Augusta-Richmond County: The Data Profile (2026)

Cost of Living Analysis

The primary economic driver for relocation to Augusta-Richmond County is the 12.0% discount on housing compared to the national average. While the median income sits at $51,943—a significant -30.4% deviation from the US median of $74,580—the cost of living index for housing at 88.0 effectively neutralizes the income gap for essential expenses. Groceries (92.2) and transportation (92.8) also contribute to a lower baseline burn rate.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Disposable Income Analysis: A single earner making the median $51,943 takes home approximately $3,250 monthly (after standard taxes). Subtracting the $1,606 estimated total monthly budget for a single person leaves a surplus of $1,644. This is significantly higher than the disposable income available in major metros where housing often consumes 50%+ of net pay.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The current market favors buyers over renters due to the -12.0% housing index discount. However, the rental market is tight, with fair market rents for a 1-bedroom unit set at $961. For buyers, the median home price remains accessible compared to the national ceiling, allowing for equity building without the capital requirements of Tier-1 cities.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting Analysis)

Buy vs. Rent Verdict: Given the median home price of $225,000, the monthly mortgage payment (assuming 20% down and 6.5% rate) is roughly $1,130, which is only $169 more than the median rent for a 3-bedroom unit ($1,463). Buying is mathematically superior for long-term residents.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

Augusta’s economy is anchored by the medical sector and military presence, providing a stability buffer against national downturns. The unemployment rate sits at 3.5%, lower than the national average of 4.0%. For the post-remote worker, Augusta offers a "hub-and-spoke" model: local connectivity via I-20, with a domestic flight hub (AGS) offering 20+ daily connections.

Commute & RTO:
The average commute time in Augusta-Richmond County is 22.4 minutes, significantly lower than the national average of 27.6 minutes. With 24.1% of the population holding a bachelor's degree (vs. 33.1% US average), the local labor market is less saturated with white-collar competition, offering leverage for remote workers negotiating local salaries.

Quality of Life Audit

While the economic data is favorable, the health metrics present a complex picture. The city scores a 77.0/100 on the Health Score, but specific risk factors are elevated. The diabetes rate at 16.7% is a statistical outlier compared to the US average of 10.9%. Conversely, air quality is excellent, with an AQI average of 45 ("Good"), significantly better than the national median which often hovers near 53.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety & Environment:
Violent crime is 401 per 100k (US avg: 380), and property crime is 2,457 per 100k (US avg: 2,000). Both are statistically "Average," indicating standard urban precautions are required. Weather currently sits at 63.0°F with a high of 80°F, offering a humid subtropical climate that allows for year-round outdoor activity, despite the heat.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Housing Value: A 34.8% discount on median home prices compared to the US average.
• Low Unemployment: 3.5% rate indicates a stable, hiring economy.
• Air Quality: AQI of 45 and PM2.5 of 7.0 µg/m³ provide a clean respiratory environment.

Cons:

• Income Ceiling: Median income is $51,943, roughly $22,600 below the national median.
• Health Risks: High rates of obesity (36.1%) and diabetes (16.7%) suggest a lifestyle-heavy culture.
• Education Gap: Only 24.1% are college-educated, which may impact the dating scene or professional peer groups.

Final Recommendation:
Augusta-Richmond County is a Buyer's Market for the financially disciplined. It is ideal for remote workers earning a national salary, as the $961 rent or $225,000 home price stretches the dollar significantly. However, local job seekers should be prepared for a salary floor that is roughly 30% lower than the national standard.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Augusta?
For a single person, a salary of $52,000 aligns with the median and covers the $1,606 monthly budget comfortably. However, to match the national standard of living, $65,000 is recommended to account for savings and discretionary spending.

2. Does the lower cost of living offset the lower salaries?
Yes, primarily due to the -12.0% housing index. In cities where housing costs exceed 120 index, the wage gap is often insurmountable. In Augusta, the math balances out for entry-to-mid-level professionals.

3. How safe is Augusta-Richmond County?
Crime rates are statistically "Average." Violent crime is 401 per 100k and property crime is 2,457 per 100k. While not a statistical anomaly, it is higher than the safest suburbs; neighborhood research is required.

4. When is the best time to move?
Given the current weather of 63°F and high of 80°F, the shoulder seasons (Spring/Fall) are optimal. Summer months can see temperatures exceed 95°F with high humidity, driving electricity costs above the 14.08¢/kWh baseline.