Key Takeaways
- Augusta offers retirees a balance of affordability and lifestyle. Housing prices, property taxes, and overall cost of living tend to fall below national averages, making it an attractive option for those seeking to stretch retirement dollars while maintaining comfort.
- Healthcare and community resources are strong. With major hospitals, VA facilities, retirement communities, and numerous social, cultural, and recreational opportunities, Augusta provides a supportive environment for retirees who value both care and connection.
- Georgia’s tax policies favor retirees. From the flat state income tax with future reductions to Social Security exemptions and substantial retirement income exclusions, the Peach State provides meaningful tax advantages that can ease long-term financial planning.
Choosing where to spend your next chapter isn’t just a financial decision; it’s a quality-of-life choice that shapes your routines, friendships, and sense of pace. Many people look toward the Southeast and wonder whether Augusta, Georgia fits the picture they have in mind. The answer depends on what you value most in daily living.
Augusta carries an identity shaped by history, culture, and a slower rhythm that appeals to many. For those preparing for their post-work chapter, the city offers a backdrop where community, comfort, and personal priorities can align.
Cost of Living and Housing in Augusta
When weighing a retirement move, cost of living and housing are often at the top of the list. In Augusta, these factors tend to balance affordability with access to the comforts that matter most. Retirees can find a range of living arrangements alongside manageable daily expenses:
Affordable Housing Market: Augusta offers a wide range of housing options, many of which come in at lower costs compared to national averages and other metro areas in Georgia (even in nicer areas). This can make it easier for buyers to stretch their housing budget and find more value for their money.
Property Taxes and Exemptions: Georgia’s homestead framework and senior-oriented provisions can reduce annual property tax burdens for eligible homeowners. However, county rules vary, so it helps to confirm local filing windows and age-based thresholds before you buy.
Rental Options: Condos, townhomes, and well-located apartments appeal if you want flexibility or less maintenance. The mix includes quieter complexes and walk-friendly pockets, which helps if you prefer quick errands and short drives.
Utility and Daily Living Costs: Overall expenses in Augusta run 15%.1 below the national average, giving retirees more breathing room in their budgets. That said, utility bills trend slightly higher than average. They are 3.7% more, so it’s worth factoring that in when comparing monthly costs.2
Retirement Communities: Purpose-built developments offer social calendars, security features, and on-site activities. These neighborhoods can simplify day-to-day living while giving you an easy way to meet people who share similar interests.
Healthcare Access in Augusta
Retirees in Augusta have access to a wide network of healthcare providers, covering everything from routine visits to specialized treatment. Most services are offered locally, which makes it easier to stay on top of medical needs without extensive travel.
For assisted living, memory care, and continuing care communities, the area provides a range of options that allow residents to maintain independence while receiving added support as needed. These resources make it possible to adjust care over time in a way that fits changing circumstances.
Altogether, Augusta offers an accessible mix of medical services and long-term care choices. Retirees can choose the level of support that best matches their lifestyle, health needs, and future plans.
Lifestyle, Recreation, and Community
When you picture everyday life, you might see a walk along the river, a casual round of golf with friends, or a night out at a small theater. The social fabric rewards participation; show up to a farmers’ market, join a club, lend a hand at a local nonprofit, and you’ll find your circle grows. Core neighborhoods are easy to love, with historic architecture, porch culture, and short drives to groceries and parks.
If you want simple pleasures within reach, Augusta makes that easy with:
Outdoor Recreation: Water and trails frame much of the outdoor experience. The Augusta Canal towpath and the Savannah River offer scenic routes for walking and cycling, while Clarks Hill Lake is a favorite spot for boating, fishing, and lakeside fun. Local golf courses, community parks, and courts for tennis and pickleball round out the mix, keeping residents active year-round.
Arts and Culture: Galleries, museums, and small venues offer regular exhibits and performances that celebrate local talent. You can spend a weekend browsing art downtown, then catch a concert or a community theater production in the evening.
Festivals and Events: Seasonal gatherings give you reasons to mark the calendar and meet new friends. Parades, culinary events, and neighborhood celebrations keep the year lively without big-city congestion.
Volunteer and Civic Engagement: Charities and local organizations welcome helping hands. If giving back is part of your routine, you’ll find ongoing projects where your time and skills matter.
Faith and Religious Communities: Churches and other congregations remain central meeting points for many, with social programs and small groups that make it easier to settle in.
Clubs and Social Groups: Gardening circles, book discussions, birding meetups, and morning walking groups are easy to find. The heart of the city offers coffee shops and shared spaces where friendships start fast
Taxes and Retirement Income in Augusta
Georgia has a flat individual income tax rate of 5.19% as of July 1, 2025, applied retroactively to all income earned in 2025. This replaced the prior rate of 5.39% and is part of HB 111, which also sets a schedule to gradually reduce the rate toward 4.99% in the coming years.5
Property taxes are worth examining as well. Richmond County’s median effective property tax rate is 1.09%, which is a bit higher than the national median of 1.02%. However, that translates to an average annual bill of roughly $1,360–$1,400, which is still lower than the national median of $2,400.6 Additionally, other nearby areas like Columbia County, Aiken County, and Edgefield County have favorable effective property tax rates of 1.04%, 0.44%, and 0.55%, respectively.
Retirement income receives generous exclusion benefits under Georgia law. Individuals between the ages of 62 and 64 can exclude as much as $35,000 of their retirement income, while those 65 and older are eligible to shield up to $65,000 per person. These exclusions apply to pensions, annuities, interest, dividends, rental income, capital gains, royalties, etc., and also to up to a specified amount of earned income for those who qualify.7
Social Security benefits remain fully exempt from Georgia state income tax, adding another layer of benefit for retirees. Additionally, those who are permanently and totally disabled, regardless of age, can also qualify for the same retirement income exclusions.8
It’s also worth noting that homeowners aged 62 and over may be eligible for additional homestead exemptions on their primary residence, above the standard $2,000 exemption. These reduced assessed values help lower property tax bills once local exemptions and senior status are applied.9
Proximity and Transportation
How easily you can get around shapes daily life in retirement. Augusta offers short drive times for errands, straightforward roads, and neighborhoods with walkability. Travel beyond the city is convenient too, with quick access to regional hubs and vacation spots. Here’s a closer look:
Local Transportation: Driving remains the most practical option for most households, with short drive times to groceries, clinics, and shops. Public transit exists but is limited, so plan on a personal vehicle or ride-sharing for flexibility.
Regional Access: Day-trip or weekend options are plentiful. You’re within reasonable driving range of Atlanta, Savannah, mountain towns to the north, and coastal getaways in the Carolinas or Florida.
Airport Options: Augusta Regional provides commercial service for connecting flights, which makes it easy to visit family or plan vacations without complicated itineraries.
Mobility Planning: As years go by, you may prefer to downshift your driving. Choosing a location with medical offices, groceries, and social spaces nearby helps you stay independent.
Top Neighborhoods and Retirement Communities in Augusta
Deciding on the right place to live is a big part of shaping your retirement years. Augusta and its surrounding areas feature historic districts, suburban neighborhoods, and purpose-built retirement communities, each with unique advantages. Here’s a closer look:
Summerville: This tree-lined historic neighborhood is known for its classic architecture and charm. Close to Augusta University and downtown, it offers walkable streets, local dining spots, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Evans (just outside Augusta): Frequently ranked as one of the best places to live in Georgia, Evans is popular for its newer housing, parks, and retail hubs. Retirees often appreciate the balance of modern conveniences and a community-oriented suburban feel.
Martinez: Neighboring Evans, Martinez delivers quiet residential living with easy access to Columbia County services and Augusta’s amenities. The area is attractive for those who want affordability and accessibility without being too far from city life.
North Augusta (across the river in South Carolina): Just minutes from downtown Augusta, North Augusta combines small-town comfort with proximity to shopping, healthcare, and cultural opportunities. It’s a practical choice for retirees who want suburban surroundings but still rely on city resources.
Aiken (nearby in South Carolina): Consistently highlighted as a retirement-friendly city, Aiken offers a slower pace, a historic downtown, and strong community engagement. The mix of housing styles and cultural offerings makes it appealing to retirees seeking both charm and convenience.
National Hills: Situated near Augusta National Golf Club, National Hills is a quiet residential neighborhood with easy access to shopping, restaurants, and recreational outlets. It’s a good fit for retirees who value a suburban lifestyle close to the heart of Augusta.
Retirement Communities: Brandon Wilde in Evans stands out as a highly rated continuing care community, offering everything from independent living to skilled nursing care. Other strong options include The Claiborne at West Lake and Thrive at Augusta in Martinez, Brookdale Augusta for assisted living, Washington Commons for independent living, and Wymberly, a 55+ active-adult neighborhood. These communities provide a mix of support, amenities, and social opportunities tailored to retirement living.
Other Things to Consider Before Retiring in Augusta
Beyond cost and culture, your retirement comfort depends on how well the day-to-day environment matches your personality, habits, and long-term plans. Thinking through the following considerations helps you decide whether this city is the right fit for your next chapter:
Weather and Climate: Summers bring humidity and heat that can be intense, especially if you’re used to milder conditions. Thunderstorms often roll through in the afternoons, and although winters are generally mild, brief periods of colder weather can still occur.
Pace of Life: Augusta leans toward a slower, more deliberate lifestyle. That can be refreshing if you want fewer crowds and less stress, but if you thrive on constant variety and nightlife, you may find it quieter than you’d like.
Cultural and Social Scene: Augusta’s cultural life continues to grow, with museums, festivals, and a local music presence that offer plenty of opportunities to get involved. The city’s dining scene and arts community are expanding as well, giving retirees more ways to enjoy local experiences without leaving town. For those who like to explore beyond the city, Atlanta, Savannah, and Charleston are close enough for day trips or weekend getaways.
Weather-Linked Outdoor Living: If golf, gardening, or river activities are part of your routine, the climate allows for a long season outdoors. But humidity and pollen can affect those with allergies or respiratory issues, which may shape how much you’re outside year-round.
Regional Connectivity: Augusta’s location is both a strength and a trade-off. You’re within driving distance of popular destinations like beaches, mountains, and major cities; however, long road trips may be tiring if you expect frequent travel. Augusta Regional Airport is easy to access, though it provides fewer nonstop flight options compared to major hubs.
Seasonal Tourism and Events: The Masters Tournament in April brings a surge of visitors, which means busier roads, limited hotel space for out-of-town family members, and a temporary rise in rental prices. Some retirees enjoy the energy; others prefer to avoid the crowds.
Neighborhood Character: Augusta offers a mix of historic districts, suburban pockets, and newer developments. Each has its own atmosphere; some are walkable and shaded, while others are more car-dependent. Choosing the right neighborhood goes a long way in shaping your comfort.
Safety and Security: Like many mid-sized cities, Augusta has neighborhoods with very different safety profiles. Some areas feel quiet and community-oriented, while others experience higher property crime or occasional incidents of violent crime. Retirees often prioritize well-lit streets, nearby amenities, and active neighborhood associations when selecting a location. Checking local crime maps, visiting at different times of day, and talking with residents can give you a realistic sense of whether an area matches your comfort level.
Retirement Life in Augusta, Georgia FAQs
Is Augusta affordable for retirees?
Yes, affordability is a strong part of the story. Housing tends to cost less than in many large metros, and everyday expenses often feel manageable. If you’re aiming to keep fixed costs predictable, Augusta’s balance of value and access is hard to dismiss.
What is healthcare like in Augusta?
Does Augusta have good retirement communities?
You’ll find 55+ neighborhoods, continuing care communities, and assisted living options, plus classic residential streets if you prefer mixed-age blocks. You may consider renting first to learn the area, then buy once you’ve found the routine you like best.
How does Augusta compare to Savannah or Atlanta for retirement?
Augusta offers a calmer pace and simpler logistics compared with its larger or more tourist-oriented neighbors. Atlanta is the state’s bustling hub, filled with professional sports, international dining, and nonstop events. Retirees who want energy and variety will find plenty there, but it comes with heavier traffic, higher housing costs, and more urban stress.
Savannah, on the other hand, brings coastal charm and a strong tourism presence, with historic squares and beaches nearby. That said, it can also feel busier during peak travel seasons and more expensive in popular neighborhoods.
Augusta positions itself between these extremes: it’s large enough to offer hospitals, cultural outlets, and recreational spaces, but small enough to keep traffic manageable and neighborhoods accessible. If you prize shorter commutes, friendlier costs, and a quieter rhythm of life, Augusta often fits better than the alternatives.
What are the pros and cons of Augusta’s climate?
One of the biggest advantages of Augusta’s climate is its mild winters. Temperatures rarely dip into extremes, which means less worry about icy roads or high heating bills. Spring and fall stretch longer than in many other parts of the country, giving retirees plenty of time to enjoy gardening, golf, and other outdoor activities in comfortable weather. These seasons also bring colorful landscapes, with early blooms in March and extended foliage into November.
The main drawback comes in summer, when heat and humidity peak. Daily highs often climb into the 90s, and the air can feel heavy during July and August. Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent, so planning walks, errands, and outdoor time around cooler mornings and evenings becomes a way of life. For those sensitive to humidity or pollen, these conditions may feel challenging, but air-conditioned homes, shaded porches, and community pools make the warmer months easier to manage.
Are there tax benefits for retirees in Georgia?
Yes, Georgia is widely considered retirement-friendly when it comes to taxes. As of July 1, 2025, the state’s flat income tax rate is 5.19%, with plans to gradually reduce it toward 4.99% in future years. Importantly, Social Security benefits are fully exempt from state income tax, making a big difference for many retirees.
In addition, Georgia provides a retirement income exclusion, up to $35,000 per person for ages 62–64, and up to $65,000 per person at age 65 and older. This exclusion covers pensions, annuities, dividends, rental income, capital gains, and even a portion of earned income.
Property taxes also tend to be manageable. In Richmond County, the median effective property tax rate falls below the national average. Homeowners aged 62 and older may qualify for additional homestead exemptions beyond the state’s standard amount, which further lowers assessed values.
River walks, golf, galleries, small theaters, and community festivals keep the calendar active. Volunteer roles, faith groups, and clubs make it easy to meet people. Restaurants and coffee shops give you favorite places to gather.
How We Can Help You Retire Confidently in Augusta
Deciding whether Augusta is the right place for retirement is about more than liking its Southern charm or affordable cost of living; it’s about aligning the city’s strengths with your personal priorities. From climate and lifestyle to taxes and community, the details shape whether Augusta feels like a good place for your next chapter or if another location may serve you better. With a solid financial plan in place, you can evaluate different possibilities more effectively and feel assured as you get established.
Our team at AP Wealth is based right here in Augusta, Georgia, and we understand the opportunities and challenges this community offers retirees. We help you weigh Augusta against other places you may be considering, build strategies for tax-smart withdrawals, and project how housing or healthcare choices could affect your long-term financial picture.
We’ll also work with you to create a roadmap that reflects the retirement you want, whether that includes travel, hobbies, or more time with family, while protecting your income through smart planning. If you’re ready to explore whether Augusta or another destination fits your vision for retirement, we invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation with our team today.
Sources:
- https://www.zillow.com/home-values/10210/augusta-ga/
- https://www.apartments.com/cost-of-living/augusta-ga/#:~:text=The%20cost%20of%20living%20in,and%204.9%25%20less%20for%20transportation
- https://www.wellstar.org/locations/hospital/mcg-health-medical-center
- https://veterans.georgia.gov/georgia-war-veterans-nursing-home-augusta
- https://www.ers.ga.gov/post/retirees-georgia-income-tax-rate-decreasing-519
- https://www.ownwell.com/trends/georgia/richmond-county
- https://www.audits2.ga.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Retirement-Income-Exclusion-Summary.pdf
- https://dor.georgia.gov/retirement-income-exclusion
- https://states.aarp.org/georgia/state-taxes-guide
Clayton joined AP Wealth Management as a fee-only financial planner in 2019 bringing with him over a decade of experience working as a financial planner and investment advisor. Clayton is passionate about the commission-free business model that allows him to sit on the same side of the table as the client, serving as a fiduciary for them. AP Wealth Management is a fee-only fiduciary firm in Augusta, GA, specializing in retirement and financial planning for local residents.
