Augusta Metro

The cost of living throughout the area varies; however, the metro is generally considered an attainable place to live. Living costs in the city of Augusta are 13% lower than the national average. Rent prices vary by property, with luxury options priced higher than modest communities.

Augusta Transit operates multiple bus routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. The Gold Line connects downtown Augusta to major shopping districts, while the Blue Line serves medical facilities and educational institutions.

Beyond the renowned Augusta National Golf Club, the area features the Phinizy Center & Nature Park for hiking and wildlife viewing. The Augusta Canal National Heritage Area offers kayaking and cycling opportunities, and the nearby Greeneway Trail provides over seven miles of paved trails.

Augusta is home to many highly-rated restaurants. Local favorites include The Treehouse, a vegetarian cafe and art gallery; Finch & Fifth for Southern-style tapas; and Beamie's at the River for seafood. In the Evans/Martinez area, Ironwood Tavern and Cork & Flame are also popular.

With great restaurants, bars, and community events, Downtown Augusta attracts young professionals. However, those who wish to live outside the city's center can enjoy a more suburban lifestyle in the Evans/Martinez area. Greystar has several properties suitable for young professionals throughout the Augusta metro, like The Lofts at King Mill and The Premier.

Many Greystar apartments in Augusta and the surrounding areas welcome pets, including Grand Oaks at Crane Creek Apartments and The Heron at River Island Apartments. Several dog parks, such as the Augusta Dog Park and the Evans Towne Center Park, offer spaces for pets to play. The River Walk provides scenic walking paths, while restaurants with outdoor seating like Savannah River Brewing Co. welcome leashed pets.

Augusta University anchors the area's higher education landscape, while the Richmond County School System serves K-12 students. Columbia County School District, with its office in Evans, consistently ranks among Georgia's top districts. The Augusta area is also home to some top-rated private schools, like Westminster Schools of Augusta and Heritage Academy.

While the surrounding suburbs are a bit more laid-back, the city of Augusta hosts a variety of nightlife options. The historic Miller Theater — home to the Augusta Symphony — is the city's cultural epicenter, hosting performances year-round. The Augusta Entertainment Complex brings major touring acts to the area as well. For drinks and light bites, Whiskey Bar Kitchen and Craft and Vine are popular spots.

Augusta Mall serves as the region's primary shopping destination, while Surrey Center offers boutique shopping. Downtown Augusta's Broad Street features local retailers like The Book Tavern and antique shops. The area around Evans Towne Center Park provides additional retail options, as well.

While Augusta attracts young professionals, the Evans/Martinez area leads in family appeal with many top-rated schools and public parks. Growing families looking for apartments in the Augusta Metro should check out The Heron at River Island Apartments, with multi-bedroom units in a close-knit community.