Moving to Aiken, SC:
Your Guide to living in Aiken South Carolina: Job Opportunities, Schools, & Neighborhoods.
Written By Aiken Relocation Specialist Realtor LINDSEY VANCE
Moving to Aiken, SC?
Moving is a significant decision that requires thorough planning, information and know how. This guide is designed to provide you with essential insights and practical advice to help you in your decision-making process for moving to Aiken, South Carolina.
Living in Aiken, South Carolina
Population and Community
Aiken is a vibrant city located in Aiken County, South Carolina. Known for its rich history and cultural significance, Aiken has a unique charm and a warm, welcoming community.The city is recognized for its equestrian culture, lush parks, and historical sites. Aiken's population reflects a diverse mix of individuals and families, contributing to a lively and inclusive community atmosphere. The city's culture is enriched by various festivals and events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of belonging among residents.
Cost of Living in Aiken, SC - Can You Afford to live here?
The cost of living in Aiken is generally considered affordable, especially when compared to larger metropolitan areas which can make it an attractive place for many looking for a more affordable lifestyle. Here are some specifics:Overall Index:
Aiken has a BestPlaces Cost of Living index of 84.6, indicating that it is less expensive than the national average for the United States.Housing:
Housing costs in Aiken are one of the most significant factors in the lower cost of living, contributing to the overall affordability of the area.Healthcare:
Healthcare expenses in Aiken are also noted to be lower than the national average, providing some relief in overall living costs.Utilities and Transportation:
Costs for utilities and transportation are generally in line with or slightly lower than national averages, depending on specific consumption and travel habits.Daily Expenses: Day-to-day expenses, including food and groceries, are relatively affordable compared to larger metropolitan areas. It's important to note that while Aiken offers a lower cost of living, exact expenses can vary widely based on lifestyle, housing choices, and personal circumstances.
Commute and Accessibility: Aiken offers convenient commuting options to major nearby cities and easy access to essential amenities. The city's well-maintained roads and public transportation systems facilitate smooth travel within and outside the area.
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Why Choose Aiken, SC?
Historical Significance:
Aiken's rich history is reflected in its architecture, museums, and cultural landmarks.Equestrian Culture:
Known for its horse culture, Aiken hosts numerous equestrian events, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.Affordable Living:
With a cost of living below the national average, Aiken is a financially viable choice for many.Community and Lifestyle:
Aiken boasts a friendly community with a slower-paced, enjoyable lifestyle.Natural Beauty:
The city is surrounded by scenic parks and nature trails, offering abundant outdoor activities.Pros & Cons of Living in Aiken, South Carolina
Weather:
Aiken, South Carolina offers mild winters, making it ideal for year-round outdoor activities. The area enjoys more sunshine than the national average, with about 216 sunny days annually. However, summers can be hot and humid, sometimes reaching 90% humidity, which might be uncomfortable for those not accustomed to such a climate. AIKEN WEATHERSporting Life and Recreation:
The city is known for its outdoor recreational activities like golf, racquet sports, equestrian life, and paddling on the Savannah River. These activities contribute significantly to Aiken's economy, especially in the hospitality and tourism sectors. A downside is that outdoor activities can be limited by inclement weather or extreme temperatures.
Real Estate:
Aiken offers a variety of real estate options, including single-family homes, condos, horse properties, and historic estates, with an median sold home price point around $278,000 as of Decemeber 2023. South Carolina has relatively low property taxes, but non-primary residences are taxed at a higher rate, which could significantly increase the tax bill.Buying a Home Near Aiken, SC?
Job Opportunities:
Job opportunities in Aiken are mostly in hospitality, tourism, equestrian industries, engineering, and manufacturing. Major employers include SRS, Bridgestone tires, and Kimberly Clark. However, some jobs in tourism and hospitality may not offer high pay, and the job market might not be as diverse as in larger metropolitan areas.Attractions and Entertainment:
Aiken is home to various attractions like Hitchcock Woods, Hopeland's Gardens, and the Aiken Center for the Arts. There are music festivals, art walks, and farmers' markets, offering a vibrant cultural scene. However, the nightlife is limited compared to larger cities, with fewer options for bar hopping and late-night activities.The Best Neighborhoods to Live Around Aiken, South Carolina
Ridge Spring:
Known for its agriculture including peaches, pecans, cattle, and horse farms. It is located in both Aiken and Saluda counties and features a charming downtown with historic churches and antique shops. A notable attraction is the Big Mo Drive-In Theater. Wagner, Windsor, and Williston: These towns are on the east side of Aiken County. Wagner is recognized for asparagus farming, Windsor for Aiken State Park and the Aiken Gopher Tortoise Preserve, and Williston for its extensive farmland and suitable conditions for farming due to sandy soil.New Ellenton:
Dubbed the "Atomic City" for hosting the Savannah River Site (SRS), a nuclear industrial complex contributing significantly to the job market. It spans Aiken, Barnwell, and Allendale counties. The SRS Museum offers insights into this part of Aiken's history and economy.Jackson:
Located south-southwest of New Ellenton, known for its farmland and the Silver Bluff Sanctuary, a large area with woodlands, trails, and diverse wildlife managed by the National Audubon Society, offering free public access.Graniteville and Beach Island:
Graniteville, rich in textile history, offers amenities like Aiken Technical College and golf courses, making it ideal for those working in nearby towns. Beach Island, known for its historical significance and Redcliffe Plantation, borders the Savannah River.Golf Communities:
Aiken, known for its proximity to the Augusta National Golf Course, offers neighborhoods with golf amenities. These range from full-club facilities to more laid-back options with optional club membership. The year-round golf-friendly weather enhances the appeal of these communities.Equestrian Neighborhoods:
Unique to Aiken are neighborhoods designed for horse lovers, featuring accommodations and amenities for horses and riders. These include 'hunt box' homes, where the residence is attached to a barn. These areas typically have large lot sizes, nature trails, and scenic green pastures, appealing even to those without horses.Traditional Residential Neighborhoods:
Aiken has a mix of older, established neighborhoods and new construction areas. These often include amenities like sidewalks, common areas, and pools. Lot sizes vary, with new constructions typically on smaller lots, while some newer neighborhoods offer larger, one-acre lots.Downtown and Midtown Areas:
These regions offer diverse living options, including condos, cottages, historic estates, and even horse farms. Downtown is known for locally-owned businesses and a small-town vibe, while Midtown features bigger stores and essential amenities. Both areas have certain restrictions, especially for historic properties.Versatile Living Options:
Aiken's diverse neighborhoods allow for unique combinations, like living in a golf community downtown or in a horse-friendly historic district. This variety caters to different lifestyles and preferences, making Aiken a versatile location for potential residents.
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5 Reasons Why Aiken SC is the Best Place to Retire
Affordable Cost of Living:
Aiken, SC, offers a lower than national average cost of living, particularly attractive due to a special tax provision for residents aged 65 or older. This homestead exemption can significantly reduce property taxes, saving hundreds or thousands of dollars.Vibrant Social and Recreational Scene:
Aiken boasts a lively social atmosphere with numerous activities like golf, tennis, hiking, and fishing. The area is particularly appealing for equestrians, offering a variety of horse-related activities.Access to Medical Facilities and Airports:
The city provides convenient access to several airports and medical facilities, including Aiken Regional Hospital and a substantial medical district in nearby Augusta, Georgia.Pleasant Climate:
Aiken features a mild climate, ideal for year-round outdoor activities. The area's weather is conducive to gardening and is also strategically located as an evacuation route for coastal areas during hurricane season.Diverse Housing Options:
The city offers a range of housing choices, from ranch homes and equestrian properties to 55+ communities and senior living facilities. Neighborhoods like the Village at Woodside offer proximity to amenities like restaurants, shops, and medical offices.5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving to Aiken, South Carolina
Limited Healthcare Options in Aiken:
Residents find it challenging to find primary care doctors in Aiken. Although the town has a small medical park and a good hospital, many rely on the extensive medical district in Augusta, Georgia, which is a 35-minute drive away and offers a range of healthcare facilities including a large medical college.Emergency Vet Care Shortage:
Aiken lacks veterinary clinics that provide after-hours or emergency services for small animals. Pet owners need to travel to Columbia, South Carolina, approximately 45 minutes to an hour away, for emergency pet care.Limited Activities for Younger Kids:
Aiken offers various family-friendly festivals, events, and free museums, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, there's a desire for more activities specifically tailored for younger children in the town.Slower Pace of Life:
Aiken's residents are known for their friendliness, but the town has a notably slower pace of life in terms of service and daily activities. This can be an adjustment for those not accustomed to the Southern lifestyle.Shopping and Retail Development:
Aiken currently lacks a mall, leading to limited shopping options within the town. There's an ongoing redevelopment project where a mall used to be, which will include retail, restaurants, housing, a hotel, and parks. Meanwhile, residents travel to Augusta or Columbia for more extensive shopping needs.Education in Aiken
In Aiken, South Carolina, the educational landscape is marked by a blend of high-performing public schools that cater to diverse educational needs. Among the top-rated schools are Chukker Creek Elementary School, known for its strong academic programs, and East Aiken School of the Arts, which integrates arts into the curriculum, enhancing creative learning.Belvedere Elementary stands out for its emphasis on foundational skills in a nurturing environment. These schools, including Oakwood-Windsor Elementary and Millbrook Elementary, are recognized for their commitment to academic excellence and innovative teaching methods, providing students with a comprehensive and engaging education.
The high ranking of these schools in Aiken is attributed to several factors. AikenScholars Academy and South Aiken High School, for instance, offer rigorous academic programs and a wide range of extracurricular activities, fostering a well-rounded educational experience. North Augusta High School and Silver Bluff High School have earned acclaim for their overall testing ranks and performance in statewide assessments. This success is a result of dedicated staff, strong community support, and a focus on individual student growth. These schools' efforts to maintain high educational standards and provide diverse learning opportunities contribute significantly to their esteemed reputations within the Aiken County school system.
Common Concerns or Questions Each Demographic Might Have About Relocating to Aiken
Families:
Quality of local schools and educational opportunities. Availability of family-friendly activities and community events. Safety and crime rates in different neighborhoods.
Young Professionals:
Job opportunities and economic prospects in Aiken and surrounding areas. Social life, entertainment options, and networking opportunities. Cost of living, including housing affordability and lifestyle expenses.
Retirees:
Healthcare facilities and services, especially for senior-specific needs. Active senior communities and social engagement opportunities. Accessibility and public transportation options for those with limited mobility.
Individuals Concerned about Diversity:
Level of racial and cultural integration in neighborhoods and communities.
Representation and support for various ethnic and cultural groups. Low-Income Individuals or Families:
Support services available for low-income residents. Affordable housing options and cost of basic utilities.
Employment opportunities and wage levels in the area.
These concerns reflect the need for detailed information about living conditions in Aiken, SC.
Proximity to Airports
For air travel, residents of Aiken can use the Augusta Regional Airport, located approximately 30 miles away, offering regional and connecting flights. For international and more extensive flight options, the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, about 60 miles from Aiken, serves as a larger hub.
