of shopping and dining options for residents and visitors. Downtown Aiken is home to a number of boutique shops, antique stores, and art galleries. The Alley, located in the heart of downtown, is a pedestrian-friendly street filled with restaurants, shops, and outdoor seating areas. The area is known for its vibrant nightlife and live music scene.
In addition to downtown, there are several shopping centers throughout Aiken, including Aiken Mall and Hitchcock Plaza Shopping Center. These centers offer a range of stores, including national retailers and local boutiques.
When it comes to dining, Aiken has something for everyone. The city is home to a diverse selection of restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to upscale dining experiences. Some popular options include The Willcox, a historic hotel with an award-winning restaurant, and Takosushi, a unique fusion restaurant that combines Mexican and Japanese cuisine.
Parks and Recreation
Aiken is known for its equestrian culture and has a number of parks and recreational areas that reflect this. Hitchcock Woods is a 2,100-acre forest located in the heart of Aiken and is one of the largest urban forests in the country. The park offers miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Other parks in Aiken include Hopelands Gardens, a 14-acre park with walking trails, gardens, and a pond, and Citizens Park, a 70-acre park with sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
For those interested in golf, Aiken has several courses to choose from, including the Aiken Golf Club, a historic course dating back to 1912, and Woodside Plantation Country Club, which features two championship courses.
Overall, Aiken offers a range of amenities and services for residents and visitors alike. Whether you're looking for shopping and dining options or outdoor recreation, Aiken has something to offer.
Schools and Education
Aiken County Public Schools is the primary school district in Aiken, South Carolina. The district includes 24 elementary schools, seven middle schools, and four high schools, serving over 24,000 students.
According to NeighborhoodScout, Aiken County Public Schools has a district quality rating of 6 out of 10, which is better than 57.5% of all South Carolina school districts. The district is also better than 34.9% of all U.S. school districts.
For parents looking for alternative education options, there are also several charter schools in Aiken. One of the top-rated charter schools in the area is Horse Creek Academy, which serves students from pre-kindergarten to eighth grade.
In terms of higher education, Aiken Technical College is a two-year college that offers over 80 programs in areas such as business, health sciences, and engineering technology. The college also has partnerships with other universities in South Carolina, allowing students to transfer credits and pursue bachelor's degrees.
Overall, Aiken offers a variety of educational options for students of all ages and interests.
Safety and Crime Rates
When looking for a neighborhood to live in, one of the most important factors to consider is safety. Aiken, SC is no exception. Fortunately, Aiken has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in the United States. According to NeighborhoodScout, the chance of being a victim of violent crime in Aiken is 1 in 171 and the chance of being a victim of property crime is 1 in 29.
Aiken is also home to several neighborhoods that have particularly low crime rates. For example, the North Augusta Ave / Bunting Dr neighborhood has a lower crime rate than 98% of the neighborhoods in the United States. Similarly, the Powderhouse Landing / Powderhouse Road neighborhood has a lower crime rate than 96% of the neighborhoods in the United States.
The Aiken Department of Public Safety provides real-time crime statistics for review by the citizens of Aiken on their website. The website allows users to search for crime data by council district or by neighborhood. This data can be a useful tool for those who are looking to move to a new neighborhood and want to make an informed decision about safety.
It is important to keep in mind that crime can happen anywhere, even in the safest neighborhoods. However, by doing research and taking precautions, individuals can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a victim of crime.
Transportation and Accessibility
Aiken, SC is known for its easy access to major highways and interstates, making it easy to get around the city and beyond. The city is served by the Aiken Regional Airport, which offers commercial and private flights. The airport is located just 6 miles east of downtown Aiken.
The city also has a well-connected public transportation system, making it easy for residents to get around without a car. The Aiken County Transit (ACT) provides bus services to various destinations within the city and neighboring towns. The ACT also offers paratransit services for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
For those who prefer to drive, Aiken has a well-maintained road network with several major highways and interstates, including I-20, which runs east-west through the city. The city also has a bike-friendly infrastructure with several dedicated bike lanes and trails.
In addition, Aiken has several car rental services, making it easy for visitors to rent a car and explore the city at their own pace. Overall, Aiken's transportation and accessibility options make it a convenient and accessible place to live or visit.
Real Estate Market Trends
Aiken's real estate market has been somewhat competitive lately, scoring 44 out of 100, according to Redfin [1]. The average house price in Aiken was $305K last month, up 8.2% since last year. The median listing home price in Aiken, SC was $318.5K in February 2024, trending up 4.7% year-over-year.
The home prices of different bedroom types in Aiken have been fluctuating in the past year. According to RocketHomes [1], the home price of 1 bedroom homes did not change, 2 bedroom homes increased by 28.5%, 3 bedroom homes decreased by 15.9%, 4 bedroom homes decreased by 38.2%, and 5+ bedroom homes decreased by 40.7%.
In September 2023, Aiken County home prices were up 1.1% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $273K. Homes in Aiken County sell after 50 days on the market compared to 39 days last year. There were 248 homes sold in September this year, down from 265 last year .
Aiken's real estate market has several neighborhoods that are popular among homebuyers. Some of the popular neighborhoods in Aiken include Houndslake, Highland Park, and Woodside.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated neighborhoods in Aiken for retirees?
Aiken has many neighborhoods that are ideal for retirees. One of the top-rated neighborhoods is Woodside Plantation, which is a gated community with a golf course, clubhouse, and fitness center. Other popular neighborhoods for retirees include Houndslake, The Ridge at Chukker Creek, and Cedar Creek.
Which areas are considered the best for purchasing a home in Aiken?
The most desired areas for purchasing a home in Aiken tend to be in the south parts of the county, while more affordable homes are in the north regions. According to BestNeighborhood.org, some of the best neighborhoods for purchasing a home in Aiken include Woodside Plantation, The Ridge at Chukker Creek, and Cedar Creek.
Can you recommend family-friendly neighborhoods in Aiken?
Aiken has many neighborhoods that are great for families. One of the top-rated neighborhoods for families is The Ridge at Chukker Creek, which offers a community pool, playground, and tennis courts. Other family-friendly neighborhoods include Cedar Creek, Houndslake, and Woodside Plantation.
Where can I find a map of the best neighborhoods in Aiken?
There are several websites that offer maps of the best neighborhoods in Aiken. Niche is a great resource for finding the best neighborhoods in Aiken. They provide a map of the county with the neighborhoods highlighted.
What are the safest areas to live in Aiken?
Aiken is generally considered a safe city. According to Rentals.com, some of the safest neighborhoods in Aiken include Woodside Plantation, The Ridge at Chukker Creek, and Cedar Creek.
How do the neighborhoods in Aiken compare to those in North Augusta for living standards?
Aiken and North Augusta are both great places to live, but they have different living standards. According to Niche, North Augusta is a quaint suburb in South Carolina, located conveniently close to the Savannah River, Georgia, and then out towards the capital of SC, Columbia. Aiken, on the other hand, is known for its equestrian community and historic downtown area. Both cities have their unique charm and appeal to different types of people.
